UPDATE: We have since received specs from Velocity Micro, and you can view updated information on the NoteMagix M10 and M5 in our news story on PCMag.com.

In a surprising turn, boutique PC maker Velocity Micro--known mostly for its premium customizable laptops and powerful multimedia machines--announced two affordable lightweight notebooks at CES yesterday. The NoteMagix M10 is the manufacturer's entrée into the netbook market, and the NoteMagix M5 is a touchscreen handheld PC. So far Velocity Micro has released only a limited amount of information on specs for these two systems, but here's what we have so far, after the jump.

The NoteMagix M10 is right on trend with a 10.1-inch screen, and it weighs in at just 2.6 pounds. Also, similar to many of the newer netbooks, it runs Windows XP (as opposed to a custom Linux build, like the EeePCs and OLPCs). According to Velocity Micro, the system's 4-cell lithium ion battery should last for more than 5 hours. Features include Wi-Fi and an integrated webcam.

While some might argue that handheld PCs are being eclipsed by netbooks nowadays, Velocity Micro's still betting on the category with the NoteMagix M5. This slate tablet features a 4.8-inch touchscreen and a slide-out full keyboard. It's the more connected of Velocity Micro's new offerings, with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 3G capabilities. The manufacturer also promises 5 hours of battery life for this system.

The NoteMagix M10 will go for $379. The NoteMagix M5 will be less than $500, but Velocity Micro hasn't disclosed any more specific pricing information. The company said that both systems should be available for purchase this spring.

Post by Nicole Price Fasig

For PCMag's full CES coverage, go to http://www.pcmag.com/category2/0,2806,2235882,00.asp.