I'd like a smartphone or iPhone, but....

[wraithfodder]

While the phones aren't too pricey, the monthly plans are too much. I mean, I'd have to dump cable if I did that, so.... I'm looking for a netbook, one of those mini PCs so I can check my email at lunch (since all email at work is considered 'evil' - so AOL, Yahoo - is blocked, as are all 'social networking' places, including now, sniffle, Twitter).

So, does anybody have one or recommend any or hints on what I should look for on one? Thanks in advance!