In the mid-1990s, when most laptops were bulky, heavy, and expensive, Toshiba dared to think small—really small. The Libretto 110CT, released in 1997, was a pioneer in ultra-portable computing, packing a full Windows PC into a device barely larger than a VHS tape.
For tech enthusiasts of the era, the Libretto wasn’t just a laptop—it was a pocket-sized revolution. Let’s take a trip back to when this miniature marvel redefined what a portable computer could be.
The Libretto 110CT: Small But Mighty
At just 8.3 x 4.3 x 1.3 inches and weighing 1.8 lbs, the Libretto 110CT was astonishingly compact. Yet, it ran Windows 95 (and later Windows 98) on its 7.1-inch TFT display with a resolution of 800×480—impressive for its size.
Key Specs:
- CPU: 133 MHz Intel Pentium (MMX)
- RAM: 32 MB (expandable to 64 MB)
- Storage: 2.1 GB hard drive
- Ports: Single PCMCIA slot, infrared, external floppy/CD-ROM via dock
- Battery Life: ~2.5 hours
For comparison, many laptops at the time weighed 6-8 lbs and had far less portability. The Libretto proved that small didn’t have to mean underpowered.
Why the Libretto Stood Out
1. Unmatched Portability
The 110CT was small enough to fit in a large coat pocket—a novelty in an era when “luggable” computers were still common. Business travelers, journalists, and early adopters loved its true pocket-PC potential.
2. Clever Design Tricks
- Dual pointing devices: A tiny trackpad and a pointing stick (like IBM’s ThinkPad nub).
- Keyboard compromises: The keys were 60% of full size, requiring some finger gymnastics.
- Docking capabilities: An optional dock added floppy and CD-ROM drives, making it more versatile.
3. Ahead of Its Time
The Libretto foreshadowed modern ultrabooks and mini-PCs. While underpowered by today’s standards, it was a glimpse into the future of ultra-portable computing.
The Libretto’s Legacy
The 110CT wasn’t perfect—its small keyboard and lack of built-in optical drive were trade-offs—but it gained a cult following. Later models, like the Libretto 70CT and 100CT, refined the concept, but the 110CT remains a fan favorite.
Today, the Libretto is a collector’s item, with enthusiasts modding them to run compact Linux distros or even Windows XP. Its influence can be seen in modern devices like the GPD Pocket and One Netbook’s mini laptops.
