1) 11.6" screen sizes (and larger) are dominated with models featuring AMD processors and non-Atom CPUs. So don't limit yourself to just having a single-core dinky 1.6GHz Atom processor. There is absolutely nothing holding you back from getting a dual-core netbook. A dual-core netbook will also last you a whole lot longer.
2) You won't find a single Atom equipped netbook, currently on the market and not featuring the dual-core Atom N500, that can handle 4GB of RAM. They are all limited to 2GB. Again, most 11.6" netbooks come with either a Pentium processor, Pentium ULV, AMD Neo, I have come across a couple with a Core i3 ULV, a Core 2 Solo, and a Core 2 Duo ULV chip. Many of those can handle up to 4GB of RAM but not the standard Atom N270/280/450 models.
3) Decent graphics... Even the Intel 3000 series used in more recent netbooks is rather dull and can barely handle 320p YouTube videos. You would want something with either an ION/ION2 chip or ATI HD series graphics. Again, you won't find that with a single-core Atom unit.
4) Battery life is something that is lacking with 11.6" models. It seems that many 12-13" and 10" portables can easily obtain 8 hours of operation but most 11.6" netbooks sit at around 6 hours. Not bad but not as well as you would probably like.
All-in-all, I suggest you go looking for different netbooks that don't use the Atom N450/270/280 chip. They will give you better operational performance for your money and you won't likely find a modern 11.6" netbook running a single-core Atom that is worth your while.
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