Samsung X360 Review
The Product
The Samsung X360 from the X Series of Samsung was first launched in the US in autumn of 2008. Marketing campaigns hoped to cash in on the Lighter than Air concept. In emphasizing on Air with a capital “A” Samsung was making a direct reference to Apple’s ultra light notebook. True to the campaign, the feel of the X360 mini laptop makes a lasting impression, thanks largely to its upscale looks and sleek capability.
Samsung X360 specifications
- Dimensions: 228×311x30.9mm
- Processor: Intel Centrino 2 ULV Processor Technology (FSB 800MHz)
- Operating System: Genuine Microsoft Windows Vista Home Basic
- Memory: DDR3 1066MHz 1GB ~ 4GB
- LCD: 13.3 WXGA (1280 x 800) SuperBright LED backlit
- HDD: 64/ 128 GB Solid State Drive (very nice!), 120 GB (5400 rpm S-ATA)
- Optical Drive: External DVD Super Multi Dual Layer Writer
- Graphics Processor: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X4500 graphics core
- Wireless LAN: Intel 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.0 + Enhanced Data Rate, LAN 10/100/1000 Ethernet
- I / O Ports: 7-in-1 Card Reader (MS, MS Pro, SD, SDHC, MMC, MMC plus, xD)
- 3 x USB 2.0, 1 x PCI Express Card Slot (34 mm), HDMI, VGA Port, Docking Port,
- Headphone-out, Mic in, Integrated Mic, Multimedia: 1.3 Mega Pixel Web Camera
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Design and Display
The X360 mini laptop shares it red brushed-metal panel design with its counterpart, the X460. The signature Samsung look, the glossy black piano plastic, is seen on the inside of the notebook. At 2.8 pounds, the X360 is comparatively lighter than the Lenovo ThinkPad X301 and the Apple MacBook Air. The X360s 13.3 Backlit LED is amazingly brought without oversaturation on the eyes.
Features
The HDMI is a particularly handy feature on a small laptop computer when compared to the Lenovo ThinkPad X301 which only has a Display Port and the MacBook Air that requires using a Mini DisplayPort adapter. Samsung has given priority to lightweight by doing away with a DVD drive but the sale price includes an external USB model.
A biometric finger print reader conveniently positioned on the right of the key board panel is discreet. The OmniPass security software and the built-in biometrics ensure perfect safety without the aid of external passwords.
Keyboard and Touchpad
The manufacturer was obviously riding on the inevitable comparisons with Apple and Sony in as far as the keyboard is concerned. The option here is a cut out island Keyboard, which gives the keys a more solid feel although there is no special texturing. Samsung claims that the keys are dusted with an anti bacterial material that offers a comfortable, smooth and virtual noiseless typing experience.
Comparison with other brands
Although it is up for comparison against Sony, Voodoo, Apple and Lenovo in the high-end, fancy notebook segment, the X360 matches the Apple Air and Voodoo Envy in build quality and sleekness.
Samsung has done well to include a 128 GB solid state drive instead of the traditional hard disk drive. Compared to other brands in the same segment, the X360 is less priced and offers more features than the MacBook Air which charges extra for additional features.
Building on it is lighter than air marketing strategy; Samsung is inviting potential buyers to this product as a cheaper alternative to the Lenovo and Apple models. While the X360 feels amazingly light while carrying or while using on the lap, because of the hefty battery the weight is not evenly distributed. There is a sense of imbalance where the top feels nearly weightless while the bottom feels heavy.
Conclusion
The main attractions of the X360 are its lightweight design and extra-long battery life. The price is also equally attractive because of the inclusion of the 128 GB solid state drive and the provision for an external DVD drive. This netbook on the whole is a value for money offering from Samsung.
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