February 4, 2012

Samsung N150 10.1-inch Netbook Review

Samsung N150 is a second generation netbook based on the energy efficient Intel Atom N450 processor. It looks quite sleek, with an unobtrusive slimness in design. The screen is just 10.1” which is a perfect size for an energy-efficient netbook. Unlike the other Samsung models, Samsung N150 doesn’t have a glossy display rather it has an anti-reflective display which minimizes the irritating reflections while working outdoors. Being an LED screen, it consumes less battery and the 1024 x 600 display resolution provides perfect picture quality and images. All graphics tasks are elegantly handled by the integrated Intel GMA3150 graphics chipset. Though it is not a gaming machine but still you can play ordinary games without any problems.

Specification wise, the Samsung N150 is your basic netbook and doesn’t really have any feature that makes it stand out. We expect fantastic keyboards from Samsung and this one is a real disappointment. Its keys are too small and tightly packed for our liking, so typing without mistakes requires real precision. This is a shame, as rivals, like the machines in the Eee PC Seashell series, have far better keyboards, despite having a smaller chassis.

Thankfully, the N150′s trackpad is a joy to use. It has a smooth surface, tracks accurately and is compatible with multi-touch gestures, so you can pinch and stretch your fingers to zoom in and out of photos, or use a three-fingered horizontal swiping motion to navigate back and forth between documents.

The most impressive highlights of the Samsung N150 are the battery life and its sleek design. Just picture youself owning a sophisticated White color netbook weighing just 2.7 lbs which can easily slip into your handbag. You can spend all day working outdoors and keeping in touch with your contacts, or work in your office from 9 to 5 as the battery lasts up to 9 hours before another charge. This netbook is expected to give a very tough time to the rivals Asus, Toshiba and Acer Aspire one , whose netbooks are gaining popularity for being highly mobile and battery efficient.

Samsung N150 Key Features

  • Slim Design
  • The trackpad is large and very responsive
  • With multi-touch support you can use your fingers for zooming, scrolling and rotating your way through commands
  • Easy access to RAM and battery
  • Seven color options to choose from

Samsung N150 Specification

  • Operating System : Windows 7 Starter Edition (32-bit)
  • Display : 10.1-inch Non-glare Display (1024×600)
  • Processor : Intel Atom N450 Processor 1.66GHz (667MHz FSB, 512KB Cache)
  • Chipset : Mobile Intel NM10 Express chipset
  • Graphics : Intel GMA 3150 integrated graphics
  • Memory: 1GB DDR2 667MHz RAM (easily self upgrade RAM to 2GB)
  • Intel GMA 3150 integrated graphics
  • Storage : 160GB 5400RPM SATA HDD
  • Wireless Data Network: Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n
  • Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR
  • Input/Output: 802.11b/g/Draft-N, Ethernet LAN (RJ-45), VGA, 3 x USB 2.0 Ports(1 is chargeable)
  • Flash Media Slot : 3-in-1 Card Slot (SD, SDHC, MMC)
  • 0.3 MegaPixel webcam with integrated microphone
  • Optical Drive : No Optical Drive (optional external optical drive can be connected via one of the USB ports)
  • 6-Cell, 4400 mAh Lithium Ion battery pack ( 8 hours battery life)
  • Dimensions: 1 x 10.4 x 7.4 inches ; 2.7 pounds

Upgrading Samsung N150 Memory from 1GB to 2GB

Take note of the following;

  • The netbook comes with only 1 slot and it is populated by a 1GB memory module
  • That means you have to remove the 1GB RAM module to insert the new 2GB RAM module
  • Make sure you purchase the right memory module – a 200 pin DDR2 SODIMM notebook memory module (667MHz or 800MHz)
  • Installing the memory is a snap. You just need a tiny Philips screwdriver to remove one screw from back cover. Once unscrewed slide the door towards the screw and lift up gently. Pop out the old, pop in the new, replace the cover and boot it back up (Follow the steps outlined in easily self upgrade RAM)

Color Options

The Samsung N150 netbook is available in seven different colors and choices of glossy or matte finishes.

  • Black
  • Blue
  • Red
  • Caribbean Yellow
  • Bermuda Blue
  • Flamingo Pink
  • Black Matte

Software Included with Samsung N150

Samsung N150 comes pre-installed with the simpler and easier Microsoft Windows 7 which is brilliantly handled by the Intel Atom processor. When it comes to operating system, you can’t go simpler than Starter version. This version is most suited to Samsung N150 because it works extremely well on compact and small sized laptops. With fewer clicks, less waiting and hassle free connectivity, Windows 7 Starter makes Samsung N150 highly responsive and reliable when it comes to compatibility with other softwares. Samsung provide their own software for optimum settings and frequently used utilites,

  • Samsung Recovery Solution III
  • Samsung Magic Doctor
  • Samsung Update Plus
  • Easy Display Manager
  • Easy Battery Manager
  • Easy Network Manager
  • Easy SpeedUp Manager
  • Easy Resolution Manager
  • Battery Life Extender
  • McAfee Internet Security 9.0 (free 60-day trial)

User Reviews

The Samsung N150 Netbook is a decent offering from Samsung and will appeal to anyone who puts battery life at the top of their list of priorities,but it falls short of being anything special and its keyboard isn’t quite as good as those on rivals. The Samsung N150 performs just like any other netbook and doesn’t feature any glaring flaws. It boils down to personal opinion with this one. If you have a preference for the brand, if you like the way it looks, if you like the colors, if you give it a whirl at a display outlet and like it – then go for it. It won’t let you down.

Pros

  • Virtually silent fan
  • Excellent Trackpad

Cons

Speak Your Mind

*


*