Samsung Series 5 3G Wi-fi Chromebook Review

Samsung Series 5 3G Chromebook (Arctic White)

I'm not great at writing reviews so I'm going to make it brief. I basically needed something small and efficient for writing emails while on the go. I have an iPad, but that doesn't fit the bill. Tablets are great for consuming content, but not for generating it. I've found that I almost exclusively use my tablet while sitting on the couch or while lying in bed at home. For travel, I need a laptop. I think that's funny, since tablets are supposed to be super mobile and ending the reign of the PC.

Samsung Series 5 3G Wi-fi Chromebook Key Specifications:
* Processor: 1.66 GHz Intel Atom dual-core N570 processor
* Storage: 16 GB solid-state drive (SSD)
* System Memory: 2 GB
* Communications: Wireless-N Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n), integrated 3G (via optional Verizon Wireless subscription)
* Ports: Two USB 2.0, 4-in-1 memory card reader (SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC)
* Video out: VGA (via optional dongle)
* Audio: Built-in stereo speakers, combo headphone/microphone jack
* Battery: 6-cell battery for up to 8.5 hours of use
* Webcam: 1-megapixel

I'm pretty satisfied with this little device. It does exactly what I wanted it to, and I enjoy being part of the initial set of users on products, especially if it's something Googley. The software I expect will be enhanced over time, and whatever issues remain outside of that are outweighed for me by the fun and sense of convenience that I get from playing with this thing. I imagine though that it's not yet for everyone. If you spend a good amount of your time offline, or using things other than a web browser, or don't want to be annoyed by the roughness around the edges of a new OS, you should probably stick with a PC or Mac for now, and maybe take another look this way in 6 months to a year. If you're looking for something that's fun to play with, easy to use, and very portable, buy it!

Samsung Series 5 3G Wi-fi Chromebook is four stars!

Most Helpful Customer Reviews:

35 of 38 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars - Amazing product!, June 15, 2011 By Mitali Ganguly

I am very happy with my Samsung Chromebook. I had been looking for a computer that was fast, easy to use and did not keep breaking down so when Google announced the Chromebook Pilot program I signed up and got the CR-48. I really liked my CR-48 and therefore bought the Samsung Chromebook with 3G at the Gilt flash sale. I've had it now for a few days and am very happy with it.

The Samsung Chromebook is very light weight and portable; and I like its clean looks and solid finish. The keyboard is amazing and the trackpad is HUGE. It also feels a lot faster than the CR-48. The software on the CR-48 kept improving and getting better in the 6 months I had it and it feels like its gotten even better on the Samsung Series 5. There's now a file manager and a media player and it is super easy to upload photos to Picasa. And ofcourse it has Chrome which is fast. Read more...