This is an update to the previous review. After several days of loading new drivers and updates from Samsung, trying different access points, and generally messing with the wireless on the NC10, I have to return it to Amazon. It simply doesn't work consistently. I've checked forums, and this is not an isolated case. Other people seem to have the same problem. The wireless drops the connection after a minute or two. It may have to do with your router (I use Apple Airports), but I've had the wireless cut out with a Netgear and a Linksys router as well. Windows shows that the wireless is connected, but you can't access anything with a browser or utility program (including Samsung Update).
It seems like a solid machine otherwise, so the rest of the review stands.I'd have dropped it to two stars, however, if I could
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I've carried sub notebooks for years, and they tend to share similar compromises for the weight, size and battery life. Usually speed, screen size, and keyboard.
This one is no different, although the keyboard is actually a little better than I expected. It's definitely touch-typable, and the smaller screen will probably stop you from working before the keyboard.
There IS an SD slot. It's sort of camouflaged in the front. I had the machine for four hours before I found it. (No, I don't read manuals.)
When you get this, as soon as you are connected, you need to use the Samsung updater to download the updated drivers for the wifi and network utility (the software will find these automatically, after scanning your machine for needed updates. ) Until I got these drivers, the computer disconnected from wifi every two minutes or so. (Using a variety of access points.) Since the download and installation, it's been fine, but for a netbook not to have working wireless is not acceptable, and I was ready to send it back until I read some forums who suggested finding the new drivers.
Movies look great on it, and the speakers are acceptable for a computer this small. As good as my IBM Thinkpad, as loud as my MacBook. Still, headphones are advised.
It's not as pretty as it is in the picture. I mean, it's not quite as irridescent. It's sharp-looking, but not as shiny as the picture.
It does come with an envelope case. I ordered on because it didn't specify in the description that I could find. It's suitable to protect the machine inside another case, like a briefcase or possibly a backpack, but if it won't accomodate the ac adapter without a chance of scratching your new machine, and it won't cushion it from impact. I'd suggest a neoprene case if you can find one the right size. I've used them for years with my travel machines with good luck.
The battery life seems very good. At least as good as reported, but I haven't run it through all the paces.
The keyboard on this little guy is nice. Yes, it's smaller, but for a subnotebook, it's nice. The trackpad as everyone says, takes some getting used to, but it's functional.
It comes with the McAfee suite, which I'm not a fan of. It was eating a lot of cycles. I put AVG Free on it and took McAfee off.
That's about it, for now. Once you get the wifi working, this is a sweet little machine, but I've had it less than a full day, so I can't speak to its ruggedness.
Finally, I've paid up to $2000 for computers to get this kind of size and performance in a travel machine, and this machine seems to handle basic tasks as well as any of those. It's a good value.
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Samsung NC10-14GB 10.2-Inch Blue Netbook - 6 Cell Battery.
