The LED display has a resolution of 1366 x 768, and provides a bright, sharp image. I'm not too bothered by the screen’s reflective coating, but the glossy black bevel running around the edge of the screen really shows off every little fingerprint and smudge mark. I was also concerned about the two cooling vents located right on the base of the unit, but the ViewBook never became too hot to sit comfortably on a lap.
More ports than a MacBook Air
Prices for the ViewBook range start at around £428 for the ViewBook 120, which is equipped with a 1.2GHz single-core Intel Celeron M 743 processor and 12in screen, but we tested the ViewBook 130, which has a 13.3in screen and a 1.3GHz Core 2 Duo SU7300 processor, and costs £622 through Viewsonic’s preferred retailer, Misco.
Other standard features in the ViewBook 130 include 2GB of memory, a 320GB hard disk, 802.11n Wi-Fi and an integrated Intel GMA 4500M graphics core. The review unit was equipped with Windows 7 Professional, but you'll also see it on sale with Windows 7 Home Premium.
Like the MacBook Air, the ViewBook 130 lacks an optical drive. Alternatively, there is a ‘Pro’ version of the ViewBook that includes an internal multi-format DVD burner and which costs about another £50. It’s also slightly heavier, at about 1.6kg to the 130's 1.5kg.
The problem we had as we explored the ViewBook was that we couldn’t quite figure out what it wants to be. The 13.3in screen and Core 2 Duo processor mean that it’s more than a netbook, but the 1.3GHz clock speed is a mite feeble for a fully-fledged laptop PC – especially one that costs more than £600.
COMMENTS
I don't get it.
So this one is half the macbook air's price (reviewed as 80%), you say it resolves some of that laptop's niggling issues --- so we must be in 90+% scores territory, right? No, it's 60%.
I don't get it.
Acer 3810TZ
The spec isn't as good, it's no doubt worse build quality, and it doesn't look as good. I am writing this from my Acer 3810TZ and I have to admit, for £450, this is the best laptop I could find. 8 hours of battery (I've had 11 hours with on / off browsing).
£150 less, twice the ram, same size HDD, same CPU, better build, and better looks. I don't regret buying this laptop at all.
@ I don't get it.
I am just as confused by this review. This is an ultralight laptop that competes with the Mac Air!
No one in their right mind would be buying this for gaming so why the graphics tests and comment "serious gamers will need to look elsewhere."
Sounds to me like this would be perfect for users that need a larger display than a 10" Netbook but require high portability and connectivity. This ticks all the boxes.
"The ViewBook is actually quite a nice little laptop: it’s light and easy to carry, and perfectly adequate for day-to-day tasks.."
You said it! how about rerating this at least at 70% given the price / functions and quality?
Too bad it's ViewSonic
Not going anywhere near ViewSonic ever again, after they refused to honour a warranty claim because I didn't have the original box to ship it back to them. (no joke)
Many attempts, each time cancelled on their end, and their refusal to even discuss other options.
Maybe it's different outside Australia, but in Aust... avoid.
style over function
If it fits in your pocket slim is good.
If you have to carry it around in a case slim is pointless. Especially if you have to carry a book to raise it up when in use to avoid RSI when typing.
I would imagine slim also means fragile.
