We’re big fans of the Samsung range of netbooks, as the Samsung NC10 and its follow-up, the Samsung N110, truly define what a netbook could and should be. So, can this latest version, the Samsung N130, really live up to expectations? Check out our review of the Samsung N130 and find out for yourself…
The first thing you notice about the Samsung N130 is that is has a more rounded design than previous models, so you won’t find any sharp edges just a smooth edge that feels good to the touch. This styling isn’t only on the outer case but also on the inside.
The 10.7 x 7.4 x 1.2-inch, 2.6-pound N130 is almost the same size as the N140, but has a shape reminiscent of the pebble design on the Samsung Go (N310) minus the grainy, rubberized surface. Instead, a matte plastic graces the lid and chassis-this is no fingerprint magnet like the N140. We still like the rounded edges on this design and appreciate the more subdued logo. Unfortunately, the N130 only comes in white with two different colors for the lid-Slate Blue and Pink-and no chrome accents.
Screen is bright and crisp. As I now wear glasses to read books I also have to wear them to read text on the N130 screen. Small screen might be a problem for you if you are over 40 and haven't got to reading glasses yet. Haven't played about with changing text and icon size on screen which is possible I believe.
Check out our guide to choosing the right netbook
Another factor in the N130's favour is excellent build quality. Despite weighing just 1.25kg it feels extremely solid and well put together, with nary a hint of creaking panels or dodgy joins. We have no doubt the N130 could survive a few bumps scrapes provided they're not too grievous.
The 10.1-inch screen features a 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio, so movies are shown to their best potential. Brightness and contrast are poor, however, and while the matt finish eliminates reflections, it also results in fairly flat images.
You won’t find Bluetooth onboard but Wi-Fi is present. Samsung is pitching this device as an entry-level model, so it’s a cheaper netbook than other Samsung’s in the range.
When it comes to battery life, we found the Samsung N130 could muster just over four hours, which is less than we expect from a high-end netbook but for this budget offering, it’s more than acceptable.
The 2.5 x 1.4-inch touchpad is also the same size as the N140’s, and is wide enough to move across the screen without having to pick up your finger too much. The single mouse button bar beneath is a little stiff. We’d prefer to see distinct left and right buttons, as well as a demarcation between the touchpad area and the palm rest, which shares the same slight roughness as there is on the N140.
Some Customer Reviews:
Hi - I bought an N130 & installed Windows 7. The rest is pure empiricism - I tested & it “works”.
The machine repeatedly did not boot, giving “Memory errors”. I swapped SIMS to no avail. I swapped N130, and had the same problem. I put it down to drivers, particularly since the W7 drivers apparently are inherited from Vista.
Then I noticed that it ALWAYS booted when NOT connected to power - in other words it gave no problems if I booted from the (4-hour - rubbish!) battery.
I’m posting this here because I have found no other reference to the problem anywhere.
Eoin
I have just purchased a Samsung N130. It’s my 1st mini computer.My first impressions are first what a superb piece of engineering construction.BUT, this was wiped out by my disappointment with the equipment documentation!!
Who on earth requires a 60+ page booklet on so-called “Safety Instructions in multiple languages telling you amongst other things “how to sit in front of a computer”?!!
And yet Samsung in their wisdom produce only a 5 page folder “Installation Guide”, again in several languages and no comprehensive Users Manual!!
BUT,yes I hear Samsung Marketing and Sales excutives protesting that there is one - ON THE HARD DRIVE!! What stupidity.
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