Introduction

Samsung Q210

The Samsung Q210 Notebook was introduced to replace the tired looking N45.  A thorough reworking of the insides have given this portable device a fresh new look dragging it into the modern era.

By combining sensual slim-line design with innovative multimedia and communications technology, this notebook set a new standard in mobile performance. And at just 1.95kg , its ultra-portable design is ideal for style-conscious students or power hungry business users who need to keep in touch on the move.

Style

The Q210 is dressed in the glossy black covering that is now typical of many of the Samsung products.  Although this makes it attractive to fingerprints it gives the machine a smart appearance.   The covering is actually much more durable than expected so this should put off only the fussiest of consumers.

Samsung have added a dash of colour to this notebook with a graduated red line running the length of the front.  This may or may not be to your taste but it will be a trend that is to be seen in their other products from TVs to computers.

The notebook is wider than its predecessor, this is thanks to the inclusion of the battery firmly within the shell.  This is definitely preferred over the alternative of seeing the battery stick out from beneath.

Weighing in at a touch under 2kg the Q210 fits nicely into the expected weight bracket for a notebook.  A device of this nature is never going to be as light as a netbook but if you are used to a large 15″ based device then you will be glad of the reduction in weight.

Q210 Keyboard

A solid keyboard allows for comfortable typing, however as with other Samsung keyboards the “\” key is placed on the right hand side away from its usual position.  This can be initially frustrating if you are expecting the right hand shift key to be there instead.  As with their other keyboards this is once again coated with their nano silver technology to protect from bacterial growth.

The Q210′s speakers are of a decent quality, perhaps not the loudest in the world but they certainly do the job.

Performance

The real updates to this notebook have occurred on the insides.  Samsung have included a 2.26GHz Intel Core 2 Duo P8400 processor, which already trumps the Q70′s 2.1GHz T8100.   The RAM is also increased by 50% to 3GB, and a 320GB hard disk takes the place of the 250GB. Considering this higher specification,  the Q210 benchmarks at a similar level to the old Q70.

The battery is fairly decent, although not outstanding.  It is capable of sustaining around 4hrs of light use, but intensive operating will cut that down to under 2hrs.

Specification

Processor:

Intel® Centrino® 2 Processor Technology
Intel® Core™2 Duo Processor

LCD 12.1″ WXGA (1280 x 800) SuperBright© Gloss

Graphic Processor:

nVIDIA GeForce Go 9200M GS (Dedicated Graphics)
Intel® X4500 (Integrated Graphics)

ODD:

DVD Super Multi Dual Layer
DVD Super Multi Double Layer Light Scribe

Conclusion

The Q210 is not only a capable and portable machine but also a  real bargain. With the current trend for super cheap mini-laptops, it’s worth remembering that a proper price tag can get you a proper laptop, and for the majority of people who require a little more in the way of usability, the Q210 will be a great bet.

Samsung Q210 Cover

The Samsung netbook range, including the NC10 and NC20 have proved a great success in 2009.  Buying a small lightweight portable comupter is now a much harder choice than ever before.  Thankfully SammyNotebook.com is on hand to help guide you through this decision making process!

What is a Notebook?

Traditionally a notebook is simply a small laptop.  However you can be forgiven for being confused by all the terms being passed around by the marketing teams.  Notebooks tend to fit in the range of 13 to 15 inch screens, they will be lighter and more compact than laptops.   Often the compact space can come at a premium price but more and more we are seeing fully functional neat laptops on the market for a very respectable asking amount.

What is a Netbook?

The term netbook has come to mean a small ultra portable PC, typically costing much less than other laptops and notebooks.  They are aimed at the cheap end of the market and favour less functionality for less cost and lightweight specifications.  However the lines have blurred significantly in recent months making it harder and harder to classify the different offerings from the top manufacturers.

Which is right for me?

Lets forget about terminology for a moment!  To work out what you want you need you are going to have to look at what you actually want to use your new computer for.  Ultimately it won’t matter what the device is called just aslong as it does the things you need it to do and at a price you can afford!  So what factors influence the netbook vs notebook buying decision?

• Cost: This will be the decider fot a lot of you reading this.  Those looking for a second PC to compliment an existing desktop PC or those looking for a low cost PC will be looking more to the netbook end of the market.  That said, if you check out our reviews you will see some affordable notebooks too – so don’t rule out this option just yet!
• Portability:  Now if cost isn’t the big decision maker, then size should be a key factor.  The smaller you go, the easier it is to carry your machine around – but usability becomes much harder.  If you are wanting to carry out real work then you do really need a screen you can see and a decent sized keyboard.  I find a 10″ screen is comfortable to work with on most day to day applications.  However if you use professional apps that need larger work areas then you will most likely want to think bigger.  Notebooks are usually much heavier, nearer the 4kg mark – twice as heavy as some of the netbooks.  This might not sound much but if you are travelling the world or carrying lots of stuff with you then trust me, you will notice this extra weight!
• Functionality: A big win for the notebook is processing and graphics power.  You will find a much bigger range of CPUs available, including multi-core processors.  Graphics hardware will normally be better making it possible to play more recent games in some instances.  Notebooks will usually come with an optical drive, greater connectivity and more room for expansion.  That said, modern netbooks have caught up a lot and many of the mid priced models can compete on a number of levels.
• Connectivity: Again the notebooks traditionally have the edge here.  With less size and cost limitations that a netbook it is easier to pick up higher specced notebooks for a reasonable fee.   But the newer netbooks are coming along with 3G modems and wireless-n WiFi so the options are definitely there.