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.
This styling makes the Samsung N130 feel solid to the touch and while we don’t think it as robust as the Samsung N140, for example, it’s a good value offering.
There isn’t a great deal that’s unique about the Samsung N130. It uses the now standard 10.1-inch screen with a clear 1024 x 600-pixel display. Samsung has used a matt finish to the screen, which helps keep the price down and reduces glare when using it out and about. However, we did find that it had a reduced brightness range compared to other netbooks.
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The screen size allows for a typical 93 per cent full-size keyboard that we found a pleasure to use. Sure, it takes a little getting accustomed to but the keys have a good degree of travel and the overall quality is high.
When it comes to spec, you’ll find the standard Intel Atom N270 in place, along with 1024MB of memory and 160GB hard drive. Three USB ports, VGA-out, Ethernet and SD memory card reader make up the connections on the sides.
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.
Verdict
What you pay for is what you get and with the Samsung N130 what you get is a decent netbook for the price and offers good value for money. However, if your budget will stretch to it we’d suggest opting for one of the slightly higher priced Samsung N110 or Samsung N140 models as they offer more in the way of battery life and all-round build quality.
Best features
Budget price
Good keyboard
Well built
Not so good
Nothing really new
Less than ideal battery
Low brightness range
Check out the Samsung N130 image gallery:
Closest rivals
Samsung N110
This fresh update of the award winning NC10 brings with it a better screen and keyboard but still has the same knockout battery life
Dell Inspiron Mini 10
The stylish design, bright screen and good-sized keyboard make this a great all-rounder at an affordable price
Acer AOD150-1B Blue
This may not be the freshest netbook design around but the keyboard is comfortable, the battery life impressive and the specification great value for the price
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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.