I bought this laptop because I needed a cheap, reliable way to get online. At first It had Linpus Linux OS which to be honest is a waste of time however it was easy to use but it lacked in compatibility to other software and hardware, that is when I realised I should have payed a bit extra to get the XP version. I bought a cheap copy of windows xp from ebay and installed it using an external cd-rom drive, which was a lot easier than I was expecting just make sure you enter the BIOS and select 1st boot priority to USB cd-rom device. Now running on windows XP it is a totally different machine the only critisism I have to this netbook is it does not have a cd/dvd drive but it is the same for all netbooks. It is fast on running XP for doing basic computing needs such as internet, word processing but dont attempt to do any visually intensive tasks such as gaming or Video editing. My main critisism is the poor quality speakers however if you demand better sound use external speakers or headphones, also if your running XP download the latest sound card drivers from acers website, this makes a noticeably better sound. Also battery life is terrible your lucky to get 1.45 hours off a full charge and the extended battery packs are very, very expensive. It is quite durable because I have dropped mine once or twice off about table height out of pure carelessness and does not even crash or switch off. The plastics seem a little cheap however but they are hardwaring. The screen is also glossy in direct sunlight and the brightness can not be adjusted but dont be putt off it is still very usable. The screen becomes brighter automatically when the power cable is connected and dims when unplugged. Over all I would rate this 17 out of 20, great value for money but avoid the liunx version with your life. Pay the xtra money and get XP.
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
You knew it didn't have a CD drive before you purchased so why critcise it. Your review doesn't really say anything about this netbook. Games as good as Wolfenstein and Need For Speed can be played quite smoothly on this.
May 20th, 2009
helpful by (50%):
somewhat helpful by (50%):
