This laptop is a great compromise of performance, battery life, features and size.
Firstly, being a 14.1" Model, it is noticeably more compact than comparable 15" and 15.4" widescreen models. The TFT Screen is clear and sharp, and perfectly suitable for all windows applications.
The standard out-of-the box specs of this machine are quite reasonable, with 256Mb DDR Ram, 30GB Hard Disk Drive, CD-RW/DVD-ROM Drive and wireless connectivity as well as traditional networking features. The Processor is a Centrino class Pentium M (Mobile) 1.4Ghz. The real benefit of such a chip is the power saving features. Most wireless notebooks utilising other processors will chew through the batteries in a matter of a couple of hours, but this little beauty will hold charge even with wireless switched on for up to 6, yes that's right six hours! this thing is a must if you are looking for a truly portable office solution.
Talking about the initial specs, the only thing I would encourage you to upgrade is the RAM, another 256 will be plenty for windows XP Pro(included in the package) and is easily self installed with the removal of just one screw. If you wanted to upgrade further, the laptop can handle up to 1Gb (2x512).
The inbuilt Wireless controller is an Intel 802.11b Module, allowing for wireless speeds up to 11Mbps. If you prefer you can use the inbult Wired Ethernet port offering 10/100Mbps, or if you do not have a network available the Laptop comes with a built in 56K Modem (Fax).
Portability is a huge strong point with this laptop, further enhanced by its expansion ports, these include 2xPCMCIA Ports, a Memory Card/SD Card Reader and of course several USB Ports. Also included are a VGA out, and S-video out to connect to your TV.
As this PC is aimed towards office/student use, the inbuilt video card is an onboard Intel Variety, offering substantial performance in windows. It utilises shared memory so gaming is a little out of the question. The sound card is quite reasonable, offering neat stereo sound via front mounted speakers, as well as mic/headphone ports.
The general look and feel of this Laptop is excellent, with stylish silver plastic, and chromed buttons. Blue LED's for status lights certainly add to the effect, and at 2.4Kg it is quite a light PC to carry around. Benq is even kind enough to include a simple Polypropene (Think Wetsuit material) Slim Case for a little extra protection on the road.
The included software is excellent, Windows XP Professional, NTI-CD Maker, Cyberlink DVD Viewer and maker, and Ulead Photo software. There is also some proprietary Q-music, and Q-Media software which help utilise hot keys and provide a worthy alternative to the windows media suite.
A truly complete package, well assembled by Benq, great portability, lightweight, stylish and great software selection truly make this an ideal choice. One of my favourite laptops thus far.
More details
Memory / capacity
Good
Ease of use
Easy
Range of Extra Features
Good
Instruction manual
Good
Manufacturer Support
Good
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