Review: GIGABYTE W551N

Blessed with a Dual core Intel, this one is a fresh performer. Fast, efficient mobility is what this product promises. Lets explore more.


Design


The laptop is simple by looks, but packs a solid punch in the performance and features tab. A Widescreen of 15.4” WXGA color TFT. 2 MICs are integrated on the screen at both sides. A superb view-angle is provided due to its widescreen technology. The keyboard is the standard laptop set, with key-size being average, but a bit cramped. The touchpad below the keyboard is just fantastic, having a super smooth feel, and good scrolling system. Moreover, the touchpad is a little deep embedded which removes the risk of accidental touch while typing. On top left side of keyboard, are the Power, quick access keys for Email, Browser, WiFi/Bluetooth, Volume control. Above these buttons are the LEDs which show power, HDD status, and Caps, Num lock.


The front of the laptop has 3 audio ports, headphones, line-in, MIC. Also, IEEE 1394 port, SD card reader, PCMCI Card slot, 4 USB 2.0 ports are provided. Bluetooth and WiFi are provided for instant connectivity. A VGA out, S-video port is also provided for enabling display on external screens.


Performance


The Intel Dual core processor T2300 is the brain of this notebook. Coupled with the 945 chipset, it gives a good performance but nothing as compared to the best ones currently available. 512 MB RAM is provided which is upgradeable to 2Gb in case the need arises. 80GB HDD @ 5400 rpm makes the disk system good enough, and a 8x DVD RW dual layer is enough to satisfy your data backing needs. Graphics department is handled by Nvidia 7300, which is an average performer, if not more.


The product achieved a score of 1859 3D Marks05 and 3395 PCMarks 05, which is an average score. The presence of a good processor was the reason for this rating. Most games of the current generation can be run at medium-high settings, and running most business applications is a breeze.


Conclusion


The battery life of the Notebook is quite good too, mainly because of the efficient processor that has been included. Its a decent buy at the price at which it retails at, but there are better performers out there, some which are competitively priced. A bit heavy in weight, this one has nothing in it which can make you drool, neither the looks, nor the performance.


Pros

+ 15.4” crystal clear widescreen
+ Good build

Cons

- Recurring heating problem
- Bottom in the looks department


Value For Money

Our Rating