Toshiba’s recently launched netbook is supposedly aimed at students, first-time computer buyers, and people requiring a secondary PC. But despite its lightweight profile and decent specifications, this netbook still has a long way to go as it offers nothing extraordinary.
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Opening the lid reveals an 8.9-inch screen with a native resolution of 1024×600, a cramped keyboard with small keys (looks and feels similar to the first Eee PC from Asus), and a trackpad that comes with recessed mouse buttons that needs to be pressed firmly for it to function. It also comes with a built-in webcamera for anytime web conferencing.
Specifications-wise, the NB100 utilises Intel’s Atom processor running at 1.6GHZ, a Mobile Intel 945 Express Chipset for video, a gigabyte of RAM, a 120GB hard drive, has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (802.11b/g) built-in, and runs on Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition with Service Pack 3.
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As with any netbook, the NB100 is limited to opening and/or editing documents, spreadsheets, and presentations, surfing the Internet, listening to music, watching stored movies, and viewing photos. The built-in 120GB drive is enough to store all your essential programs and files, although purchasing an external hard drive is recommended if a user wants to bring their large files along with them.
Despite having a large battery pack, the unit only lasted for 160 minutes in our DVD test. While not the biggest screen around, the 8.9-inch screen is good enough to watch movies on. Just don’t sit too far otherwise you may have to squint. Audio was tinny and you are better off jacking in your favourite ‘phones if you plan to listen to music or watch your favourite TV episode.
The Toshiba NB100 is one of those portable devices that fail to impress: the hardware is the same as any other product out in the market, the included software is nothing special, and seems to be ‘out of date’ when compared to other new netbooks. If you are looking for a secondary PC that you can lug along during those long trips, then look elsewhere: there is really nothing to see here.
See page over for product specifications and final rating.
Toshiba NB100 Specifications:
- Intel Atom N270 (1.6GHz, 533MHz FSB, 512k L2 Cache)
- Windows XP Home Edition
- 8.9-inch WSVGA
- 1GB DDR2 (533MHz)
- 120GB HDD (5400rpm) SATA
- 10/100Mbps LAN
- WLAN (802.11b/g)
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Toshiba NB100 | $715 | 
| www.toshiba.com.au
For: Form Factor; Lightweight; Offers similar specs to other netbooks
Against: Small and cramped keyboard; Hard to press mouse keys; Offers nothing new; Battery life
Conclusion: Toshiba netbook nothing special
