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MSI Wind U130 Netbook Review – 5/7

MSI’s additions to this year’s CES were numerous, but the only two netbooks available in the US till date are the U130 and U135. While both netbooks feature very similar specifications, they have a not so minor difference in style and build quality, hence justifying individual reviews (which still remain similar).

One would have to say that U130 can be described as an update to the U100. The chassis is made out of high quality plastic. It looks neat and compact, weighing in at only 2.4lbs. The lid is not exactly fingerprint friendly, and catches a few smudges now and then. The MSI Wind U130 features a 1.3MP webcam, which is a nice upgrade. However MSI have chosen to run it on the erstwhile Windows XP platform, at least in the US. Argos is selling the UK version with Windows 7 Starter.  Price-wise, it’s comparable to Acer’s AO532h at just under $300.

MSI Wind U130 Netbook Review – Top Features

• Lightweight and compact – The MSI Wind U130 weighs in at only 2.4lbs with the battery included. Agreed that its a 3-cell, but that still makes it nice and light.
• Best of the 3-cells – The battery life is more than 5 hours which is almost comparable to some netbooks featuring 6-cell batteries.
• Nice keyboard – The keyboard has a decent interface, with keys that are spaced out nicely and slope away from the centre.

MSI Wind U130 Netbook Review – Drawbacks and things to keep in mind

• Touchpad – It features a single mouse button, which isn’t the most comfortable thing in the world to use. Why be different just for the sake of being different.
• A bit average – There’s not much that singles out this netbook, and it’s price point of $299 just doesn’t differentiate it anymore. Just check out our list of the best netbook deals out there to see the deals available under $300.

MSI Wind U130 Netbook Review – Ratings

1. Price and Value for money – 0.5 Star. It’s a Windows XP, 3-cell version competing with more adept competitors. And there’s really nothing that makes it stand out.
2. Speed and Performance – 0.75 Star. The MSI U130 features Intel’s Atom N450 processor and the stock IGMA 3150 graphics, so its performance is what you’d expect.
3. Screen – 0.75 Star. The 1024 x 600 screen resolution displays colors and images quite well. Viewing angles are decent.
4. Keyboard, Touchpad, Useability – 0.75 Star. All decent, except for the single-button touchpad.
5. Portability and Battery life – 0.75 Star. The U130 weighs in at 2.4lbs which is great. The 3-cell battery surpassed our expectations, but is still understandably way off the performance of a 6-cell.
6. Looks and Design – 0.75 Star. The Wind U130 isn’t very flash, but we quite like the compact no-frills look its got going. If only it had a less plasticky feel and a more fingerprint free lid.
7. Connectivity and Extensibility – 0.75 Star. The netbook features a nice range of ports. The WiMax capabilities that we initially thought would be present, aren’t.

That gives the MSI Wind U130 a rating of 5 out of 7 stars.

MSI Wind U130 Netbook Review – Our Recommendation

There’s no variants and this model is available in only 2 colors – black and white. At $299, the U130 is not expensive. It just seems to lack a bit of bite. The specifications and performance are all average for its class. We suggest you lay your hands on this if you’re an MSI fan or if you are able to find a deal on it. Otherwise, there’s many more (yummier) fish in the sea. The U130 can be purchased on the MSI website for $299.99.

MSI Wind U130 Netbook Review – What Users have said

Pros:

1. “The white model has a very smart appearance, and the machine seems solid and well made. 10 inch screen is bright and clear.”
2. “The screen is very clear and keyboard easy to use.”

Cons:

1. “The speakers aren’t loud enough.”

MSI Wind U130 Netbook Review – Technical Specifications

• OS: Windows XP Home
• CPU: Intel Atom Processor N450 (1.66GHz, 512KB L2 cache, 667MHz FSB)
• Display & Graphics: 10.1 inch WSVGA Display, Intel GMA 3150
• RAM: 1GB DDR2
• Storage: 160GB (5400RPM) SATA Hard Drive
• Connectivity: 4-in-1 card reader, 802.11b/g/Draft-N, Ethernet LAN, 3 x USB 2.0 Ports, 1.3MP Webcam
• Battery: 3-cell Li-ion Battery (5 hour life)
• Weight: 2.4 lbs
• Colors: Black, White
• Price: $299.99

Filed under: MSI Netbook Review