MSI Wind U135 Netbook Review
MSI Wind U135 Netbook Review – 5.5/7
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).
The U135 is similar to the U130 in terms of specifications and build. However the material used to fabricate both chassis’ differs. The MSI U135 features a more classy textured and sort of sanded plastic which gives it a slightly more luxurious feel. The touchpad is 20% larger than the U130′s as well. The MSI U135 is neat and compact, weighing in at either 2.4lbs with a 3-cell battery or 2.6lbs with a 6-cell. Unlike the U130, the U135 is run on a Windows 7 Starter. The pricing on the MSI website is significantly more than on amazon, where the netbook is up for pre-order. There are two models available in 4 different colors. The higher priced one features more storage with a 250GB Hard disk as well as a longer battery life.
MSI Wind U135 Netbook Review – Top Features
- Lightweight and compact – The MSI Wind U130 weighs in at only 2.6lbs with the 6-cell battery included. It’s easily transportable.
- Good build quality – The U135 has a nice firmness about it, and there’s no give on any part of the netbook.
- Nice keyboard – The keyboard has a decent interface, with keys that are spaced out nicely and slope away from the centre.
MSI Wind U135 Netbook Review – Drawbacks and things to keep in mind
- Difficulties in upgrading components – For a simple operation like upgrading your RAM, you’ll need to unscrew 9 screws, one of which is under the warranty sticker.
- A bit average – There’s not much that singles out this netbook, and it’s price point of $309.99 doesn’t differentiate it either. Just check out our list of the best netbook deals out there to see the deals available just $10 away under $300.
MSI Wind U135 Netbook Review – Ratings
- Price and Value for money – 0.75 Star. Although it is a better entrant than the U130, it’s still only a poppy in a sea of poppies.
- Speed and Performance – 0.75 Star. The MSI U135 features Intel’s Atom N450 processor and the stock IGMA 3150 graphics, so its performance is what you’d expect.
- Screen – 0.75 Star. The 1024 x 600 screen resolution displays colors and images quite well. Viewing angles are decent.
- Keyboard, Touchpad, Useability – 0.75 Star. All decent.
- Portability and Battery life – 0.75 Star. The U130 weighs in at 2.4lbs which is great. The 3-cell battery surpassed our expectations. The 6-cell version isn’t too shabby either at 2.6lbs and 8 hours of battery.
- Looks and Design – 0.75 Star. The Wind U135 has quite decent styling and a good build quality.
- 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 U135 a rating of 5.5 out of 7 stars.
MSI Wind U135 Netbook Review – Our Recommendation
The U135 is MSI’s generic netbook offering. With the Intel Pineview processor, the standard 1GB memory, 160GB storage and other standardized specifications, there’s really no reason we’d suggest the U135 over any other netbook. It boils down to personal choice, and if you’re browsing in a store and like the look of it, go right ahead. It’s a much better offering than it’s poorer cousin – the U130. There are four color options, and two model choices. The more expensive U135 at $329.99 on amazon features a larger storage space and longer battery life
MSI Wind U135 Netbook Review – Technical Specifications
- OS: Windows 7 Starter
- 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/250GB (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/6-cell Li-ion Battery
- Weight: 2.4 lbs/2.6 lbs
- Colors: Black, White, Red, Blue
- Price: $309.99, $329.99
Filed under: MSI Netbook Review