Gateway EC1436u Notebook PC

2 comments

1. 

   Dee Q. on December 11, 2009 at 7:06 am

   This model is way more than a basic internet browsing netbook, it’s more like a full-sized computer in a compact size. I’ve had it for about a week now, and haven’t found a feature that didn’t meet or exceed my expectations. The reason why I chose this model is because it has a dual processor, something that is rarely found in netbooks, and really sets this model apart. The dual processor increases the ability of the netbook to handle multiple applications, so it was a simple choice to spend the extra $80 or so to purchase this model over an Atom processor netbook. In addition, it has Windows 7 Home premium, instead of the Windows 7 basic or XP like most other netbooks out there.

   The screen size is perfect, not as small as the 10″ netbooks, just a little larger, but it makes a huge difference in my ability to see the text and other subjects on the screen. The weight is a little heavier than most netbooks, at 3 lbs, but it feels solid and isn’t cumbersome at all. It’s far lighter and less bulky than a laptop with a 15″ screen, though. I’m a petite person, and didn’t want a huge laptop to cart around, but I wanted the capabilities that a laptop has to offer. This is really the perfect size. I can have it open on the table and still have a conversation with my young daughter over the top of it. I found that I could easily sit down and work on a project with the netbook in my lap and my feet up on the footstool – and still be able to see over it to keep up with the program on TV. I can fit it easily into a small tote bag and take it with me.

   I don’t miss the CD/DVD drive at all, as I use this mostly for internet, word processing and running basic graphics programs. The SD drive works great for photos and storing/transferring files. There are also 3 USB ports, so even if you use an external mouse, that leaves 2 free USB’s. We haven’t tried the HDMI output yet, but I’ve had no problems streaming video on the display, even with other programs and other windows open in the background. We haven’t tried more than basic kid-friendly games on this, so I can’t speak for how well it does with more complicated gaming programs.

   The keyboard does take some getting used to, as the keys are completely flat, but the size is comparable to a regular keyboard. The touchpad works well, I love the page scrolling feature. With some of the netbooks and laptops that I tried, I had a hard time with the touchpad because I have short nails. I have no problems getting the touchpad to respond properly even though I use the pads of my fingers instead of my fingertips. My husband has no problems using the keyboard or touchpad, though his hands are far larger than mine. He’s used it several times and preferred it to our old IBM laptop…little wonder, there!

   The WiFi connected without a problem, gets good range from our home router using wireless G. My kids think the webcam is lots of fun, and the photos / videos it takes are an acceptable image quality to email to friends and family.

   The weight is enough to keep the base stable while the screen is open without worrying about it tipping if it gets bumped. It opens easily without a latch mechanism, which makes it easier to open quickly. The drawback to not having a latch is that it can come open if put into a backpack without a case over it. (note to self: get a case for it) It also stays open at any angle easily.

   A similar model is made by Acer (there’s some connection between Gateway and Acer – a buyout?) with the same processor and memory configuration. So, if this one is out of stock, look for the Acer with the same processor and 160gb of memory. The prices we saw were similar to the MSRP of this model, and it was available in black at a club warehouse with a coupon as well. The red case is fingerprint prone, but probably not as much as the black. I hadn’t seen the color in person before we ordered it, and I was pleased that it’s a metallic deep red and very unisex.

   If you’re in the market for a netbook, consider paying a bit extra for the features this model offers instead of going with a basic, stripped down model that will only handle email and web browsing. Well worth it.

2. 

   Roland J. Plasser on December 11, 2009 at 7:11 am

   I was looking at netbooks to satisfy my need for a PC while travelling, but the small keyboards, low memory, old OS, and poor graphics were a turnoff. The Gateway was the next step up and what a great choice. A full size keyboard, excellent mouse pad, amazing sensitivity to capture Wi-Fi, stellar battery life, nice screen, an HDMI port, and finally, WINDOWS 7 64 bit! All in a I dare call it sexy package. Mine is in glossy red that attracted much attention at the airport and on the plane, it fits the tray table just fine with room for a drink. At 3 lbs, it slightly heavier than a netbook, but is much better than my old 7 lb laptop. The Windows Live e-mail sync feature allowed easy transfer of my desktop contacts, after I loaded my favorite apps and programs, this guy was travel ready in 2 hours. I don’t miss the optical drive, as a 8 GB flash drive works great, I just copy the entire CD on the flash drive and install normally. The speakers are a bit weak, but plug in headphones and enjoy. The only real con is that Windows 7- 64 bit won’t run a few of my old programs, other than that, I am liking the new OS a lot! For $100 more than a netbook, this choice is a no-brainer