I eagerly opened the box but was not surprised at all because I had watched videos of reviewers un-boxing their Samsung NC10. The package includes a white Samsung NC10, a 6-cell battery, DVDs, power adapter, a netbook pocket and some simple manuals.

The Unit
The battery seems to be heavier than the netbook itself. As reviewed, the netbook pocket is simple and enough to protect the netbook. The Samsung NC10 feels solid and compact. The LCD looks great and I am glad that the access to the memory module is not restricted by a warranty sticker.

Windows XP Home Edition
Windows XP runs smoothly. Samsung Recovery Solution III prompted when I switched on the netbook. It then offered to backup Windows XP to the hard disk so that I do not have to use the DVD if the system corrupts. Everything was done by clicking Next and Next and Next. Voila! Samsung NC10 with Windows XP Home Edition.

Keyboard and Touchpad
The keyboard is impressive. I only managed to fiddle around with the function keys such as controlling the volume, brightness and the likes. There is also a speed control with three different modes; silent mode, normal mode and turbo mode. I have problem going to turbo mode. I will try it again tonight.

The touchpad is small. Very small. Occasionally, I found myself scrolling on to the keyboard. Other than that, it is precise.

Speaker and Webcam
I tested the webcam and the picture was clear. The motion rendered faster than my USB webcam which is attached to my desktop. The speaker is not as bad as suggested in some forums. It is loud and clear. It is controlled by RealTek driver but I have yet to play around with the equalizer.

Verdict
It is tiny except the keyboard. I wish the screen could be more than 10” but that will add extra weight to the netbook. To have bigger screen yet maintaining the same weight, the netbook will be pricier. Hence, that is kind of out of question. I have yet to try out the WiFi and Bluetooth but I guess it will be easy to configure.

I love laptops that are compact and with a budget of £400, it is wise to get a netbook rather than a 15” laptop. After all, I am not going to use it to play games. I think I made the right choice.

By KH Tan