Samsung NB30

Pros

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• Scratch-resistant outer coating
• Spill-resistant keyboard
• Good audio quality

Cons

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• Shorter battery life than competition
• Narrow touchpad button

Quick Specs Full Specs

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CPU: 1.66-GHz Intel Atom N450

Operating System: Windows 7 Starter Edition


RAM/Upgradable to: 1GB/2GB

Hard Drive Size/Speed: 160GB/5,400 rpm

Display Size/Resolution: 10.1 inches/1024 x 600

Weight: 2.8 pounds
Price as Reviewed: $379

Consumers on the hunt for a netbook that will survive the rigors of constant use and a bit of knocking about usually turn to business or education models like the HP Mini 5102 or Dell Latitude 2110. However, these systems tend to be more expensive. Enter Samsung’s NB30, the semi-rugged cousin of the popular N series. With a hard drive that can survive a few drops and a keyboard that brushes off spills, this $379 netbook is built for demanding road warriors and high schoolers alike. However, its performance lags behind even other Samsung netbooks, and it’s battery life falls behind the Pine Trail competition.

Design

The 2.8-pound NB30 has the same basic design, features, and size (10.4 x 7.4 x 1.1 inches) as the N210, the main difference being the semi-rugged aspects of the outer chassis. The lid and underside of the netbook feature raised ridges that flow in wavy curves, giving the NB30 a bit of class while providing users with an easy-to-grip surface. Under the lid a matte bezel and deck greeted us, just as on the N210. We were pleased to see the same keyboard layout and matte screen, but not so happy to note that SD Cards still stick out about half an inch when plugged in.

Semi-Ruggedness

Aside from being easy to grip, the textured surface of the NB30 is also scratch-resistant, so users can drop it in a bag or briefcase without worry. Other protective features include hard drive protection from minor falls. When the NB30 detects a drop, it automatically parks the disk head to prevent damage. To round it off, the spill-resistant keyboard will keep liquid-induced disasters at bay, at least within reason: Samsung says the NB30 can withstand up to 50 ccs (about 1.7 ounces) of liquid if it’s removed within 10 seconds.

Heat

Thankfully, the NB30 runs much cooler than the N210. After playing a Hulu video clip at full screen for 15 minutes, we measured temperatures between the G and H keys and the touchpad at just 87 degrees Fahrenheit, and the middle of the underside was only 86 degrees. Though the left front area on the underside got up to 97 degrees, it’s still within the acceptable range; we never noticed undue heat or experienced discomfort while using the NB30 on our lap.

Keyboard and Touchpad

The NB30 has the same island-style keyboard as the N210. It stretches from edge to edge on the deck with ample space between the keys, delivering a good typing experience with springy tactile feedback. We were able to reach our normal typing rate right away.

The 2.5 x 1.6-inch touchpad is fairly large and allowed for smooth navigation of the desktop. It’s almost too smooth; the cursor moved fast. However, our biggest issue with this netbook is the small and narrow mouse bar. There’s a line to delineate the left and right sides, but it feels cramped compared to other netbooks we’ve tested. It also sits too close to the touchpad, and our finger often accidentally strayed onto it. We opted to use an external mouse after a few hours of testing.