Hands-on with “Improved” Samsung Q1 Ultra Premium
January 8th, 2008 by Mark Spoonauer
We can’t blame Samsung for trying to enhance its ultra-niche UMPC, especially when the latest model features a split keyboard with larger angled keys for somewhat easier typing, a zippier 1.33-GHz ULV Intel Core Solo processor, and up to 7.5 hours of battery life. Actually, we can.
Other somewhat tempting features include dual cameras (one front-facing for video chats and the other on the back for capturing stills) and an improved LED-backlit display. We just don’t see buyers lining up to invest $1,399 in a sub two-pound, 7-inch Windows XP Tablet Edition machine when you can scoop up three Asus Eee PCs for the same price.
Sure, you get a heck of a lot more storage with the Q1 Ultra Premium (80GB vs. 4GB) and longer battery life, but for our money we’d much rather have a more traditional keyboard–and more money left in our pocket. We’ll withhold final judgment until we’ve played with this UMPC some more, but a part of us thinks that it’s time for Samsung to scrap this design and start over.
January 8th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
You can’t draw on the Eee PC. It doesn’t have a touch screen. That is why the Samsung Q1 is a better solution for me as a mobile cartoonist.
January 12th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
The Asus eee pc also runs hot. For anyone that is converting from a gaming laptop, you know what I’m talking about. For once, I’d like something super portable, powerful enough, have enough storage AND not burn my hand. I think the Asus eee targets a wider audience but like the article mentions, the Samsung targets niches. Well, in niches there are riches, as the saying goes. I’m about to pull the trigger on the premium with the upgrades or definately pulling the trigger on the next iteration of improvements. Either way, I’m looking forward to what Samsung will come out with next.