Review by Glenn R. Skinner for Lenovo U150 11.6-Inch Laptop (Black)
Rating:
I had a standard netbook with a 10″ screen I received as a gift last fall, it was small and compact but at the time I was doing a lot of writing on the laptop and found the smaller screen causing me neck pain after long hours of use. I researched and ran across this Lenovo Laptop. While it was a bit larger that I would of liked, it was actually lighter, thinner and I am getting 6-7 hours of battery life which is double the netbook, which had an extended battery. The screen resolution is great. While I am not fond of the case styling with it’s web like desgin, it it solid and functional, the textured surface makes it feel more secure when I carry it.

The ultra low voltage dual core cpu is great, much better performance than a netbook, yet very low on power consumption. The first thing I did do was double the memory for improved performance. It came with a good balance of software although it was geared more for business use. This included a trial version of the Office full business edition and SQL server 2005 express. Additional software included a face recognition security software. I went through and removed the business applications I didn’t need and reloaded it with just what I wanted. The HDMI port and the eSATA connector are a great addition, add the hot swap dock available elsewhere on amazon and you have a very fast and versatile external storage.

Network performance it good, I haven’t run into any wireless networks I couldn’t connect. I regularly use it for streaming video without issue from the web. The images are sharp and crisp, the video smooth. While the screen is glossy, I have found the glare very reasonable compaired to other computers with a similar screen. Access to the hard drive and memory is fast and easy, making easy to upgrade.

Finding carrying cases is a bit harder than with other laptops. It took several days before I found one that was compact, but had enough room for accessories. I have to mention the power supply, it is small and compact AND they give you a long and I do mean long power cord, you don’t have to worry about reaching a plug when you want to work while recharging. Most computer manufacturers seem to be into short small cords that are not very practical. I own two lenovo laptops now and my three computers at work are all lenovos they are a decent solid work horse, I highly recommend them as a brand and especially this 11.6 inch model, it is a great computer for the money. I carry it everywhere I go, and use it every day.