Gateway - Netbook with Intel® Atom™ Processor (LT2122u)

For readers who remember Gateway as a powerhouse in PC computing back in the early 2000s, you may wonder where Gateway has gone in terms of groundbreaking technology over the past decade. I recently purchased a top of the line Gateway desktop, unaware what I was getting myself into. Gateway offers some of the most stable computing I have used in terms of Windows based operating systems in the past five years. The Gateway LT2122u netbook is no exception to the comeback of the Gateway brand. The netbook offers some excellent features, is incredibly easy to use, is ultraportable with lots of power, and has a great budget price of around $329. This article will look at the Gateway LT2122u by examining the pros and cons.

Pros of the Gateway LT2122u netbook

• The 10.1" screen features a maximum resolution of 1024 x 600, which allows for exceptional viewing abilities for movies and internet television. However, having tested the HP Mini 210 HD, the resolution may fall short of what we see with the higher resolution of the HP. The screen is perfect for internet browsing and light movie watching, but do not expect an HD experience from the LT2122u.

• 3 USB ports- A common feature that many first time buyers of netbooks overlook is the amount of included USB ports. USB ports are vital for transferring data and using wireless devices, as well as synchronizing and charging MP3players. The 3USB ports are adequate for light multi-tasking while on the go.

• Internet options- Not only does the LT2122u come with built in wireless (802.11b/g/n), but also includes an Ethernet port for quicker and safer web access at home.

• 250GB Hard drive- My HP laptop that I replaced with the new Gateway desktop has only a 160GB hard drive, and was purchased new three years ago. The 250GB hard drive on this netbook is perfect for storing an entire iTunes library including movies, as well as multiple large files. I really like the amount of storage that comes standard at the low price of $329 because it does not leave you feeling like you need to expand.

• Design- The LT2122u may not be as slick as the HP Mini 210 HD, but it does look attractive and is only 1" thick, and weighs a mere 2.8lbs.

Cons of the Gateway LT2122u

• 1 GB DDR2 memory- The build in RAM is a mere 1GB, which does not allow for maximum CPU strength, especially for multitasks. The netbook has the option to expand up to 2GB, which I recommend upgrading if you wish to multitask with multiple high CPU usage programs.

• OS- The preinstalled Windows 7 starter edition is standard on newer netbooks, but it requires the purchase of an upgraded version if you wish to do use this netbook away from the home or office.

Overall

Overall, the Gateway LT2122u provides an excellent array of features at an attractive price. Using the device was simple and very user friendly, but I still prefer a fully-fledged laptop for serious multitasking as it has more CPU power. If you are interested in watching videos online, surfing the web, and chatting with friends, then the LT2122u will not disappoint.

Sources:

Personal experience using the Gateway LT2122u

http://www.gateway.com/systems/product/529668489.php