Available with Core i3 (1.3Ghz non-Turbo) and Core i5 (1.6Ghz, Turbo-enabled) the Samsung 900X1B (Series 9 range) is a stylish alternative to the ASUS UX21. It’s been around for a few months and in theory, it’s not an Intel Ultrabook but apart from slightly slower quick-boot and a missing TPM module (we are told) it’s an Ultrabook! Later this week we’ll be testing it and comparing it to our ASUS UX21 experiences.
We’ve already fully reviewed the 13” version, the Samsung 900X3A, but we wanted to visit the 11” version too, especially as the price seems to be dropping now. At least in Europe, the price for the 4GB model is now €100 euro lower than two months ago €889 from Amazon.de – matching the 11.6” Mac Book Air. In the USA, the 4GB version is available for $950 although most retailers have it up for $1150 or more. That also matches the 4GB MBA though.
But it’s the UX21E that it should go up against. Here are the main specs and highlights.
 Samsung 900X1B Intel Core i3 2357M 1.3ghz Intel HD Graphics 3000 4.0GB 64GB 1060gm 1366×768 11.7" x 7.8" x 0.7" 40 Wh BT3.0 + HS Backlit keyboard 1.3Mp Cam Micro SD card slot Micro HDMI 1xUSB3.0 Proprietary Ethernet port with GB Lan Headset port Matt screen €889 (Amazon.de) |
 ASUS UX21 Intel Core i5 2467M 1.6ghz Intel HD Graphics 3000 4.0GB 128GB 1102gm 1366×768 11.7" x 7.7" x 0.7" 35 Wh BT4.0 0.3MP Cam No backlit keyboard No card slot Micro HDMI Mini VGA 1xUSB3.0 No Ethernet port (USB adaptor 100MB LAN) Headset port Glossy Screen €999 (Amazon.de) |
The big question is processing power. Hidden from the Samsung 900X1B specs is the lack of Turbo Boost on the Core i3 version so along with the 300Mhz reduction in nominal clockspeed, the platform is going to underperform the UX21 by quite a margin – although potentially return a better battery life, especially with the 14% bigger battery but features like backlit keyboard, GB LAN and matt screen make this a unique 1KG device. It’s available in Core i5 version too so if you want that power, it’s probably worth the estimated $/€ 100-150 more.
Our testing starts later in the week so drop back here for first impressions, unboxing videos and notification of the live review and Q&A session.
Chippy,
that will be a worthwhile comparing for sure!
Q: since you have already reviewed the 13inch Samsung 900X3A, how do you think does its i5-2537M version compare overall with the Toshiba Satellite Z830-10J Ultrabook Core i5-2467M ? … which is the ultrabok i am aiming for ( unfortunately having been told that the portege version of the z830 wont be available in Germany until the beginning of 2012).
I would say there’s a small issue with the 900X3A trackpad (similar to any big single trackpad – you have to be careful how you use it) and of course you have the ports to consider on both. I would put the Z830 above the 900X3A on my list but I haven’t had a long long time with the Z830 keyboard yet (although i’ve not heard of any issues so far)
Hi there, any news on the test results? I don’t know which one to get…
Nick
Thanks for the reminder Nick. Sorry I forgot to follow-up.
In summary the Series 9 has a weak-point, the wifi, which is quite a show-stopper. Latest versions of the device have a new Wifi setup so if you can find a Core i5 version with the Intel Centrino wifi module for a good price, take it! Every other aspect of the device is quality. The UX21 is also a fantastic device but I have to say the battery life isn’t quite as good and the keyboard can feel a little akward. My choice – Samsung Series 9 given the conditions above.
Chippy, thank for such a quick reply. Yes, I have heard about those issues with the UX21. I did not know that newer versions of the Samsung had a better wifi though. I’m in the UK and these are the only versions of the Samsung 9 series that are available to me, can you please if they are the ones with good wifi?
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Samsung-900X1B-Laptop-Windows-Premium/dp/B005X4UA2Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1327091329&sr=8-1
http://www.pcworld.co.uk/gbuk/samsung-series-9-900x1b-11-6-laptop-11296558-pdt.html
Thanks a lot.
Nick
Hello Chippy,
trying to find a samsung series 9 with a better wifi seems to be a bit tricky lots of older versions floating around .. but it would be safe to say when the new samung series 9 comes out it all will have better wifi plus the addition of all metal body?
Hi Chippy,
I was wondering if the Samsung 900X1B supports the new 64GB micro SD XC cards or should I stick with the 32GB SD HC ones?
Thanks,
Nick
I don’t know the answer to that. I couldn’t confirm in my tests.
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