Aside from the sluggish reaction, the usability of the pad also doesn't extend all the way into the perimeter, but stops about 5 millimeters (0.2 inches) short. Unfortunately, the touchpad is also far from perfect: even though it's generously sized, its silvery surface - which appears matte to the eye - does not allow fingers to glide smoothly. The reason for this behavior is most likely (as we hinted before) a direct result of the low weight of the notebook. The rest of the keyboard doesn't flex nearly as much when pressure is applied. The one real point of criticism we have though is the softness of the keyboard around the numeric keypad. The F-row keys - just like on most notebooks - offer additional functionality and control volume, screen brightness, and wireless (among others) if the Fn key is pressed at the same time. The keystroke is well defined but the keys are nonetheless a bit on the soft side. The PgUp, PgDn, End, and Home keys are located right above the numeric keypad.
Samsung also omitted the right Windows key next to the space bar - we doubt that any users will miss that key very much though. We are not a fan of the arrow keys, as they are not quite deep enough. Samsung uses a modern chiclet-style keyboard with a fairly normal layout. This warranty can be extended to 36 or 48 months (100 Euros / ~$130) and 48 months with next business day service for 250 Euros (~$320). Samsung covers the notebook with a standard warranty of 24 months (in Germany). The smaller one allows access to the wireless module, while the other one covers the hard drive, the RAM slots, and allows replacing the DVD optical drive. The underside of the notebook features two maintenance covers, which can be removed with a regular Phillips screwdriver. The first one in that list allows file sharing via Wi-Fi, the second one is a clone program, and the last one allows the user to create backups of the system and restore them if needed. Samsung also includes their own software: "Easy File Share", "Easy Migration", and "Recovery Solution 5" to name the important ones. In addition, there are also some games from WildTangent preinstalled on the hard drive. The system also includes some bloatware: CyberLink Media Suite (full version) and Norton Internet Security (60 day trial). Accessoriesĭespite the low price, Samsung still includes accessories: aside from the usual quick start guide, the booklets with safety and warranty information, and the power adapter, the box also includes a recovery disk. Even though the quality is OK, we still would have preferred a higher (native) resolution. The webcam (a 1.3 megapixel model) natively only supports VGA resolution (640x480) and uses interpolation to get to the promised pixel count. Should a cable-bound connection be preferred, the integrated Realtek RTL8168/8111 supports speeds up to 1000 MBit.
Tasked with this job is the Atheros AR9485WB-EG Wireless Network Adapter, which supports draft b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0.
Like most current notebooks, the Samsung Series 3 NP350VC connects via wireless with the outside world. We now think that production variances are to be blamed for the slight variations from unit to unit. When we checked another sample at a local computer retailer, we noticed some differences in our review model (stiffer display hinges, softer chassis around the speakers). We doubt that a change in the production cycle can be blamed for the difference between the two versions, as not a lot of time passed between our two reviews. The area where the keyboard sits and the palm rest itself are not very resilient and can be pretty easily deformed (pushing on the palm rest with medium pressure results in the whole forward section of the notebook bending). The NP350V5C only has one (larger) gap on the left side between the keyboard and the body. When we reviewed the AMD version Series 3 355V5C, we had similar issues with the quality of the chassis: we noted uneven gaps in the plastic and a sharp edge. Less noticeable, but a bit of an eyesore are two little raised bumps on the sides of the palm rest - probably results of the manufacturing process. We are not overly impressed by the DVD optical drive, as the internal mechanism produces scratching sounds when loading and unloading disks. The display hinges, however, are able to hold the display securely so no annoying wobbles occur when the user is sitting in a train or car. Upon closer inspection it becomes clear that some cost-cutting measures had to be taken to keep the weight down: not only is the display not torsionally rigid, but the body also flexes a fair amount in the area of the keyboard and the palm rest. The first impression is a good one: The smooth and reflective lid is enhanced by a metal texture and looks quite upscale The body and the display bezel feature a pleasing dark silver design.