Typical usage of the wifi with adjusted brightness (150 cd/m²) will reduce the run time to 3 hours and 31 minutes. A bigger battery (as in the Lifebook S761) would have been of use in this model. Sadly, this was not possible as Lenovo wanted to keep the case as slim as possible. A separate battery slice is available for 240 Euros (a little cheaper at most online shops) which is attached to the device at the bottom and gives the laptop an additional 36 Wh. With the extra battery, the laptop should be able to surf the web for a good 7 hours. ASUS M70VR Battery

The Battery Eater Classic test drops the run time to 43 minutes (highest performance, maximum brightness, and wifi on). Lenovo's X1 charges up to 80% in 30 minutes, and takes an additional 44 minutes to charge up to 100%. Practical: users can choose when and how long the cells will be charged in Lenovo's Energy Manager. For example, by limiting the charging of the battery to 90%, the battery's expected life increases significantly. ASUS M70V Battery

We did not get the proper ThinkPad feeling from this test model. Yes the X1 is slim, light and looks good, but to achieve this it sacrifices some of the qualities which built the ThinkPad reputation from the ground up. ASUS M70Vm Battery

Our biggest critique is the glare display. Despite the high brightness, the laptop screen dances with distracting reflections in the sunlight, and this makes outdoors use unnecessarily hard. Another big flaw is the poor quality panel which is an outrage in a pricy laptop such as this one. Sadly, this is not limited to Lenovo and many other manufacturers have skimped on the display in a similar fashion. ASUS M70Vn Battery

The thin case causes more problems. The securely integrated battery holds a mere 39 Wh and can only deliver heavily limited runtimes. The cooling system had to be designed in a compact manner so as to fit the case and this affects the cooling capability adversely. The system can be pushed to its limits in hot surroundings. Finally, the high noise and temperature emissions are not flaws which we expect from a ThinkPad model. ASUS N70SV Battery

Let us take a look at the pros of this model: the X1 offers top-of-the-line performance thanks to the Core i7 CPU and fast SSD. This 13.3 model achieves an excellent program performance and can even beat some desktop PCs. The input devices and the workmanship quality are both very good. ASUS N90Sv Battery

Each buyer will have to decide for him/herself if the Lenovo X1 is worth the 1800 Euros. In addition to the competition from Dell, Fujitsu and Apple, this test model will also be pitted against the cheaper 1200 Euros entry-level configuration. Buyers can equip the cheaper configuration with an SSD of their own choosing and thus not have to pay the ridiculous premium for the slightly faster CPU and the single 8 GB RAM module. Finally, one of our readers has also pointed out that the Sony Vaio VPC-Z2 is available for the same price (depending on the configuration). ASUS X71 Battery

The mainstream notebook market is highly competitive and the margins aren't exactly wide. Not for nothing do only the big manufacturers see themselves in a position to set up low-priced complete bundles that pay off due to quantity. The Satellite range is Toshiba's representative of this midrange, which is logically available in innumerable versions and configurations. In addition to Intel versions, the 15.6" Satellite is also available as an L755D with up-to-date AMD equipment. ASUS X71 Battery

This version should especially score with a good value for money ratio and balanced components. You get the latest AMD Fusion processor with 4 CPU cores (A6-3420M), an AMD Radeon HD 7450M graphics chip in addition to the integrated HD 6520G graphics, 8 GB of RAM and a 640 GB hard disk memory for around EUR 600. Alternatively, there are also configurations available with weaker CPU and GPU equipment and smaller (500 GB) hard disks. However, they don't offer much of a price advantage over our test model. ASUS X71Q Battery


We had the case of this device series in for review about 10 months ago. At the time, it was still equipped with Intel components and a slightly different configuration in detail. Its exterior hasn't changed since then. The surfaces are made in a textured high-gloss look and make a pleasant, if not even elegant first impression. Fingerprints, micro-scratches and dust are hidden well by the silver-metallic color and aren't noticed as quickly as on darker colors. In return, the keyboard, the black high-gloss borders and the touchpad keys prove to be less resistant and look unsightly after a short while of use. ASUS X71SL Battery

The plastic case is well-manufactured on total. It exhibits even gaps, but can be depressed in the usual critical areas, such as the wrist rest and in the area over the optical drive. Moreover, light pressure on the wrist rest can cause a quiet cracking noise, which is probably due to components being pressed on one other inside the case. A quiet creaking noise can be heard when opening the lid. In addition to that, the weak hinges can't prevent the display from teetering. This behavior could particularly be unfavorable during transportation because neither a classic display latch nor a magnetic catch is used. The consequence is that foreign objects can penetrate the gap uncontrollably, or that damages will turn up sooner or later because the display lid and the wrist rest permanently rub against each other. Thus, it is absolutely compulsory to pack up this model well in case it has to be transported. ASUS X71TP Battery

The usual component openings for the RAM, hard disk and wireless module are found on the laptop's bottom. The battery fits tight and the notebook has 4 separate feet that enable a secure stand even when the battery is removed. The weight of 2.41 kg is within the range of the tested device category and is even less than the manufacturer's specification of 2.5 kg. ASUS X71VM Battery

Only the most essential components are installed in the Toshiba Satellite L755D: three USB 2.0 ports one of which at least has a charging function for external devices when the laptop is off, VGA, HDMI, "only" Fast Ethernet LAN (max. 100 Mbit), a multi-card reader (SD, SDHC, SDXC, MS-Pro and MMC) and of course an optical drive for reading and burning CDs and DVDs. There are two separate audio in/out jacks, so using older dual plug headphones is also possible. Basically, you have to live without USB 3.0 and Gigabit LAN in contrast to the tested Satellite L750-16W. ASUS X71Vn Battery

Maximum transfer rates of 29.8 MB/s via USB 2.0 and 17.8 MB/s were achieved via SDHC card. Those are usual rates that are expected from these interface standards. Almost all interfaces are positioned at the front sides and have the advantage of being easy to reach. The front-heavy interface positioning proves to be unfavorable when the hands are placed beside the notebook along with connected peripherals. Ports placed at the rear could provide for significantly less conflict potential. ASUS X72 Battery

The spaces between the interfaces on the left are sufficient. Merely particularly thick USB tuners or video cables might obstruct a part of the neighboring socket. Both USB ports on the right are positioned very tightly and thus only allow simultaneous use of standard sized USB cables. Alternative interfaces, such as USB 3.0, eSATA or FireWire, aren't available and can't be retrofitted due to the lack of an ExpressCard slot needed for this purpose. ASUS A9 Battery

WLAN 802.11n and Bluetooth 3.0 are just as available as the in the meantime older 10/100 network socket. While we first had to install Bluetooth, the network socket was available right away. However, the use of fast network hard disks will be thwarted heavily in practical use because only 8-12 MB/s are possible with the Gigabit LAN connection rather than 40-60 MB/s. Nevertheless, the transmission speed is absolutely sufficient for a conventional DSL connection. A 1.3 megapixel webcam including microphone, which supplies a sufficient quality for video telephony, rounds up the communication features. It is also possible to distribute access profiles with Toshiba's pre-installed face recognition software, making password inputs unnecessary. ASUS A9C Battery

There aren't really any model specific accessories, apart from the battery and power adapter components (more about that in Battery Life). Toshiba only offers universal devices, such as docking stations, mice, external hard disks, optical drives, etc. ASUS A9R Battery

Wifi module, RAM and hard disk can be accessed via openings on the device's base plate. There is no free mSATA slot or other expansion possibilities. Replacement modules for the optical drive can be found on the aftermarket. Thus, it's possible to build in a second hard disk on your own. Both memory bays are equipped with a 4 GB RAM module each. The case has to be opened to penetrate deeper in the inside. ASUS A9Rp Battery

The Toshiba Satellite L755D comes with a 2 year bring-in manufacturer warranty for Europe. Additionally, an on-site pick-up service is included for Germany and Austria when registered via the Toshiba hotline service. Warranty extensions are optionally available and cover a period of up to 4 years. A 4 year on-site service in Germany or Austria for example costs additional EUR 159. ASUS A9Rt Battery


The keyboard of our test model features a common layout without any big surprises and with standard sized keys. The input has a short key drop and we like the fairly quiet stroke noise. All usual functions are easily located and also include FN combinations for quickly opening hardware functions, such as screen brightness, volume, etc. The separate number pad will especially appeal to users who have to frequently input long columns of numbers. The entire keypad can be depressed without force and coils a bit, just like the wrist rest. This may suffice for those who only type occasionally, but more demanding users won't be very satisfied with the keyboard. Also, the smooth keycap that soon has a greasy and consequently unpleasant feel is annoying. The contrast weak FN lettering also proves to be unfavorable because it can hardly be seen in poor ambient light conditions. ASUS A9T Battery

Touchpad

The touchpad can be conveniently turned on and off via a small hardware switch between the input surface and the keyboard. The slightly roughened surface delimits the sensitive area well from the rest of the wrist rest and proves to be an adequate mouse replacement. Inputs are detected well, the gliding properties are agreeable and the size is also sufficient for most purposes. The usual scope of multi-finger gestures is supported and implemented decently. The touchpad keys in a chrome-look seem a bit oversized and have a low grip. This surface also soon has a greasy feel to it and is covered with very visible fingerprints. ASUS A9W Battery


The reflective (Trubrite), 15.6" HD screen supports the common standard resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels, features an LED backlight and is thus a typical member of the current notebook screen standard. The screen has a fairly coarse resolution with a pixel density of 100 dpi. Single pixels can be seen without difficulty when looking closer and the available workspace on the desktop will only satisfy general, basic needs. The low resolution however has the advantage that fonts, icons and symbols are displayed very large and is therefore well-suitable for people with less than 20/20 eyesight. Alternative display versions are currently not available. ASUS F2 Battery


The maximum screen brightness, which we as usual determine at 9 measuring points, ranges from a minimum of 220 cd/m2 up to 254 cd/m2 in the lower center zone. That results in a maximum average brightness of 233 cd/m2 and consequently bids good conditions to sufficiently outshine impending reflections on the screen at least indoors. The illumination of 87% is relatively homogeneous and no clouding, lighter spots or other irregularities can be seen. The disadvantage of the glossy screen surface can't be compensated satisfactorily outdoors. The darker the content, the more intense the reflections of the user or the surroundings are. ASUS F2F Battery

The very low contrast ratio of 132:1 isn't beneficial not only in this context, but also for other applications. Only grayish colors and little saturation are found where we would expect a deep black, pure white or vivid colors,. This especially takes a lot of charm out of pictures, videos and games and is a classic buzzkill. ASUS F2Hf Battery

The sRGB color range is covered by about 79% and thus only provides the basic spectrum, which most likely won't be sufficient for users with high requirements, hobby photographers and movie makers. ASUS F2J Battery

The vertical viewing angle stability can be rated as low and only supplies the best picture in a centered position. The slightest change of the screen's angle causes color distortions that either results in an extremely faded or inverted image. Moreover, the colors have a greenish hue when the screen is tilted to the back. Therefore, the maximum opening angle, which is restricted by the hinge construction, could sometimes prove to be a bit tight for a perfect presentation. The horizontal plane is a lot more compliant in this regard and also supplies an almost true picture for several people sitting side by side. ASUS F2Je Battery

The Toshiba Satellite L755D's computing performance doesn't rely on Intel products and is completely powered by AMD. The CPU is a real quad core processor of the Llano range and is called AMD A6-3420M. Among other components, a 4 MB L2 cache, 2 DDR3 memory channels and a graphics processor are integrated in the CPU. The default clock of 1.5 GHz can be increased up to 2.4 GHz and thus theoretically offers a clock rate adapted to each situation, alike Intel's Turbo Boost technology. More information about AMD's Llano (A series) CPU can be found on our FAQ page. ASUS F3 Battery

The processor-integrated graphics unit is complemented by another, dedicated graphics chip in a crossfire array in our particular test device. It sports the name HD 6540G2 and actually only consists of a Radeon HD 6520G (shared memory) of the Fusion processor and a separate HD 7450M (1 GB DDR3 dedicated). The idea here is: this combination is to make a proper increase in performance at moderate costs possible. The Radeon HD 6520G graphics features 320 computing cores and works with a maximum clock rate of 400 MHz. The additional Radeon HD 7450M features 160 stream processors and can serve with a clock of up to 700 MHz. The fundamental hardware configuration is complemented by an 8 GB DDR3 RAM and a conventional 640 GB hard disk. ASUS F3E Battery

From a marketing point of view, the 4 CPU cores and 2 graphics chips in a crossfire array provide extremely good conditions, as they ensure fairly high expectations. And that at least leave hopes of a serious rival for the otherwise usual Intel systems in return. ASUS F3E-AP073C Battery

The CPU benchmark scores are contradictory, though. Tests that only load one core take longer than average and give evidence of a rather poor performance. According to AMD's System Monitor, the Turbo mode is hardly ever activated and the most commonly recorded clock rate rarely exceeds the base clock of 1.5 GHz. Thus, the SuperPi 32M calculation needs a seemingly never ending 2772 seconds and only 1673 (32bit) and 2152 (64bit) are reached in Cinebench R10 single CPU rendering. ASUS F3F Battery

The results look a lot better when the remaining cores are enabled. The wPrime 1024m calculation takes a decent 705 seconds and 5369 (32bit), respectively 6964 (64bit) points are achieved in Cinebench R11.5. Cinebench R11.5 is also finished with good 1.93 points. We received nearly identical results (slight differences within the first two decimal places) in Cinebench R11.5 on battery power. Corresponding comparison rates can be found and matched in our extensive CPU-benchmark list. ASUS F3F-AP007H Battery