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PCWorld has posted the following review on the Gateway 450X
WHAT'S HOT: Intel's new Pentium M processor breathes new life into Gateway's 400 series with the $1899 450X, a fast, battery-friendly notebook. The 1.5-GHz Pentium M-equipped 450X is not only speedy for its class, its score of 117 on PC WorldBench 4 is 19 percent higher than the score of 98 earned by the other Pentium M notebook we tested this month, the Toshiba Satellite Pro M15-S405. (The 450X has a slightly faster processor than the 1.4-GHz Pentium M-equipped Toshiba, but only half the RAM.) Although it couldn't beat the 6-hour battery life of the Toshiba, the 450X did well above average, lasting 3.8 hours on one charge.
You can configure the 450X as you like: Swap out the removable DVD-ROM/CD-RW combination drive, located on the right side, for an extra-cost floppy drive, second battery, or second hard drive. In addition, offices tied to legacy peripherals are safe with the notebook's full set of older connections: It has parallel, PS/2, and serial ports. Microsoft Works is also included.
WHAT'S NOT: Removing devices from the modular bay is cumbersome. You have to shut down the notebook, and then simultaneously slide two releases on the bottom.
WHAT ELSE: With a case the color of elephant hide, the 450X is no beauty, but it's easy to tote considering that it has a 15-inch screen--it weighs only 6.2 pounds without the power adapter--and it's a pleasure to use. With FireWire and TV-out ports, the 450X can serve as a digital editing station capable of sending images to a larger monitor. The unassuming light-gray keyboard offers effortless typing, and four application launch buttons are centered at the top for quick access to files or programs. Memory and storage are easy to reach. The power pack's external LED lets you quickly check remaining battery life.
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On the downside, the 450X's audio abilities are disappointing: Typical for a notebook, the built-in speakers on the front sound a little thin compared with even a mediocre set of desktop speakers. Also, the 450X has no dedicated CD playback controls. Aside from its combination drive and FireWire port, it boasts no special multimedia powers.
Gateway's printed manual is scrupulously detailed, attractive, and easy to navigate. Model-specific electronic help, on the other hand, is almost nonexistent.
UPSHOT: The 450X doesn't play around with fancy case colors--it's all business, superfast, and a battery-life trouper. Small companies and individuals who don't mind shelling out a little more for a high-performance portable will like this all-around fine notebook.
Gateway 450X Review posted by PCWorld
Discussion in 'Gateway and eMachines' started by Administrator, Aug 20, 2003.
