CF74: Review of an Exceptional Machine

I decided not to write a traditional review instead wishing to share impressions on a different level. (Especially after CNET rated the CF74 at 6.9)

After having the Panasonic for over 3 months in the real world, I have become more impressed with its strenghts. And more more sensitive to its weaknesses.

As to the downside - weight is an issue. Not the 74's 5.9 lbs body, but the combined weight of the power brick (1.5lb), main unit, and case. When all is said and done it's not easy carrying around a 9 to 10 pound load when traveling on an airplane. Around town - no problem since I don't need a case (the built-in handel is fantastic) and no need for the power adaptor.

Also the shared graphics limit the quailty of the video. Not the laptop of choice for gamers or dedicated DVD watchers.

As for strenghts: the toughbook 74's build quality is second to none. The laptop is a piece of art. Rarely discussed in reviews are the asthetics of a computer. After using my son's Thinkpad X60s, I realize that the Panasonic is a major leap forward in design. Like a rare sports car, it gives the user a very special feeling - in my case, increasing productivity and creativity.

The screen at 460 nits is unlike any other commercial laptop - brilliant! The keyboard, rock solid. The battrey life - amazing at over 7 hours at full bore!!! This computer is powerful, elegant, SUV tough, and unfortunatley expensive.

All in all, I consider the CF74 far and away to the finest laptop on the market and feel very fortunate to own one.

My rating 9.5

 

Thanks for the take timelock, that's a pricey notebook -- I think around $3K right? But yes, feature packed and *rugged*. Outstanding battery life.

product link w/ pricing: http://www.notebookreview.com/price...15804&productFamilyID=776&display=priceDetail

 

With bluetooth, 1.5 gigs of ram and tax the CF74 came to $3,800 and change.

However, compared to the 1 gig Fujitsu Q2010 (with bay station) at close to the same price, I consder the Panasonic a bargain!