What Were The Everex CloudBook Designers Thinking?
Today I wanted to look at the Everex CloudBook. This mini-computer is similar in size and style to the ASUS EeePC, which I reviewed last week, but there are some major differences, however, enough to put each system on a very different playing field.
A few weeks ago I looked at both the CloudBook and EeePC with computer expert GJ (acomputerpro). The CloudBook looks similar in style, a simple 7″ screen, fully functional QWERTY keyboard and a pointing device. It also has a unique open space beneath the screen which I think is more for aesthetics than function.
One very different feature of this mini vs. the EeePC is the 30 gigabyte hard drive. Hands down that is much better than the meager 4GB of solid state memory the EeePC has. Although the joy of having all the storage space does come with a price; reduced boot up time. Solid state memory allows for almost instant on capability. You may be just fine waiting for the system to come up, but in my opinion lessens the cool factor of instant on.
The CloudBook also uses an non-Intel CPU, from a company called VIA. The speed is 1.2GHz which isn’t too bad, its three times faster than my T-Mobile MDA, but no where near the speed of my 2.1GHz HP Pavilion Notebook.
Pros:
- 30GB Hard Drive.
- 1 DVI Port (great for external monitors).
- Built in WiFi (wireless network capability).
- 2 USB ports (because everything runs on USB these days).
Cons:
- Mouse pointer is above the keyboard, requiring you to completely stop what you are doing to use the built in pointing device.
- Non-Intel CPU.
- Internal memory is not upgradeable past 1GB.
- Weird looking screen configuration.
OK, so I’m stretching on the cons for both the EeePC and the Cloudbook, but in the end, my vote is for the EeePC based on two factors; speed of boot time and a real pointing device that users are accustomed too. The ASUS is also cheaper when buying at NewEgg. The CloudBook can be purchased at NewEgg and will eventually be available at your local Wal-Mart Super Store.
This week I came across a mini-pc I think will give both of these machines a run for their money because of one incredible feature. But you’ll have to keep watching for my next post to find out just what that is.
This review is graciously provided by Thom Allen. You can read more of his musings on his personal blog:
What a ridiculous title for your article! A super-neagtive title followed by a fairly reasonable review. Isn’t a title supposed to bear some relationship to what’s in the body of the text?
Also, I hardly think a non-Intel CPU, on the face of it, is a con. Why is it a con? The 1.2GHz processor is faster than the Intel Eee PC equivalent, and uses less power (extending battery life). Is it a con because you’ve never heard of VIA?
Comment by Ben — March 11, 2008 @ 11:27 pm
Honestly, the title was more about the pointing device and not about the CPU. I guess I could have tied the title in with my disappointment in the pointing device.
As for the CPU, no, I’ve never heard of VIA, and wouldn’t be a reason alone to think the CPU was a CON. I’m pretty sure the last part of my review said I really had a hard time finding any thing other than the pointing device wrong with this machine. It’s a personal preference, and my opinion.
Thanks for the comment.
Comment by Thom Allen — March 12, 2008 @ 8:33 am