Toshiba Mini NB305 Review

Toshiba UK announces two new 10.1″ (25.7cm) additions to its netbook line up – the Mini NB300 and NB305. Both models offer a sleek design and an array of advanced functions for use at home, at work or on the move. Building on the award-winning Mini NB200, the Mini NB300 and NB305 offer an improved battery life, slimmer design and more powerful processors for a superior computing experience.

Compact design

Available with either Windows 7 Starter or Windows XP Home operating systems, the Mini NB300/NB305 features a 6-cell high capacity battery, enabling the netbook to run for up to 11 hours. The lengthy battery life is perfect for workers who require a portable computer without being tied to a power point, providing a full day’s work on a single charge. The battery pack is neatly hidden under the casing of the netbook to preserve the sleek, ergonomic design of both models.

Thanks to a more advanced architecture using Intel’s Pine Trail, the 1.66GHz Intel® Atom N450 processor helps to boost the NB300/NB305′s efficiency. By integrating the system’s graphics card and memory controller with the processor, the netbook is able to run with an improved performance whilst consuming less energy.

Both models house near full size keyboards to make typing more comfortable, without compromising on the design. Multi-Touch Control has also been added to the larger touchpad, allowing users to navigate documents, web pages and images more easily. Its diminutive form and simple ergonomics also make it an affordable choice for families requiring a lightweight computer for accessing the internet or working on basic programs.

Versatile, connected computing

The Mini NB300/NB305 features up to 250GB HDD of storage space, allowing users to save a higher number of videos, music and pictures than ever before. All the data saved on the hard disk is protected using an integrated 3D impact sensor which detects freefalls, shocks and vibrations. Another premium feature, Sleep-and-Charge, allows external USB devices such as mobile phones and personal media players to charge from the Mini NB300/305, even when it is turned off.

All models running the Windows 7 operating system also come equipped with the LifeSpace application suite. The Bulletin Board aspect helps to organise everyday projects and activities in a personalised way. LifeSpace, developed by Toshiba, also provides a unique way to easily find and access stored files from the desktop through the ReelTime feature.

The Mini NB300/NB305 also feature an extended selection of wireless connectivity options. Integrated Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n) connectivity allows users to access the internet whilst on the move and Bluetooth 2.1® connectivity[1] allows simple wireless data transfer from the latest compatible devices.

The NB305 is available in Mocha Brown and Snow White colour schemes, featuring a matt-finish textured cover and contemporary tiled keyboard. The NB300 is available in Cosmic Black, featuring a stylish, glossy finish, decorated with a diagonal striped pattern, black flat keyboard and black palm rest.

In November 2009 Squaretrade[2], the leading direct-to-consumer warranty company in the US, honoured Toshiba laptops and netbooks as being amongst the most reliable in the market.

The NB300 and NB305 netbooks are available from the end of January 2010.

[1] Bluetooth 2.1 connectivity available on certain models
[2] Squaretrade Laptop Reliability Survey, November 2009

Product Specifications

• 10.1” (25.7 cm) TruBrite LED backlight display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels
• Measures: 266 mm x 192.3 mm x 24.2 mm (front)
• Up to 11 hour battery life with a 6 cell battery.
• Weight: 1.33 kg
• Wireless connectivity: WLAN (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n), Bluetooth® 2.1 + EDR, Mobile Broadband ready
• Interfaces: 2x USB 2.0, 1x USB 2.0 with Sleep-and-Charge, headphone, microphone, Fast Ethernet, RGB, 2-in-1 Bridge Media Slot
• Integrated stereo speakers
• Up to 250 GB HDD with 3D impact sensor for HDD protection
• Intel® Atom N450 (1.66GHz, 667MHz)
• OS: Windows 7 Starter or Windows XP Home

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