Acer Aspire S3 Retailing!

(Image Credit: Acer)

 

   Although Acer managed to release their ultrabook the Aspire S3 before any other company, it's less than phenomenal. Fewer ports and a lower resolution than its target MacBook Air, leaves the Aspire S3 feeling like a glorified knock-off. The all-aluminum lid is just that, the lid. From the outside the Aspire S3 looks magnificent in all it's brushed-aluminum goodness, but flip it open and see how Acer managed to cut it's price to just under $1000.

   Not having an all-aluminum body strikes me as odd because most, if not all, of the ultrabooks coming out have this feature locked down. Maybe somebody out there wants their ultrabook to have a plastic body - who knows? Unfortunately, this little design choice takes a lot away from the experience of having an ultrabook. Even the Acer logo on the lid is plastic.

   Now even though there are a few unsettling things about the Aspire S3, it's still a solid travel companion PC. If you think tablets aren't powerful enough for your purpose but like their form factor, then the Aspire S3 could be just what you're looking for. Don't expect to play the latest-greatest games, nor to be blown away by its screen - it's a step up from tablets and fell a stones throw short of MacBook Air competitor.


   The bottom line is that if you've got the dough, then you're better off grabbing the Air or the Asus Zenbook (for now).


The photos above were taken from a local Fry's Electronics, as with the Zenbook here.


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