Hercules eCAFE EC-1000W Reviews
Hercules has always been best known for their speakers, PC hardware, accessories and Wi-Fi routers. They are now trying to expand into the notebook market by introducing the eCAFE EC-1000W. It is a rather small notebook at only 10 inch screen sine and the sleek keyboard makes it ultra portable. Integrated with Windows 7 it also comes with OpenOffice.org 3 which enables users to do their office work without much hassle.
One amazing feature for the eCAFE is the free 50GB online storage facility once someone buys the notebook, however that storage is free for the first year only. The design is authentic and measuring at 10.8 x 7.7 x 1.3 inches the eCAFE can compete with most notebooks in the market. It’s slightly heavier at 3 pounds instead of the normal 2.8 pounds most notebooks weigh. Hercules assures a good build quality and the extra weight is only for good.
They keyboard is centered and does not extend to the edges which may feel rather cumbersome. The 2.8 x 1.5 inch touchpad is textured which provides average accuracy and browsing though the screen is not that hard with the touchpad. However the lack of multi touch does not go well with today’s consumers. The eCAFE EC houses a 10.1 inch screen delivering 1024 x 600 pixel resolution which is vibrant and rich.
The glossy screen however succumbed to reflections which mean that the screen may be hard to comprehend in bright light. The speakers are mounted on the top of the notebook and produce amazing sound compared to other notebooks in its range. The 4 in 1 memory card slot, the VGA and the Ethernet ports are very essential and well incorporated in the eCAFE. The three USB ports ensures astounding functionality as well.
The 1.6GHz Intel Atom N270 processor and a 1GB RAM provides average performance and can be compared with the powerful Asus 1008HA Seashell. It sports a 5400rpm 250GB hard disk which ensures fast data transfer and good storage space. The battery life isn’t that impressive when using Wi-Fi which means that you have to stick close to the router to keep it running for long.
At only US$ 399 the eCAFE is a great catch. It is very attractive both in terms of design and functionality, features like Open Office and 50GB of online storage will make the eCAFE stand out from the rest. If you can compromise on battery life and go for affordability and functionality then the eCAFE is undeniably one of the best.
