MSI Wind U160 Hands-On: Slimmed Down and Classed Up

This week, MSI announced the release of its latest 10-inch netbook, the MSI Wind U160. Like most new netbooks announced in the past week or two, it features Intel’s new Atom N450 CPU, which is designed to offer longer battery life. However, after spending some quality time with a pre-production unit of the Wind U160, we can say the change is much more than processor deep.

New Look

The U160 sports a completely new design that is significantly lighter and slimmer than prior Wind models. At 2.2 pounds, the U160 is one of the lightest netbooks we’ve ever used and significantly lighter than the Wind U135 (2.8 pounds) or Wind U110 (3.2 pounds). Its chassis is also well under an inch thick, making it a bit thinner than prior Winds.

Several new design elements provide the Wind U160 with a distinctive, high-tech look. The deck and screen bezel are a subtle gold color with a glossy sheen that MSI calls a “Color Film Print finish.” The lid is a tasteful light brown glossy material with an attractive MSI logo that lights up when the system is on. Most noticeable and attractive of all the design elements is the large round metallic hinge which contains the power button.

Keyboard, Touchpad

The keyboard and touchpad have undergone major changes from prior Winds as well. The keyboard is now a chiclet-style design that seems to offer more tactile feedback than the classic Wind keyboard found on models like the Wind U100. The touchpad now features a raised texture.

While both the touchpad and the keyboard are improved, they aren’t perfect. The right shift key is just a little on the small side and we would have preferred two discrete mouse buttons over a single bar.

Specs

Aside from the Atom N450 processor, most of the U160′s specs are quite familiar. It comes with 1GB of RAM, a 250GB hard drive, Windows 7 Starter, and a 10-inch, 1024 x 600 screen. On the right side, it has two USB ports, Ethernet, audio in/out, and a card reader. On the left, it has another USB port and VGA.

Early Verdict

Our MSI Wind U160 is a preproduction unit, not fit for benchmark testing. However, if the final build has long battery life and solid performance, the stylish, light design could make this netbook a hit.

Check out our hands-on video with the U160 below and let us know what you think of its design in the comments section.