3K RazorBook 400

Yesterday I spent a lot of time with 3K Computer’s RazorBook 400. At the time, the system was priced at $399 and compared with the $399 Eee PC 4G (Xandros), it just couldn’t hold a candle. I noted the system’s inability to load on new programs and Flash to view streaming video. Today the company has announced that the system is now priced at $299! Coincidence? I think not.

I received an e-mail this morning from 3K Computers in response to my concerns. It read:

The 3K RazorBook 400 is not designed to support the functions that they [LAPTOPMag.com] are attempting at this time. Its intended as a low cost, portable computing appliance, for basic internet browsing, word processing, spreadsheets, e-mail, media/video playback, online Flash Games, and instant messaging.

Not intended to support what we’re attempting? Dude, it’s not like we were trying to turn the thing into a Web server. We were just “attempting” to view YouTube!

Read the rest of this entry »

A few weeks ago I wrote a somewhat pessimistic post on 3K’s RazorBook 400. This morning the system arrived at our offices, and I have to say its not as bad as I’d expected. The unit containing a 4GB SSD, 512MB of memory, and an odd flavor of Linux is available from 3K Computers right now for $399. While the system is better than expected, is it better than the similarly priced Eee PC 4G with Xandros Linux? Let’s find out.

Smallest of the Bunch, Sleek Exterior
When opening the small and light package from 3K Computers I was convinced that the company had forgotten to put the RazorBook 400 in the box. Turns out this system is just incredibly small and more reminiscent of a UMPC than a mini-notebook. The 8.3 x 5.5 x 1.3-inch device is the size of a paperback book—or a Kindle. It isn’t just smaller than the Eee PC 4G or 900, but it’s also lighter, weighing in at 1.6 pounds (1.8 with the AC adapter).

Right off the bat, I was impressed by the glossy black lid on the RazorBook. Like with the CTL IL1PC, it gives the system a nice shine but quickly became smeared in fingerprints.

Read the rest of this entry »