But if you do not like the wall of text below, here is the summary of my conclusion. The Acer S3 is one fantastic device. From the design, to the operating system, and finally to the functionality, I was overall impressed. As an IT student, I would recommend this one as your system of choice but it all depends really. If you are mobile all the time, this laptop/ultrabook is something that you should save money to. But if you prefer a more powerful laptops, there are actually more cheaper ones than this that could provide more power but the weight is agonizing.
If you want to know more about this laptop, then please continue on and you will learn about the details on how I have arrived on the conclusion above.
The packaging was quite classy and a bit simple. I love that they included some free stuff like a mouse, a headset, and even a massive bag. Although, I feel as though they went overboard on the bag. It was a bit massive (I could not stress that enough). A nice sleeve would go nicely with this, but the bag is fine. However, there are no other peripherals that came with the laptop such as an HDMI cable or whatnots.
Form Factor
I say, this is built with awesomeness in mind. It's light as a netbook but it's powerful and very much mobile. I love the metallic finish on the top. I say top because the metallic finish ends there. The keys, the bezel, and other parts other than the top is plastic but not the cheap feeling. Several reviews say that the lack of metallic finish from the inside is something to be frowned upon, however, I don't think it is. It keeps me comfortable in a sense that it doesn't make me feel the current humming through my skin when I plug it in. When I say humming, I meant a faint jolt on the metallic parts of the device. This was my problem with the ASUS Transformer TFT101, but it's not really a deal breaker. That little humming jolt will not kill you. In overall appearance, the device looks and feels professional. Nothing screams "serious" than this look.
Software
The Operating System (Windows Home Premium 64-bit) is already pre installed in this device along with other Acer applications. No need to undergo another installation process here since everything is pretty much there. I think a bit too much though. I really don't like some of the applications that Acer puts into this and I really wish I was given the chance to pick which applications I would like to install. But nevertheless, it went from storage to becoming a full pledged working laptop in a matter of several minutes. The starter office is a fine addition to the package too, especially for students. The only thing lacking is the Powerpoint but nonetheless, free apps is appreciated.
Functionality
As an IT student and a gadget guy, this laptop is really nice. With its light weight, it can offset a lot of gadgets that I have been carrying. Generally, this laptop is good for people who are mobile a lot. However, if you are the kind of student who uses laptops for projector purposes, prepare to be disappointed. This laptop only has HDMI as a video output. Majority of the projectors now only uses VGA which is an advantage to those bulky laptops. But there is a workaround for that, you could buy HDMI to VGA converters or buy USB to VGA. But if you have a lot of USB gadgets, this laptop is also not for you since it only has USB 2.0 and there are only 2 ports. However, I like how there's a card reader in the side which is perfect for those transferring pictures from the camera.
So far, the experience in Acer S3, the experience has been pretty much comfortable. The keyboard was built just fine and it allows me to type faster but it takes a bit of adjusting since the keys are pretty much far off at times. The island flat keys were comfortable but it is unfortunate that the arrow keys are very very small. If you use arrow keys a lot, you will be in for an unpleasant surprise. As far as the temperature goes, the device is fairly cool and comfortable. The operating system is smooth and the overall experience has been quite pleasant.
Conclusion
The Acer S3 Aspire is pretty much a decent ultrabook. Being the cheapest ultrabook in the market made it more attractive to buy. As mentioned in the summary above, I was impressed by the device. As for gaming, I would not say that this device is the perfect laptop for you. It's only good for average gaming such as a little Warcraft III here and there and also Angry Birds.
Should I Recommend it?
Yes, I highly recommend it! This is really a low-cost ultrabook with superb performance for students who are serious in their studies.
RAW Specifications:
Manufacturer - Acer
Model name - Aspire S3
Specific Model name - S3-3951-2464G34iss
CPU type - Intel Core i5 2467M (2nd Generation)
CPU speed - 1600 Mhz (2600 Mhz Turbo)
Graphics - Intel HD Graphics 3000
OS - Windows 7 Home Premium
Display Size - 13.3" 1366 X 768
Screen Type - LED-Backlit LCD
Touch Technology - No Touch
RAM - 4096 MB
Flash - 20 GB (Only used in Standby Mode)
Hard Disk - 320 GB
Keyboard - YES
Mouse Pointer - YES
Battery capacity - 36.4 (Wh)
Weight 1.35kg / 47.6 oz.
Size (w/h/d mm) - 323/219/18 mm
Size (w/h/d inches) - 12.7/8.6/0.7
Built-in Mic
Webcam
Physical Interfaces:
USB 2.0 (x2)
HDMI
SDHC Slot
Wireless:
802.11 b/g/n
BT 4.0+ HSR
Free Accessories (Depending on the Seller):
Acer Optical Drive
Acer Optical Mouse
Headphone
Price: PhP 44,900.00
