By Michelle Callanta-Toledo
Fruity bubbalicious. That’s the first thing that crossed my mind when I first beheld the pink Sony VAIO C. It looked like something Katy Perry and the rest of the California Girls would use and bring along (though it’s not exactly portable) as they set forth to Candyland. It’s definitely one ultra-feminine color for a notebook. But don’t worry guys, the Sony VAIO C also comes in a very neutral and masculine black and white (15.5-inch versions and comes with the option for a screen that can handle 1080p high-definition entertainment) as well as green and orange for the more effeminate.
The VAIO C Series also sports a rubber, machine-washable keyboard cover as well as a transparent overlay that scatter light all over the edges of the notebook and round the touchpad to create a rather subtle glow, which does prove somewhat useful for those who enjoy working in the dark. Of course, that’s a pretty cool feature to have for an entry-level machine. The form/fashion factor is definitely there despite its plastic-ky feel.
For connectivity, you’ve got a Gigabit Ethernet port, VGA and HDMI for video, and both USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports for data on the left. A memory card reader and physical wireless switch is in the front, while headphone and microphone jacks, twin USB 2.0 ports and a DVD writer are on the right.
Now despite its “hey look at me, look at me” design, the C series has an impressive “inside” as well thanks to a dual-core i5, which runs at 2.3GHz but can manage up to 2.9HGz with Intel’s Turbo Boost. It also has 320GB of storage and 4GB RAM alongside the bundled Windows 7 Home Premium.
This laptop is easy to use, especially if you’re the type who doesn’t ask way too much from it, save for a bit of speed when loading and logging onto the “cloud.” And you can’t really use it for too long without being near a power socket. On standby, the VAIO C only lasts about 4 hours. But it does have some other cool features such as the integrated HD webcam with a Sony Exmor sensor for good low-light performance. The systems also include Sony’s VAIO, Assist, and Web buttons that launch Sony’s Media Gallery and VAIO Care software and enable users to access the Web without waiting for a full Windows boot. It also has its own Imagination Studio Suite 2 VAIO Edition for editing, managing, and enhancing photos, videos, music, and more. And the systems can be used with Sony’s Remove keyboard technology so the notebooks can be used to drive other Sony devices like PlayStation 3 consoles or Bravia Internet-connected TVs.
All in all, I found the Sony VAIO C rather befitting of my more lively character. Even the rubber keyboard (which some may find uncomfortable to use) was something I found to be quirky and comfy. It may not be for everyone (design-wise) but hey, if you want to add a little more color into your technology, the Sony VAIO C series will do the job.
Specifications
Screen Size: 14-inch, 1366 x 768 glossy screen, Radeon HD 6470M Graphics
Memory: 4GB RAM, 320GB 5200rpm HDD
CPU & chipset: Intel Core i5-241M
Wireless used: Wireless LAN 802.11 b/g/n, BlueTooth
Weight: 2.45 kg
OS: Windows 7 Home Premium
Warranty: 2 years
Price: Php 69,999
What’s Hot:
• Both Fun and neutral colors to choose from
• Rubber keyboard cover and backlit keyboard
What’s Not:
• Short battery life
• Not that portable
Bottomline:
Want something that will brighten your day (and night)? Give the Sony VAIO C series a go and make a shining statement.
Buy Meter: 8.0
[This review originally appeared in the August 2011 issue of Gadgets Magazine]