Samsung’s New Galaxy Book Runs Windows 10 on a Two-in-One Hybrid

Samsung’s New Galaxy Book Runs Windows 10 on a Two-in-One Hybrid

Samsung introduced a new two-in-one hybrid computer at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona this week. Dubbed the Samsung Galaxy Book, the device runs Windows 10 and comes in two sizes—10.6 inches and 12 inches. The Galaxy Book has Intel Core processors and can be used as a tablet or a notebook and works with Samsung’s S Pen stylus to enable writing or drawing on the screen. Users will also be to connect to the internet through WiFi or LTE. Samsung has promised an appealing experience with the Galaxy Book and says the device will be ideal for “on-the-go professionals.” This slide show will evaluate the device’s key features to see whether those promises ring true and if the Galaxy Book can hold its own in a crowded hybrid market dominated by popular devices from Lenovo, HP and Microsoft.

It Works as a Notebook or a Tablet

The most important thing to know about the new Galaxy Book is that it’s a hybrid. So, it can function as a notebook with a keyboard, which can be detached so the device can be used as a tablet.

Buyers Can Choose from Two Screen Sizes

Samsung is offering two screen sizes in the Galaxy Book. The first measures 10.6 inches and comes with a full-HD display. The 12-inch model offers a resolution of 2,160 pixels by 1,440 pixels and uses AMOLED technology, which delivers better picture quality. The Galaxy Book also supports Samsung’s S Pen stylus, allowing users to digitally write and draw on the display.

Intel Is Inside

The 10.6-inch Galaxy Book comes with the seventh-generation Intel Core m3, featuring two cores and a 2.6GHz clock speed. The 12-inch model features the seventh-generation dual-core Intel Core i5 and a 3.1GHz clock speed.

It Offers Multiple Wireless Connectivity Options

Samsung designed the Galaxy Book to connect to the internet from just about anywhere. The device comes with both 802.11ac WiFi and LTE support. According to Samsung, the tablet supports LTE Cat.6, accommodating speeds of up to 300Mbps.

It Runs on Windows 10

The Galaxy Book will ship with Windows 10, Samsung has confirmed, as well as the full desktop version of Microsoft Office. Samsung didn’t say which version of Windows—Pro or Home—will ship with the device.

Battery Life Is Impressive

The Galaxy Book is no slouch when it comes to battery life. According to Samsung, it features fast-charging support and up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge. The 12-inch model has a slightly larger battery, allowing it to survive for 10.5 hours on a single charge, and also supports fast-charging.

Here’s a Look at the Supported Ports

Both the 10.6- and 12-inch Galaxy Books come with precious few ports. The 10.6-inch model has just one USB Type-C port and a microSD card slot. The 12-inch version has two USB Type-C ports and a microSD card slot. The USB Type-C ports can be used for charging, external monitors and storage.

Storage Options Are Decent

The Galaxy Book’s storage should suffice. Both models come with either 64GB or 128GB of onboard storage, and users can plug in a microSD card with up to 256GB of capacity. The 12-inch version also is available with 8GB of RAM.

There Is the Usual Bloatware

The Galaxy Book comes loaded with Samsung Notes, Air Command and Flow—three apps the Korean company says will improve digital note-taking features. But it’s questionable whether users will actually work with them or install apps of their choosing.

Samsung Hasn’t Shared Pricing

Samsung didn’t share pricing and availability during the Galaxy Book’s unveiling and has dodged questions on when they’ll be available. However, several unconfirmed reports say the Galaxy Book should be available in next few coming weeks. Pricing is expected to be slightly under $1,000.