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The review of the Toshiba Libretto W105 sheds light on a distinct and innovative computing device, offering a comprehensive evaluation of its design, features, performance, and overall usability. The Toshiba Libretto W105, also referred to as the W100 sister, is a unique laptop that sets itself apart with its dual 7-inch capacitive touchscreens, making it a standout in the market. Its comparison with other devices like the HP TM2 and the Sony Vaio P provides valuable context regarding its size, form factor, and capabilities.

Costing $1,100, the Libretto W105 is positioned as a premium product, showcasing Toshiba’s commitment to innovation, particularly on its 25th anniversary. The dual capacitive touchscreens, though prone to glare, offer a versatile user experience, with the ability to run different apps on each screen or span windows across both screens. The device’s physical design, including its compact size, webcam, and virtual keyboard functionality, is carefully examined, highlighting its versatility and usability in various scenarios.

Under the hood, the Libretto W105 boasts a powerful dual-core 1.2GHz Pentium CPU, 2GB of RAM, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Despite its small size, it delivers smooth performance for everyday computing tasks, multimedia playback, and even modest video editing. The inclusion of a microSD card slot and a large 8-cell battery pack adds to its appeal, offering expandable storage and extended battery life, respectively.

However, the device is not without its drawbacks. The limited battery life of around three and a half hours, coupled with the fan noise during operation, may detract from the overall user experience. Additionally, the presence of only one USB port and limited software compatibility with its dual-screen setup are noted as areas for improvement.

The review explores the device’s usability in different scenarios, such as web browsing, video playback, and e-book reading, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. Despite some limitations, the Libretto W105 excels in providing a full Windows 7 experience, complete with MS Office 2010 Starter Edition, making it a viable option for productivity and entertainment on the go.

In conclusion, the Toshiba Libretto W105 stands out as a forward-thinking computing device, catering to gadget enthusiasts and those seeking a powerful yet compact solution for their computing needs. While it may not be suitable for everyone due to its premium price and some inherent limitations, it represents a glimpse into the future of computing, where innovation and versatility converge to redefine the user experience.

Pros:

1. Innovative Dual-Screen Design: The Toshiba Libretto W105 features two capacitive 7-inch touchscreens, offering a unique and versatile user experience. Users can utilize both screens simultaneously for enhanced productivity or run different apps on each screen.
2. Compact and Portable: With its compact form factor and lightweight design, the Libretto W105 is highly portable, making it ideal for on-the-go use. Its small size allows users to carry it easily in a bag or briefcase, providing computing power wherever they go.
3. Powerful Performance: Despite its small size, the Libretto W105 packs a punch with its dual-core 1.2GHz Pentium CPU, providing smooth performance for everyday computing tasks, multimedia playback, and more. The inclusion of 2GB of RAM ensures responsive multitasking capabilities.
4. Full Windows 7 Experience: Unlike many other small form factor devices, the Libretto W105 runs a full version of Windows 7, offering users access to a wide range of desktop applications and software, making it suitable for both work and entertainment purposes.
5. Virtual Keyboard Options: The Libretto W105 includes multiple virtual keyboard options, allowing users to choose the layout that best suits their preferences and typing style. The keyboards offer haptic feedback and auditory clicking for a tactile typing experience.
6. Dual-Screen Utility: Users can utilize Toshiba’s utilities to maximize the dual-screen setup, including features like window management controls and virtual keyboard shortcuts, enhancing usability and productivity in tablet mode.
7. Solid Build Quality: Despite its innovative design, the Libretto W105 features a sturdy construction with a brushed metal finish, giving it a premium look and feel. The inclusion of a large battery pack ensures extended usage times without compromising on portability.
8. Smooth Video Playback: The Libretto W105 offers smooth video playback, thanks to its powerful CPU and integrated graphics. Users can enjoy high-definition videos and multimedia content without experiencing lag or stuttering.
9. Full Connectivity: Despite its small size, the Libretto W105 includes essential connectivity options, such as a USB port and a headphone jack, allowing users to connect peripherals and accessories as needed for enhanced functionality.
10. Expandable Storage: The device features a microSD card slot for expandable storage, providing users with the flexibility to store additional files, media, and documents on removable memory cards.

Cons:

1. High Price: The Toshiba Libretto W105 comes with a relatively high price tag of $1,100, making it a premium product that may not be accessible to all users, especially considering its compact size and limited functionality compared to larger laptops.
2. Glare on Screens: The capacitive touchscreens on the Libretto W105 may suffer from glare in brightly lit environments, making it difficult to view content or interact with the device effectively outdoors or in harsh lighting conditions.
3. Limited Battery Life: Despite its large battery pack, the Libretto W105 offers only around three and a half hours of battery life under normal usage conditions, which may not be sufficient for extended use away from a power source.
4. Limited Peripheral Connectivity: With only a single USB port available, users may find themselves lacking in connectivity options for attaching external devices or accessories, potentially limiting the device’s versatility in certain usage scenarios.
5. Fan Noise: The device’s fan may produce noticeable noise during operation, particularly when under heavy load or during extended use, which could be distracting for users in quiet environments or during multimedia playback.
6. Limited Software Compatibility: While the Libretto W105 runs a full version of Windows 7, some software may not be optimized for its dual-screen setup or small form factor, potentially limiting compatibility and usability with certain applications.
7. Glare on Screens: The glare on the screens can make using the lower display in bright light difficult as it catches glare, reducing visibility and usability in outdoor or well-lit environments.
8. Limited Accelerometer Orientation: The device’s accelerometer only rotates in one direction, limiting its orientation options and usability in certain situations where users may prefer alternative screen orientations.
9. Limited eBook Reader Performance: While the Libretto W105 includes an eBook reader powered by Blio, its performance may be subpar compared to dedicated eBook readers or alternative software options, with issues such as small text size and limited format compatibility.
10. Limited Video Output Options: The lack of a VGA port or other video output options may restrict users’ ability to connect the device to external displays or projectors for presentations or multimedia playback, limiting its versatility in certain usage scenarios.