While Microsoft tries to build a faster, peppier operating system with Windows 8, Acer tries the Apple-esque minimalist design on its Aspire S7 ultrabook.

Build and design

This ultrabook has ‘clean’ lines and sharp edges. Though cutting edge design, Acer might want to round the edges a bit.

The S7 has a metallic keyboard and sturdy body that is elegant-looking. The clutter-free keyboard is endearing and has no separate keys for volume control, brightness and myriad other functions that manufacturers have found space for. Even the power button has been relegated to one side.

Typing on the chiclet keyboard produces the satisfying ‘clackety clack’ despite the keys being situated close to the chassis. The touchpad is a clone of that found on Apple’s macbooks with overtones that remind you that this is a Windows ultrabook.

The touchpad supports the two finger scrolling characteristic of Apple’s touchpads which lulled us into believing that Acer/Microsoft had also introduced the two-finger click to replace the right cli­ck. As we found out later the left and right bottom halves of a strip on the touchpad correspond to the left and right clicks respectively.

Two USB ports, an SD Micro slot, an audio out jack, HDMI slot, power button and power inlet round up the list of ports/buttons available on the Aspire S7.

Specs

The Aspire S7 is well-equipped with an Intel i5 64-bit processor and 4 GB of Ram. It is enough to run YouTube videos, productivity suites and games without any lag. Battery life is also very good - lasted for over 3 hours on moderate usage. It has a 256 GB solid state drive.

The 13.6-inch screen is sharp and has full HD resolution. It doubles up as a touchscreen that is responsive and enhances game play. Acer has done a good job of preserving sound quality while reducing the size.

Heat management is a big positive in this ultrabook. The ultrabook remained very cool to the touch despite several hours of sustained moderate use.

Windows 8

Microsoft’s latest effort to stay relevant in the age of the tablet and smartphone is a welcome addition to the ranks of the iOS’s and Android’s. Skip past the tile-based interface vestiges of the old Windows surfaces.

Conclusion

Acer has done a good job in combining a touch screen with an ultrabook in the Aspire S7. Acer’s heavy borrowing of Apple’s design does take the sheen away from their own efforts though.

FC Verdict

At Rs 92,999, the Aspire S7 with touch screen is a good buy. zz