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The Toshiba NB520 puts itself a cut above more basic netbooks, by virtue of a dual-core Atom processor and a sound system designed by audio specialists Harmon/Kardon. We like the style and the specification, but is this premium netbook worth a little extra cash? We took it to our labs to find out.
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Specification criteria Specification
Specification
Test Date 6 April 2011
Review details
Recently tested Models from our most recent test No
Availability Second-hand/refurbished
Processor, memory, storage
Processor Intel Atom N550 1.5GHz
Ram (GB) This is the memory that comes with the netbook. It's sometimes possible to add more later if required. Try to opt for as much memory as you can 1.0
Storage capacity (GB) This tells you the size of the hard drive. The hard drive stores all your files such as programs, photos and videos. If you plan to store lots of big files, such as videos, opt for plenty of storage. A full length film could take up over 1GB of storage space. 250
Disk speed (rpm) Hard disk speed affects the speed at which the computer loads programs, for example, or handles large amounts of data 5400
Sound and vision
Screen size (inches) 10.1
Screen resolution 1024 x 600
Screen finish Glossy screens typically display richer, sharper images than diffuse or matt screens. However, they are very reflective in daylight. Shiny
Touchscreen No
Graphic adaptor Intel GMA 3150
Stereo speakers Yes
Headphone socket Yes
Software
Operating system Unlike 32-bit versions, 64-bit versions of the operating system can recognise more than 4GB of Ram meaning that it may be possible to upgrade your device's memory beyond 4GB Windows 7 Starter 32bit
Other application software Adobe AIR, Adobe Flash Player 10, Adobe Reader 9.3, BBC iPlayer Desktop, Java 6, Microsoft Silverlight, Nero BackItUp 10, Nero BurnRights 10, Nero Express 10, Nero InfoTool 10, Nero MediaHub 10, Nero MultiMedia Suite 10 Essentials, Nero Rescue Agent 10, Nero SmartStart 10, Nero Update, Skype 4.2, Toshiba Bulletin Board, Toshiba Disc Creator, Toshiba Hardware Setup, Toshiba Media Controller, Toshiba Recovery Media Creator, Toshiba ReelTime, Toshiba Service Station, Toshiba Web Camera Application, Windows Live Essentials, WildTangent Games
Other software Bing Toolbar, McAfee Internet Security, McAfee Site Advisor, Microsoft Office 2010
Dimensions
Dimensions (mm) The width measurement is taken at the thickest part of the device which is typically the battery area. Some models taper towards the front. 263 x 25 x 190
Weight (kg) 1.244
Communication
Webcam Yes
Wireless standard This indicates the speed of wireless data transfer. 802.11n is the fastest standard. 802.11g is another common standard 802.11n
Bluetooth A short range wireless connection commonly found on mobile phones. It allows you to transfer data - such as pictures taken on your phone - between devices Yes
Connections
USB ports 3
Powered USB How many of the USB ports allow you to charge a device such as an MP3 player or a mobile phone even when the laptop/netbook is switched off 1

Toshiba NB520

  • Launch date: Jan 2011
  • Which? score: Subscribe
Typical price
£279.00
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