Samsung’s Galaxy Book5 360 is a two-in-one PC featuring a 15.6-inch AMOLED touchscreen and powered by the Intel Lunar Lake processor. Weighing 1.46 kg, it offers portability and a sleek aluminum design. While the keyboard and performance are commendable, the display’s outdated aspect ratio and limited connectivity options may deter some users. Priced at €1953.30, it aims to balance style and functionality, but potential buyers should consider its limitations before purchasing.
Introduction to the Galaxy Book5 360
Samsung has launched its latest two-in-one PC, the Galaxy Book5 360, designed to captivate users with its impressive 15.6-inch AMOLED touchscreen, modern aesthetics, and cutting-edge Intel Lunar Lake processor that enhances AI capabilities. But does it deliver on its promises? Let’s dive into our comprehensive review.
Overview and Pricing
At CES in Las Vegas earlier this year, Samsung presented two new laptop models: the Galaxy Book5 Pro and the Galaxy Book5 360, which we are focusing on today. This updated iteration seeks to innovate subtly while retaining its tablet-like format, featuring a 15.6-inch display that rotates around the keyboard. Weighing just 1.46 kg and measuring 355.4 x 228.0 x 13.7 mm, the device promises portability without compromising on performance. Currently, it is available for purchase on Samsung’s official website and through various retailers, with a recommended retail price of €1953.30 for the Intel Core Ultra 7 256V configuration. There is also a Pro version available, priced at €2403.30, which includes an enhanced display.
Design and Build Quality
Samsung has always been a leader in design, and the Galaxy Book5 360 continues this trend with its sleek unibody anthracite aluminum chassis. The clean lines and minimalist aesthetic are complemented by the lightweight build, making it easy to carry around. However, the device lacks a dedicated storage slot for the included S-Pen, requiring users to attach it magnetically to the back cover, which could lead to it being misplaced.
The hybrid design features a robust two-point hinge that allows the 15.6-inch screen to rotate easily. While the tablet format may not be as popular as it once was, Samsung enhances usability with the S-Pen and a suite of software designed for note-taking and sketching. The Book5 360 also boasts a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a USB 3.2 Type-A port, a microSD card reader, an HDMI port, and a 3.5 mm audio jack. However, an additional USB-A port would have been a welcome addition.
Keyboard and Display
The keyboard remains consistent with previous Samsung models, featuring comfortable keys with excellent travel and resistance. Backlighting with four adjustable levels and a numeric keypad add to the user experience. The trackpad is appropriately sized and positioned to avoid interference during typing, providing responsive feedback.
However, the display does have its shortcomings. With a screen-to-body ratio below 80% and noticeable bezels, the 16:9 aspect ratio feels outdated in the current market. The Galaxy Book5 360 is equipped with a 15.6-inch AMOLED touchscreen boasting a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels and a refresh rate of 60 Hz, which is somewhat disappointing for a premium device. While the AMOLED technology delivers rich contrast and vivid colors, the overall performance may not meet expectations for a laptop in this price range.
Performance and Audio Quality
Powered by the new Intel Lunar Lake processor, the Galaxy Book5 360 includes an Intel Core Ultra 7 256V and 16 GB of RAM, along with an Intel Arc 140V graphics card. This setup ensures that the device can handle various tasks efficiently. The computer does get warm under heavy use, but it maintains a controlled temperature.
When it comes to audio, the speakers are located at the front of the chassis, which can affect sound quality when the device is used in tablet mode. While the audio performance is satisfactory, it lacks depth in the mid and low frequencies, making it decent but not exceptional.
In conclusion, Samsung’s Galaxy Book5 360 presents an intriguing option in the two-in-one market, offering a blend of style, performance, and versatility. However, potential buyers should weigh the price against the limitations of the display and connectivity features before making a decision.