
The Chronos 700Z5A has automatic graphics switching so that the user can spend a longer time away from the power outlet. Thanks to the UVD3 technology, the graphics card is able to decode high definition videos, which relieves the CPU of some workload. While the core runs with 600 MHz, the shaders and memory clock with 800 MHz. It is manufactured in a 40nm process and can boast with 480 unified shaders and a 1024 MB GDDR5 VRAM (128 bit interface). The Radeon HD 6750M is a DirectX 11 capable graphics accelerator from AMD. It is remarkable how Samsung has managed to build in an upper midrange graphics card into such a flat case.

The touchpad sometimes responded a bit spongy in the test. There is at most room for improvement in the accuracy. However, the deactivation option comes in handy for the gaming mode with an external mouse. If desired, a horizontal and vertical scroll bar can be enabled on the touchpad's edge in the driver. In order to facilitate daily work, Samsung builds in a multi-touch capable model with gesture control (zoom, scroll, etc.). While they cause the odd misentry at the beginning, they can be used properly after a while (we would have preferred separate keys anyway). The keys incorporated into the touchpad are a bit unusual. Another bonus point is the sleek surface which allows a very smooth gliding. The marginally submerged touchpad especially scores with a generous size: 107x77 millimeter enables the user to manage even longer screen distances without having to readjusting the finger. The dedicated numpad can at least compensate a bit for this flaw. Merely the small arrow keys would annoy us in the long run (only 8 mm in height). The layout is also well thought out - it's possible to accustom quickly. The pressure point and stop are good and hardly anyone will have anything to complain about in terms of typing noise. It starts with the keyboard that not only has a variable (white) light, but also free-standing and adequately sized keys (15x15 mm). Samsung has done a good job with the input devices. The Apple products play in a different quality league, though certain case parts of the Chronos strongly remind of them. Nevertheless, it is not the equal of a MacBook rival. The notebook is well suitable as a travel or university companion - the slim case will attract many envious glances. Additionally, there is the moderate weight of 2.4 kilograms. A height of 25 millimeters also earns appreciation in view of the installed components. However, the compact dimensions can reassure us again: 362 x 238 mm sooner remind of a 14 inch device. Merely the bottom proved to be fairly rigid.Īnother flaw is the wobbly hinge that doesn't keep the screen in position properly on vibrating surfaces. It's probably easy to break the screen with enough force. Furthermore, the lid can be severely warped. The top not only evidently yields in the drive and touchpad area, but also towards the center under strong pressure. The biggest point of critique is the mediocre stability. For example, the workmanship is overall above-average, but the screen shone through at the outer edge of the display frame. Looking closer, the case proves to have a few weaknesses after all.

Since the display lid and keyboard area are made of aluminum, the material looks good despite the numerous plastic parts (bottom & wrist rest). The device isn't as scratch-sensitive either. The case hardly smudges due to the matt finish in contrast to glossy representatives, it isn't permanently covered by dust and fingerprints. The silver-gray surfaces give the 15 inch laptop a fresh appearance. Design and shape make a simple yet elegant impression. We think a great job has been done with the Chronos 700Z5A's looks. A conventional DVD burner is used as the optical drive (slot-in) in both devices.


Both have the graphics card in common: The Radeon HD 6750M is a DirectX 11 capable midrange model from AMD. Moreover, the RAM has a capacity of eight rather than six GB. Intel's brand new Core i7-2675QM clocks with 2.2 to 3.1 GHz under load. The approximately 400€ more expensive 700Z5A-S03DE is only worthwhile for users who absolutely want to have a quad core processor. The 700Z5A-S01DE, which we reviewed here, is sold for about 1000€ and is equipped with a six GB DDR3 RAM, a 750 GB HDD and a cutting edge dual core CPU from Intel ( Core 2.4-3.0 GHz). Users who are frequently on the move and thus rely on a long battery life will be happy about the medium case dimensions and the strong 8 cell battery.Ĭurrently, there are two different versions of the versatile notebook available in Germany. While the matt HD+ screen primarily aims at office users, the powerful midrange components are to make entertainment fans curious. Samsung addresses several buyer groups at the same time with the 15 inch Chronos 700ZSA.
