ASUS N82JV-X1 Review

Our ASUS N82JV-X1 review unit has the following specifications:

• 14-inch 720p (1366x768) glossy panel with LED backlighting
• Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
• Intel Core i5-450M dual-core processor (2.40GHz/2.66GHz Turbo Mode, 3MB L3, 2.5GT/s QPI, 35W TDP)
• Intel HM55 chipset
• Switchable graphics via Nvidia Optimus technology:
  • Nvidia GeForce GT 335M w/ 1GB DDR3 video memory
  • Integrated Intel HD graphics
• 4GB DDR3-1066 dual-channel RAM (2x 2GB)
• 500GB 7200RPM Seagate hard drive (ST9500420AS)
• Atheros AR9285 802.11n Wireless LAN
• DVD burner (TSSTcorp CDDVDW TS-L633C)
• 1-year global limited warranty w/ 1 year accidental damage coverage
• 6-cell Li-ion battery (11.1V, 47Wh)
• USB 3.0 port
• Weight: 5.06 lbs.
• Dimensions: 13.8” (L) x 9.7” (D) x 1.4” (H)
• MSRP: $999

This is a solid set of specifications for a 14-inch notebook. The graphics card is the same as in the Alienware M11x. Another notable feature is the USB 3.0 port, which has considerably higher transfer rates than current-gen USB 2.0 ports – it is very useful for connecting to external USB 3.0 hard drives.

Build and Design
The N82JV has a standard notebook shape but does not look ordinary at all because of its unique color scheme. The entire lid and area below the screen are a striking copper-colored aluminum, which is imprinted with an elegant pattern. It looks and feels positively luxurious. The rest of the palm rest area is matte plastic with a slightly rubbery feel; a sticker on the palm rest says it is scratchproof, which I have no problem believing. Unfortunately the glossy black plastic surrounding the lid does not share the same DNA; it scratches easily and attracts dust and fingerprints.

The N82JV’s build quality is excellent; this is one of the most solid notebooks I tested in a long time. The chassis is nearly impossible to twist by its corners, indicating it has a strong internal supporting frame. It takes abnormal pressure to produce any flex in the palm rest area. The lid resists flexing well thanks to its aluminum backing; no ripples appear on the screen when pushed in from behind either. Fit and finish is excellent; gaps between parts are even for the most part and there are no unfinished edges.

The N82JV feels hefty as a result of the high-quality build materials, coming in at a shade over five pounds. It is also thicker than usual at 1.4 inches, however this is a result of having to accommodate high-performance components like the Nvidia graphics card. Overall, the build quality is fantastic; my only complaint is the use of glossy plastic for the screen surround.

Keyboard and Touchpad
The N82JV has an island/Chiclet-style keyboard, where the keys are raised above the surface with more-than-usual spacing between them. The keys have a flat top with a matte texture and generally feel good to type on. The key travel (the difference between raised and pressed positions) is shorter than usual which limits tactile feedback, however there is enough feel to make fast typing possible. The keyboard feels solid; there is no flex unless slightly more than normal pressure is used. One negative aspect of this keyboard is that it is loud; the person next to you will notice you are typing. Typing with less force is more or less remedies this, however.

The Elan touchpad has a matte textured surface with the same pattern imprinted in the aluminum lid. I like the surface a lot; it is easy to track on with moist and dry fingers alike. Responsiveness seemed normal with negligible lag during cursor movement. The buttons provide excellent feedback however make a distinct click when pressed – everyone around you will hear it.