ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo)

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

This is a beautiful laptop, with a distinctive bamboo cover and preloaded with Windows 7. Just a Microsoft Office starter, a full suite must be purchased separately which was a bit disappointing but par for the course, it seems (same was true of the desktop I recently purchased). My only complaint is that there is no security port on this machine, thus no way to lock it.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I've only had this computer for a few weeks, but I love it so far! It truly is an amazing machine for the price (I got it at [$] with a rebate). It has a long battery life and the bamboo is beautiful, making it look much more upscale.As other people have mentioned in their reviews, there are some downsides. The bottom of the disc drive is slightly flimsy. The trackpad has no boundaries and is a bit difficult to use. It comes with a lot of demo software installed, which takes some time to remove. Most of these thing don't bother me much. Just use the computer with a wireless mouse to get around the touchpad.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

This computer is amazing the design is fascinating and powerful performance I'm really glad I purchased this product [...]

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

As a college student, I use my laptop for quite a bit - be it doing homework or playing video games. This laptop not only looks amazing, but is able to keep up with me.

I was hesitant to experiment with the dual video cards, but so far the lag from switching between them is not terribly noticeable.

The left side where the air vent is does get quite hot when I'm playing full screen games, but I've experienced worse.

Also, I've read a few reviews stating that the keyboard was too sensitive... but I've found that the keyboard is quite nice, especially since the keys are a little more spread out (good for when I'm programming late at night and often hit two keys at once).

One problem I have found with this laptop though is that the mouse pad is a little difficult to use. It is flush with the palm rest, so its pretty easy to miss when you're not looking. Furthermore, the mouse button (no "s") is a single button, so it's impossible to click left and right simultaneously (read: Can't snipe in borderlands), and it is a little stiffer and louder than I'd like.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I love how the laptop looks. the only complain is the mousepad. After a while, the oil from your finger stain the bamboo and the mousepad is not as sensitive.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I uninstalled completely windows on the computer to start using a linux OS. For the time being, it only has problem with turning to sleep mode. Graphics are great, run time too. It's a great looking computer and I am happy to see it's worth its price.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

Overall, I like the laptop, but it doesn't blow me away with performance compared to older generation centrino laptops. So I'm not awed by the i5 processor or provided hard disk.

The demo software that ASUS put on is crazy. It takes a long time to remove the trial software and then all the ASUS junk that adds zero value.

Express Gate does no add value to me. It's a completely separate partition (Linux maybe) that boots up and gives internet access quickly, but not much else. Okay, it's independant which means less chance of someone else messing up the machine, but you have to copy bookmarks, or anything else to work with to an external HD/usb.

However, the graphics card is great and it's really the main reason I got this laptop. It's really hard to find a laptop with a true seperate graphics card for this price that has the performance. It competes with desktop and high performance laptops on this front.

Note that the shiny screen is average in quality with very limited viewing angle to see with clarity.

Overall if I had to do it again, I would probably go with the laptop for the price, but buy a SSHD (I may still do that).

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

This laptop has everything i expect from a laptop. Long battery life, great look and feel and sturdiness. It also has the powers to run some complicated tasks but power is not my primary concern on a laptop. The only problem about the laptop is when you first get used to it you tend to miss the touch pad because you can't really feel the boundaries of it. Also i am not a fan of Windows 7.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I have just gotten this beauty about a week back and it has really created an absolutely incredible first impression on me. The bamboo incorporated into the design of the laptop is without a doubt first-class and it makes people want it soooo bad. Hands-down, it is a looker with its sleek dark brown exterior that can literally blend well with your work desk, like a piece of artwork rather than just some metal.

Some qualms I have with the design though echo what most other reviewers have identified as the flaws of this otherwise impeccable laptop.

The surface does catch some fingerprints (more so for the metal edges bordering the laptop), so that may put off some people.

The trackpad, with insufficient distinction from the rest of the surface, is pretty difficult to operate smoothly. To top it off, the sensitivity of the trackpad is drastically affected when my fingers get just a little sweaty. Also, the left click button seems like it's out to train your finger muscles; you have to press HARD to get it down. It will take some time to get used to, which I didn't bother attempting. Quick remedy to the slew of issues pertaining to the trackpad? Get a mouse!

Yes, the bottom of the disc-drive is slightly flimsy, but not to the extent that it will break just because you somehow want to exert a more-than-norm pressure on that area. So it's a non-issue in my eyes.

Build aside, let's bring some perspective to the performance.

I cannot really say much yet since I barely tested its limits within this week. I hope it will withstand the test of time (I'm thinking 3-4 years of usage) and the trials and tribulations (college work, projects, presentations, Diablo 3 perhaps) along the way.

I can however evaluate what I've tried.

Initial start-up was slow. Duh. It has to customized itself for my use. Yet, subsequent start-ups were still not as fast as I expected for an I5 processor. It takes about 45 seconds to reach the windows login page then another minute or so after you log-in for the system to get connected to wireless, starts up certain programs, etc, before you're good to go. Maybe I'm expecting too much out of the processor? Or too much bloatware? Browse through the pre-installed programs and thought they seemed usable (except for this program that adds special effects when you power on your laptop) so didn't venture to uninstall them lest uninstalling something important.

Well, ISUS has this Express Gate Cloud technology whereby you can do basic stuff like surf the net without needing to start-up your OS and that takes 30-40 seconds to start-up at max once you hit the power button so I guess that's a mitigating factor (albeit I don't really use it except for trying it for the sake of trying thus far).

There's this smart-login via face-recognition as well which is pretty cool BUT really slow. I blame it on the webcam because it does really lag. I tried messing with the settings and somehow feel that it's quicker now; but the effect seems so slight that maybe I'm just imagining it.

Watched Bulletproof Monk and it was pleasant. Sound was acceptable, laptop remained pretty cool and quiet throughout the whole movie. The movie played without any lag and the screen was clear, bright and even vibrant. The 1-gig dedicated vRAM probably did its job well.

Surfed the net and it was responsive. Watched videos on youtube and they were decent. Have yet to play a specs-intensive game on Bamboo machine hybrid.

And you know they are joking when they claimed 10 hours of battery life (what? they based it on sleep mode maybe?). Be satisfied with around 5-7 hours because that is already so fantastic.

Portable yes, lightweight no.

All in all... I think the design deserves a standing ovation. I hate it that they sacrifice some functionality over design ( flushed trackpad with just black lines marking out the boundary, trackpad also bamboo surface, jeez). Performance is acceptable and has yet to amaze. The webcam lags almost as if it belongs to dial-up internet generation.

It's certainly value for money if you can get it at 700 bucks. So get it!

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

Very stylish, quiet, lightening fast and a real head-turner, whether it's in a cafe or at the library.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

Good computer, tons of features. Have had it for about 2 weeks and can't complain. One thing to note, the area around the bottom of the optical drive is a little weak. Other than that, can't complain about the construction. 1st Gen Core i5 processor works well. Does feel a little heavier than specified though, but still pretty light. Great for everyday computing, web browsing, and watching movies. A little pricey for 1st Gen Core i5 and non blu-ray though.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

Pros: * Accidental warranty for one year included! * Bamboo is durable, great looking and does not attract fingerprints. * Dual video cards are great for saving power when needed* ASUS hot key software works well* Keyboard is firm does not flex too much* Great performanceCons: * Wide very shiny black plastic boarder around screen attract finger prints and scratches very easily* Asus Bloatwareeeee, after initial boot-up there are 99 processes running!!!!!! this is ridiculous, I think I got rid of some of the software, but i got a little too ahead of myself and lost the hot-key functionality, but I am more glad to get those programs off of here. I probably will do a clean install if I can get a hold of a disk, and then only install the drivers and software that I wantOVERALL: The Laptop is worth the price. I also got a $150 rebate so with a discount is down from [$] great price.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I just bought this product for general use: internet, some gaming, photo editing and watching movies. So far I absolutely love it. The computer does have some quirks that get used to though: the mousepad only has one button, it's not sunken in the computer and the chiclet keyboard.

Besides having to get used to the non-traditional aspects of this computer, it really is a great machine. It feels solidly made besides the disc drive. The computer definitely comes with more than its fair share of bloatware however. I'm still getting used to the graphics and unnecessary sounds that come with normal functions. I'm sure they can be turned off but this layman hasn't done so yet.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

This is my 2nd Asus Laptop. I purchased this one about a month ago and am very satisfied with it! I used to have one that I got from my job but had to return it when I quit my job, so when looking for a replacement for the one I had came across the Bambu line from Asus. I love it!! Battery life is always impressive, so I usually leave the battery charger and cord at home. On top of a great performance it has, I enjoy very much the looks of it. Did I mention it's cooler than anything you've seen around? You won't find a better deal.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

nice.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

With one minor exception, everything about this laptop is first rate. Build quality is tops. All functions worked perfectly out of the box. Excellent battery life. Not a lot of bloatware. The only small complaint I have is that the touch pad was hard for me to operate smoothly and precisely, but that doesn't matter to me since I use a wireless mouse.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

Pros:Sleek and unique design, great performance for the price. I especially love the keyboard design.Cons:Comes with [*], not for gaming video card. Also, the lack of backlit keyboard.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I have had this laptop for about a month and I am loving it! It looks great and performs well too. The battery life is great even when watching video or listening to music.

On the con side the touchpad is a little wierd when scrolling and the preinstalled software has no instructions.

Overall I am happy with the computer.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

Nice looks, the bamboo material really looks gorgeous and sets it apart from any other notebook around, the shiny chromey parts don't look cheap to me as posted in other reviews, we'll see how they stand wear.
Nice specs, the machine is fast and responsive, but as any other laptop you buy these days, comes loaded with annoying trial versions and loads of useless "utilities", get ready to spend a whole day of "setting-up" (uninstalling garbage apps).
Lightweight! (for a 14").
The touchpad blends so nicely with the surfaces which come clean of stickers, it looks like it has only one button but it can be clicked left and right for primary / secondary click just like any other laptop, these touchpad buttons are a little stiff though but multi-finger gestures and tapping work nicely enough to compensate since you can use 'em instead.
The only really bad thing about this machine is the low-res screen, it really leaves a lot to be desired, it's not that the graphics quality is bad, but with the dedicated nvidia video it deserved a full HD display, my recommendation is that you get a 22" or bigger screen and hook it through the HDMI port to make that dedicated graphics card worthwhile.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I got this machine to run some programs that cannot run in my Imac or MacBook Pro. Battery life is fantastic, and very nice color display, This machine can easily handle PSCS 5 RAW editing, The only drawbacks are that you have to create your own back-up disks (takes well over 1 hour), and it takes a bit of time to wake up (compared to the macs). HDMI is great. Keyboard feels great, pad buttons are on the hard side,

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

This is a beautiful laptop, with a distinctive bamboo cover and preloaded with Windows 7. Just a Microsoft Office starter, a full suite must be purchased separately which was a bit disappointing but par for the course, it seems (same was true of the desktop I recently purchased). My only complaint is that there is no security port on this machine, thus no way to lock it.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I've only had this computer for a few weeks, but I love it so far! It truly is an amazing machine for the price (I got it at [$] with a rebate). It has a long battery life and the bamboo is beautiful, making it look much more upscale.As other people have mentioned in their reviews, there are some downsides. The bottom of the disc drive is slightly flimsy. The trackpad has no boundaries and is a bit difficult to use. It comes with a lot of demo software installed, which takes some time to remove. Most of these thing don't bother me much. Just use the computer with a wireless mouse to get around the touchpad.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

This computer is amazing the design is fascinating and powerful performance I'm really glad I purchased this product [...]

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

As a college student, I use my laptop for quite a bit - be it doing homework or playing video games. This laptop not only looks amazing, but is able to keep up with me.

I was hesitant to experiment with the dual video cards, but so far the lag from switching between them is not terribly noticeable.

The left side where the air vent is does get quite hot when I'm playing full screen games, but I've experienced worse.

Also, I've read a few reviews stating that the keyboard was too sensitive... but I've found that the keyboard is quite nice, especially since the keys are a little more spread out (good for when I'm programming late at night and often hit two keys at once).

One problem I have found with this laptop though is that the mouse pad is a little difficult to use. It is flush with the palm rest, so its pretty easy to miss when you're not looking. Furthermore, the mouse button (no "s") is a single button, so it's impossible to click left and right simultaneously (read: Can't snipe in borderlands), and it is a little stiffer and louder than I'd like.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I love how the laptop looks. the only complain is the mousepad. After a while, the oil from your finger stain the bamboo and the mousepad is not as sensitive.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I uninstalled completely windows on the computer to start using a linux OS. For the time being, it only has problem with turning to sleep mode. Graphics are great, run time too. It's a great looking computer and I am happy to see it's worth its price.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

Overall, I like the laptop, but it doesn't blow me away with performance compared to older generation centrino laptops. So I'm not awed by the i5 processor or provided hard disk.

The demo software that ASUS put on is crazy. It takes a long time to remove the trial software and then all the ASUS junk that adds zero value.

Express Gate does no add value to me. It's a completely separate partition (Linux maybe) that boots up and gives internet access quickly, but not much else. Okay, it's independant which means less chance of someone else messing up the machine, but you have to copy bookmarks, or anything else to work with to an external HD/usb.

However, the graphics card is great and it's really the main reason I got this laptop. It's really hard to find a laptop with a true seperate graphics card for this price that has the performance. It competes with desktop and high performance laptops on this front.

Note that the shiny screen is average in quality with very limited viewing angle to see with clarity.

Overall if I had to do it again, I would probably go with the laptop for the price, but buy a SSHD (I may still do that).

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

This laptop has everything i expect from a laptop. Long battery life, great look and feel and sturdiness. It also has the powers to run some complicated tasks but power is not my primary concern on a laptop. The only problem about the laptop is when you first get used to it you tend to miss the touch pad because you can't really feel the boundaries of it. Also i am not a fan of Windows 7.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I have just gotten this beauty about a week back and it has really created an absolutely incredible first impression on me. The bamboo incorporated into the design of the laptop is without a doubt first-class and it makes people want it soooo bad. Hands-down, it is a looker with its sleek dark brown exterior that can literally blend well with your work desk, like a piece of artwork rather than just some metal.

Some qualms I have with the design though echo what most other reviewers have identified as the flaws of this otherwise impeccable laptop.

The surface does catch some fingerprints (more so for the metal edges bordering the laptop), so that may put off some people.

The trackpad, with insufficient distinction from the rest of the surface, is pretty difficult to operate smoothly. To top it off, the sensitivity of the trackpad is drastically affected when my fingers get just a little sweaty. Also, the left click button seems like it's out to train your finger muscles; you have to press HARD to get it down. It will take some time to get used to, which I didn't bother attempting. Quick remedy to the slew of issues pertaining to the trackpad? Get a mouse!

Yes, the bottom of the disc-drive is slightly flimsy, but not to the extent that it will break just because you somehow want to exert a more-than-norm pressure on that area. So it's a non-issue in my eyes.

Build aside, let's bring some perspective to the performance.

I cannot really say much yet since I barely tested its limits within this week. I hope it will withstand the test of time (I'm thinking 3-4 years of usage) and the trials and tribulations (college work, projects, presentations, Diablo 3 perhaps) along the way.

I can however evaluate what I've tried.

Initial start-up was slow. Duh. It has to customized itself for my use. Yet, subsequent start-ups were still not as fast as I expected for an I5 processor. It takes about 45 seconds to reach the windows login page then another minute or so after you log-in for the system to get connected to wireless, starts up certain programs, etc, before you're good to go. Maybe I'm expecting too much out of the processor? Or too much bloatware? Browse through the pre-installed programs and thought they seemed usable (except for this program that adds special effects when you power on your laptop) so didn't venture to uninstall them lest uninstalling something important.

Well, ISUS has this Express Gate Cloud technology whereby you can do basic stuff like surf the net without needing to start-up your OS and that takes 30-40 seconds to start-up at max once you hit the power button so I guess that's a mitigating factor (albeit I don't really use it except for trying it for the sake of trying thus far).

There's this smart-login via face-recognition as well which is pretty cool BUT really slow. I blame it on the webcam because it does really lag. I tried messing with the settings and somehow feel that it's quicker now; but the effect seems so slight that maybe I'm just imagining it.

Watched Bulletproof Monk and it was pleasant. Sound was acceptable, laptop remained pretty cool and quiet throughout the whole movie. The movie played without any lag and the screen was clear, bright and even vibrant. The 1-gig dedicated vRAM probably did its job well.

Surfed the net and it was responsive. Watched videos on youtube and they were decent. Have yet to play a specs-intensive game on Bamboo machine hybrid.

And you know they are joking when they claimed 10 hours of battery life (what? they based it on sleep mode maybe?). Be satisfied with around 5-7 hours because that is already so fantastic.

Portable yes, lightweight no.

All in all... I think the design deserves a standing ovation. I hate it that they sacrifice some functionality over design ( flushed trackpad with just black lines marking out the boundary, trackpad also bamboo surface, jeez). Performance is acceptable and has yet to amaze. The webcam lags almost as if it belongs to dial-up internet generation.

It's certainly value for money if you can get it at 700 bucks. So get it!

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

Very stylish, quiet, lightening fast and a real head-turner, whether it's in a cafe or at the library.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

Good computer, tons of features. Have had it for about 2 weeks and can't complain. One thing to note, the area around the bottom of the optical drive is a little weak. Other than that, can't complain about the construction. 1st Gen Core i5 processor works well. Does feel a little heavier than specified though, but still pretty light. Great for everyday computing, web browsing, and watching movies. A little pricey for 1st Gen Core i5 and non blu-ray though.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

Pros: * Accidental warranty for one year included! * Bamboo is durable, great looking and does not attract fingerprints. * Dual video cards are great for saving power when needed* ASUS hot key software works well* Keyboard is firm does not flex too much* Great performanceCons: * Wide very shiny black plastic boarder around screen attract finger prints and scratches very easily* Asus Bloatwareeeee, after initial boot-up there are 99 processes running!!!!!! this is ridiculous, I think I got rid of some of the software, but i got a little too ahead of myself and lost the hot-key functionality, but I am more glad to get those programs off of here. I probably will do a clean install if I can get a hold of a disk, and then only install the drivers and software that I wantOVERALL: The Laptop is worth the price. I also got a $150 rebate so with a discount is down from [$] great price.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I just bought this product for general use: internet, some gaming, photo editing and watching movies. So far I absolutely love it. The computer does have some quirks that get used to though: the mousepad only has one button, it's not sunken in the computer and the chiclet keyboard.

Besides having to get used to the non-traditional aspects of this computer, it really is a great machine. It feels solidly made besides the disc drive. The computer definitely comes with more than its fair share of bloatware however. I'm still getting used to the graphics and unnecessary sounds that come with normal functions. I'm sure they can be turned off but this layman hasn't done so yet.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

This is my 2nd Asus Laptop. I purchased this one about a month ago and am very satisfied with it! I used to have one that I got from my job but had to return it when I quit my job, so when looking for a replacement for the one I had came across the Bambu line from Asus. I love it!! Battery life is always impressive, so I usually leave the battery charger and cord at home. On top of a great performance it has, I enjoy very much the looks of it. Did I mention it's cooler than anything you've seen around? You won't find a better deal.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

nice.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

With one minor exception, everything about this laptop is first rate. Build quality is tops. All functions worked perfectly out of the box. Excellent battery life. Not a lot of bloatware. The only small complaint I have is that the touch pad was hard for me to operate smoothly and precisely, but that doesn't matter to me since I use a wireless mouse.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

Pros:Sleek and unique design, great performance for the price. I especially love the keyboard design.Cons:Comes with [*], not for gaming video card. Also, the lack of backlit keyboard.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I have had this laptop for about a month and I am loving it! It looks great and performs well too. The battery life is great even when watching video or listening to music.

On the con side the touchpad is a little wierd when scrolling and the preinstalled software has no instructions.

Overall I am happy with the computer.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

Nice looks, the bamboo material really looks gorgeous and sets it apart from any other notebook around, the shiny chromey parts don't look cheap to me as posted in other reviews, we'll see how they stand wear.
Nice specs, the machine is fast and responsive, but as any other laptop you buy these days, comes loaded with annoying trial versions and loads of useless "utilities", get ready to spend a whole day of "setting-up" (uninstalling garbage apps).
Lightweight! (for a 14").
The touchpad blends so nicely with the surfaces which come clean of stickers, it looks like it has only one button but it can be clicked left and right for primary / secondary click just like any other laptop, these touchpad buttons are a little stiff though but multi-finger gestures and tapping work nicely enough to compensate since you can use 'em instead.
The only really bad thing about this machine is the low-res screen, it really leaves a lot to be desired, it's not that the graphics quality is bad, but with the dedicated nvidia video it deserved a full HD display, my recommendation is that you get a 22" or bigger screen and hook it through the HDMI port to make that dedicated graphics card worthwhile.

Comments about ASUS U43Jc-B1 14" Notebook Computer (Bamboo):

I got this machine to run some programs that cannot run in my Imac or MacBook Pro. Battery life is fantastic, and very nice color display, This machine can easily handle PSCS 5 RAW editing, The only drawbacks are that you have to create your own back-up disks (takes well over 1 hour), and it takes a bit of time to wake up (compared to the macs). HDMI is great. Keyboard feels great, pad buttons are on the hard side,