Hands-on With The Chuwi Minibook X: Is This The Netbook Comeback We've Been Waiting For?

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Post on May 08, 2025

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Hands-on with the Chuwi Minibook X: Is This the Netbook Comeback We've Been Waiting For?

The age of the netbook may be long gone, but the desire for a compact, portable, and affordable laptop persists. Enter the Chuwi Minibook X, a mini-laptop aiming to recapture the spirit of those beloved, lightweight machines. But does it succeed, or is it just another fleeting attempt at a market niche already occupied? We spent some quality time with the Minibook X to find out.

A Retro Design with Modern Tweaks

The Chuwi Minibook X immediately evokes a sense of nostalgia. Its small size (10.6 inches) and relatively lightweight build make it incredibly portable, easily slipping into a bag or even a larger pocket. The design is unassuming, featuring a simple aluminum chassis that feels surprisingly sturdy for its price point. While it lacks the premium feel of a high-end ultrabook, the build quality is far better than expected for a device in this price range.

Performance: Beyond Expectations (for its class)

Powered by an Intel Celeron N4120 processor, the Minibook X isn't going to be setting any speed records. However, for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and light video streaming, it performs admirably. We found it handled multiple browser tabs and several office applications simultaneously without significant lag. While intensive gaming or video editing are definitely out of the question, the Minibook X exceeds expectations for its intended use case: basic productivity on the go.

• Strengths: Solid performance for everyday tasks, surprisingly responsive.
• Weaknesses: Not suitable for demanding applications or gaming.

Display and Features: A Mixed Bag

The 10.6-inch IPS display is a pleasant surprise. While the resolution isn't groundbreaking (1920 x 1080), it offers decent color accuracy and viewing angles. The keyboard is surprisingly comfortable for its size, though those with larger hands might find it a little cramped. The trackpad is functional, though it could benefit from a smoother surface. Connectivity options include a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a headphone jack, and a microSD card reader - a decent selection for such a compact device.

Battery Life: A Day's Work, Easily

Battery life is another area where the Minibook X shines. During our testing, we consistently achieved over 7 hours of battery life on a single charge with moderate use. This easily makes it suitable for a full day of work or study, a significant advantage for students and professionals on the move.

Software and Operating System:

The Chuwi Minibook X runs on Windows 11, providing access to a wide range of applications and software. This is a crucial aspect that sets it apart from many Chromebooks, offering the flexibility and compatibility required by many users. While some pre-installed apps might need to be removed, the overall user experience is smooth and familiar.

The Verdict: A Netbook Renaissance?

The Chuwi Minibook X isn't a revolutionary device, but it's a surprisingly competent and affordable mini-laptop that fills a specific niche exceptionally well. It's perfect for students, travelers, or anyone seeking a lightweight and portable machine for basic productivity tasks. While it won't replace a powerful desktop or high-end laptop, it excels in portability, battery life, and affordability. For those longing for the convenience of a classic netbook, the Chuwi Minibook X might just be the comeback we've been waiting for. The price point makes it an especially compelling option in today's market.

Keywords: Chuwi Minibook X, netbook, mini laptop, portable laptop, affordable laptop, Windows 11 laptop, budget laptop, review, hands-on review, tech review, portable computer, student laptop, travel laptop, Intel Celeron N4120, mini PC.