Laptop Reviews: Asus Eee PC 1018PB-BK801 and the Toshiba Satellite C655-S5049 - Toshiba Satellite C655-S5049

The Toshiba Satellite C655-S5049 is a 15.6-inch laptop that can be found at a fixed configuration in retail stores. This bargain-priced computer boasts little in the way of impressive performance or features. It does, however, offer a very attractive price tag of $349.99. It comes with a one-year warranty as well.


The Satellite C655-S5049 comes with a 2.2 GHz Intel Celeron 900 processor with 1 MB of L2 cache. The Intel Celeron 900 is a single-core processor, which gives the C655-S5049 a lesser performance than more expensive laptops that now feature dual-core processors. Still, for the price, the single-core processor is good enough for most common tasks. Internet browsing, instant messaging, some multimedia, and other actions should be handled without too much trouble, as long as too many are not running at the same time. Multitasking help comes in the form of 2 GB of DDR3 SDRAM, which can be later expanded up to 4 GB.

A 250 GB hard drive offers enough storage capacity for most casual users, although many laptops now come with hard drives that offer 320 GB or more of storage. Graphics are supported by an Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500M card. The included six-cell battery offers over four hours of usage when fully charged, which is impressive for a standard-sized laptop. For the operating system, Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium Edition 64-bit is pre-installed.

The additional features of the Satellite C655-S5049 are headlined by 802.11n Wi-Fi that allows you to connect to the fastest wireless networks available. For entertainment, there is a DVD drive on board that is useful for listening to CDs or watching DVDs. A multi-format media reader is included to help users transfer data from other digital devices with ease. The reader supports various formats, such as mini SD cards, MultiMediaCards, and more. Unfortunately, unlike many other laptops that have recently hit the market, the C655-S5049 does not come equipped with an integrated webcam. If you want to partake of video chats, you will have to buy an aftermarket webcam.

At first glance, the design of the C655-S5049 is quite common.  It has a matte black finish and not too much in the way of flashiness. As you look closer, however, there is a textured pattern on the lid and wrist rests which Toshiba calls Trax. It looks similar to a tire tread and adds a bit of grip to the system. The laptop is standard in size, measuring 15 inches wide by 11 inches deep by 1.5 inches thick and weighing 5.5 pounds. The 15.6-inch display has a resolution of 1,366 x 768 and offers good enough graphics that make the laptop a viable device for entertainment.

The keyboard is large and features flat keys that are spacious and offer good feedback when typing. Likewise, the touch pad is spacious and responds well.  You can use multi-touch gestures on the touch pad. Connectivity options are underwhelming, to say the least. The right side of the laptop features the DVD drive. The left side features a VGA port, two USB ports, an Ethernet port, and microphone and headphone jacks. The inclusion of just two USB ports could make for some limited device connections down the line for many users.

The Toshiba Satellite is a decent pick for laptop shoppers if price is the biggest concern. It has the bare minimum in terms of performance, features, and design.  Those looking for extra bells and whistles will have to shop around for more expensive options.