Viliv N5

Viliv N5

At first blush, the Viliv N5 would seem the perfect device for those who feel that smart phones like the Droid X and tablets like the iPad don't offer the full PC experience of running a desktop OS with all your favorite applications, but for whom netbooks are too cumbersome to tote around. This 5-inch, 1-pound system is powerful enough to run Windows 7 with all the trimmings and even includes a Webcam and optional 3G broadband. However, with a starting price of $649, the N5 doesn't come cheap and it's battery life is relatively short. So is this pocket-size Windows machine more than just a novelty?At a weight of just 1 pound and a size of 6.8 x 3.4 x 1 inches, the Viliv N5 is much larger than even the biggest superphone, but it still fit easily in the front pocket of our Dockers. Its narrow width also makes it a good device to use while standing, because you can easily grip it with one hand, though you'll need both hands if you want to type or use the touchpad while you're holding it.The superior build quality and elegant design of the N5 clearly give it the look of a premium product. We couldn't help but fall in love with the soft rubberized black plastic material used on the lid, sides, bottom, and deck. Not only does this matte material look fantastic, but it makes the device really easy to grip for long periods of time.