One of the negative reviews mentioned a "cursor jumping" problem with this computer. Even though I am not aware of this problem in this particular model (at least so far), I know that this issue can be solved by disabling the "tapping" option on the mouse touchpad (I found out about this because I bought a netbook that had this same problem); this implies having to use the buttons below the touchpad to click and double-click, but this is something you can get used to very quickly. This computer did have an issue with the touchpad being too sensitive, but that was fixed by going to the Windows Control Panel and reducing the touchpad's tapping sensitivity.
All in all, I am very happy with the purchase, and I would more than likely purchase another Gateway if I had to buy another computer in the near future.
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My first laptop was a Gateway that I bought in 2006, so after serving me well for almost 6 years, it was time to get a new laptop. After comparing many brands, I decided to go with what's familiar to meGateway. Granted, the company was purchased by Acer a few years ago (no wonder I couldn't find many "Gateway" branded laptops), so I was worried that there might be a loss in quality. Once I received it, I can say that it is on par with the other laptops in this price point.I've had this laptop for a month now and I am very satisfied with it. The case is made with the typical shiny, smooth, plastic you'd find on many laptops these days. I have to warn people to be careful sliding their fingers or hands around the edge of the screen because it might be sharp enough to give you a nice little cut if you run your hand across it fast enough (think papercut). The case seems rather thin to me in comparison to my old laptop, but I'm pretty careful so I'm not too worried about damaging it. Also, the case is prone to fingerprints. Be prepared to wipe it down a lot if you don't like that sort of thing.
I was worried when others said they had problems with the keyboard because I'm a blogger, but I adjusted to the layout and chiclet keys quickly. I'm typing with the same speed and accuracy as I did on my old laptop. The only gripe I have is that the spacebar doesn't always work when tapped. I will admit that is kind of annoying, but it doesn't happen often enough for me to dislike this laptop. Also, I had the adjust the touchpad settings right out of the box, so you may have to adjust it too before you begin to use it. Haven't had any problems with the cursor jumping aroundand hopefully I never will!
The screen is fine but shiny, so you will experience glare under bright lights. I read a review elsewhere about the poor speakers on this system, but it's not as bad as they make it seem. I watch TV on my laptop and the sound is just fine in a quiet room. If you have other things going on in the background, for instance, if you're in a public establishment, then the sound will be inadequate. Most laptops don't come with booming speakers anyway.
The bootup time on this is pretty fast. I use my laptop daily for editing images (simple edits, nothing major), uploading media to my site, surfing the net with dozens of browser tabs open at the same time, watching videos, playing music, and creating documents with MS Word. I can do all of those tasks simultaneously with no problems. The core i3 processor and 4 gigs of RAM are perfect for my needs. Hopefully it will behave when I install Adobe Illustrator. And the battery really does last for 5 hours when fully charged! This is a huge plus for me. It doesn't take that long to get fully charged either, so that's another plus. As others have mentioned, the laptop runs extremely cool. I've only felt it get warm maybe 2 or 3 times, and it was just lukewarm, not hot like my old laptop.
This system does not come with a recovery disc. I bought some DVD-Rs and made recovery discs with the wizard, which was a simple process (and only took 4 discs). You can also make a backup of your Gateway drivers on a separate disc using the same wizard. The power adapter port is featured on the left side of the laptop, which is an improvement from my old Gateway that had the port located in the backa location I always found annoying. I don't care too much for the new way the laptop screens open and close...it's like a snapping action and I always cringe when I close my laptop and the screen snaps down rather hard. I try to open and close it as gently as possible to prevent possibly damaging the bezel or the hinges.
As another reviewer mentioned, there is no built-in Bluetooth. It's odd because even my old Gateway had Bluetooth, but when researching laptops, I noticed many new systems are built without it. I don't know if Bluetooth is going to be phased out eventually, but I don't think the lack of Bluetooth should stop someone from purchasing this laptop. Just buy a USB Bluetooth adapter. I haven't tried the Wi-Di yet, but I'm planning to as I find a wifi adapter for my TV. I also haven't used the webcam yet. I will eventually install Tango and give it a try. There is a cute little useless dedicated key on the keyboard for social networking. I've never used it, so I don't have anything to say about it except that it is there if you need it. Haha.
I am happy with my choice thus far. I will update if I run into any failures.
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I had an Acer mini laptop which I sold before buying this computer. I had been searching for months for a brand that people don't complaint too much about. I decided to buy a Gateway Laptop because my dad has one and it have been working pretty well for a year now. I liked it so I bought this one for myself. Very good Laptop, The only problem is that it has poor speakers. Everything sounds too low for my taste! I first graded it 5 stars but now just 3! I'm gonna keep reviewing!July/4/2012:
I totally now recommend this computer! It is almost a month a not a single bad thing has happened. The problem with the sound is over because I found out a way to resolve it. The keyboard is not as bad as people said in past reviews, you just have to get used to it as with everything in life! 5 stars back for it!
Something I love of this computer is the touchpad that makes you feel like you are dealing with a Mac touchpad.
Here are the tips for the sound in case you decide to buy it:
I right-clicked the sound icon on the task bar and choose the sound option. Then in the playback option selected speakers (Realtek High Def audio) and clicked on properties and chose the Enhacements option. There I clicked on the disable sound effects option and Whalaaa! Super high volume!
Honest reviews on Gateway NV57H54u 15.6-Inch Laptop (Black)
Maybe its because I bought mine new or something, but I've had this computer for 5 months and I've had no problems. Good graphics, spacious hard drive, and works fast. Not a ton of bloatware though I'd recommend getting rid of Norton Security after the 30 day trial is done. All in all this is a great laptop.P.S: I'll update the review after another 3 months or so.
EDIT: 9/24/13 This laptop is still running great! The battery doesn't retain as much charge as it used to but all in all everything is great.
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