Gateway 14.1 inch Ultra Slim Notebook with THX
If you had a computer in 2000, you might have owned this iconic brand. Gateway has since changed, and currently owned by Taiwan based Acer Computers. They have continued to release new Windows models, including this Ultra-slim notebook (Model GWTN141-4BK). I put this laptop through it’s paces, and beyond a couple issues, finding to be a pretty solid laptop.
This laptop is available at Walmart exclusively. Get it here
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Gateway 14.1 Inch Ultra Slim Specs
Here are the specs of the GWTN141-4BK. I also verified hardware and specs using two programs Belarc Advisor, and PCMark 10.
Inside the machine is a Intel Core i5-1035G1 “Ice Lake” processor at 1.20 GHz – but can work up to a frequency of 3.6 MHz. This is a 4-core (8 thread) system, with 6MB Intel SmartCache.
GPU is the integrated UHD graphics at 100 MHz. This should be able to handle the laptop with an external display at 1080p without issue.
Display is 14.1 inches, and up to 1920×1080 resolution, 59.99 Hz.
16 GB RAM, which seems to be soldiered to the board. A M.2 256 GB SSD hard drive (From Forsee, a product of Longsys) with smart technology, and an empty M.2 slot, which is behind a door on the bottom side of the machine. You can update with more storage at any time.
Ports include an external HDMI, 3.5mm headphone jack, 2 USB-A 3.0, and 1 USB-C (transfer only) . American Megatrends BIOS backend (man, that display hasn’t changed since the 90’s, has it?). Bluetooth 5.1 and Wifi 802.11ac.
THX Tune Audio
The Ultra slim model has Realtek Audio, but also supports THX sound. This is perfect if you have a THX headset or 7.1 surround speakers. In initial tests, I found it to be perfect for that late night movie watching.
Security on Board
This Ultra Thin laptop does have on-board security. The BIOS can be locked down, and you can log onto the machine with a simple finger swipe.
1 MP Web Camera
There is a 1 MP camera on the machine. It’s nothing to write home about, but it does the job if you need to get on a Zoom or Skype call.
I did a Zoom connection test to see how the camera/built in microphone work.
Gateway Made by EVOO?
There has been mention online that this model of Gateway was manufactured by a company called EVOO. This is another brand laptop you can find at Walmart.
It’s not uncommon for this to happen, and Gateway has tasked EVOO to also make their new line of tablets, and 2-in-1 computers. EVOO also has the license for THX, so there’s an added incentive for this laptop.
Finally, EVOO makes smartphones. I have to wonder – is a Gateway Smartphone coming soon?
Pros and Cons
Although the screen side is aluminum, the rest of the machine is plastic. The case also can slightly bend, so I wouldn’t hold it in one hand walking around the house.
The keyboard and trackpad are not problems at all. I was able to work on this machine on a table, or in my lap while watching a show. The middle of the trackpad does a double-click when you press it, but that does not do anything more than a single select on the screen.
Opening up this device was not difficult. You might need to do that to clean out the fan, or upgrade the primary SSD.
Speaking of the fan, it does ramp up from time to time. It noisily spins up for a minute, and back down.
The power cord is a simple 3 foot into a 1.3mm coaxial power plug. The cord looks and feels a little cheap, and the power wart is attached to the plug. But it’s also 100-240V, so you can travel internationally without issue.
There is a 10 hour battery inside, and charging is not an issue. I was also impressed when I came back to the machine after a few days unplugged to find the battery was still at 90%.
When I opened the case, I noticed there was a spot for a backlit keyboard. It would have been nice if this laptop had the option. In fact, one of my criteria in looking at new laptops is if I have something to see the keys in a low light situation.
In all, the Gateway Ultra Slim does a great job for classwork, surfing, movie watching, and more. It’s price is under $500, and competes with the Dell, HP, and Surface equivalents using the Ice Lake processor.
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