Augen Genbook 108 – 10 inch smartbook for $189

Augen are known for a couple of cheap computers launched during the last years and this time they did it again, with the Augen Genbook 108, a 10.2 inch mini-laptop available already in stores from Kmart for only $189 .

So, this Augen is at least 100 bucks cheaper than a standard 10 inch netbook. But what’s the catch? Well, there are a couple.

First of all, this is not an Atom powered computer, but a device built on an ARM platform. This means it will be quite underpowered and won’t be able to run x86 instructions, so no Windows  on it. But that last part is not necessarily a bad thing. Then, it’s kind of poor in terms of features. Take a look at the specs below first:

• ARM11 800 Mhz processor
• 256 MB of RAM
• 2 GB storage space (expendable with up to 32 GB SD cards)
• 10.2″ display, 1024 x 600 px
• Android 2.1 OS
• 2100 mAh battery
• Wi-Fi connectivity, no 3G, no Bluetooth
• measures 11 x 7.3 x 1 inch and only weighs 1.8 lbs

Ok, I wasn’t expected much for this price and this Augen meets those expectations It is in fact a smartbook, and not one of the best. You get a pretty poor processor and only 256 MB of RAM, plus incredibly low storage space. It’s nice that it comes with Android 2.1, you’ll get access to a lot of apps and probably will be able to get Froyo in there once it becomes available.

Augen GenBook 108 - cheap and light 10 inch smartbook, but with poor features

This Augen GenBook 108 is indeed more like a toy than a real computer. Could be a nice computer for small kids or a travel companion when on the road, but you don’t get 3G, so no on-the-go Internet access like on most other smartbooks. Plus, that small 2100 mAh is small. Not sure what you could expect from it, but I’d reckon a couple of hours tops.

Still, this Augen is cheap, very cheap actually. However, you know I advice never to get cheap things, especially computers or electronics. Why? Basically because they are most of the time crap not that good and you’ll end up regretting not paying extra for something better in the end. Oh, and previous encounters with Augen devices proved their products are not the best looking or the most solid built, so bear that in mind too (this one might be better though, I haven’t had the chance to see it live).

Anyway, look for more details on this Augen Genbook 108 on Kmart’s site. And if any of you guys do decide to get it, it would be great if you could share some insight on it.

Tags: cheap netbooks, smartbook

Last updated: March 27, 2012 | Published: September 15th, 2010 | Add the first comment!