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My experience with the 13.3’ Laptop i5-8350U: 16GB and 256GB SSD (2024)
Paul Norvig 
Introduction
I recently purchased a laptop and monitor bundle from Tech Magnet (renewed I have to say). I went for this setup to strike a balance between cost and functionality. The specifications that appealed to me were a 256 GB SSD, 16 GB RAM, and an Intel Core i7 processor. Additionally, the bundle came with a nice 27” gaming monitor.
Specifications
| Property | Value | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | TM TECHMAGNET WE ATTRACT QUALITY IN PRODUCTS AND SERVICE | Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Screen Size | 13.3 Inches | Ram Memory Installed Size | 16 GB |
| Model Name | TM | Included Components | Monitor, Webcam |
| CPU Model | Core i5 | Color | Black |
| Special Feature | Laptop with Monitors external RGB keyboard and mouse windows 10 pro SSD for fast performance | CPU Manufacturer | Intel |
Photos
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Prices
Check prices of the Windows 11 Laptop, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD on:
Initial Impressions
Upon first receiving my renewed 13.3” laptop and monitor bundle from Tech Magnet, my expectations were mixed, considering the blend of features and the price point. The compact form factor featuring a non-touch screen, Windows 11 Home, and the convenience of WiFi & Bluetooth made it appear ideal for both work and home use.
The hardware comes equipped with a 256 GB SSD and 16 GB of RAM, along with an Intel Core i7 8th Gen processor. These components provide impressive performance at an affordable price point.
Here’s a simpler version:
Pros:
Solid specs for a renewed product
Ergonomic accessories included
A gaming monitor with a fast refresh rate is desired.
Cons:
The laptop’s size was slightly smaller than expected.
Screens don’t always match advertised images directly.
I needed to buy an HDMI cable as well.
The 27” MTG Full HD ELED Gaming Monitor boasts a fast refresh rate of 165Hz and a swift response time of 1ms, making it ideal for gaming and video streaming. Its 1080p resolution complements the laptop effectively, overlooking the initial setup issues.
The black color of the laptop was exactly as described in the product listing, adding to my satisfaction. Its TM TechMagnet label, which signified quality, further matched my expectations and made the purchase even more pleasing. This consistency between the promised description and the actual product is crucial in building trust with customers.
Upon setting up, I encountered some concerns regarding compatibility and additional requirements. These issues will be discussed in detail in the setup section of my article. It’s important for potential buyers to know that sometimes extra purchases like an HDMI cable may be necessary to fully utilize the product’s capabilities.
Although I’ve only used this laptop for a short time, its performance has been flawless so far. It offers a good balance between affordability and reliability, which many people, including myself, value.
My initial doubts about the laptop’s size and non-matching stands were soon dispelled by its seamless operation and user-friendly setup. Despite the imperfect initial impression, the core experience has been satisfactory.
In summary, Tech Magnet’s bundle presents a complex evaluation. Initial observations suggest potential drawbacks, but overall value remains worth considering. I look forward to delving deeper and assessing long-term performance.
Setup and Compatibility
When setting up my renewed 13.3” laptop and trying to integrate it with the additional peripherals such as the monitor, webcam, and external RGB keyboard and mouse, I was met with mixed feelings.
Pros:
The laptop delivers excellent performance during my usage, ensuring smooth and consistent results without any lag or hiccups.
This device comes with a 256 GB SSD. The SSD offers fast read and write capabilities and sufficient storage space.
The device is equipped with an impressive 16 GB of RAM and an Intel Core i7 8th Gen processor, allowing for highly efficient multitasking. This substantial amount of memory ensures smooth operation of multiple applications simultaneously.
With the addition of Windows 11, you’ll have a contemporary operating system loaded with new features.
Cons:
I was disappointed with the laptop’s inaccurate screen size. It wasn’t as long as described.
The stand for the screens differ from what was shown in pictures, which makes me worried about what other details may have been overlooked.
I forgot to bring an HDMI cable for setup. This was a hassle.
Monitor and accessories not working properly out of the box. Compatibility issues have emerged.
The laptop’s small form factor and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for portability, a crucial feature given its marketing as travel-friendly. I am pleased with the integrated webcam and graphics chip, which are beneficial for video conferencing and light graphic tasks. However, the absence of necessary cables hindered their immediate use, slightly diminishing my initial excitement.
I’m confident in my tech savviness and believe I can effectively troubleshoot these issues. I’m currently uncertain if it’s a matter of using the correct cables or having a better grasp of the setup process. Over the next few days, I will put my technical skills and tech savviness to the test as I diagnose these problems. I remain optimistic that with my diligent efforts, I will be able to fully utilize all the features of this laptop and its accessories.
The black color and SSD for fast performance, as advertised, are certainly valuable special features that I appreciate. Despite initial issues with setup and compatibility, I believe this laptop bundle has potential. However, the presentation and initial setup don’t live up to the laptop’s performance itself or its other special features.
Performance Overview
Upon engaging with the newly acquired TechMagnet reconditioned laptop, several features stand out that warrant particular attention. The 13.3” Non-Touch Screen paired with Windows 11 Home offers a clean and responsive interface beneficial for both work and leisure. This laptop’s compact size enhances its portability, making it a fitting companion for those constantly on the move. The inclusion of Wifi & Bluetooth capabilities as standard was expected, yet it’s reassuring to see them implemented well.
Here’s a clear explanation of my observations:
Performance: The laptop’s Intel Core i7 8th Gen i7-8665U Processor is robust, and with Turbo Boost, it accelerates up to 4.8GHz. This translates into swift and efficient handling of everyday tasks.
Memory and Storage: With a 256 GB SSD, file access is brisk, and the 16 GB of RAM is ample for multitasking without hitch.
The docking station, celebrated for its exceptional connectivity, allows for seamless attachment of various devices such as the MTG 27-inch Gaming Monitor and additional peripherals. Sadly, an HDMI cable, a vital component for many gaming setups including the MTG 27” Gaming Monitor, was unfortunately absent from the package. This oversight could leave users heavily relying on HDMI connectivity for their gaming experience feeling let down.
The laptop’s display offers satisfactory image quality for everyday tasks. In contrast, the MTG monitor showcases advanced features, making it particularly noteworthy for visual content consumption. This display boasts a rapid 165Hz refresh rate and quick 1ms response time, significantly enhancing gaming and video editing experiences. The monitor’s exceptional performance is attributed to its high-quality Display.
However, the model size discrepancy and difficulties in setting up the monitors due to missing cables caused some issues. These problems might affect trust in the specifications and led to frustration. Nevertheless, they are considered as “teething problems,” which can be resolved through additional purchases or customer support.
Despite the initial setup, the user experience is generally positive. The laptop’s special features, such as the external RGB keyboard and mouse, add customization and value. Its black color and sleek design give a professional appearance. The inclusion of Windows 10 Pro software is beneficial, though it does not yet feature the Windows 11 interface, leading to a slight inconsistency.
The Intel CPU ensures the machine’s dependability during heavy tasks, promising a long lifespan. With this laptop’s specifications, particularly its fast SSD, my daily computing requirements significantly improve.
As I explore this setup further, my concerns persist. Addressing the initial issues through customer support could alleviate my fears. The laptop’s early performance data is promising, but I expect the ancillary setup problems to be resolved.
Summary and Recommendations
Having spent time with my Tech Magnet laptop, I value its balance of performance and portability. Laptops are essential in many aspects of life nowadays. Based on my experience, this model from Tech Magnet is a strong option due to its affordable price and included accessories.
Here’s a simplified version of my assessment:
Pros:
The product offers a good value with its warranty, ergonomic accessories, and docking station included.
The 13.3-inch size is ideal for portable use.
This device comes with a 256 GB SSD, 16 GB RAM, and an Intel Core i7 processor, enabling it to manage tasks efficiently.
The MTG 27-inch monitor offers excellent gaming and computing experiences with a fast refresh rate of 165Hz and quick response time of 1ms.
Cons:
Upon arrival, the laptop was smaller than anticipated.
The setup process encountered an issue due to the absence of an HDMI cable.
I encountered issues connecting the monitors to the given equipment.
Despite the disadvantages, I prefer the benefits. The Intel Core i7 processor lets me handle my daily tasks effectively, while the 16 GB RAM enables efficient multitasking. The 256 GB SSD offers sufficient storage with fast read and write speeds, enhancing overall performance. Additionally, having Windows 11 installed provides a contemporary operating system with new features and security updates.
The 27” Monitor by MTG is an impressive choice due to its clear Full HD resolution and quick refresh rate, suitable for gaming and professional work. A crucial detail to consider, however, is that an HDMI cable is not included in the package, leading to a setup delay. Prospective buyers should be aware of this requirement for additional cables.
In terms of support, Tech Magnet’s customer service and warranty were valuable to me. The assurance eases my worries about potential future problems.
To sum up, some differences exist between the product description and setup process of the laptop and monitor. However, their quality and performance are commendable once configured. For buyers, it’s crucial to verify specifications upon receiving the items and be prepared for potential initial setup challenges. If these issues don’t deter you, this product bundle could offer good value and functionality for work and play scenarios.