Samsung introduced five new laptops in addition to smartphones. We got to see four of them (the Book 3 Ultra still lacks a bit). Here’s some initial feedback on the Galaxy Book 3, Book 3 360, Book 3 Pro, and Book 3 Pro 360.
Apart from Galaxy Unpacked, we were able to take control of the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and discover the Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus. However, these were not the only products presented. Quite to the contrary, smartphones are even outnumbered by the laptops that are taking this generation by storm. Five Galaxy Book 3 models, some of which are available in different configurations:
- the classic Galaxy Book 3 therefore (15.6 inches);
- the Galaxy Book 3 360 (13.3 and 15.6 inches);
- the Galaxy Book 3 Pro (14 and 16 inches);
- the Galaxy Book 3 Pro 360 (16-inch);
- and the intriguing Galaxy Book 3 Ultra (16-inch).
Unfortunately, during the session organized by Samsung for the press, the Ultra model was not present. There were, however, the other four models. Here are some hot impressions after admiring them from different angles.
Undeniably high-end
As we will see later, the prices of these devices are high. And for good reason, Samsung’s new laptops, which switch to 13th-generation Intel processors, are looking to jump right into the high-end segment. In addition to the pleasant touch of aluminum under the finger, we can also salute its rather slim design. The Galaxy Book 3 Pro thus shows a thickness of 11.3 mm to easily store it in your bag. The weight is also very moderate at 1.17 kg for the mentioned model or 1.16 kg for the Galaxy Book 3 360.
This little discovery of computers was also an opportunity for us to realize that there is still a visible difference almost immediately between the basic Galaxy Book 3 and the other models: the screen. The entry model -a concept that must be handled with caution since we are around 1300 euros- is satisfied with an LCD screen and 60 Hz. With just passing a Book 3 360 we have the right to AMOLED and the retina thanks us immediately.
As for the 120Hz refresh rate reserved for the Pro (and Ultra) devices, it was harder to notice during the small product unveiling session. However, the fluid feel should be nice for extended use. At first glance, it is rather its 16:10 aspect ratio – a bit more productivity-oriented – that could stand out compared to the 16:9 panels of the Book 3 and 3 360. The same goes for the definition WQXGA+ that does not take long to attract attention compared to the Full HD of the two cheapest models. Personally, at 16-inch diagonals, it’s a luxury that you quickly like.
If we stop at the 360 models, these achieve their little effect when converted into a tablet. Also, apart from enjoying a touch screen, they also come with an S Pen stylus. Nothing to complain about the keyboard hinge, solid and first trusted.
Some important things to remember
In terms of connectivity, we are entitled to something quite complete with every time a USB-A port, a slot for microSD and an HDMI output (2.0 only for Pro and Ultra versions).
The Book 3 and Book 3 360 have a USB-C port (Thunderbolt 4 for the second). The Book 3 Pro, 3 Pro 360, and 3 Ultra have two USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports.
In addition, it will be necessary to review the configurations to know what they have reserved. In the meantime, you’ll have an appointment with the Core i7 U on the Book 3, Core i5 P to i7 P on the other models up to the Galaxy Book 3 Ultra which is entitled to special treatment.
A word about the Galaxy Book 3 Ultra
The Galaxy Book 3 Ultra that we haven’t seen yet wants to be more salivated than ever. It has the same features as the Galaxy Book 3 Pro, but integrates a Core i7 H with an Nvidia RTX 4050 or, to go further, a Core i9 H with an RTX 4070 on the board.
Therefore, the name was not chosen at random. Samsung really wants to identify itself with the snap of the fingers in the term Ultra to make it clear that it is playing in the big leagues and that this does not only apply to smartphones. Faced with Apple’s MacBook Pro M2 Pro, however, will all this be enough?
Samsung Galaxy Book 3 price and release date
The laptops will be sold from February 17, 2023. We go from the cheapest to the most expensive:
- 1,299 euros for the Galaxy Book 3;
- at least 1399 euros for the Galaxy Book 3 360 depending on the configuration;
- at least 1999 euros for the Galaxy Book 3 Pro depending on the configuration;
- 2,199 euros for the Galaxy Book 3 Pro 360;
- €3,499 for the Galaxy Book Ultra Core i7/RTX 4050;
- 3899 euros for the Galaxy Book Ultra Core i9 / RTX 4070.
The pre-order offer
From February 1 to February 16, two pre-order offers will be available.
- If you visit the Samsung site, you can double your storage without increasing the purchase price.
- With other distributors, you will also be offered a monitor.