The Sony VAIO P is a seriously pocketable little laptop, but the measly specs and performance under Windows Vista cost a fortune. Lucky for us then, a knock off with the same form factor from China is on the way. No surprises there, but the Gemsta Viva, as it’s called, almost manages to match the VAIO P’s specs while slashing the cost.
The Gemsta Viva takes the oblong shape of the Sony VAIO P, as well as the maroon coat, but for 2000 yuan (just £180) manages to squeeze in some enticing extras that make you wonder what sort of profit Sony’s flogging the £700+ VAIO P on for.
While all Sony VAIO P models have 2GB of RAM compared to the Gemsta Viva’s 1GB, the Chinese carbon copy has the same Atom Z520 processor, a bigger 8.9″ screen and 3G support, plus up to 64GB of SSD, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Best of all though, there’s space for a trackpad instead of the cursed nipple.
The Sony VAIO P wannabe isn’t out yet, but should you happen to be down Shenzhen way in the coming months it’ll be one to keep an eye out for. Just don’t expect any sort of warranty or customer support that Sony might offer.
Out TBC | £TBC | Sony (Via PMP Today) (Sony VAIO P available at Amazon)
