77

Conclusion: We're mixed

The Timeline Ultra M5 is a good Ultrabook for its price, and performs well at most everyday tasks. However, in both its 14-inch and 15.6-inch versions, it's a little too heavy to compete with other ultralight laptops (the 15.6-inch version weighs 4.5 pounds). That doesn't mean it's not worth buying, especially if you want a relatively small, affordable laptop that includes an optical drive. But don't expect the slimmest laptop around, or the best performer either.

Critic reviews

7.3
6 reviews
  • Speed and features
    7.3
  • Design and form factor
    6.6
  • Battery life
    7.6
  • Display
    7.5
  • Durability
    7.0
  • Expandability
    8.0
  • Noise
    8.0
  • Portability (size / weight)
    7.3

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User reviews

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8.0
5 reviews

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8.0
PC World Jul 24, 2012

This attractive 15.6-inch Ultrabook represents a downgrade from its predecessor in storage and performance.

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8.0
CNET Aug 8, 2012

Yes, it's heavier than the average ultrabook, but if you're looking for an excellent value in a full-featured thin laptop, the Acer Timeline U M5 is hard to beat.

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7.0
Ars Technica Aug 27, 2012

It shares much more in common with standard 15" and 14" laptops than it does with the current crop of Ultrabooks, but it fits all of these standard features—an optical drive, a good but not mind-blowing CPU and GPU—into a package that doesn't look ridiculously bulky next to thinner designs.

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6.0
Wired Aug 6, 2012

If you’re a gamer who travels a lot but never wants to plug his laptop in, consider the TimelineUltra your baby. Those who quickly tire of waiting may want to look elsewhere.

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