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Review Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100 Convertible

Best of Both Worlds? Toshiba is promising a "High-performance Tablet" and a "Fully-equipped Notebook" - all in one device. Is that possible with a standard HDD and AMDs weakest APU?
Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100: is it truly as seamless an integration of notebook and tablet, as the manufacturer claims it to be?
Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100: is it truly as seamless an integration of notebook and tablet, as the manufacturer claims it to be?

For the original German review, see here.

Android tablets are sold far more than their Windows counterparts are, although Windows is still the primary OS used at home or in the office. So why is it like this? Well if we are talking about quantity, we should also consider pricing: buyers can purchase a fully functional Android device for Christmas for a mere 100 to 300 Euros (~$137 to $410).

The switch from a conventional Windows PC to a Windows tablet is hard for customers because the differences are far too great. We were just navigating with buttons and now we only have a touchscreen? The transition is far too fast and, as such, at least for now, manufacturers have to keep to good old laptop format and not in tiny 10 or 11.6-inch formats, but in larger, far more standard 13.3-inch scale. Toshiba presents their solution to the problem: the Satellite W30Dt-A-100, a 13-inch tablet with a keyboard dock. As most buyers would laugh at a storage capacity of 64 or 128 GB, the manufacturer has gone the extra mile and provided a 500 GB HDD. Price of the W30Dt: 670 Euros (~$916; market price).

This market niche for 13-inch convertibles below 1,000 Euros (~$1367) was held by HP with their Split x2 13-m115sg (Core i5-4202Y, less than 900 Euros; ~$1230). For more money, Asus offers the Transformer Book TX300CA with keyboard dock (Core i5 version, starting at 1,100 Euros; ~$1503) and HP brings the Spectre 13 x2 Pro + keyboard dock (Core i3 version, starting at 1,100 Euros). Sadly, both models are in a completely different price category. As such, we are taking the Transformer Book T100TA as the second comparison model (10 inches). This small convertible should be available shortly with a 500 GB HDD in the keyboard dock (480 Euros; ~$656, not yet available in Germany).

Case

The dock receptors.
The dock receptors.
Two strong metal hooks keep the tablet connected.
Two strong metal hooks keep the tablet connected.

Toshiba has picked a heavy build: 2,164 grams (tablet + dock; ~4.8 pounds). The tablet alone weighs 1,028 grams (~2.3 pounds). Typical 10 or 11.6-inch tablets (Windows) are much lighter and the 13-inch competitor, the HP Split x2, weighs slightly more at 2.3 kilograms (~5.1 pounds).

The tablet is a thick model at 13 mm (~0.5 inches), but a hard rubber band around the panel allows it to be held securely in the hand. Furthermore, this rubber border keeps the tablet elevated when placed face down, preventing the screen from being scratched. The back of the tablet is made of brushed aluminum that feels nice and cool in the hands. The model is sturdy and the gaps between the materials are even.

A thick metal hinge secures the tablet in place when docked with two sturdy hooks. The build quality is good, promising longevity. Sadly, despite all this, the tablet still wobbles when docked. Thankfully, this does not affect the interaction with the model. As the base is a heavy one kilo as well (~2.2 pounds; contains a second battery), the heavy tablet (when docked) cannot topple the model over. The W30Dt is a reliable unit as a laptop on the table, but once picked up, it becomes clear that there are two separate parts.

The base is made entirely of synthetic material and has a resistant, silver surface. However, it has some weak spots: picking up the W30Dt at one of the front edges will depress the material due to the weight of the tablet.

 

 

Connectivity

Despite its thickness, the tablet only offers miniature ports, such as micro HDMI or micro USB type A. A converter cable is included in the delivery for the latter, which provides the USB type A (female) as well as micro USB type B (male). The positioning of the ports at the front of the right side is a poor choice during laptop use. A universal USB 3.0 dock offers some relief and can be purchased from Toshiba (Dynadock). With this, all peripherals, including external TFTs, can be connected via a cable to the test model. The USB 3.0 port is thankfully placed on the docking keyboard. We also like that both the tablet and the dock have a power outlet where the power adapter can be plugged in.

Right side (of the keyboard dock): volume rocker, headphone/microphone combi, micro HDMI, micro-A-USB, card reader micro SDHC, speaker; Dock: USB 3.0
Right side (of the keyboard dock): volume rocker, headphone/microphone combi, micro HDMI, micro-A-USB, card reader micro SDHC, speaker; Dock: USB 3.0
Left side (of the keyboard dock): speaker, reset (needle required), power on/off, power outlet; Dock: power outlet
Left side (of the keyboard dock): speaker, reset (needle required), power on/off, power outlet; Dock: power outlet

Communication

The WLAN module originating from Atheros Communications (AR9565) offers relatively weak signal strength. At a distance of 10 meters (~33 feet; through wood walls), the device only recorded three bars (reception). Outside, at 15 meters away (~49 feet), we only had 2 bars. The aluminum back of the tablet does not prevent the antennas from getting a good reception, as they are installed in the broad, silver synthetic material strips of the tablet.

Bluetooth 4.0 is included alongside a relatively new feature offered by the WLAN card: Miracast (Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Miracast). The screencast standard is supported by Windows 8.1. This feature allows the transmission of picture between two devices, for example to a TV or a Smartphone. Similarly, certified devices have been released since 2013: for example, Google Nexus 4, LG Optimus G or Samsung Galaxy S III. AirPlay (Apple) and Wireless Display (WiDi, Intel) are the proprietary competitors of this technology.

The HD webcam on the front is suitable for snapshots. It focuses well during daylight, but details are washed out.

The HD front camera alongside the microphone and ambient light sensor.
The HD front camera alongside the microphone and ambient light sensor.
Photos up to 1280 x 720 pixels
Photos up to 1280 x 720 pixels
Relatively focused, but details are washed out
Relatively focused, but details are washed out
Reference - Canon EOS 1100D
Reference - Canon EOS 1100D

Security

Toshiba uses an acceleration sensor in many of its notebooks, so as to prevent damage to the HDD from a fall. The user can de-/activate this feature if s/he so wishes. 

Accessories

Toshiba System Settings is a useful tool to access and check a variety of hardware and software settings. For example, the user can check the boot order with this tool without entering the BIOS. The other settings control the function keys, the USB 3.0 and SATA controllers.

45 W power adapter - 251 grams with cable (0.55 pounds)
45 W power adapter - 251 grams with cable (0.55 pounds)
Warranty and brief manual
Warranty and brief manual
Micro-A-USB to USB type A (female) and Micro-B-USB (male)
Micro-A-USB to USB type A (female) and Micro-B-USB (male)

Maintenance

Maintenance is not possible as there are no access panels or even screws for that matter. The 2.5-inch HDD must be secured internally and can be theoretically swapped out for an SSD. However, to swap it out, we would probably require a 5 mm model like our HDD. We do not know if the RAM is soldered on-board or if it is removable. 

Warranty

Toshiba offers a two-year warranty (Pick up & Return). 

Input Devices

Keyboard

The keyboard of the docking station has a well-spaced layout with the cursor keys separated slightly from the rest of the keys. Sadly, the keys are smooth and flat, meaning that they offer shallow feedback. On the right side, typing can push the keyboard inwards. The left side of the keyboard is more resistant, but this results in a poor combination of a hard left side and a spongy right side. Furthermore, the stroke distance is relatively short (in comparison to better notebook keyboards).

The keyboard of the Toshiba test model has the typical function keys (brightness, volume, WLAN, etc.). These can be turned on/off and the keyboard offers backlight. The latter is the only feature that sets our model apart from the Split x2, which has similarly weak feedback. 

Touchpad

The 11.2 cm touchpad (~4.4 inches; diagonal) has no separate mouse keys. These are integrated underneath the touch surface and are distinguished by a slight hump. The pad has a clear pressure point, but a very unsatisfactory stroke distance. In our opinion, it requires too much force as the further up you press, the more pressure you need to exert. 

Touchscreen

The touch-sensitive surface reacts quickly to input: our finger could almost always hit the small desktop symbols. This comfortable experience quickly degrades when the A4-1200 is at full load, as the input can no longer be quickly executed. The borders input without issues as long as the finger stays near the middle of the border (checked with Fresh Paint). Paint programs are fun to use thanks to the touch panel.

Keyboard: broad layout, lots of space
Keyboard: broad layout, lots of space
Touchpad: ClickPad with short stroke distance and heavy pressure point
Touchpad: ClickPad with short stroke distance and heavy pressure point
Opening angle: 130 degrees, fitting for laptop use
Opening angle: 130 degrees, fitting for laptop use

Display

The 1366x768-pixel resolution of the IPS panel from LG Display (LP133WH2 SPA1) is good. The panel uses capacitive technology, which can recognize up to ten fingers simultaneously. The brightness of the 13.3-inch panel is also quite good (for a notebook) at 308 cd/m², but for a tablet this level is below average. The HP Split x2 is much darker at 169 cd/m². Additionally, the Satellite and the HP Split x2 TFTs share one feature: the low contrast of 300:1. We did not expect this of an IPS display. The result: a black scene is not true black, but shows a gray shimmer. Colors and contrast are not as crisp or strong as they could have been with a higher contrast. This makes the Transformer Book T100TA with a 1,033:1 contrast ratio a better candidate (see table).

326
cd/m²
314
cd/m²
312
cd/m²
305
cd/m²
309
cd/m²
292
cd/m²
305
cd/m²
310
cd/m²
300
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
LG Display LP133WH2 SPA1 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 326 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 308.1 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 90 %
Center on Battery: 309 cd/m²
Contrast: 292:1 (Black: 1.06 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 4.76 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 2.83 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
36.7% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
40.13% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
57.9% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
39.12% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.33
Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100
Radeon HD 8180, A4-1200, WD Blue UltraSlim WD5000MPCK-22AWHT0
HP Split x2
HD Graphics 4000, 3229Y, Micron RealSSD C400 MTFDDAT128MAM-1J2
Asus Transformer Book T100TA-C1-GR
HD Graphics (Bay Trail), Z3740, 32 GB eMMC Flash
Microsoft Surface Pro 2
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hynix HFS128G3MNM
Lenovo Miix 2 8
HD Graphics (Bay Trail), Z3740, 32 GB eMMC Flash
Lenovo IdeaTab Miix 10 64GB
SGX545, Z2760, 64 GB SSD
Display
16%
4%
14%
16%
Display P3 Coverage
39.12
45.4
16%
40.34
3%
44.23
13%
45.26
16%
sRGB Coverage
57.9
67
16%
60.2
4%
66.2
14%
66.9
16%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
40.13
47.08
17%
41.78
4%
45.74
14%
46.76
17%
Screen
-9%
14%
21%
35%
79%
Brightness middle
309
170.2
-45%
248
-20%
375
21%
401
30%
444
44%
Brightness
308
169
-45%
238
-23%
358
16%
389
26%
409
33%
Brightness Distribution
90
93
3%
91
1%
91
1%
88
-2%
84
-7%
Black Level *
1.06
0.665
37%
0.24
77%
0.55
48%
0.6
43%
0.3
72%
Contrast
292
256
-12%
1033
254%
682
134%
668
129%
1480
407%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
4.76
4.16
13%
7
-47%
3.53
26%
3.5
26%
4.03
15%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
2.83
4.09
-45%
6.54
-131%
5.31
-88%
2.42
14%
3.08
-9%
Gamma
2.33 94%
2.41 91%
2.58 85%
2.55 86%
2.56 86%
2.42 91%
CCT
6993 93%
6563 99%
6707 97%
6504 100%
6422 101%
7161 91%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
36.7
44
20%
38
4%
40
9%
43
17%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
4% / -2%
9% / 11%
18% / 19%
26% / 30%
79% / 79%

* ... smaller is better

The sRGB color space is 53% covered ...
The sRGB color space is 53% covered ...
... and the AdobeRGB is 37% covered.
... and the AdobeRGB is 37% covered.

We checked the color space coverage of the sRGB and AdobeRGB spectrums. The two standards are barely covered by the W30Dt but this does not affect the users of the Satellite much, as everyday use is not hindered. Overall, the test model has similar display quality to that of the HP Split x2 (see table).

The CalMAN measurement with photo spectrometer shows that the test model has good colors. The low DeltaE score of 4 (in gray levels and colors) supports this statement. However, most of the competitors are on par with our test model or even better. For example, the Lenovo IdeaTab Miix 10 and Miix 2 manage to score quite well in this area. We did not notice any "clouding", as the balanced illumination of 90% is not marred by white spots on any border.

CalMAN Gray Levels: no blue tint
CalMAN Gray Levels: no blue tint
CalMAN Saturation: magenta and blue deviate from the standard values
CalMAN Saturation: magenta and blue deviate from the standard values
CalMAN ColorChecker: overall a low DeltaE score of 5.
CalMAN ColorChecker: overall a low DeltaE score of 5.

The tablet can be used outdoors as well and the ambient light sensor (next to the webcam) sets the brightness of the panel to maximum (if it is bright outdoors). The sensor can be turned off, so that the panel stays at a constant 309 cd/m² in the middle of the screen. This was the setting we used for our outdoor photos.

Clouded: higher contrast would have meant stronger colors.
Clouded: higher contrast would have meant stronger colors.
When clouded: reflections are constant companions.
When clouded: reflections are constant companions.
The brightness can display the content well when it does not have to compete with multiple reflections.
The brightness can display the content well when it does not have to compete with multiple reflections.

The viewing angles meet the high IPS standards. If you look from above, the display will show no color inversion. From the right or left, we can recognize content at even extreme angles (almost 90 degrees), without any distortions.

Viewing angles - Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100
Viewing angles - Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100

Performance

Toshiba has equipped its tablet with an AMD A4-1200 (1 GHz), a low-end APU with a TDP of 3.9 W. This is the AMD competitor to Intel's Clovertrail Atom for tablets. The talk of "Top Performance" is quite cheeky - more information in the processor section.

The APU with the Radeon HD 8180 iGPU works with 4,096 MB of RAM (DDR3L), which operates in single-channel mode. The storage space of 500 GB is quite generous. Sadly, it is achieved by using a standard HDD and not a faster SSD.

System information: CPU-Z CPU
System information: CPU-Z Cache
System information: CPU-Z Mainboard
System information: CPU-Z Memory
System information: GPU-Z
CrystalDiskMark 89 MB/s Sequential Read
HD Tune 90 MB/s Sequential Read
System information - Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100

Processor

Cinebench R15 Multi: CPU @1.0 GHz, constant 100% load
Cinebench R15 Multi: CPU @1.0 GHz, constant 100% load
Cinebench R15 OpenGL: fluctuating load on the HD 8180, 225 MHz
Cinebench R15 OpenGL: fluctuating load on the HD 8180, 225 MHz

We previously tested this APU in the MSI W20-A421 and the Medion Akoya E1317T. The two processor cores are very weak without Turbo in the MSI W20 (throttled to 600 MHz) and just weak in the Akoya E1317T. The test model APU performs at the level of the Akoya and is overall close to a Clovertrail Atom (dual-core). The new quad-core Atom based on the Bay Trail platform (+82%) is far ahead of the A4-1200 in all CPU benchmarks. The Transformer Book T100TA is also passively cooled. AMD also offers a quad-core APU (A6-1450V5-122), but the TDP is far too high for tablets (8-15 W, Turbo).

The clock speeds are the same as those specified. In Cinebench R15 Multi, the cores operate at a constant 1.0 GHz. The OpenGL tests with the HD 8180 have the IGP running at 225 MHz (iGPU). On battery, the performance remains identical: we ran the Cinebench R15 for this test (CPU and iGPU).

Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100
Radeon HD 8180, A4-1200, WD Blue UltraSlim WD5000MPCK-22AWHT0
Lenovo IdeaTab Miix 10 64GB
SGX545, Z2760, 64 GB SSD
Acer Aspire V5-122P-61454G50NSS
Radeon HD 8250, A6-1450, Western Digital Scorpio Blue WD5000LPVX
Asus Transformer Book T100TA-C1-GR
HD Graphics (Bay Trail), Z3740, 32 GB eMMC Flash
HP Split x2
HD Graphics 4000, 3229Y, Micron RealSSD C400 MTFDDAT128MAM-1J2
Cinebench R11.5
69%
134%
CPU Single 64Bit
0.24
0.33
38%
0.59
146%
CPU Multi 64Bit
0.45
1.02
127%
1.41
213%
OpenGL 64Bit
6.8
9.59
41%
9.69
43%
Cinebench R10
2%
70%
82%
181%
Rendering Single 32Bit
753
609
-19%
1031
37%
940
25%
1976
162%
Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
1401
1711
22%
2826
102%
3334
138%
4208
200%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
2% / 2%
70% / 69%
82% / 82%
158% / 153%
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single CPUs 64Bit
919 Points
Cinebench R10 Shading 64Bit
1604 Points
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 64Bit
1689 Points
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
753
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
1401
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
1425
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
0.24 Points
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
6.8 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
0.45 Points
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
5.72 fps
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
98 %
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
33 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
20 Points
Help

System Performance

PCMark 7 Scores
PCMark 7 Scores
Toshiba TEMPRO kept crashing.
Toshiba TEMPRO kept crashing.

The program benchmarks allow us to rank our test model amongst the Windows devices. The rotating HDD lacks the speed of a modern SSD, which can even be found in low-cost modules (eMMC in Miix 10). The PCMark 7 scores are about 26% lower than those of the competitors. All others can score quite high, especially the HP Split x2 with its Micron RealSSD C400. More information can be found in the storage device section.

Now putting aside benchmarks, how do we feel about the system experience? As long as the APU is not simultaneously running multiple tasks, it can run the W30Dt smoothly. However, when it is at high load (a virus scan, copying files or an installation), the tables turn, switching between open windows or inputting commands are heavily slowed down. Overall, we felt the experience was quite close to that of a Clovertrail Atom and far lower than that of a Bay Trail Atom. The results of PCMark 7 support his assertion (see computation scores). The IdeaTab Miix 10 (+23%), the Transformer Book T100TA (+93%) and the HP Split x2 with its Core i3-3229Y (+300%) beat our test model by wide margins.

Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100
Radeon HD 8180, A4-1200, WD Blue UltraSlim WD5000MPCK-22AWHT0
Acer Aspire V5-122P-61454G50NSS
Radeon HD 8250, A6-1450, Western Digital Scorpio Blue WD5000LPVX
Lenovo IdeaTab Miix 10 64GB
SGX545, Z2760, 64 GB SSD
Asus Transformer Book T100TA-C1-GR
HD Graphics (Bay Trail), Z3740, 32 GB eMMC Flash
HP Split x2
HD Graphics 4000, 3229Y, Micron RealSSD C400 MTFDDAT128MAM-1J2
PCMark 7
26%
32%
112%
267%
Score
1011
1232
22%
1413
40%
2339
131%
3366
233%
Computation
2669
3457
30%
3274
23%
5138
93%
10684
300%
PCMark 7 Score
1011 points
Help

Storage Device

The WD Blue UltraSlim (WD5000MPCK) has a total storage capacity of 500 GB and is a new model with a 5 mm thickness. Typical 2.5-inch HDDs measure 7 mm and thicker laptops can even use up to 9.5 mm.

The HDD performs well, but only in comparison to other models with HDDs, like the Acer Aspire V5-122P (-8 %). The competitors, Transformer Book and Split x2, are much faster. The Split x2 is much faster as well, thanks to its great read 4K speed of 23 MB/s.

Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100
Radeon HD 8180, A4-1200, WD Blue UltraSlim WD5000MPCK-22AWHT0
Acer Aspire V5-122P-61454G50NSS
Radeon HD 8250, A6-1450, Western Digital Scorpio Blue WD5000LPVX
Lenovo IdeaTab Miix 10 64GB
SGX545, Z2760, 64 GB SSD
Asus Transformer Book T100TA-C1-GR
HD Graphics (Bay Trail), Z3740, 32 GB eMMC Flash
HP Split x2
HD Graphics 4000, 3229Y, Micron RealSSD C400 MTFDDAT128MAM-1J2
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
-8%
435%
572%
2209%
Read Seq
89.9
87.7
-2%
77.5
-14%
109
21%
439
388%
Write Seq
99.7
85.9
-14%
38.14
-62%
43.2
-57%
194.1
95%
Read 512
30.38
26.79
-12%
74.1
144%
104.7
245%
340.8
1022%
Write 512
42.43
39.88
-6%
32.9
-22%
18.93
-55%
196.3
363%
Read 4k
0.34
0.298
-12%
8.57
2421%
10.33
2938%
22.79
6603%
Write 4k
0.921
0.899
-2%
2.226
142%
4.034
338%
44.98
4784%
WD Blue UltraSlim WD5000MPCK-22AWHT0
Transfer Rate Minimum: 47.1 MB/s
Transfer Rate Maximum: 116.9 MB/s
Transfer Rate Average: 89.9 MB/s
Access Time: 18.6 ms
Burst Rate: 149 MB/s
CPU Usage: 11.4 %

Graphics Card

The Radeon HD 8180 IGP operates at 225 MHz and supports DirectX 11.1. The video decoder spares the CPU a lot of work when playing high-resolution movies. For the first time, the W30Dt can stand its ground in the face of the competition: the classic 3D benchmark 3DMark 06 is 76% better than the Clovertrail competitors (IdeaTab Miix 10). Even the Transformer Book can beat our Toshiba model, but by a small margin (5%). The HD Graphics of the Split x2 (+84%, also Single Channel RAM) make everything much better.

Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100
Radeon HD 8180, A4-1200, WD Blue UltraSlim WD5000MPCK-22AWHT0
Lenovo IdeaTab Miix 10 64GB
SGX545, Z2760, 64 GB SSD
Asus Transformer Book T100TA-C1-GR
HD Graphics (Bay Trail), Z3740, 32 GB eMMC Flash
Acer Aspire V5-122P-61454G50NSS
Radeon HD 8250, A6-1450, Western Digital Scorpio Blue WD5000LPVX
HP Split x2
HD Graphics 4000, 3229Y, Micron RealSSD C400 MTFDDAT128MAM-1J2
3DMark 06
1280x1024 Standard Score AA:0x AF:0x
1726
421
-76%
1868
8%
2366
37%
2885
67%
3DMark
-18%
44%
101%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
166
260
57%
349
110%
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
1477
1204
-18%
1914
30%
2828
91%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-76% / -76%
-5% / -5%
41% / 41%
84% / 89%
3DMark 06 Standard Score
1726 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
12125 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
1024 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
165 points
Help

Gaming Performance

Fallout 2 (1998)
Fallout 2 (1998)
System Shock 2 (1999)
System Shock 2 (1999)

Games designed for desktop PCs or notebooks are a big hurdle for the W30Dt - the frame rates are far too low. However, games designed for tablets are much better for our test model. We took our readers’ recommendations and tested System Shock II (DRM free for $2-$5). This classic may not look amazing, but it plays smoothly at 59 fps (@1366x 768). Fallout 2 was also a joy to run on the test model.

Diablo III - 1024x768 Low / off (sort by value)
Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100
16.5 fps
Asus Transformer Book T100TA-C1-GR
18.4 fps +12%
Acer Aspire V5-122P-61454G50NSS
26.1 fps +58%
Anno 2070 - 1024x768 Low Preset (sort by value)
Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100
18.6 fps
Acer Aspire V5-122P-61454G50NSS
28.7 fps +54%
Risen - 800x600 all off/low AF:0x (sort by value)
Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100
21.6 fps
Asus Transformer Book T100TA-C1-GR
23.1 fps +7%

Legend

 
Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100 AMD A4-1200, AMD Radeon HD 8180, WD Blue UltraSlim WD5000MPCK-22AWHT0
 
Asus Transformer Book T100TA-C1-GR Intel Atom Z3740, Intel HD Graphics (Bay Trail), 32 GB eMMC Flash
 
Acer Aspire V5-122P-61454G50NSS AMD A6-1450, AMD Radeon HD 8250, Western Digital Scorpio Blue WD5000LPVX
low med. high ultra
Risen (2009) 21.6 8.2
Anno 2070 (2011) 18.6 8.2 5.1
Diablo III (2012) 16.5 11.2

Emissions

System Noise

Windows tablets have active cooling systems, unlike ARM SoC-based tablets. The Cloverview and Bay Trail tablets (Asus T100TA) are exceptions to the rule. The competitor, HP Split x2, requires a fan as its Core i3-3229Y has a TDP of 13 W.

The W30Dt is fanless but it is not completely silent due to the HDD. It is not disturbing as it can only be heard if the user places his ear against the device and our measurement device could not measure it (ambient noise: 29.6 dB(A)). This remains the case even when writing or reading from the storage device. This single-plate HDD emits no audible clacks. 

Noise Level

Idle
29.6 / 29.6 / 29.6 dB(A)
HDD
29.9 dB(A)
Load
0 / 0 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Voltcraft sl-320 (15 cm distance)

Temperature

Stress test: Prime95 & FurMark simultaneously running
Stress test: Prime95 & FurMark simultaneously running
Caution about temperatures on the case
Caution about temperatures on the case

The emissions of the W30Dt remain in the green region, which is thanks mainly to the heavy chassis that effectively absorbs and distributes a lot of the heat. At load, the hotspot reaches a mere 37 °C (98.6 °F) and on the back 36 °C (96.8 °F). In this case, even the IdeaTab Miix (Cloverview) heats up more, as it employs a smaller 10-inch chassis. The HP Split x2 heats up 20% more as it has much higher performance, and its hotspots (top and bottom) can reach up to 46 °C (114.8 °F), although an active fan can emit up to 40 dB(A).

The stress test reveals that the APU continues to operate at a constant 1.0 GHz even after an hour of testing. This is to be expected, as the core has no Turbo. The GPU clock speed cannot be measured, but the GPU load was recorded at near 100% throughout with a clock speed of 225 MHz (standard). 

 23.8 °C
75 F
27.2 °C
81 F
27.2 °C
81 F
 
 24.5 °C
76 F
25.7 °C
78 F
26 °C
79 F
 
 25.3 °C
78 F
26.5 °C
80 F
26.7 °C
80 F
 
Maximum: 27.2 °C = 81 F
Average: 25.9 °C = 79 F
28.1 °C
83 F
28.3 °C
83 F
25.7 °C
78 F
28 °C
82 F
28 °C
82 F
25.5 °C
78 F
27.4 °C
81 F
26.2 °C
79 F
25 °C
77 F
Maximum: 28.3 °C = 83 F
Average: 26.9 °C = 80 F
Power Supply (max.)  30.1 °C = 86 F | Room Temperature 22 °C = 72 F | Voltcraft IR-360
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 30.8 °C / 87 F, compared to the average of 30.2 °C / 86 F for the devices in the class Convertible.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 37.2 °C / 99 F, compared to the average of 35.3 °C / 96 F, ranging from 19.6 to 55.7 °C for the class Convertible.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 36.1 °C / 97 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 25.9 °C / 79 F, compared to the device average of 30.2 °C / 86 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 31.5 °C / 88.7 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.1 °C / 82.6 F (-3.4 °C / -6.1 F).

Speakers

2 speakers in the tablet
2 speakers in the tablet
2 speakers in the keyboard dock
2 speakers in the keyboard dock

Toshiba has installed four speakers: two in the tablet and two in the dock. The latter are very clear when chatting, but are not suited for music: too much reverberation and too little differentiation between the highs and lows. Unfortunately, we could not use all four speakers simultaneously.

The tablet speakers remain inactive when docked. They sound a little better than those on the bottom of the dock and the emphasis is on the middle notes as is typical for tablet speakers. The max volume is quite high and it does not distort. We found the preset audio driver settings quite poor and recommend customization.

The microphone (front, laptop mode) can record audio clearly at a distance of 40 cm (~15.7 inches) but the recording was marred by an infrequent clacking. As we do not have a coffee machine in the office, we believe this to be the fault of the read/write heads on the HDD. 

Energy Management

Power Consumption

The power consumption of the W30Dt runs between 6 - 12 W while idle, which is quite high. The 10-inch Atom tablets, Miix 10 and T100TA, require 50 - 60% less power. At load, we measured unusually high power consumption: 17 - 19 W. The Atom tablets require 7 - 12 W (dual-core/quad-core). The batteries were not charged during the test.

The small power adapter delivers up to 45 W, which is enough to charge the device while running the stress test. While charging, the model consumes 6.5 W (in standby). First, the tablet battery is charged and then the dock battery. While discharging, the opposite occurs: the dock battery discharges before the tablet battery.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.1 / 0.3 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 6.3 / 9.7 / 11.9 Watt
Load midlight 17.4 / 19 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Voltcraft VC 960
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.

Battery Life

The two batteries deplete at different times.
The two batteries deplete at different times.

The battery life of the Satellite W30Dt is quite good: 7 - 11 hours are possible in laptop mode. Below the keys, we have a 23 Wh battery, which is the same model as the one in the tablet. Toshiba promises up to 6:45 hours, which we easily trumped in the WLAN test: 7:10 hours. In this test, websites are loaded at a 45-second interval, sometimes with videos. The small IdeaTab Miix 10 (-23%) and the similarly-sized Split x2 (-16%) have shorter battery lives. However, considering the higher performance of the Split x2, its battery life is quite amazing. It is no surprise: the 33 Wh + 32 Wh (in dock) do a good job.

Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100
Radeon HD 8180, A4-1200, WD Blue UltraSlim WD5000MPCK-22AWHT0
Acer Aspire V5-122P-61454G50NSS
Radeon HD 8250, A6-1450, Western Digital Scorpio Blue WD5000LPVX
HP Split x2
HD Graphics 4000, 3229Y, Micron RealSSD C400 MTFDDAT128MAM-1J2
Lenovo IdeaTab Miix 10 64GB
SGX545, Z2760, 64 GB SSD
Asus Transformer Book T100TA-C1-GR
HD Graphics (Bay Trail), Z3740, 32 GB eMMC Flash
Battery Runtime
-50%
-9%
4%
37%
Reader / Idle
650
379
-42%
657
1%
884
36%
999
54%
WiFi
430
187
-57%
361
-16%
329
-23%
647
50%
Load
236
113
-52%
205
-13%
231
-2%
256
8%
Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
10h 50min
WiFi Surfing
7h 10min
Load (maximum brightness)
3h 56min

Verdict

Toshiba has bitten off more than it can chew. The ads claiming that the new W30Dt is a "High-Performance tablet" with "true Power" and "Top Performance" have no basis. A quick look at the hardware performance reveals that the A4-1200 of our test model is at the level of an Intel Cloverview Atom. The new quad-core Bay Trail is far more powerful in terms of performance per Watt. As such, this model is suited for users who are willing to accept the bad with the good: if they can, then watching movies, playing online games, or writing mails are all comfortably possible on the W30Dt. Older games, which have been released as DRM and often cost less than 5 Euros (~$7), should run without issues.

The Satellite W30Dt may have issues, but it is not a bad device. It does not claim to be a slim model and its solid chassis will allow it to withstand quite a bit of abuse, especially at the hands of excited children. The heavy display hinge and the pressure resistant aluminum cover are further pros of the model. The ports on the device are quite good and offer good connectivity. USB 3.0 is provided on the docking keyboard and the tablet houses USB 2.0 and HDMI. The 500 GB HDD will be useful and it is protected by a fall sensor.

The input devices are far from perfect: they (especially the keyboard) lack clear feedback. The same applies to the display, which may be an IPS panel, but the contrast is modest at best.

Competitors do not exist at this price (669 Euros; ~$955) in the 13.3-inch format. We took a look at the stronger HP Split x2 (13-inch, roughly 900 Euros; ~$1230) and the Transformer Book T100TA-C1-GR (10-inch, 470 Euros; ~$642 with a 500 GB HDD in the dock). The Split x2 is suited for those users who want the performance of a subnotebook and want to do more than watch movies, write mails and play old games. The Transformer Book is also quite fast and offers a docking keyboard. Its Intel Atom Z3740 is fast and is more efficient than the A4-1200 APU of our Satellite W30Dt.

Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100:a slow Windows 8 experience, but still a good package for working at home.
Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100:a slow Windows 8 experience, but still a good package for working at home.
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In Review: Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100, provided by Toshiba Deutschland
In Review: Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100, provided by Toshiba Deutschland

Specifications

Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100 (Satellite W30 Series)
Processor
AMD A4-1200 2 x 1 GHz, Temash
Graphics adapter
AMD Radeon HD 8180, Core: 225 MHz, 13.152.0.0
Memory
4 GB 
, DDR3L RAM (1,600 MHz) Single Channel
Display
13.30 inch 16:9, 1366 x 768 pixel, 10 fingers supported, capacitive, LG Display LP133WH2 SPA1, IPS, glossy: yes
Mainboard
AMD A60M
Storage
WD Blue UltraSlim WD5000MPCK-22AWHT0, 500 GB 
, 5400 rpm, 430 GB free
Soundcard
HD Audio
Connections
1 USB 2.0, 1 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 HDMI, Audio Connections: Headphone/Microphone combi, Card Reader: Micro SDHC, Sensors: Light sensor, Shock sensor for HDD protection, Wi-Fi Certified Miracast
Networking
Atheros Communications AR9565 Wireless Network Adapter (b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/), Bluetooth 4.0
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 24.6 x 331.3 x 230 ( = 0.97 x 13.04 x 9.06 in)
Battery
46 Wh Lithium-Ion, 23+23 Wh, Tablet+Dock, 2 x SimploPA5156U-1BRS 7,2V, Battery runtime (according to manufacturer): 6.8 h
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 8.1 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 1280 x 720
Additional features
Speakers: 2x Tablet, 2x Keyboard dock, Keyboard: Chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, Micro A USB to USB Typ A (female) and Micro B USB (male), 24 Months Warranty
Weight
2.164 kg ( = 76.33 oz / 4.77 pounds), Power Supply: 251 g ( = 8.85 oz / 0.55 pounds)
Price
669 Euro

 

"The Satellite W30Dt-A is a high-performance tablet which can be quickly converted into a fully-equipped notebook."
"The Satellite W30Dt-A is a high-performance tablet which can be quickly converted into a fully-equipped notebook."
A big statement from Toshiba.
A big statement from Toshiba.
AMDs weakest APU is a conservative processor.
AMDs weakest APU is a conservative processor.
The overall performance is decent for a netbook and at the level of an Intel Atom.
The overall performance is decent for a netbook and at the level of an Intel Atom.
Toshiba has taken a bold step: ...
Toshiba has taken a bold step: ...
... a 2.5 inch 500 GB HDD rotates behind the panel.
... a 2.5 inch 500 GB HDD rotates behind the panel.
The HDD is sensitive and is the single source of noise emissions from the W30Dt.
The HDD is sensitive and is the single source of noise emissions from the W30Dt.
Push the lever and the tablet can be taken out.
Push the lever and the tablet can be taken out.
The 13-inch panel can then be used to watch a film in the bed.
The 13-inch panel can then be used to watch a film in the bed.
The W30Dt is a giant at 13.3 inches amongst the Windows 8 devices.
The W30Dt is a giant at 13.3 inches amongst the Windows 8 devices.
Sonys Vaio Tap 11 is a 11.6-inch tablet. This is the comparison picture with the tablet lying on top.
Sonys Vaio Tap 11 is a 11.6-inch tablet. This is the comparison picture with the tablet lying on top.
A solid build made of metal ...
A solid build made of metal ...
...hält das ein Kilogramm... holds the kilogram-heavy tablet in position. schwere Tablet sicher in Position.
... holds the kilogram-heavy tablet in position.
The hooks are well-built and promise longevity.
The hooks are well-built and promise longevity.
A second battery rests beneath the keys.
A second battery rests beneath the keys.
Its weight prevents the tablet from tipping over in laptop mode.
Its weight prevents the tablet from tipping over in laptop mode.
The chassis is made of a reliable aluminum panel.
The chassis is made of a reliable aluminum panel.
The area around the keys is made of sturdy synthetic material.
The area around the keys is made of sturdy synthetic material.
Bad: the tablet wobbles significantly in its dock.
Bad: the tablet wobbles significantly in its dock.
The small power adapter offers 45 W.
The small power adapter offers 45 W.
More than enough as even at full load, the W30Dt requires a mere 19 W.
More than enough as even at full load, the W30Dt requires a mere 19 W.
Together the tablet and base weigh more than 2 kilograms and are heavier than a few 13-inch notebooks.
Together the tablet and base weigh more than 2 kilograms and are heavier than a few 13-inch notebooks.
The Satellite W30Dt-A-100 is a notebook replacement, which offers the option of being temporarily more mobile in the form of a tablet.
The Satellite W30Dt-A-100 is a notebook replacement, which offers the option of being temporarily more mobile in the form of a tablet.
Satellite W30Dt-A-100: Ob mit einem kiloschweren 13-Zoll-Tablet auf dicke Hose gemacht werden kann, ist fraglich.
Satellite W30Dt-A-100: it is doubtful whether anyone can show with a kilogram-heavy, 13 inch tablet.
Satellite W30Dt-A-100: the device is a good work machine for easy work at the office or home.
Satellite W30Dt-A-100: the device is a good work machine for easy work at the office or home.
Satellite W30Dt-A-100: The AMD APU combined with a slow HDD can only offer so much. Sadly, this configuration will quickly become obsolete in the future.
Satellite W30Dt-A-100: The AMD APU combined with a slow HDD can only offer so much. Sadly, this configuration will quickly become obsolete in the future.
Satellite W30Dt-A-100: a good IPS display.
Satellite W30Dt-A-100: a good IPS display.
Satellite W30Dt-A-100: AMDs low-cost APU is not the best choice for Windows users.
Satellite W30Dt-A-100: AMDs low-cost APU is not the best choice for Windows users.
Satellite W30Dt-A-100: lots of ports for a tablet
Satellite W30Dt-A-100: lots of ports for a tablet

Similar Devices

Devices with Same Screen Size and/or Weight

Toshiba Portege X30T-E (i7-8550U, UHD620) Laptop Review
UHD Graphics 620, Kaby Lake Refresh i5-8550U, 13.30", 1.4 kg
Toshiba Portégé X20W (7600U, 512 GB) Convertible Review
HD Graphics 620, Kaby Lake i7-7600U, 12.50", 1.024 kg
Toshiba Portégé Z20t-C-121 Detachable Review
HD Graphics 515, Core m7 6Y75, 12.50", 1.51 kg
Toshiba Satellite Radius 14 Convertible Review
HD Graphics 5500, Core i3 5015U, 14.00", 2 kg
Toshiba Satellite Radius 11 L10W-C-108 Notebook Review
HD Graphics (Braswell), Pentium N3700, 11.60", 1.315 kg
Toshiba Satellite Click 10 LX0W-C-104 Convertible Review
HD Graphics (Cherry Trail), Atom x5 Z8300, 10.10", 1.094 kg
Toshiba Satellite Radius 12 P20W-C-106 Notebook Review
HD Graphics 520, Core i7 6500U, 12.50", 1.32 kg

Links

Price Comparison

Pros

+Passively cooled, no fan
+Wide viewing angles
+Long battery life thanks to the battery in the dock
+Solid, reliable build
+A variety of ports (USB 3.0 type A)
 

Cons

-Low contrast
-Low program performance
-Spongy keyboard feedback
-Heavy tablet

Shortcut

What we like

The solid, if thick and heavy, build of the tablet. The only 13-inch convertible available for less than 700 Euros (~$957). 

What we miss

A keyboard with better feedback. A higher contrast, if only so that we can enjoy our movies, pictures and videos. Tuners and tweakers would have enjoyed access to the innards of the model. The HDD can be swapped out, but probably only for another 5 mm model.

What surprises us

If you believe Toshibas exaggerated description, you will be very disappointed by the performance of the tablet. Intels Bay-Trail-Atom is cheaper in similar devices and far more powerful. As such, we see no reason to recommend an A4-1200

The competition

Clovertrail Atom:

Lenovo IdeaTab Miix 10 64 GB

Asus VivoTab Smart ME400C 

Lenovo IdeaTab Lynx K3011 

MSI W20-A421 (11.6-inch)

 

Intel Core ULV:

Acer Iconia-W3-810-27602G03nsw

HP Split x2

 

Quad-core Bay Trail Atom:

Asus Transformer Book T100TA-C1-GR

Rating

Toshiba Satellite W30Dt-A-100 - 04/24/2014 v4(old)
Sebastian Jentsch

Chassis
76 / 98 → 78%
Keyboard
65%
Pointing Device
67%
Connectivity
52 / 80 → 65%
Weight
62 / 35-78 → 63%
Battery
90%
Display
78%
Games Performance
25 / 68 → 37%
Application Performance
34 / 87 → 39%
Temperature
90%
Noise
96%
Audio
40 / 91 → 44%
Camera
43 / 85 → 51%
Average
63%
71%
Convertible - Weighted Average
Sebastian Jentsch, 2014-01- 4 (Update: 2014-01-13)