Gateway's MC7803u is one of the first notebooks in its MC series, a line emphasizing multimedia playback. The MC7803u has a 16-inch widescreen WXGA 1366 x 768 display in the proper 16:9 aspect ratio, rather than the 16:10 often found in notebooks. It runs an Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T5800 at 2.0GHz and comes configured with 4GB DDR2 memory. The system's graphics are powered by a 512MB ATI Mobility Radeon HD 3650 chipset. Gateway also offers a MC7801u model, otherwise the same machine as the MC7803u, but with a less powerful Intel integrated graphics chip for fifty dollars less; both models support high definition video output over an HDMI connection.

Running Vista 64-bit, the notebook features a five-in-one flash card reader and multi-mode DVD burner supporting Label Flash, a technology to optically print text and graphics to label discs. For storage, the 7.1-pound system boasts a 320GB SATA hard drive. Connectivity options include a/g/draft-n WiFi, gigabit Ethernet, and four USB 2.0 ports. Burgundy and black case options are available, both featuring an illuminated keyboard and multimedia shortcut buttons, and either a brushed metal or faux leather palm rest.