In order to get the complete Windows 8 experience, the good old desktop system just won’t do. There is an entire new generation of gadgets that have come up with the latest Windows Operating System. A hybrid of laptops and tablets, these are a relatively new arrival on the scene and just about every leading manufacturer has already jumped onto this ‘convertible’ bandwagon with the coming year holding a lot of promise. While the hefty price tags put these gadgets beyond the reach of the vast majority of consumers; for those willing to shell out the extra bucks, the convertible would make for a really good buy this holiday season. Before you go out to buy one, let’s take a little look at which of these “tab-tops” – for lack of a better word – are worth the money and the factors you should consider before choosing one. Here are the five best names in this category in reverse order, from the fifth best to the best one.

5. Asus Taichi

While its specs are about the best you would get in this segment today, its incredibly high price pushes it down to the fifth spot. But if you are willing to loosen the purse strings, then look no further; here is the product for you.

Key Tech Specs:

• RAM: 4GB DDR3
• Processor: Intel Core i7-3517M (1.9 GHz)
• Storage: 256 GB SSD
• Weight: 1.25 kg
• Display: 11.6” touchscreen with resolution of 1920 x 1080
• Price: 1,39,999

4. Samsung ATIV Smart PC Pro

A 10-finger multi touch sensitivity on an 11.6 inch full HD LCD screen makes this hybrid from the South Korean electronics giant delightful to the touch. Comes with a decent 4GB RAM and up to 256GB of SSD storage for really quick reading and writing speeds.

Key Tech Specs:

• RAM: 4GB DDR
• Processor: Intel Core i5
• Storage: up to 256 GB SSD
• Display: 11.6” at 1920 x 1080p resolution
• Price: 75,490

3. HP Envy X2

The sole reason this rather simple product from HP makes it to third on this list is due to its relatively lesser cost in a segment with sky high prices. While the reduction in price does come at cost of some compromise in performance, the Envy X2 does stock enough to fulfill the functions of a tablet and also holds enough for the casual laptop user.

Key Tech Specs:

• RAM: 2GB LPDDR2
• Processor: Intel Atom 1.8GHz
• Storage: 64 GB SSD
• Weight:1.39 kg
• Display: 11.6” touchscreen with resolution of 1366X768
• Price: 48,200

2. Dell XPS 12 Convertible

Has a good looking and firm body with great performance which justifies its high price. With specifications more than satisfactory even for a laptop, that is what this is best used as – a laptop. As a tablet, it would be little heavy to carry around so if you are looking to use your product primarily as a tablet, this would not be the best choice. The durability of the hinge which might get worn out is an issue that only time will tell.

Key Tech Specs:

• RAM: 4GB DDR3
• Processor: 3rd Gen Intel Core i5-3317U (2.6 GHz)
• Storage: up to 256 GB SSD
• Weight: Minimum weight of 1.54 kg
• Display: 11.6” touchscreen with resolution of 1366X768
• Price: 89,990

1. Lenovo Ideapad Yoga 13

Perhaps the most special feature is a 360 degree flip of the lid across a dual hinge that enables it to be used in two more “modes” apart from the tablet and the laptop – the “stand” and “tent” modes. The power packed in its lightweight design and its commendable display takes it to the top of the list. What takes it ahead of its competitors, specifically the Dell XPS 12 convertible, is the ease and durability in flipping over and switching between the modes. Definitely the one to watch out for…

Key Tech Specs:

• RAM: 8GB DDR3
• Processor: 3rd Gen Intel Core i3-3217U
• Storage: 128/256 GB SSD
• Weight: 1.54 kg
• Display: 13.3” HD and IPS display with a wide viewing angle- 1600X900 resolution
• Price: 84290

Faiz Darvesh

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