Four top highly mobile computers, from hybrid tablets to ultrabooks
THE best laptop for the job might not be a laptop at all, with new, slimmer hybrid tablets and ultrabooks changing how we work on the go.
WORKING on the go no longer means carrying a laptop.
There are much slimmer, lighter options available that will let you complete complex tasks without developing a hunchback from the strain.
Below are four of the best options for staying productive, and entertained, while travelling.
Samsung TabPro S 4G
Samsung / 4.5/5 / $1799 / samsung.com/au
Samsung is going head-to-head with Microsoft for hybrid tablet supremacy and it’s landed another blow. The Galaxy TabPro S is slimmer and comes with a keyboard case, but it now has a 4G internet connection too — a feature only available in Microsoft’s Surface 3. The always-connected addition also features Windows 10 Pro software, a 128GB solid-state drive, and a battery to power its 12-inch touchscreen for up to 10.5 hours. Computing power is limited by its Intel Core M chip, and power users will need an adaptor to expand its USB-C port, but this is one of the most usable, upwardly mobile computers.
Razer Blade Stealth
Razer / 4.5/5 / $1549-$1849 / razerzone.com
This laptop is not only thinner and lighter than an Apple MacBook Air but it’s more powerful, offers more ports, and its keyboard lights up with the colours of the rainbow. Razer might be a gaming brand but it’s developed this Ultrabook for a wider audience, and its budget price and features should see it win one. Even the base model Razer Blade Stealth packs an Intel Core i7 chip and 8GB RAM, its 12.5-inch touchscreen has a sharp QHD resolution, it has two USB 3.0, one USB-C and an HDMI connection, plus its keys are individually backlit. It’s also $240 less than its Apple equivalent, making a compelling case for purchase.
HP Spectre x2 4G
HP / 4/5 / from $1666 / optus.com.au
HP’S latest hybrid tablet computer has plenty going for it. Its stylish exterior features a flip-out, multi-angle kickstand, a comfortable aluminium keyboard and, unlike most, it comes with a stylus as standard. This 12-inch tablet also uses Microsoft Windows 10 Pro and an Optus SIM card to access the internet without scrambling for a wi-fi hotspot. It’s not speedy but fast enough thanks to an Intel Core M chip and 8GB RAM, it will store up to 256GB, and offers two USB-C ports. Buyers should note that this Spectre is heavier than some at 1.21kg, though, its advanced camera is on the wrong side for Microsoft image recognition, and it features a fat screen bezel.
Apple iPad Pro 9.7
Apple / 4/5 / from $899 / harveynorman.com.au
The smallest “professional” version of Apple’s iPad is built for business but still has a bigger focus on entertainment. The 9.7-inch device’s most important addition is that of speed, fuelled by an A9X chip and M9 co-processor. It’s the kind of speed that will let users render 3D graphics or use more powerful image-editing apps. iPad Pro 9.7 users can also refine images or draw with the $169 Apple Pencil, and there’s a $229 Smart Keyboard available, though it is 6cm narrower than the larger model, and delivers a less than ideal typing experience. This Pro is business second, fun first.
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