Lenovo ThinkPad Helix
The
ThinkPad Helix is powered by a third generation Intel Ivy Bridge processor, up
to Core i7 and up to 8GB of DDR3 1600MHz RAM. Aiding performance is an SSD of
up to 256GB so its performance is top-notch. You’ll be able to choose between
Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro.The Lenovo ThinkPad Helix will be available in an
array of spec configurations, but the one we saw demonstrated was a mid-range example, with a
Core i5 processor. Core i7 options will also be available. The ThinkPad Helix
uses current Ivy Bridge-generation CULV Intel chips, backed-up by 8GB of RAM
and a 256GB SSD. The screen and base are each under 2.0 pounds, but that's on
the hefty side for an 11.6-inch system. That said, it's 20mm thin, qualifying
for ultrabook status, and can run processors up to Intel's current-gen Core
i7.Travel-friendly features include 3G/4G antenna options, NFC chip, and a
spill-resistant keyboard.The Lenovo ThinkPad Helix feels like a hybrid
roadwarrior. It's reasonably light, especially in its class, offers great build
quality and careful attention to detail in its construction. It may not be a
beauty, but it's one of the better full Windows 8 hybrid designs out
there. Performance and battery
life
A 1.8 GHz processor
and 4GB of RAM may seem small on paper, but in practice the ThinkPad Helix is a
surprisingly capable machine. Both the Windows 8 tiled interface and desktop
ran smoothly on our review unit.
Browsing in either
Chrome or Internet Explorer, we could get a dozen tabs going before performance
started to chug. This is with the tablet docked in its helpful stand, which
provides extra cooling and allows the processor to overclock a little.
The performance
enhancement is noticeable, and the fans generate minimal noise. This is by no
means a gaming machine, but we were able to play some Half Life 2: Episode 2
with an acceptable framerate.
The stand also
provides additional battery life. With its help, we generally got 7 to 8 hours
of web surfing and word processing. As just a tablet, the Helix got between 5
and 6 hours. That's not bad at all, certainly better than a Surface Pro, but
one can't help but think of what Haswell could've done for this machine.
Price;$1,499 VS
Microsoft
Surface Pro 2
The
Surface Pro 2's display may not have received an upgrade, but then it didn't
need one. It's still a fine IPS panel that helps bring Windows 8.1's colorful
and vibrant nature to life. The tablet itself is easier to use thanks to
improved keyboard covers - even the Touch Cover 2 will prove more than adequate
for most this time around.The Microsoft Surface Pro 2 is a faster,
longer-battery-life version of the original model, upgraded with a current-gen
Haswell processor. The keyboard cover is also improved with backlit keys, and
is among the best tablet accessories ever devised.The Surface Pro 2 is a very
tough product to judge, which is what makes it interesting. The good news is
Microsoft has sorted out the most serious issue with the first version: the
battery life. At around eight hours, the Surface Pro 2 mixes it with the
Ultrabooks like the Samsung Ativ Book 9 Plus and Sony VAIO Pro 13, even if it
still falls a little short of 'tablet class' battery life.
But, The Surface Pro
2 remains stubbornly thick and heavy compared with some sleeker competitors.
The base 64GB version may leave you starved for storage, and the keyboard
cover, practically required, should be included instead of sold separately.
The bottom line:
Microsoft's subtly updated Windows 8.1 tablet feels more like Surface Pro 1.5
-- improved battery life and better accessories make it a worthwhile (albeit
pricey) laptop replacement, but it's still not an iPad-level category killer. Specifications
Display type10.6 nm
RAM4 GB
ProcessorIntel 4th
Gen Core i5
Dimensions
(WxDxH)10.8 in x 0.53 in x 6.8 in
Weight2
lbs Price $899 
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