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 3 Microsoft might
not be the first company to break into 2-in-1 laptop, but it's one of the few
to get it right. The first Surface was a suave new device that worked both as a
laptop and tablet. Thanks to an ergonomic kickstand and excellent magnetic
keyboard, it easy to use whether you're at a desk or even laying down. The
Surface Pro 3 is thinner and lighter than the previous two versions, despite
having a larger 12-inch display and higher screen resolution. A new kickstand
makes it easier to set up and use, and the keyboard cover remains a
best-in-class example. The Surface Pro 3 is now optimized for a digital pen,
which is included.
But
That excellent keyboard cover is not included in the base price, and its
improved touchpad still doesn't measure up. The chassis lacks pen storage, and
even with tweaked kickstand and keyboard hinges, the Surface Pro 3 still
doesn't fit perfectly on the lap. The
Bottom Line While the new Surface Pro 3 is Microsoft's best PC to date,
it's more successful as a tablet than a laptop replacement.
CPU: 1.9GHz Intel Core i5-4300U | Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4400 |
RAM: 8GB | Screen: 12-inch, 2160 x 1440 multi-touch display| Storage: 256GB SSD $649.99
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