Sony Vaio Duo 11Rs 89,990
Specs: Windows 8, 11.6-inch FullHD touchscreen, Intel Core i5-3317U, 6GB RAM, 128GB SSD, Intel HD graphics 4000, 12.60" (W) .71" (H) 7.84" (D), 1.3kg
Sony claims its Vaio Duo 11 is the easiest
Ultrabook convertible to use with a single motion to do the actual conversion. So we though this was the first thing we should test with the Duo 11. Yes, it is quite easy to pull the display up to reveal the keyboard in one simple motion. But, no, you cannot do it with one hand.
The Duo 11 is a screen-first kind of design and you can use it as a tablet if you are comfortable with the weight. But then all Ultrabook convertibles make heavy tablets. At the top of the display is a small groove, pulling on which makes the screen stand up, revealing a neat little keyboard below. But it is not a full-size keyboard and there is a no place to rest your wrists while typing. So you will have to adjust a bit while using it. However, you will get used to it in a few hours and this is a good keyboard to use, if you will need to use it.
This design also shows that trackpads are becoming redundant in a touchscreen world. In fact, even the trackpoint, which has been nestled between the keys, is unnecessary with an 11.6-inch touchscreen just in front of you. There are also three keys below that work like the keys on a mouse.
The touchscreen is very responsive and the pictures are really crisp, that is because this is a 1080p FullHD display. The sound quality is also very good, especially when you are using the tablet. That is because the speakers are facing down and are placed below the keyboard. Similarly, keep the orientation lock on when using the device as a Ultrabook, for the smallest movement flips the screen over.
Like all
Ultrabooks, the Duo 11 too runs 3rd generation Intel Core i5 processor and won't have any trouble munching through even heavy tasks. It also starts up in a jiffy, but we have come to expect that from Ultrabooks. While other convertibles are for those who will use the Ultrabook part more, the Duo 11 is good in both modes and can be suggested for people who will have a substantial tablet use as well. Being a Vaio, there is an Assist button, but it is sort of hidden under the front edge near the volume buttons.
Sony is pitching this as an enterprise-ready device and so there are two USB drives, a card reader, as well as HDMI and VGA ports. We also loved the fact that the Ethernet port and power jacks are behind, and this will add to its usability as a desktop device. Overall, this a good buy for people who need power in their convertible, which they will use equally as a tablet and an ultrabook.
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