Best Tech of 2012

Dell XPS 12 Ultrabook Convertible

The Dell XPS 12 is the best Ultrabook Convertible of 2012, delivering a great notebook experience and a good tablet experience thanks to a swiveling screen and the new touch friendly Windows 8 user interface. The 12.5-inch display is small, but the 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution isn't. The XPS 12 weighs in at 3.35 pounds so it's light enough to be a constant companion.

Read: Dell XPS 12 Review

The Dell XPS 12 is $200 more than the IdeaPad Yoga 13, but for that premium users get better quality materials, a better tablet experience, a smaller notebook and a better typing experience.

The Dell XPS 12 features a carbon fiber finish and anodized aluminum throughout the construction, so the XPS 12 is a pleasure to hold and is quite solid even with a swiveling display. Unlike the Yoga 13, the XPS 12 doesn't place the keys on the back of the device when users are holding it in tablet mode. The smaller size of the XPS 12 also helps deliver a better tablet experience because it is easier to hold for extended periods.

The only drawbacks are moderate battery life compared to a notebook and a iPad and the overly glossy display.