Mobile
What is an Ultrabook Convertible?
The Ultrabook Convertible is a new type of computer that is a notebook and a tablet in one package.
These new computers run Intel processors and Windows 8, and all include a touch screen or multiple screens to offer better control of Windows 8 Live Tiles and the Windows 8 modern user interface.
As with any new computer, consumers have a lot of questions about what these notebooks can and can’t do. While it is possible to find some Ultrabook Convertibles like the IdeaPad Yoga 13 on display at Best Buy, this article should answer most of your questions about an Ultrabook Convertible.
Read: Ultrabook Convertible Roundup
What is an Ultrabook Convertible?
Take a closer look at the Dell XPS 12 as we explore what an Ultrabook Convertible is capable of. This short video explains what an Ultrabook convertible is and answers common questions about the Ultrabook Convertible.
Do Ultrabook Convertibles Connect to a Monitor?
Unlike the iPad and many Android tablets, Ultrabook Convertibles don’t need special adapters to connect to a second display. All the Ultrabook Convertible notebooks we’ve reviewed include a HDMI or DisplayPort connection to extend the desktop to a second monitor.
A DisplayPort or HDMI connection lets users connect a second monitor.
This allows users to get more work done by using two screens, and it can allow users to use the new WIndows 8 Modern user interface with Tiles on the touch screen and a traditional desktop view on the other.
Do Ultrabook Convertibles include DVD drives
A reader writes to ask if Ultrabook Convertibles include a DVD drive or if they will need to buy apps from a specific app store. Because the notebooks are so thin and light, most do not include a DVD drive.
Ultrabook Convertibles don’t come with DVD drives, but users can add one via USB.
Users can purchase an external DVD drive to connect through a USB port, which will allow them to install programs from a disk. Many software manufacturers also allow users to download a trial version from their Website and activate it with the key attached to a CD version. Users can also buy apps in the Windows 8 App Store.
Are Ultrabook Convertibles Hinges Durable?
Most Ultrabook Convertibles, like the Yoga 13 use special hinges to swing the display around to convert from an Ultrabook to a tablet. We weren’t able to torture test these hinges, but in out time with the Yoga 13 the hinges felt sturdy. Lenovo isn’t new to the convertible space, so the company has been able to test hinges for many years.
The Ultrabook Convertible hinges are tested in previous models.
The Dell XPS 12 uses a swiveling hinge in the middle of the display, which could scare off some users, but this isn’t the first time Dell used this flip hinge in a mobile device. The Dell Inspiron Duo used this hinge design back in 2010, so Dell isn’t new to convertible tablets.
Why are Ultrabook Convertibles So Expensive?
Most Ultrabook Convertibles carry a high price tag when compared to a tablet or a notebook, but cost about as much as a tablet and a notebook combined.
Ultrabook Convertibles pull double duty.
Manufacturers see these devices as dual purpose, which is one reason for the high prices. Another reason is that Ultrabook Convertibles require special hinges, connections or dual-screens to work in tablet or notebook mode, all of which add to the cost.
Do Ultrabook Convertibles Play Games?
Ultrabook Convertible notebooks do play games of several kinds, but they won’t replace an Xbox 360 for gamers that like to play Call of Duty: Black Ops II.
Ultrabook Convertibles can game, but won’t play all titles.
On the tablet side, gamers can pick up many favorite mobile games like Angry Birds and JetPack Joyride and enjoy Xbox Live connectivity for many games.
When it comes to playing games in desktop mode, the Intel HD 4000 graphics found in most notebooks provide enough power to play games like Portal 2, but Steam is not ready for Windows 8, and wouldn’t install on one of our test units so gaming could be problematic for some users, at least in the beginning.
Does Apple make an Ultrabook Convertible?
While there are more than a few shoppers who dream of a MacBook Pro Convertible that runs OSX in notebook mode and iOS in tablet mode, Apple does not make an Ultrabook Convertible.
There is no Apple Ultrabook Convertible.
Given the convergence of Apple’s desktop and mobile operating systems, perhaps we will see something like this in the future, but for now Apple fans will need to stick to two devices.
rob s
12/29/2012 at 9:41 am
why are these being advertised as NEW technology And the latest and greatest ??
these have been around for years, yes like every thing else there is newer and faster technology but i have 3 older ones with swiveling and removable screens, the main difference is you have to use a special pen for the touch screen but there were more expensive models that didnt need the pen
i just dont why advertisers have to BS the public that this is NEW when its not
michelle
02/20/2013 at 4:18 am
are there any convertible ultrabooks that have an internal dvd? i know that most don’t. but, am looking to find one that does.