This compact hybrid laptop/tablet runs Windows 8 on an a Intel Atom, Z2760 / 1.8 GHz dual-core processor.
The Unboxing
The very unboxing of this tablet/laptop is a treat.
The box interior is plush charcoal grey with at least 3 hidden compartments.
I couldn’t hide my delight (I was in the office) as I discovered something new in each secret compartment.
• Secret compartment 1 unleashes the most amazing, soft, faux leather, beige laptop wallet.
• Secret compartment 2 unleashes a Branded screen cleaning cloth with handy quick-start manual booklets. Nice touch 🙂
• Secret compartment 3 unleashes a charger, USB extension cable, stylus, and a 6-inch Mini Display port to VGA Adapter Cable for your convenience.
• The tablet and the keyboard are in compartments too, though not hidden
Design
The sleek, matt silver faux metal body design is reminiscent of a MacBook. Actually, the Faux part is so good, I had to read up to discover that it’s not metal. It’s pretty ☺. Both male and female geeks and non-geeks appreciated the design and silver color. A few fell in love with it, but that’s a story for another day ☺.
It’s also small and fits into my small handbag – unlike the rather giant bag I need to carry when toting around my 13” laptop.
Battery
The Dual 2-cell 3540mAh batteries promises 8 hours on tablet only and double that on dock. It doesn’t disappoint. The tablet almost made it to 9 hours during use at an event where I was taking photos and posting online, and using Google Chrome browser. On dock (connected to the keyboard it easily goes to 17 plus hours). Needless to say, charging this device is not a top priority for me.
This feature is especially useful for me while travelling. Before you are able to settle, find a power outlet, and possibly an adapter (if you are travelling abroad), you will manage nicely.
Touch pad/Windows 8
Adapting to the Windows 8 interface poses a particular challenge for me as a Mac/Android user. So I enlisted a die-hard Windows 8 user as a co-reviewer for this part.
The Intel Atom processor does not disappoint. Both as a tablet and as a PC, the performance is great and my co-reviewer was able to happily do all their regular office work on the Iconia.
The touchpad I found rather cramped – to be expected on a 10.5” device – Good news is you can touch the screen!
It might be worth it for Microsoft to consider teaching people how to use Windows 8. It’s not intuitive at all. Not even for Windows 7 users.
Camera
The 8MP camera on a tablet was a rather exciting concept, until I tried it out. In different lighting and settings. The images kept coming out rather grainy or fuzzy. The front 2MP camera/webcam is fine for Skyping and doing Hangouts.
Top heavy
I found it a bit top-heavy so when placing it on your lap, one needs to be careful lest it topples over.
Her Geekyness’ Verdict
This tablet/laptop is compact, versatile, beautiful and stays charged for ages. It sounds good when playing music (good enough for a hotel room party) and is pretty fast and responsive.
-her royal geekiness-
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