Dell and HP recently unveiled two new convertible models
that took a page out of Microsoft’s playbook with their built-in kickstands and
detachable keyboards.
First up, we have the new Dell XPS 12, which is a refresh of
one of the company’s first generation convertible from 2012. The device has a
12-inch display with full HD resolution (there’s an optional 4K model) and is
powered by Intel’s low-powered Core M processors with 8GB of Ram and up to 128GB
of on-board storage.
The XPS 12 will come with a keyboard base where the main unit
can dock to transform into a productivity machine. Unlike most hybrids, the XPS
12 doesn’t use any latches or hinges to connect the keyboard to the main unit.
Instead, the device simply drops into a slot on the keyboard and it’s ready to
go. The downside is that the keyboard dock only has one angle, which makes it
hard to use on your lap.
Dell will also offer an optional stylus for the XPS 12 that
will be sold separately. It has two Thunderbolt 3 ports, as well as an 8MP rear
camera and a 5MP front-facing camera.
The Dell XPS 12 will be available beginning November
starting at $999.
The second device that launched this week that looks like
the Surface Pro is the HP Spectre X2.
The Spectre X2 comes with a 12-inch display with a
resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels and packs the latest generation Core M
processors. HP is giving consumers the option to get either a 4GB model or 8GB
model while storage can be bumped up to 512GB for the top-tier model.
It also has two USB Type-C ports, a microSD card reader, an
8MP rear camera with Intel’s depth-sensing RealSense setup, two 5MP cameras at
the front, four speakers (two of which are located on the keyboard and are made
by Band & Olufsen).
Just like the Surface Pro models, the Spectre X2 has a
built-in kickstand that offer multi-angle adjustments. However, unlike that of
Microsoft’s, HP has decided to use a U-shaped easel-like frame that allowed the
device to save some space and keep the profile thinner than the Surface Pro.
The HP Spectre X2 is now available on the company’s website
for pre-order starting at $799.99
