Ultrabooks – The Future of Laptop Computing [Analysis]

When Apple first introduced the iPad tablet computers a few years ago, now many people thought that it might spell the end of the traditional computer as we know it. Similarly, the laptop came under the spotlight for perhaps being a bit of kit that might well be left behind by the much more portable tablet devices that started to make their way into the market after the success of the iPad.

Different kit

As a result, the computer manufacturers have taken a slightly different track and now produce Ultrabooks, which are an interesting twist on the traditional laptop computer. If you thought that laptop devices were most compact at the notebook or netbook level then the humble Ultrabook takes things a step further. The Windows Ultrabook has been strongly influenced by the launch of the Apple MacBook Air, which is a super slim and incredible light device that revolutionised computing on the move.

Intel answers

Now though there are plenty of Windows models that are of a comparable quality and can provide a real challenge to the highly rated Apple counterpart. Not only do these new mini laptops use lower-power processors from Intel, ARM and the like, they also feature innovative designs that enable chunky batteries to fit inside svelte chassis, and that means longer computing power while making a style statement at the same time.

The way forward

So is Ultrabook really able to represent a decent replacement for you if you’re a business professional who needs to stay productive on the move? Well, the good news is that if you buy a model with a decent specification then it should see you through the course of most productivity tasks throughout the working day. Of course, the other bonus is that, much like traditional Windows computers, the Ultrabook can also provide you with an entertainments centre even when you’re out in the sticks.

All the tools

And while the tablet computer is fast becoming the tool of choice for many people who want the best of both worlds, with lots of productivity tools and excellent battery power, the Ultrabook range certainly has plenty to offer if you prefer a more conventional computing experience. The other added bonus is that the Ultrabook comes complete with a more traditional QWERTY-style keyboard, which means it’s a lot easier to do things like detailed spreadsheet work if you’re not such a big fan of the virtual keyboards found on most tablet devices.

The big difference

While it is easy to ponder over the difference between small laptops and netbooks alongside the Ultrabook, it should be noted that Intel expects manufacturers to follow certain criteria when they enter the Ultrabook arena. So, if you’re in the market for one of these slimline devices then you can generally be pretty sure that if the Ultrabook calls itself that, then it should also have a design and specification that lives up to the price tag – which, it has to be said, is likely to be rather more than a standard desktop or laptop machine.

This is a guest post by Rob Clymo. He writes for Broadband Genie, a site that provides impartial advice for broadband comparison, smartphones & tablets. If you wish to write for SparkWiz, kindly check our guidelines for Guest post and Join Us!