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Time-saving tools and technologies
Laptops versus Tablets
Mobile computing has come a long way from the days of the Osborne
1 “luggable” computer, which was the size of a sewing machine. Today,
travelers have a boatload of options. Do you prefer a laptop or a tablet?
Here are the leading contenders in each category.
Primed to Perfection Tablet or notebook? You decide. The Asus Eee Pad Transformer Prime TF201 is for indecisive folks with a flare for the Android open-source operating system. Prime comes with an optional full QWERTY key- board/dock with touchpad and USB port ($150), a built-in Micro HDMI port and MicroSD card reader, and two cameras (one is 8-megapixel for capturing
1080p video). Finished in a metallic spun design, Prime is only 8.3mm thick and
weighs in at 1.29 pounds. $499. www.USA.Asus.com/Eee.
Nothing but Net
Think of the netbook as a smaller, less expensive alter-
native to the laptop. A great choice for frequent flyers
who seek convenience and reliability, the award-winning
Toshiba mini NB500 offers portability, easy connectivity,
and a comfort-driven design. Features include an Intel®
Atom™ processor; full-size keyboard and TouchPad;
a 10.1-inch LED-backlit display; EasyGrip
design finish; eco-chic engineering; and a
built-in Wi-Fi™ webcam for live video chat-
ting. Starts at $245.99. www.US. Toshiba.com.
Lightweight Champion
Apple’s slimmest creation is coveted
not only for its size, but its incredible
features. The ultra-sleek MacBook Air
comes with Intel® Core™ processors;
all-flash storage; high-speed Thunderbolt
data transfer capabilities; the new OS
X Lion operating system; a high-reso-lution widescreen display with built-in
Face Time camera; and a full-size backlit
keyboard. It’s the closest you’ll get to a
tablet without getting a tablet. Available
in 11” or 13” ( 11” weighs 2.38 pounds).
Starts at $499. www.Apple.com
Power House
If you want power and portability, look no further than
the XPS Series from Dell. Built for high performance, these
machines combine the latest 2nd Gen Intel® Core™ i5 and i7
processors, and include high-fidelity JBL speakers and high-end
NVIDIA graphics. At printing time, Dell will have released its
newest model, the XPS 13, a razor-thin notebook that features a
glass display, aluminum body, and lightweight carbon fiber casing.