The Dell XPS Duo 12 is is a Windows 8 ultrabook which transforms into a tablet thanks to a special hinge that lets you rotate the screen 180 degrees within its frame and then close the lid so that the screen faces up.
Dell will start shipping the XPS Duo 12 later this month, but you can pre-order starting today… if you’ve got $1200 or more burning a hole in your pocket.
That price will get you a model with an Intel Core i5-3317U Ivy Bridge processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 128GB solid state disk.
Dell is also offering models with faster Core i7 processors, up to 8GB of RAM, and up to 256GB of disk space.
All models feature Intel HD 4000 graphics, 12.5 inch, 1920 x 1080 pixel displays, and Windows 8 64-bit. The convertible laptop weighs 3.35 pounds. The XPS Duo 12 isn’t exactly the cheapest Windows 8 convertible tablet around, but Dell’s unusual Duo hinge makes it one of the more interesting looking models.
This would be number one on my list. But no Wacom stylus capability. I see an option for a capacitive stylus only on the order page. Sorry, but the absolute coolest thing about Win 8 tablets and convertibles is the possibility of using a fine control stylus. Very disappointing of Dell.
Weights are getting better – convertible tablets used to max out at about 3.8lbs. However this is still too heavy. It has to at least be at the 3lb mark and under. If my 13″ toshiba z830 can be 2.4lbs then surely a 11″-12″ convertible can be under 3lbs.
I’ll never buy a laptop over 3.2lbs now I’ve experienced 2.4lbs. It isn’t that I can’t carry it but that the difference is just is amazing.