The best ultrabooks for business.

but with a meager set of ports and a glass glare screen

Today we will look at another ultrabook - the Dell XPS 13. This model was first presented to the public at CES 2012, where it could be seen live. Perhaps this is one of the last ultrabooks of the “first wave”. The XPS 13 is now hitting the market, so it's time to take a closer look at it.

For readers who have not yet read the introductory material about what ultrabooks are and how Intel and manufacturers position them, as well as reviews of those ultrabooks that have already entered the market, we recommend that you do so.

In the meantime, we will return to the Dell XPS 13 and see how interesting this model is in itself, as well as what is interesting about it compared to its competitors.

Line configuration

On the manufacturer’s website about the Dell XPS 13 ultrabook it says: “That’s it. And even more". Well, in more detail: “Impeccable attention to detail, a combination of high-quality materials and maximum performance.”

The main advantages of the model (as indicated by Dell):

• thoughtful design;
• incredibly thin, with an even greater viewing angle (yes, in the singular);
• sophisticated components;
• instant on;
• always up to date (this is Smart Connect advertising);
• highest performance.

Let's look at the official specification of the line. The first line is always the official data from the specifications on the manufacturer's website, the second is the data from our test utility obtained for the ultrabook we tested.

Dell XPS 13
CPU		Not indicated Intel Core i5-2467M, 2 GHz
Chipset		Intel QS67
RAM		Not indicated 4 GB (DDR3 SDRAM)
Video subsystem		Not indicated Integrated, Intel HD3000
Screen		Not indicated 13.3 inches, 1366×768 pixels
Sound subsystem		HD Audio + Waves MaxxAudio 4, 2 x 1.5 W speakers = 3 W total Codec Realtek ALC275
HDD		SSD 128 GB
Optical drive		Absent
Network interfaces	Wired network	Absent
	Wireless network	Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6230 802.11a/g/n with Intel technology Smart Connect
	Bluetooth	Version 3.0
	Additionally	American models support 4G networks
Card reader		No
Interfaces and ports	USB (2.0/3.0)	1 / 1 Port 2.0 can be used to charge external devices
	VGA Out	No
	HDMI	No
	DisplayPort	Yes (mini)
	eSATA	No
	RJ45	No
	ExpressCard	No
	Headphone output	Eat
	Microphone input	Yes (combined)
	Line output	No
	Additionally	No
Input Devices	Keyboard	Without digital block, with backlight
	Touchpad	Yes, buttonless
	Additionally	No
Battery		6-cell lithium polymer battery 47 Wh capacity (not user replaceable)
power unit		45 W
IP telephony	Webcam	Yes, 1.3 MP
	Microphone	2 pcs, next to the camera
Additionally		WiDi support Battery charge level indicator on the case
operating system		Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
Dimensions		316×205×6–18 mm
Weight		From 1.37 kg
Guarantee period		1 year

It’s worth saying right away that the specification on the Russian website is very unclear, not even half necessary information. For example, it is not indicated which processors can be installed in this ultrabook. However, the platform used is the same as in other modern ultrabooks, there are no surprises. The Dell XPS 13 comes with either a 128GB or 256GB SSD. There is simply not enough space in the case for a hybrid drive. In addition, in the list of characteristics, one immediately notices (and confuses) a rather poor set of ports.

Even in the specifications, the manufacturer emphasizes that three types of materials were used to build the case: aluminum with machining, carbon fiber for the bottom surface and magnesium alloy with a soft-touch coating in the keyboard panel. In general, the case should be the main highlight of this model.

Appearance and body

One of the main advantages of the Dell XPS 13, which the manufacturer especially emphasizes, is the very small sizes housings. The ad even uses the slogan “13-inch screen in an 11-inch laptop.”

At first glance, the Dell XPS 13 ultrabook really looks much smaller than its competitors. However, if you look closely at the numbers, then on the long side it is smaller than other ultrabooks, but only slightly, by a couple of millimeters. But the depth of the case (relatively the height of the screen) is really impressive: here it is about two centimeters smaller. Considering the small dimensions of ultrabooks, this is a very significant advantage.

Due to the reduced body height, the aspect ratio has also changed, so the Dell XPS 13 looks a little unusual (and, by the way, it really looks more like the 11-inch models). The sides of the body are straight, but the corners and edges are licked. The sides of the Dell XPS 13 are strictly vertical, and towards the front the body becomes thinner. While these design elements are reminiscent of the Macbook Air, the overall feel of the Dell XPS 13 is completely different.

The lid is a metallic gray color with the DELL logo etched on it. The entire lower part of the body is covered with black soft plastic with a texture that feels pleasant to the hand. In the center there is a beautiful metal insert with an engraved logo. On the test laptop it was already very scratched and worn out, so it looked sloppy.

This laptop does not have four traditional supports, but two long elongated strips with a rubber coating. This greatly improves the stability of the Dell XPS 13 on any surface, especially on your lap. Theoretically, because of this, there should be space under the bottom, even if the ultrabook is standing on an uneven surface.

Already at this stage of consideration, some suspicions arise about how efficiently the cooling system will work. The air intake is organized from below (which, by the way, contradicts Intel's recommendations), while hot air is blown into a very narrow gap between the case and the matrix. This greatly slows down the airflow and reduces the efficiency of the cooling system. However, we will check below temperature regime this ultrabook.

There is a gap between the cover and the body, so it is easy to pick it up with your finger. The case lifts slightly off the desk, but overall the Dell XPS 13 can be opened with one hand.

The opening angle of the lid is unacceptably small - about 110 degrees. In other words, if an ultrabook is on your knees, working with it is not only inconvenient, but also difficult. If you plan to work outside of your desk, pay attention to this.

In this model, the screen and the entire front part of the lid are closed tempered glass Gorilla Glass. This significantly increases the strength of the cover (the glass does not bend) and protects the screen from damage, but this is almost a finished mirror: the screen glares very much.

When open, the XPS 13 also looks smaller than other ultrabooks. By the way, it’s more noticeable that he simply has different body proportions: he seems more elongated.

The inner surface of the keyboard panel is also covered with soft-touch plastic. At the same time, there is a silver metal frame around the perimeter, which should increase the strength of the case, and visually it looks very good. The front of this edging is a little harsh on the wrists when typing for long periods of time. However, the sensations largely depend on how high the laptop is - the higher, the worse.

In terms of durability, the Dell XPS 13 left a very pleasant impression; it does not feel flimsy at all.

Case ergonomics

The front edge is very beveled, so it is impossible to place connectors on it. It is worth noting that the only indicator is located on the metal part. The indicator is very long and narrow and, when turned off, is practically invisible on the gray metal frame of the case (also somewhat reminiscent of Apple solutions, but where the indicators are turned off they are not visible at all). In general, the indicator is clearly visible only when you look at the Dell XPS 13 from the front, but not when you are working with it (or standing next to it). It glows white when the laptop is running and blinks when in sleep mode. When the battery is low, this indicator flashes red.

On the left side there is a power connector, a USB port and a single audio headset port.

On the right side there is a Mini Displayport and another USB port. Next to it there is a button and 5 LEDs. If you click on it, the number of lit diodes will show how much charge is left in the battery.

The open cover covers the back edge of the case, so there cannot be any connectors on it.

There are very few expansion ports for a work laptop.

Keyboard

We had a sample for testing, so the keyboard in laptops that are actually sold may be slightly different - at a minimum, it must also include Russian letters.

For now, it’s worth noting that Dell uses a rather strange square font in Latin. The design of the keys is also unusual - the buttons have rounded corners and convex side edges, so they look a little pot-bellied. The top surface has a smooth depression in the center. This is convenient when typing, because your fingers rest more confidently on the surface of the key. But externally the keyboard looks like the keys have been worn out frequent use, like steps in public places. The keyboard has LED backlighting, which is activated manually.

There are no noticeable disadvantages in the keyboard layout, except that the cursor is not always convenient to work with due to the fact that the keys are very small. But this is a small drawback. It can also be noted that all the keys of the over-cursor block are assigned to combinations with Fn, but this is standard practice for small laptops. There is only one indicator for Caps Lock, and it is located right in the key.

The Dell XPS 13's keyboard, like other Ultrabooks, has a very shallow pressure point, which makes it feel weird when typing. It seemed to me that it lacked a little clarity. However, after some getting used to it, you can print on it; there are no obvious problems with printing.

Let's take a closer look at keyboard shortcuts with Fn. Here you can convert the image to external monitor, turn on or off wireless network, check the battery status, adjust the display brightness, turn the keyboard backlight on or off, control the media player and sound.

Touchpad

Like all Ultrabooks, the XPS 13 has a large, buttonless touchpad. The surface of the touchpad is very smooth and slippery, subjectively not everyone will like it.

During operation, the touchpad sometimes responds with a delay. I haven't done enough typing on this ultrabook to know for sure how often you hit the touchpad with your palm.

Screen and sound

The screen parameters of the Dell XPS 13 are quite standard: 13.3-inch diagonal, 1366x768 pixels. Here it is no different from other ultrabooks. And here protective covering It’s inconvenient to work with: it makes a good mirror out of the screen (especially if the picture is dark), glare and reflections interfere with working with the ultrabook. The situation is aggravated by the fact that the screen does not have very high brightness and poor contrast. These two factors combine to make the Dell XPS 13 a frustrating experience.

The sound is at an average level, and in general corresponds to the level of ultrabooks without branded acoustics. You shouldn't count on adequate reproduction of music and movies.

Configuration and Testing

Let's take a quick look at the configuration of the Dell XPS 13 that we tested. In principle, we have already encountered the Intel Core i5-2467M processor. Therefore, I refer those who want to get acquainted with the platform in more detail, for example, to the review of Acer Aspire S3. We'll just make sure that the processor is operating normally. In idle mode its frequency is 800 MHz:

And under load - 2 GHz.

The numbers are quite consistent with the standard parameters and operating modes of other ultrabooks on an identical platform.

Let's look at the performance of RAM.

The Dell XPS 13's memory operates in dual-channel mode, and the numbers are generally consistent with other laptops with the same memory.

The SSD in our model provides a read speed of 220 MB/sec, which is a good result for modern solid-state drives.

During testing, to some surprise, the temperature regime was practically no different from the figures we obtained on Acer Aspire S3. The processor operated at a frequency of 2 GHz all the time, the core heating level quickly stabilized at 73–75 °C and remained stable. So the Dell XPS 13 cannot have problems with overheating on this processor.

Under load, the case heats up mainly in the back center, and the loop also heats up where hot air exits onto it. The heating level of the case is low, up to 35–36 °C.

I found the noise level of the Dell XPS 13 to be excessive. At partial load, the fan starts with loud noise, i.e. each time it accelerates to maximum speed and then drops the speed to medium. These outbursts are very annoying. At medium speed the fan is clearly audible, but it is no longer as annoying. Under load, the fan operates loudly, with an unpleasant high-frequency hum.

I'm almost sure that some problems with the fan operation will be fixed in new versions of the BIOS (for example, it should not start so sharply and noisily), but overall the noise level seemed a bit high.

Battery life

Testing for battery life is carried out in two modes: minimal load mode (reading text from the screen) and when watching a movie. Tests are carried out without the use of test programs. Energy saving parameters: the power scheme is set to “balanced”; if the laptop manufacturer offers its own power scheme with similar characteristics, it is set. The monitor shutdown time is set to “never”. There are no other interventions in power management (switching graphics, turning off components, etc.), they remain at default values. The screen brightness is set to maximum, wireless interfaces are switched off. During testing, the laptop reboots, all utilities installed by the manufacturer are launched (except antivirus program, it is uninstalled before tests).

When testing for battery life in reading mode, no programs are launched, except for a utility that measures battery life.

When testing for movie playback with hard drive The laptop is playing a movie in avi format. Used for playback portable version Media Player Classic, which contains built-in codecs.

The rated capacity with a large battery is 45525 mWh.

This ultrabook did not turn off correctly when the battery was low, so exact numbers were not obtained, but in reality they are unlikely to differ from those indicated in the article by more than 10 minutes.

Indeed, this Ultrabook runs on slightly less battery than the best of its competitors. However, the difference in battery life does not seem critical to me. Although it should be noted that when switching to battery operation, the Dell XPS 13 independently lowered the screen brightness, although the backlight level adjustment was set to maximum. This could add some time to the laptop.

Impressions from use, additional information

The Dell XPS 13 is a pleasure to work with, it's small and fits easily into your bag. However, when you take it in your hands, given its body dimensions, it seems a bit heavy.

Our sample did not always exit sleep mode correctly if quite a lot of time passed after the shutdown. Since this was a sample from a stale system, we did not focus on this.

Positioning and output

Who and what is this ultrabook suitable for?

In my opinion, it doesn't have a clear positioning like some of the competing products. At the same time, it has a good combination of characteristics so that it can be used in a wide variety of situations.

I think, first of all, it is good for taking it with you on small trips during the day or for a couple of days. The case dimensions are smaller than other ultrabooks, but the case is very durable and should not let you down when working in difficult conditions. By the way, the power supply of the Dell XPS 13 is small and light, about the same as that of a Macbook Air. The only thing is that this ultrabook is heavy, you will have to carry almost one and a half kilograms with you.

As for home or work use cases, then, perhaps, its element is office applications and rare use of peripherals. In general, this is an ultrabook for “office and mail while traveling.”

In the US, the Dell XPS 13 costs from $1,000 to $1,400 depending on the configuration. Judging by the recommended prices, it is slightly more expensive than its competitors, but, most likely, prices will begin to drop soon. It’s still difficult to predict the Russian price (especially since it will be overpriced at first); it seems to me that we should expect a price in the region of 42–45 thousand rubles for the younger model with Core i5 (which will be sold here).

Let’s summarize the main advantages of the model that set it apart from its competitors:

• Small housing dimensions
• Very durable body, neat appearance

The main disadvantages should also be noted:

• Very few connectors
• Glass in front of the screen

Determining which compact laptop can be called the best ultrabook of 2018, it is worth paying attention to the top models - with the latest generation processors, 8–16 GB memory and 256 GB storage.

Such mobile computers ensure the launch of any work program and even some games, and do not freeze at 15–20 simultaneously open tabs and will not require modernization over the next 2–3 years.

Although the “best” can be called not the most productive laptop, but the device that best meets the requirements of certain users.

Contents:

Features of a good ultrabook

Ultrabooks are thin and relatively small laptop models, the screen sizes of which are smaller compared to full-fledged laptops and larger than those of netbooks.

The features of such models include:

• Relatively weak gaming capabilities. Because of them, ultrabooks are used mainly for work, Internet surfing and launching multimedia files.
• Optimal dimensions and weight, providing both high screen resolution and mobility. Unlike most laptops, which weigh more than 2–2.5 kg, you can carry an ultrabook with you without even using a shoulder strap.
• Absence - although the need for them, with widespread use, is practically absent.
• Minimum energy consumption, which increases the autonomy of the equipment. The average operating time for an ultrabook starts at 5-6 hours, as opposed to 2-3 hours for a laptop with a 15.6-inch screen.

Most ultrabooks, which are considered to be the best models, will cost the buyer no less than $1000, and their hardware is comparable to high-performance desktop systems (sometimes even to gaming ones).

At the same time, the high cost of such laptops allows us to include in the TOP-15 rating several less productive mobile computers, the advantage of which is not impressive parameters, but best ratio prices and quality.

Unlike the “flagships” of the segment, a larger number of users will be able to buy and evaluate them.

Comparative parameters

Table 1. Characteristics of the best ultrabooks of 2018.

Name	Screen	RAM/ disks, GB	Battery, Wh	Price, thousand rubles
Huawei MateBook X Pro	13.3", 3000x2000 (sensor)	8–16/256–512	57,4	95–120
Dell XPS 13	13.3", 1920x1080, 13.3", 3200x1800 (sensor)	4–16/128–1024	52	80–115
Lenovo Yoga 920	13.9", 1920x1080 (sensor), 13.9", 3840x2160 (sensor)	8–16/256–1024	70	90–150
HP Specter 13	13.3", 1920x1080 (sensor)	8/256–1024	38	80–145
Razer Blade Stealth	13.3", 3200x1800 (sensor)	16/256–1024	45	87–105
HP Specter x360	13.3", 1920x1080 (sensor), 13.3", 3840x2160 (sensor)	8–16/256–1024	84	93–137
Asus ZenBook 3	12.5", 1920x1080	16/256–1024	46	82–130
Apple MacBook Pro 13	13.3", 2560x1600	8/128–512	63,5	95–145
Mi Notebook Air	13.3", 1920x1080	8/256	40	60
Huawei Matebook X	13.0", 2160×1440	4–8/256–512	41,4	75–120
Asus ZenBook UX310	13.3", 1920x1080, 13.3", 3200x1800	4–16/512–1024	48	38–105
Microsoft Surface Laptop	13.5", 2256×1504 (sensor)	4–16/128–512	45	48–100
Acer Swift 7	13.3", 1920x1080	8/256	43	150
Acer Swift 1		4/128	54	27
Prestigio SmartBook 141C	14.1", 1920x1080	2/32	32	14

MateBook X Pro

The best ultrabook at the moment received from the manufacturer a 13.9" screen with a resolution of 3000x2000 pixels, a processor and from 8 to 16 GB of RAM.

This hardware and discrete graphics card allow you to run even resource-intensive games using a mobile computer.

• high price. Even in the minimum configuration it costs more than $1,500; for the maximum you will have to pay almost $2,000.
• Not all users are satisfied with the location of the webcam, which is integrated into the keyboard and extends when necessary.

Sergey M.: I liked the laptop for its lightness, long operating time and the full set of ports I needed. The speed of operation is also impressive, especially considering the discrete video, thanks to which you can even play on the laptop. I also like the minimal heating - and you often have to work on it, holding it on your knees, and matte screen, providing a normal picture even in the sun. Another plus is increased resistance to mechanical stress. All together, this more than compensates for the only drawback - the huge price for which one could buy a powerful desktop for gaming and working with graphics.

Dell XPS 13

Compact Dell laptop The XPS 13 does not overheat during operation, so its processor frequency does not drop due to throttling, but. This means that performance remains unchanged even after several hours of continuous use.

The mobile computer is distinguished by a high-quality build and good availability - it’s not quite enough for games, but videos in FullHD format will start without any problems.

• stylish appearance of the device;
• durable body;
• high resolution touch screen.

• an inconveniently located webcam at the bottom of the front panel and loud noise, which occurs when the ultrabook is heavily loaded.
• The downside is the lack of a port, which makes it impossible to connect a mobile computer to a TV or monitor. However, the ability to display images in a format that almost reaches the 4K level partially compensates for this shortcoming.

Nikolay V.: The model leaves a good impression upon first meeting. I liked it right away good screen with large viewing angles and a high-quality keyboard, on which typing text is as easy as on a regular one. I didn’t find any shortcomings - even the price suited me, I didn’t expect anything less. Even the graphics work well (although that’s not what I bought the laptop for) - old games like “ ” run, “Tanks” work at minimum settings.

Lenovo Yoga 920

The Yoga 920 model owes its performance to the processor and a significant number of .

A good feature is the ability to transform the case, thanks to which the ultrabook can be used as a tablet.

The characteristics of this technology are enough for watching videos and working with graphic and video editors.

• good performance provided by the Intel Core i7 processor.
• The thin bezels around the screen are also impressive, giving the ultrabook a stylish appearance.
• Comfortable use of the gadget is ensured by a comfortable keyboard and the presence of a fingerprint scanner, a powerful battery and high speed solid-state drives.

• high cost, sharply limiting target audience ultrabook - not everyone can afford a gadget, for which you will have to pay up to $2500;
• lack of a card reader - although any device with memory cards (from an action camera and phone to a digital camera) can be connected to the laptop directly using a cable;
• Inconvenient stylus mount, which blocks the only full-size USB port.

Anna S.: I bought it about a month ago for regular business trips. I was looking for such a powerful and long-lasting gadget, capable of opening more than 10 browser tabs at the same time without freezing, supporting Photoshop and . I also liked the included stylus, although I was surprised by the manufacturer’s strange decision to keep this “pen” in USB. I also like the special Paper Display screen mode, which is comfortable for the eyes. In general, the model is good, comfortable and, in my opinion, worth the money.

HP Specter 13

The Specter 13 model has virtually no weak points.

All parameters fully meet the requirements of any user - except, perhaps, gamers.

10 mm thick, a powerful processor with 4 cores, a storage capacity of up to 1 TB and a weight of about 1 kg - such characteristics are not easy to find even in other ultrabooks.

• light weight, allowing you to take it with you to work and on trips;
• a powerful processor, thanks to which the ultrabook will not freeze even when running several applications simultaneously;
• integrated graphics Intel HD 520, which has capabilities at the level of discrete video cards of the late 2000s and allows you to run even some modern games;
• stylish design.

• low autonomy - under average load, the HP Specter 13 holds a charge for no longer than 3-4 hours. In addition, when running games and resource-demanding programs, the ultrabook makes a lot of noise.
• The opening angle of the lid does not exceed 135 degrees – enough for an inexpensive laptop, but not enough for a “flagship” one.

Alexander P.: More than a month has passed since purchasing the HP Specter 13 - and so far I’m pleased with almost everything. Build quality, speed and minimal noise, comfortable keyboard, which turned out to be even better than that of my old Yoga 13. Wi-Fi also works stably. I noticed only two disadvantages - high cost and work for only 6 hours. Not enough for a working day - although, theoretically, ultrabooks work up to 10 hours.

Razer Blade Stealth

This is not the first time that Razer is trying to release a laptop that allows you to not only work, but also play.

True, ultrabooks do not allow the installation of sufficiently powerful video cards inside - and game lovers will have to separately purchase a docking station with an external graphics adapter.

For other users, the characteristics of the basic version should be enough.

When deciding to buy an ultrabook, you should pay attention to the following features of the Razer Blade Stealth model, which is considered almost gaming-grade.

• minimal dimensions and weight, thanks to which the computer can be conveniently transferred to long distances and work while holding on your knees;
• high-quality and loud sound from the speakers;
• the presence of good built-in graphics and support for connecting an external discrete video card;
• high (for such a small gadget) performance;
• minimum noise level during operation.

Oleg V.: A good option to take to work or connect to your TV at home. Autonomy is low - for a gaming ultrabook this is a serious disadvantage; you have to periodically charge it, or work in regular desktop mode, with the power cord plugged into the outlet. But the lack of a card reader, which, as they say, is considered a minus, is not at all annoying. Well, what kind of memory cards are these days? Everyone uses flash drives and cords.

HP Specter x360

The ultrabook is one of the most productive convertible laptops with a 13.3-inch screen.

The presence of a touch screen and large rotation angles allows you to work with it like a tablet. Moreover, the characteristics of the gadget are noticeably higher compared to most tablet PCs.

• light weight - only 1.3 kg;
• backlit keyboard, allowing you to work in the dark;
• high-quality screen providing clear and bright images in almost any lighting conditions;
• long operating time - at an average load level you can use the ultrabook for up to 16 hours (despite the fact that it charges in just 2 hours);
• loud speakers and a good camera providing high-quality video communication.

• lack of support external video cards, because of which it will not be possible to run modern games using an ultrabook - except those released before 2016, and at minimum settings. disadvantages, although not as serious,
• can be called the lack of connectors and - therefore, for connecting wired Internet, modern monitor or TV, you will have to use an adapter.

Maxim V.: The advantages of the model can be called a bright and clear display, a relatively low price for such characteristics and large volume memory. The gadget easily transforms into a tablet and holds a charge for a long time. The touch screen operates without lag and provides a good picture. The only downside I can name is the inability to use the ultrabook for games - however, that is not what it is intended for.

Asus ZenBook 3

The model turned out to be thin, light, stylish – and quite productive.

The flagship ultrabook of the ASUS brand is great for work, study, and Internet surfing - but it is not gaming.

• small thickness and weight (910 g in the minimum configuration);
• the presence of a fingerprint scanner, which increases the safety of using an ultrabook;
• good packaging - the model comes with various covers and adapters;
• good, although not top-end, operating time - from 4 to 9 hours, depending on the load.

• high cost and relatively high noise level under load.
• When charging a mobile PC, which is carried out only through the USB port, the amount of possible connections(mice, keyboards, drives).
• A small drawback is the lack of a sensor for setting auto screen brightness.

Victor K.: Powerful and stylish – but also very expensive when it comes to the maximum configuration. Such a top-end processor is hardly really needed in the absence of a good video card. It is for this reason that I bought the version with the minimum set and Core i5, which is enough to solve any problem. office tasks. Enough power for editing photos and even videos.

Apple MacBook Pro 13

Apple brand products, as usual, are distinguished by their high cost.

However, unlike most smartphones of the same brand, in this case the price is not determined by the costs of advertising company, but with real parameters.

The characteristics are really impressive (especially the level of autonomy), and justify the price.

• good hardware that allows you to perform almost any action except launching modern games - from working with office applications and Internet surfing to video editing and running films in 2K format;
• decent autonomy - the ultrabook works in normal mode at least 10 hours without recharging;
• high-quality keyboard and touchpad that easily replaces a regular mouse;
• bright and clear display;
• low noise level during operation.

• unstable operation when connecting an external screen (TV or monitor), lack of magnetic charging, which some previous generations of the series had, and a loud keyboard.
• Another drawback is the relatively weak hardware - similar models in the same price category can have more and more RAM.
• In addition, the Apple ultrabook does not have a regular USB port, and to connect a flash drive you will have to buy an adapter.

Alina V.: We bought a compact version of a MacBook for the whole family - some need it for work, some surf the Internet, others watch movies. True, an ultrabook is not intended for games - but gaming models are usually taken with the Windows OS. I liked everything – even taking into account such a high price. However, when the screen was accidentally damaged, replacing it was also quite expensive; the cost of the laptop itself and repairs are its main disadvantages.

Xiaomi Mi Notebook Air

The manufacturer Xiaomi produces various equipment, including ultrabooks that have a good price-to-quality ratio.

The mobile computer is equipped with an Intel Core i5 processor and 8 GB of RAM, and costs customers less than $1,000.

It has a non-touch screen, but is quite bright, FullHD resolution, and the video adapter is an NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, 1 GB GDDR5 card, which supports some resource-demanding games.

• It is worth paying attention to the not very high efficiency of the cooling system, which is why during prolonged operation there may be a slowdown in operation due to throttling.
• when turning on the cooler (which only works when high load) the ultrabook is very noisy.

Konstantin V.: I’ve been using the ultrabook for the second week and haven’t noticed any problems. 2-3 hours a day - and you can charge it in a day. The touchpad is comfortable, the speakers are loud, the keyboard lights up - and the backlight is adjusted automatically, and if you don’t press the buttons, it goes out. The case material is aluminum, which suggests good durability of the laptop.

Huawei Matebook X

The Matebook X ultrabook is considered one of the most serious competitors to 13.3-inch MacBooks.

Its presence of a good screen and 4–8 GB of memory ensures comfortable work with most applications, and a 256–512 GB disk allows you to store a huge number of files.

• original design that immediately attracts attention;
• high-quality sound;
• security of information provided by a fingerprint sensor;
• good hardware - including an Intel HD 620 video card, the capabilities of which are enough even to run some games from 2016–2017. (albeit at minimum settings).

Georgy V.: Powerful processor and 8 GB of memory is more than enough to run productive applications. You can even play some games. SSD storage 512 GB – too excellent characteristic, which even a desktop could envy. True, because of such characteristics, the ultrabook cost me like a real gaming PC - but for work it is simply ideal. It also requires entering a password when unlocking - just touch your finger.

Asus ZenBook UX310

The model looks good and quickly launches most programs (except games).

A special feature of the model is a large assortment of configurations, thanks to which you can choose a gadget both in terms of power and wallet.

• durable aluminum case, increasing the reliability of the ultrabook;
• presence of keyboard backlight;
• high quality and bright screen.

• not the most comfortable keyboard and weak hardware of the minimum configuration.
• The downside is the relatively low battery life (up to 5–6 hours), due to which the mobile computer may need to be charged even more often than once a day.

Andrey L.: I’m happy with the purchase, I’m not bothered by even the slightly sagging keyboard and not the longest operating time - there are models that work longer. There is no touch screen here either, but the picture resolution is very high. And a 512 GB disk is enough, and 16 GB of memory - I specifically bought the top-end configuration so as not to have to upgrade later. Although the price could be lower.

Updated: 07/13/2018 16:41:45

*Review of the best sites according to the editors. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

An Ultrabook is a thin and light laptop that features high performance and an attractive design. Devices of this class are equipped with special components that reduce weight, but at the same time maintain operating speed and extend battery life.

Ultrabooks are designed for businessmen, office professionals, students and other people who need a fast, yet autonomous device. We have compiled a rating of the 12 best models that will be an excellent purchase.

Rating of the best ultrabooks

Nomination	place	Name of product	price
The best ultrabooks with a screen diagonal up to 12.5 inches	1		RUB 78,490
	2		89,990 RUR
	3		71,500 ₽
	4		60,868 RUR
The best ultrabooks with a screen diagonal up to 13.3 inches	1		RUB 78,130
	2		RUB 81,200
	3		40,709 RUR
	4		56,520 ₽
The best ultrabooks with a large screen	1		89,990 RUR
	2		66,990 RUR
	3		RUB 79,689
	4		RUB 87,890

The best ultrabooks with a screen diagonal up to 12.5 inches

Why first place: Business-class ultrabook with a magnesium alloy body and a sixth-generation processor.

Description: Ultrabook Dell Latitude The E7270 is aimed at corporate users and businessmen. The manufacturer packed a device weighing just over a kilogram with sixth-generation Intel Core i5/i7 processors, from 8 GB of RAM and an SSD drive with a capacity of up to 512 GB. The ultrabook is also housed in a highly durable magnesium alloy case.

The ultrabook is equipped with a 12.5-inch touch screen. The matrix is ​​made using TF technology and, depending on the version and generation, has a resolution of up to Full HD+ 1920x1200 pixels. The screen coating is matte, so it does not glare or fade even in direct sunlight.

The ultrabook is equipped with a 3-cell built-in battery that provides up to 7 hours of battery life. To enter the operating room Windows system You can use a fingerprint scanner. The ultrabook keyboard is backlit (in some configurations).

Advantages

Durable magnesium alloy body – pleasant to the touch, lightweight, and cool on your hands;

Full HD+ touch screen;

High performance: Core i5/i7, SSD m.2;

Flaws

Short key travel;

TF matrix with lower brightness and color reproduction than IPS;

Soft-touch coating is scratched and collects fingerprints;

Why second place: High-performance ultrabook, but more expensive than the leader in the rating and with expensive accessories.

Description: Apple MacBook (Early 2016) is an almost exemplary ultrabook. Compact and lightweight - weighing only 920 grams - it offers high performance thanks to the sixth generation Intel Core m3/m5/m7 processor, 8 GB of RAM and up to 521 GB of m.2 SSD storage. The laptop is housed in a lightweight aluminum case.

The ultrabook is equipped with a 12-inch IPS Retina-like screen with a resolution of 2304 × 1440 pixels. The display is non-touch and has a glossy glass coating, but remains readable in direct sunlight thanks to LED backlight matrices.

The main advantage of the ultrabook is its high battery life of 11 hours. It is also equipped with a proprietary backlit butterfly keyboard with optimal travel depth. The buttons are located quite widely, so your fingers do not get tired when typing large texts or writing programs.

Advantages

Retina-like high-resolution IPS matrix;

Comfortable backlit keyboard with butterfly mechanism;

11 hours of battery life;

Flaws

The butterfly mechanism becomes clogged with dust and sticks;

Average performance due to Core M series processor;

There is only one USB port, and it’s Type-C;

Why third place: Corporate level of protection, but expensive.

Description: HP EliteBook Folio G1 was designed as an ultrabook for corporate users. Therefore, it uses proprietary information and operating system protection technologies, including dynamic locking, Trust Platform Module and BIOS, which cannot be edited.

The ultrabook itself is equipped with sixth-generation Intel Core m5/m7 series processors, 8 GB of RAM and a 128-512 GB SSD drive. The 12.5-inch screen, depending on the configuration, can have a resolution of 1920x1080 or 3840x2160 pixels, and can be touch-sensitive or not. The matrix is ​​made using TF technology in the cheap version and TFT IPS in the expensive version, but in both it is complemented by a matte finish.

The ultrabook is equipped with a 4-cell battery that provides up to 10 hours of battery life. Manufactured in a metal case. The keyboard in all configurations is backlit.

Advantages

Corporate level of information and operating system protection;

Compact and lightweight;

Screen with resolution up to 4K;

Flaws

No USB Type-A ports;

The coating of the metal body is easily soiled;

In the version with a 4K screen, battery life is reduced to 5 hours;

Why fourth place: Many proprietary ThinkPad functions, a comfortable keyboard, but an ugly design.

Description: Lenovo Ultrabook The ThinkPad X350 Ultrabook may seem the ugliest in the ranking - it inherited the company's angular and “square” design. But it also received no less proprietary features: a comfortable AccuType keyboard with curved keycaps, a trackpoint and touchpad buttons above the touch surface. Therefore, it is convenient to work with it, even at a desk, on an airplane, or on the go.

The ultrabook is equipped with a fifth-generation Intel Core i3/i5/i7 processor, 4-8 GB of RAM and an SSD drive of up to 512 GB. Versions with 1 TB HDD are also available. The 12.5-inch screen is made according to IPS technology and has a resolution of up to 1920x1080 pixels. Depending on the configuration, it may or may not be touch sensitive.

In the maximum configuration, the ultrabook is equipped with a slot for SIM cards and an LTE module. The built-in battery lasts for 8-10 hours, but the kit includes an additional one that extends the “lifetime” to 20 hours.

Advantages

Comfortable backlit keyboard, touchpad and trackpoint;

Carbon durable body;

The screen opens 180 degrees;

Flaws

The touchpad coating is worn out;

Uneven keyboard backlight and inconvenient OSD;

Maximum 8 GB RAM;

The best ultrabooks with a screen diagonal up to 13.3 inches

Description: Ultrabook XPS 13 is a magnum opus Dell. The manufacturer updates and improves this model every year, making it even more productive and beautiful. After 2016, for example, the Dell XPS 13 received a “virtually frameless” 13.3-inch Infinity Edge display, which, combined with full glass coverage and an IPS touch matrix with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels (however, there are configurations with 2K and 4K), looks impressive.

The ultrabook is based on seventh generation Intel Core i5/i7 processors, up to 16 GB of RAM and SSD drives up to 512 GB. Cooling is passive, but it is sufficient. The built-in 6-cell battery provides up to 10 hours of battery life. The device's keyboard is backlit.

The ultrabook is made in a hybrid design, i.e. its screen can be rotated 360 degrees around the keyboard and thus turned into a tablet.

Advantages

Screen. Good matrix, high resolution, touchscreen, almost frameless;

Hybrid design;

High performance thanks to the latest components;

Flaws

Inconvenient touchpad;

The metal backing of the keyboard makes a noticeable noise when typing;

A noticeable drop in battery life on high-resolution models;

Why second place: A corporate ultrabook-transformer with high performance, but not as attractive a design as the leader in the rating.

Description: HP Specter 13 Ultrabook – flagship model from an American company. It is equipped with the latest components - for example, in the current revision it received Intel Core i5/i7 processors, up to 8 GB of RAM and up to 512 GB of SSD m.2 storage. In addition, it is equipped with a 13.3-inch TFT IPS touch display with a resolution of up to 2560x1440 pixels.

Like other corporate HP ultrabooks, the Specter 13 received many data protection technologies, including TMP, a “stripped-down” BIOS and additional hardware encryption of information. In addition, it is equipped with many connectors for connecting peripheral devices, which is now rare among computers of this class.

The built-in 3-cell battery provides up to 12.5 hours of battery life. However, on configurations with a QHD display and Intel Core i7, this number is noticeably reduced.

Advantages

Dense and high-quality assembly, hybrid design;

High performance;

Flaws

The glossy coating of the screen noticeably glares;

The keyboard is not protected from liquids;

Low sound quality;

Why third place: A productive ultrabook, but with frankly unsuccessful configurations and without a backlit keyboard.

Description: The Lenovo ThinkPad 13 ultrabook is part of an updated series of mobile computers, so it offers traditional performance for the line combined with a “fresh” attractive design. Depending on the configuration, it is based on seventh generation Intel Core i3, i5 or i7 processors combined with 4-16 GB of RAM and up to 512 GB of m.2 SSD storage.

The 13.3-inch laptop screen, depending on the configuration, can be made using TFT TN or TFT IPS technology, be touch-sensitive or not, and also have a resolution of up to Full HD - 1920 × 1080 pixels. The built-in battery lasts for 11 hours of battery life. In addition, the ultrabook is equipped with a large number of ports for connecting additional devices - for example, there are 3 USB 3.0 Type-A.

The laptop is made in a metal or plastic case.

Advantages

Convenient controls (AccuType keyboard, ThinkPad touchpad, trackpoint);

Good passive cooling even in the version with Intel Core i7;

Up to 11 hours of battery life;

Flaws

There are frankly unsuccessful configurations (for example, with an HD TF screen and in a plastic case);

Stainless metal case;

No keyboard backlight;

Why fourth place: Ultrabook with a discrete graphics card, but a minimum additional functions.

Description: Asus ZenBook UX303UB is the only ultrabook in the rating that is equipped with a discrete graphics card. The graphics accelerator here is NVIDIA GeForce 940M with 2 GB of memory, so the computer can handle some simple games. Performance is ensured by a sixth-generation Intel Core i5/i7 processor, up to 12 GB of RAM and up to 256 GB of SSD storage. A version with a 1 TB hard drive is also available.

The ultrabook is equipped with a 13.3-inch TFT TN screen with a resolution of up to 3K (3200×1800 pixels) and a matte anti-glare coating. Depending on the configuration, the display may or may not be touch-sensitive. The device also has three USB 3.0 Type-A ports and one Type-C, but uses a proprietary connector for charging. The built-in battery, consisting of 3 cells, lasts for 6-8 hours of battery life.

Advantages

Comfortable backlit keyboard;

Attractive metal body made of polished aluminum alloy;

The fingerprint scanner is built into the touchpad;

Flaws

Slow included HDD, it is better to take the version with SSD;

Minimum additional functions;

Noticeable throttle noise;

The best ultrabooks with a large screen

Why first place: All the advantages of the ThinkPad line, a virtually frameless screen and an ultra-light carbon body.

Description: The rating opens with the flagship ultrabook of the Lenovo ThinkPad line – X1 Carbon Ultrabook (5th Gen). The device received seventh generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors (depending on configuration), up to 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of SSD m.2 storage.

One of the most attractive features of an Ultrabook is the screen. It is almost frameless here. The 14-inch TFT IPS matrix has a resolution of up to 2560x1440 pixels and is coated with a matte anti-glare layer. There is no touch screen in any configuration.

The built-in 57 Wh battery is enough for 15.5 hours of battery life, including the version with a 2K display. The ultrabook is equipped with two USB 3.0 Type-A ports and is housed in an ultra-light but durable carbon fiber case. In addition, the ultrabook retains all the features of the ThinkPad line, including a comfortable backlit AccuType keyboard, a touchpad with keys located above the touchpad and a trackpoint.

Advantages

Comfortable keyboard, touchpad and trackpoint;

High screen resolution and IPS matrix;

15.5 hours of battery life;

Flaws

Noisy keyboard and touchpad buttons;

Heats up noticeably with the charger connected;

Stainless body;

Why second place: An enterprise-class ultrabook with many ports and a Kaby Lake Refresh processor, but the screen resolution is Full HD.

Description: Dell Latitude 7490 is the only ultrabook in the rating that is equipped with a processor Intel Kaby Lake Refresh, belonging to the eighth generation. Core i5 or i7 chips, depending on the configuration, are complemented by 8 to 16 GB of RAM and an SSD m.2 drive of 256-215 GB. Connection slot additional disk available.

The 14-inch IPS screen has Full HD resolution (1920x1080 pixels). Depending on the configuration, it may be touch-sensitive or not.

The Ultrabook features many enterprise-oriented features. In addition to software and hardware information protection technologies, such as TPM and disk encryption, it is equipped with a contact smart card reader module, a fingerprint scanner, WWAN and WiGig connectors. The built-in battery lasts for 8-12 hours of battery life. The ultrabook is made in a matte metal case.

Advantages

High performance due to the new processor;

Three USB 3.1 ports with PowerShare support;

Corporate level of protection and security;

Flaws

Screen. Brightness 300 cd/m2, 90% sRGB coverage, Full HD resolution;

The 4G LTE configuration is unreasonably expensive;

Rare driver updates for operating systems Linux families;

Why third place: Enterprise-class ultrabook, which is more expensive than all other models in the ranking.

Description: HP EliteBook 1040 G3 is an ultrabook that is aimed at use in the corporate segment. It features not only high performance, but also support for proprietary information security technologies, including special encrypted storage for valuable information and dynamic locking with more settings than Windows Hello.

The ultrabook is equipped with sixth-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors (depending on configuration), up to 16 GB of RAM and SSD m.2 storage with a capacity of up to 512 GB. The mobile computer display is a 14-inch IPS matrix with a resolution of up to 2560×1440 pixels and an anti-glare matte finish. Depending on the configuration, it may be touch sensitive or not.

The ultrabook is made in a metal case. The built-in battery will last for 9-10 hours of battery life in mixed use mode.

Advantages

Up to 10 hours of battery life;

IPS screen with resolution up to 2K;

High performance;

Flaws

Inconvenient touchpad;

Active cooling, which is noticeably noisy under load;

Inconvenient Charger with rigid cable and proprietary connector;

Why fourth place: High-performance ultrabook, but with a fragile body and relatively low battery life.

Description: Asus ZenBook 3 Deluxe UX490UA is the flagship ultrabook in the Asus product line. In the current revision, it is equipped with eighth generation Intel Core i5/i7 processors (Kaby Lake Refresh), 8-16 GB of RAM and an SSD m.2 drive with a capacity of 256 GB to 1 TB. 14-inch TFT IPS screen has Full HD resolution, matte anti-reflective coating and not touch sensitive.

The ultrabook is made of polished aluminum, but the internal parts are plastic. The keyboard is backlit in blue, the brightness level is adjustable. Equipped with two USB 3.0 Type-C ports with support for Thunderbolt technology, as well as a fingerprint scanner. The delivery set includes a branded case.

The configuration with i7 is equipped with an active cooling system, so it heats up minimally under load.

Advantages

IPS display with matte finish;

Keyboard with adjustable backlight level;

Rich equipment (case, docking station);

Flaws

A sharp drop in autonomy under more or less high load– up to 3-4 hours of operation without recharging;

Low reliability of the case;

Slippery body;

Attention! This rating is subjective in nature, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

The new Dell XPS 13 is the third ultrabook to be tested in the 3DNews test laboratory this year. I previously tested a 13.3-inch model and a 14-inch laptop. All three mobile PCs use the same processor - a 4-core Core i7-8550U Kaby Lake Refresh generation. However, as practice shows, the use of the same low-voltage chip does not guarantee that ultrabooks will have the same performance. Let's see this using the example of the Dell XPS 13 model.

Technical characteristics, equipment and software

You will find many versions of the Dell XPS 13 on sale. The characteristics of all possible modifications are shown in the table below. I note that there are both silver versions of the ultrabook and colors rose gold. The first option is probably more suitable for men, and the second for women. As the inimitable Anatoly Papanov would say, “with Be careful not to get confused, Kutuzov!»

Display	13.3"", 1920 × 1080, IPS, touch 13.3"", 3840 × 2160, IPS, touch
CPU	Intel Core i5-8250U, 4/8 cores/threads, 1.6 (3.4) GHz, 15 W
	Intel Core i7-8650U, 4/8 cores/threads, 1.9 (4.2) GHz, 15 W
	Intel Core i5-8350U, 4/8 cores/threads, 1.7 (3.6) GHz, 15 W
	Intel Core i7-8550U, 4/8 cores/threads, 1.8 (4.0) GHz, 15 W
Graphic arts	Intel HD Graphics 620
RAM	8 or 16 GB DDR3-2133, 2 channels, not expandable
SSD	128/256/512 GB, 1 TB SATA 6 Gb/s or PCI Express x4 3.0
Wireless module	Killer Wireless-AC 1435, IEEE 802.11b/g/n/ac, 2.4 and 5 GHz, up to 867 Mbps, Bluetooth 4.1
Interfaces	2 × Thunderbolt 3 1 × USB 3.1 Type-C 1 × 3.5 mm combo mini-jack
Built-in battery	52 Wh
External power supply	45 W
Dimensions	302 × 199 × 11.6 mm
Weight	1.2 kg
operating system	Windows 10 x64 Home
Guarantee	1 year
Price in Russia (according to Yandex.Market)	From 80,000 rub. (RUB 115,000 for test model)

The editors visited the most advanced of those models that can be found on sale in Moscow - XPS 13 9360-0025. It is equipped with a 4K screen, central Core processor i7-8500U, 16 GB DDR3 RAM and 512 GB SSD. This version costs an average of 115,000 rubles - this is a lot, but I suggest discussing prices at the end of the article. At the same time, for 80,000 rubles you can get the 9360-5549 model, which uses a Full HD display, Core i5-8250U, 8 GB of RAM and a 256 GB solid-state drive.

Together with comes with a laptop a tiny power supply with a power of 45 W and weighing only 100 g. It turns out that you can always take the power supply with you - it will practically not weigh down your bag or backpack. The XPS 13 also comes with a useful adapter from Type-C to the more familiar USB Type-A connector. You can’t do without this accessory in 2018.

Appearance and input devices

The silver version looks sharp and I personally like it better than the pink model. But all XPS 13 are assembled from the same materials in any case. The lid and bottom are made of polished aluminum. The manufacturer emphasizes that these body elements “ produced by milling machine CNC“- apparently, potential buyers with little knowledge of hardware should admire this feature of the device. The area around the keyboard is made of carbon fiber, commonly referred to as carbon fiber. It is additionally covered with a layer of Soft-touch plastic.

The combination of these materials made it possible to make the device very light - the ultrabook weighs only 1.2 kg and in this parameter is slightly inferior to the previously tested HP Specter 13 (1.1 kg) and Acer Swift 5 (1 kg).

The thickness of the ultrabook varies from 7.8 to 11.6 mm. The parameter is far from a record - the XPS 13 is “as much as” 1.2 mm thicker than the HP Specter 13, but we understand that all this pursuit of tenths of millimeters now has no practical meaning. The XPS 13 is a thin, light and highly portable ultrabook. By the way, the thickness of its predecessor was 15 mm.

The other dimensions of the laptop are also impressive - with a width of 302 mm and a length of 199 mm, this model is closer to 11-inch laptops than 13.3-inch ones. Compare: the HP Specter 13 measures 325 x 229 x 10.4 mm, and the Acer Swift 5 measures 329 x 228 x 14.9 mm. This is all due to the so-called frameless screen design. There are actually frames around the perimeter of the display (the thickness on the top and sides is 4 mm), but they are really very small.

The laptop lid opens up to about 135 degrees. There are no complaints about the hinges - they position the screen quite accurately and do not allow it to dangle while typing. At the same time, you will not be able to open the lid with one hand.

The laptop is thin, so among the interfaces there are only two Thunderbolt3 ports, one USB 3.1 Type-C connector of the second generation, a 3.5 mm mini-jack for connecting a headset and a microSD memory card reader. All interfaces are located on the left and right sides of the laptop. One of the Thunderbolt 3 ports is designed to connect a power supply. In this case, both connectors work with throughput 40 Gbps and support PowerShare technology, which allows you to charge external devices connected to this connector, even when the laptop is in sleep mode, until the battery is discharged to a certain percentage of its full capacity. The user can independently set the value for USB PowerShare in the BIOS settings: 0, 3, 10, 25, 50 or 75%. Of course, Thunderbolt 3 is compatible with USB devices C-type. The USB 3.1 Type-C port can work as a DisplayPort video output and also supports PowerShare technology.

There's also a battery indicator on the left side of the XPS 13.

There are no connectors on the front or back - there is only a fairly large and noticeable indicator of the ultrabook's activity. There is a small grille on the bottom through which the cooling fan takes in air and then throws it out through the perforations on the rear wall.

In my review of the HP Specter 13, I noted that this ultrabook has a very comfortable keyboard, but the main input device of the hero of today's review took quite some time to get used to - mainly due to the fact that the XPS 13 Enter button turned out to be very small. How tired I am of missing this key! The arrow buttons are also inconvenient on the ultrabook. Nevertheless, after a couple of days, the fingers began to find all the most frequently used buttons on their own. So after some time of getting used to, the Dell Ultrabook is quite suitable for typing large texts.

The XPS 13 keyboard features dual-level white backlighting. A fingerprint scanner is integrated into the power button. Among the features, I also note that the F1-F12 row by default works in combination with the Fn button, while priority is given to their multimedia functions.

I didn't have any complaints about the touch panel. It is not as large as in 15-inch models, but it is at least naive to expect anything different (unless, of course, we are talking about Apple). The touchpad surface is pleasant to the touch - it also has a Soft-touch coating. Generally Touchpad It recognizes gestures normally, pressing it is accompanied by a distinct and rather loud click. The touchpad behaves quite adequately in operation - tested in a computer card game"Gwent"

As for the webcam, the XPS 13, like other ultrabooks, uses a standard matrix with a resolution of 720p and a frequency of 30 Hz - with all the ensuing consequences. Good quality images can only be obtained in bright sunny weather. In all other cases, the picture turns out to be nondescript and very noisy.

⇡ Internal structure and upgrade options

The laptop is quite easy to disassemble, however, the design of the device uses Torx-type screws (popularly called an asterisk). After removing the 8 screws, you must carefully remove the bottom.

The XPS 13 cooling system consists of two copper heat pipes and two tangential fans. At least externally, such a cooler looks much cooler than, for example, a system. Therefore, we have the right to expect from a Dell laptop efficient cooling Core i7-8550U.

RAM in the XPS 13 cannot be upgraded - all DDR3-2133 chips are soldered directly to motherboard. Consider this point when choosing a model. I think that 8 GB of RAM in 2018 looks untenable. Especially if you plan to use the device not only as a typewriter. The memory operates at an effective frequency of 2133 MHz with latencies of 16-20-20-45.

Still, it makes sense to disassemble the XPS 13 for further upgrades. The test laptop has a TOSHIBA KXG50ZNV512G solid state drive with a capacity of 512 GB. And if 512 GB is ever no longer enough for your needs, then you can independently install another 2280 form factor drive in the XPS 13. For example, the top configuration of the HP Specter 13 includes a 1 TB SSD.

The thinnest and lightest laptops of 2018 - 2019.

The best ultrabooks are a status symbol, especially if you're a student or spend a lot of time at the local coffee shop. While everyone has a big, bulky Chromebook or budget laptop, you get a thin, light, and fast computer with the best and best available on.

These are thin and light laptops that value portability and performance in equal measure. The best ultrabooks won't freeze in the middle of an important project or run out of battery in the first half of the workday—you won't have to worry about such things.

So, with all the features in mind, it's time to round up the best Ultrabooks of 2018 and 2019 - after all, the year is coming to an end. From brands you know and love, like HP and Dell, to ones you don't, like Huawei, we've tested each for performance, convenience, and battery life. You can read an in-depth review of each of the Ultrabooks below.

1 | HUAWEI MATEBOOK X PRO

—
New “best ultrabook” of late 2018 and early 2019.

CPU Graphic arts: Nvidia GeForce MX150 (2 GB) / Intel UHD Graphics 620 | RAM: 8 GB – 16 GB | Screen: 13.3-inch 3K (3000 x 2000) touch | Memory: 256 GB – 512 GB SSD.

• pros: Great design | Performance;
• Minuses: Strange position of the webcam;

Sometimes we come across an ultrabook that completely destroys everything that came before. Huawei MateBook X Pro is one such ultrabook. This stunning machine packs high-end components into a sleek design that puts even the MacBook Pro to shame. And its 3K touchscreen is as stunning as the MateBook X Pro's body. This is truly the best ultrabook not only of 2018, but also of 2019.

2 | DELL XPS 13

—
Another championship in another ranking.

CPU Graphic arts: Intel UHD Graphics 620 | RAM: 4 GB – 16 GB | Screen: 13.3-inch FHD (1920 x 1080, non-touch) – QHD+ (3200 x 1800, touch) | Local memory: 128 GB – 1 TB SSD;

• pros: Centered IR Camera | New design;
• Minuses: High price | The white version is more expensive;

Weighing in at just 1.21kg and measuring 7.8mm thick at its thinnest point, the Dell XPS 13 is the best ultrabook of 2018. You won't find it among the cheapest laptops, especially since the highest available Intel Core i3 configuration no longer exists. However, the Dell XPS 13 is a great testament to what a thin and light laptop can do. Of course, it is equipped with the latest 8th generation Intel Core i5 and Core i7 processors, but it also contains three ports USB Type-C and an optional Alpine White color, which is not easy to get.

3 | SURFACELAPTOP 2

—
Premium ultrabook from Microsoft.

CPU: Intel Core i5 – Core i7 (8th generation) | Graphic arts: Intel UHD Graphics 620 | Screen: 13.5-inch (2256 x 1504) PixelSense | Memory: 128 GB – 1 TB SSD;

• pros: 4-core processor | Beautiful colour;
• Minuses: No ;

The first Surface Laptop was also one of the best ultrabooks in this ranking, but it was held back from true greatness by relatively weak hardware and Windows 10 S. However, in 2018, the Surface Laptop 2 returns with a vengeance. Now it is based on 4-core processors and full Windows versions 10. It's thanks to these improvements that Surface Laptop 2 is able to deliver the purest Windows 10 experience on a laptop at a price that won't make you gasp in horror.

4 | LENOVOYOGA 920

—
The ultimate version of the flagship hybrid laptop.

CPU: Intel Core i5 – Core i7 8th generation | Graphic arts: Intel UHD Graphics 620 | Screen: 13.9" FHD (1920 x 1080) – UHD (3840 x 2160) | Local memory: 256 GB – 1 TB SSD;

• pros: Great design | Decent power;
• Minuses: Keyboard in tablet mode | Speakers;

Few ultrabooks are as brilliantly designed as the Lenovo Yoga 920, a 2-in-1 laptop that's as easy to use as it is reliable. Unlike its closest competitors such as , it is also much cheaper. For the reasonable price you pay for an Ultrabook, you get a great all-metal finish that can be expanded to expand functionality. The Ultrabook also relies on the latest 8th-generation Intel processors if you're worried about speed being an issue.

5 | HP SPECTER 13

—
Stylish implementation 4 cores .

CPU: Intel Core i5 – Core i7 | Graphic arts: Intel UHD Graphics 620 | Operationalmemory: 8 GB | Screen: 13.3" FHD (1920 x 1080) | Localmemory: 256 GB – 1 TB NVMe M.2 SSD;

• pros: Beautiful design | Powerful equipment;
• Minuses: Small set of ports;

When you first look at the HP Specter 13, you may be dazzled by its sheer beauty. HP took the already good-looking Specter and decked it out in gold trim while packing it with internals that could sink the competition. One of the first ultrabooks to pack a quad-core processor, the Specter 13 (2017) has nearly double the performance of most of its competitors. This affected the laptop's battery consumption, but if you work for less than six hours, the battery is still sufficient.

6 | RAZER BLADE STEALTH

—
Don't be fooled: this is more than a laptop for gamers.

CPU: Intel Core i7 | Graphic arts: Intel HD Graphics 620 - Intel UHD Graphics 620 | RAM: 16 GB | Screen: 12.5" UHD (3840 x 2160) – 13.3" QHD+ (3200 x 1800) | Local memory: 256 GB – 1 TB PCIe SSD;

• pros: Bright display | Aesthetics of the bronze model;
• Minuses: Opening hours | No 4K option;

Razer has had to deal with the common misconception that the brand only produces peripherals, but Razer has been diligently breaking this reputation since 2016, when the first Blade Stealth was introduced. And if you're not convinced, the latest edition of the Razer Blade Stealth will easily convince you, showcasing 13.3-inch QHD+ beauty. There's no longer a 4K screen option, but the performance the Ultrabook delivers is worth the trade-off.

7 | HP SPECTER X360

—
Universal And revered ultrabook .

CPU: Intel Core i5 – Core i7 | Graphic arts: Intel UHD Graphics 620 | Operationalmemory: 8 GB - 16 GB | Screen: 13.3-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) – UHD (3840 x 2160, touch) | Localmemory: 256 GB – 1 TB SSD;

• pros: Stylus included | Amazing speakers;
• Minuses: Weak loops | Keyboard layout;

Rarely does a manufacturer think about everything when developing new laptop, but the HP Specter x360 comes surprisingly close to this concept. This is a 2-in-1 convertible laptop, which already makes it not for everyone. However, users who are considering a machine like this should know that it comes with a stylus and supports Windows Ink, unlike most hybrids. As if that's not enough, the HP Specter x360 offers excellent audio and visual capabilities.

8 | ASUS ZENBOOK 3

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MacBook, only powerful.

CPU: Intel Core i5 – Core i7 | Graphic arts: Intel HD Graphics 620 | RAM: 16 GB | Screen: 12.5" FHD (1920 x 1080) | Local memory: 512 GB SSD;

• pros: Crystal clear display | Lightweight, portable;
• Minuses: Fingerprint scanner position | One USB-C;

Anyone familiar with the thinnest and lightest Apple laptop, will consider it a reasonable comparison of the ASUS ZenBook 3 with the 12-inch. The similarities are obvious, but one glance at the specifications is enough to appreciate all the differences. Equipped with an Intel Core i5 or Core i7 U Series processor, the ZenBook 3 is brutally efficient considering it's 11.7mm thin and weighs 910g. Port selection is limited, but the portability is worth the sacrifice.

9 | ASUS ZENBOOK UX310

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A truly excellent ultrabook at a very reasonable price.

CPU: Intel Core i3 – Core i7 | Graphic arts: Intel HD Graphics 620 | RAM: 4 GB - 16 GB | Screen: 13.3-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) – QHD+ (3200 x 1800) | Local memory: 500 GB – 1 TB HDD / 500 GB – 1 TB SSD;

• pros: Incredibly thin and light | Bright, glare-free screen;
• Minuses: Texture is weak | Weak speakers;

It's no secret that Apple has recently neglected MacBook Air, but in some cases a Windows ultrabook can be just as good, if not better. Take the ASUS ZenBook UX310, for example, the long-awaited continuation of the excellent ZenBook UX305 series. Powered by 7th generation Intel Kaby Lake processors, a 178-degree screen with QHD+ resolution, a USB-C port and an all-aluminum body, this is truly a contender for the MacBook Air throne.

10 | LENOVO YOGA 730

Thin, portable, affordable.

CPU: Intel Core i5 – Core i7 | Graphic arts: Intel UHD Graphics 620 | RAM: 8 – 16 GB | Screen: 13.3" FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS (Multi-Touch/Anti-Glare) | Memory: 256 GB – 512 GB PCIe SSD.

• pros: Friendly price | Quite powerful;
• Minuses: Short battery life;

If you're looking for an entry-level ultrabook that can get the job done but won't cost you a fortune, then the Lenovo Yoga 730 should be at the top of your list. Of course, it doesn't offer the longest battery life, but considering the price of the device, it's a worthy trade-off - especially considering the fast SSD, quad-core processor and 8GB of RAM you get as standard. The Lenovo Yoga 730 is definitely one of the best ultrabooks for budget users.