HP Folio 13

Innovation in Intel processor architecture has created a new category of computing devices which offer long battery life with sleek design without compromising too much on performance. HP Folio 13 is from this very generation which is also known as 'Ultrabooks'. To start with looks and ergonomics, HP has done a great job on both these fronts. Folio 13 looks and feels sturdy with aluminum brushed top that gives it a very professional look. It has a great keyboard with full-sized chiclet keys that are both fun and comfortable to work on. This means if your work involves a lot of typing, then this machine could be a good choice though the touchpad is bit of a downer with stiff right and left click buttons.

Weighing around 1.5 Kg and just 18 mm thick, the Folio 13 may not be the best in class but these specs make this computing device great for those on move especially if you add battery backup of around 4 hours (on maximum load).

Startup time is one of the key selling points of an Ultrbook. In fact, low startup time is a pre-requisite for Ultrabooks. Typically notebooks take 2-3 minutes to startup before one can start using them. The Folio 13 took just around 30 seconds to startup (in our tests). Also, while notebooks take 10-12 seconds to wake up from sleep mode, the Folio merely took 1-2 seconds to perform this operation.

Performance benchmark results of this Ultrabook were impressive when compared to others we reviewed in our March 2012 shootout. The Folio 13 scored 8771 in PC Mark Vantage, which checks the overall machine performance and 3372 in 3D Mark 2006, which checks graphics capability. You can compare these results with others we've tested by visiting http://pcquest.ciol.com/2012/mar/con_080.jpg

Bottom Line: Great specs and performance make this Ultrabook a great choice, especially for those who do lot of travelling and typing.