Compared to ultra high definition (UHD, also known as 4K), super UHD TVs reproduce better colours, have deeper blacks and brighter backlight—a combination that will certainly improve the viewing experience.
When it comes to Windows convertible computing devices (also known as hybrids), they either have a screen-detaching mechanism, or use a 360-degree flexible hinge for the tablet mode. Now we have a third interpretation—the Acer Aspire Switch 12 has a built-in stand and a detachable wireless keyboard.
LG 55UF950T SUHD TV
Rs.2,84,900
On an in-plane switching (IPS) panel, the colours are richer and purer than LED TVs. While the improvement may not register initially, you appreciate the IPS panel’s undeniable superiority when you switch back to an LED TV.
The thin 55-inch panel could have potentially posed challenges for backlighting but, during our tests, we were impressed by the even illumination. The resolution of HD (1,290x1,080 pixels) content from sources such as the Apple TV box and Tata Sky+ HD gets a boost—there is a bit of sharpening in the process. Some 4K TVs, in fact, take the opposite route during upscaling, and that makes the visuals a little too soft. Fast-motion scenes in movies are smooth, but there is slight ghosting, or secondary image, of some objects (such as a ball running along the grass) while watching sports.
The Ultra Resolution setting boosts detailing. Despite being thin, this TV didn’t heat up abnormally. Most IPS televisions can get really warm if the backlight is turned up beyond level 15 (out of 20). On this TV, the backlight level, set at 10, is ideal for most homes.
The Harman Kardon 4.2-channel audio system is placed in a 4.8cm box behind the screen. But it manages to create sound you would get from bigger speakers, without any distortion. Bass reproduction, however, is quite subdued.
LG’s WebOS 2.0 software has an incredibly intuitive layout, clear fonts and rich graphics. We particularly like the card interface for apps, which makes it easier to switch between apps, input sources and streaming features.
The wireless remote has motion sensors and a scroll wheel. This is also a convenient universal remote—we configured it to control the Tata Sky+ HD box and the Yamaha sound bar.
The LG 55UF950T does a fine balancing act between features and actual performance, and the accurate picture quality is worth the hefty investment.
Acer Aspire Switch 12
Rs.53,999
What’s missing in the Aspire Switch 12 is the touch pad. Instead, there is a mouse pointer between the G, H and B keys which resembles the pointer IBM used to deploy in its ThinkPad laptops some years ago. But it won’t appeal to everyone. First, there is no palm rest space and this can get tiring. Second, it is not as accurate or intuitive as a mouse or a touch pad. The keyboard is a bit cramped, and the layout isn’t ideal for writers. Despite the limitations, each key press gives an accurate response.
The 12.5-inch IPS LED screen (1,920x1,080 pixels) has a good range of colours, deep blacks and adequate brightness. It’s a bit reflective, but the brightness makes up for it.
The Intel Core M-5Y10c processor’s performance is on a par with the fairly quick Intel Bay Trail-M chips (the Asus EeeBook X205TA laptop, for example)—this is powerful enough to play back Ultra HD video files without any stutter. The fast 128 GB SSD aids Windows 8.1 performance, and improves file access speed. If your current PC has a standard hard drive, you will immediately appreciate the speed boost from the SSD.
When used for Web browsing, document editing and some video playback at 70% brightness, the Switch 12 lasts just over 6 hours on a single charge—good news for those who travel a lot.
Not everyone will be completely at ease with the slightly unconventional design. But the solid performance and battery life will work well for business users.
