The 12 Best Ultrabooks of the Year

The best ultrabooks are in vogue and not only among people who travel a lot and rely on mobile work on computers. Ultrabooks are lighter and flatter than conventional laptops and notebooks, offer incredibly sharp image quality, are ready to use in seconds, often work as fast as desktop PCs and still leave enough room in your bag for other things. Since "ultrabook" is a registered term, it must meet stringent requirements to be considered as such, read on for more on this guide. Today's large range of all-portables includes devices in a wide range of price and performance classes.

The following overview provides detailed information on the 12 best ultrabooks and describes all the important aspects, tools and properties of these devices. Guide goes into the relevant comparison criteria, explains how ultrabooks work, advantages and disadvantages and different performance classes, provides background knowledge on the subject and answers frequently asked questions.

The 12 best ultrabooks with Intel processors in a big comparison

1. Samsung Galaxy Book Pro Ultrabook

• Samsung Galaxy Book Series
• Screen Size 15.6 inches
• Hard disk size 256 GB
• Core i5 . CPU Models
• RAM memory installed size 8 GB
• Windows 10 Home Operating System
• Iris® Xe . graphics card description
• CPU speed 2.4 GHz

The Samsung Galaxy Book Pro Ultrabooks has a 15.6-inch AMOLED display with a screen resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels, also known as Full HD, and 120 percent color volume in the DCI-P3 color space. It has an integrated 11th generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 quad-core processor, the cores of which are clocked at 2.4 gigahertz or up to 4.2 gigahertz in boost mode. Samsung uses Intel Iris Xe Graphics as its graphics card. This ultrabooks has 8 gigabytes of DDR4 RAM and an integrated SSD hard drive with 256 gigabytes of storage and two slots. The 64-bit version of Windows 10 Home comes pre-installed as an operating system. This model also has Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth version 5.1.

With long battery life: The Samsung Galaxy Book Pro Ultrabook has an integrated lithium battery with a runtime of up to 20 hours and can be charged via a USB-C cable and charger. The battery has a 30-minute fast charge function, which Samsung says frees up energy for up to 9 hours of use. According to the manufacturer, a full charge takes almost 95 minutes with the included 65 watt power adapter.

The best ultrabooks offer Quick-Share, so the manufacturer says they can wirelessly connect to compatible devices and share photos, videos, or data by simply pressing "Share". It is even possible to send to more than one person at the same time. It also offers second screen functionality and is compatible with Samsung Smart Things. According to the manufacturer, the keyboard has comfortable, illuminated keys with gentle pressure points and has a biometric fingerprint sensor for high security and quick access. Two AKG stereo speakers, each with 1.5 watts and Dolby Atmos, should also ensure proper sound. The following connections are available, among others:

• 1 x USB3.2
• 1x USB-C
• 1x HDMI
• 1x Lightning
• 1x headphone/microphone combo
• 1x microSD card reader

What are Ultrabooks? Ultrabooks are very flat and compact laptops that still have fast working speeds. In order for a laptop to be called an ultrabook, certain requirements in terms of screen resolution, boot speed, and dimensions must be met. Readers can find out which criteria must be met in detail in the guide and product description.

Advantages

• With biometric fingerprint sensor
• AKG stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos
• Quick share function for compatible devices
• Smart stuff

Deficiency

• No touch screen

2. Huawei MateBook 14 Ultrabook

• MateBook 14 Series 2021
• 14 inch screen size
• Core i7 CPU models
• Memory installed RAM size 16 GB
• Windows 10 Home Operating System
• Special features Free upgrade to Windows 11 if available (see below). The upgrade to Windows 11 will be available on eligible devices in late 2021 to 2022. Timing varies depending on device. Certain features require special hardware (see aka.ms/windows11-spec).
• Description of Integrated graphics card
• CPU Speed ​​4.7 GHz

The Huawei MateBook 14 Ultrabook is equipped with an 11th generation Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor and has an Intel Iris Xe graphics card. The complete notebook has 16 gigabytes (GB) of working memory and an SSD hard drive with 512 gigabytes (GB) of storage capacity. According to Huawei, Windows 10 Home is installed as an operating system. This Ultrabook has a 14-inch IPS display and FullView with a 91 percent screen-to-body ratio, 2k resolution or 2160 x 1,440 pixels, 178-degree viewing angles, 1,500:1 contrast ratio and 3:2 aspect ratio.

With Huawei Share: Users can attach their smartphone to the touchpad of the Huawei MateBook 14 Ultrabook to transfer the phone screen to a notebook. It's known as Huawei Share, according to the manufacturer, and is ideal for video calls, multi-window multitasking, or fast drag-and-drop data transfers.

The best Ultrabooks come with a shark fin fan and two exhaust pipes in the design, which Huawei says increases heat dissipation by up to 50 percent and thus keeps noise levels low. This notebook has two USB 3.2 and one USB-C port, HDMI port, 3.5mm headphone jack, WLAN function, and Bluetooth 5.1. The device is equipped with a retractable and extendable 720p camera and has two integrated speakers and a microphone.

What does the processor do? The processor is the heart of every computer and works in a regular rhythm. It is also commonly referred to as CPU, short for "Central Processing Unit". The CPU is included in every Ultrabook and serves as a central processing unit for processing commands. The two most famous notebook processor manufacturers are Intel and AMD Ryzen.

Advantages

• With fingerprint sensor
• Efficient heat dissipation

Deficiency

• Cannot be expanded with SD card

3. Microsoft Surface Ultrabook DAP-00010

• Microsoft Surface Laptop Series 34.29 cm (13.5 inch) (Intel Core M3 7Y30, 128GB hard drive, 4GB RAM, Intel HD Graphics 615, Win 10 S) Platinum Gray
• 13.5 Inch Screen Size
• Hard disk size 128GB
• CPU Model Core_m
• RAM memory installed size 4 GB
• Windows 10 operating system
• Description of Intel HD Graphics 615 . graphics card
• Intel HD Graphics 615 . graphics co-processor

The Microsoft Surface Ultrabook DAP-00010 has an Intel Core type M3-7Y30 processor, 4 gigabytes (GB) of RAM and a hard drive with 128 gigabytes (GB) of storage capacity. The integrated lithium-ion battery offers up to 14.5 hours of battery life. The screen with a screen size of 13.5 inches (34.3 centimeters) has a 2:3 format. Unlike the standard 16:9 format, it should have more pixels. The screen is a touch screen where the cursor can be moved with the touchpad, external mouse, or your finger. The maximum resolution is 2,256 × 1,504 pixels.

With a USB 3.0 port: The Microsoft Surface Ultrabook DAP-00010 has a USB-A 3.0 port. Only one additional device can be connected via this. If multiple devices will connect, there is a docking station with many other connection options.

The area around the ultrabook's keyboard is covered with Alcantara - a material that should give it a great feel. An onboard Intel HD card of the Graphics 615 type is installed as a graphics unit. This slim laptop comes with the Windows 10 S operating system. According to Microsoft, 360-degree speakers with Dolby audio technology ensure precise sound. If desired, the keyboard and screen can be separated so that the ultrabook can be used like a tablet. Other connections include:

• Mini DisplayPort
• Surface Connection Port
• Wireless Internet Access
• Bluetooth

What is the job of the graphics card? The graphics card controls the conversion of digital signals into images on the computer. To do this, the processor calculates the data and passes it to the graphics card. It then converts the data so that the monitor or projector can display all the information as an image.

Advantages

• Surface Connection Port
• Alcantara coated keyboard

Deficiency

• Only one year warranty

4. Ultrabook Asus ZenBook Flip 13 UX363EA

• UX363EA-HP234T Series
• 13.3 inch screen size
• Hard disk size 512 GB
• Core i7 CPU models
• RAM memory installed size 8 GB
• Windows 10 Home Operating System
• Intel Iris® Xe Graphics graphics card description
• CPU Speed ​​2.8 GHz

The Asus ZenBook Flip 13 UX363EA Ultrabook is powered by an 11th generation Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor clocked at 2.8 gigahertz (GHz) and an Intel Iris Xe graphics card. This is a convertible laptop that can be rotated 360 degrees. It has 16 gigabytes (GB) of RAM and an SSD hard drive with 512 gigabytes (GB) of storage capacity, which Asus says can be expanded up to 32 gigabytes (GB). The best ultrabooks have a 13.3-inch OLED Nano Edge display with WideView and touch functionality with 400 nits of brightness, a maximum resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels, also known as Full HD, and a 90 percent screen-to-body ratio.

The NumberPad 2.0 is unique as a touchpad: The Asus ZenBook Flip 13 UX363EA Ultrabook has a dedicated touchpad called NumberPad 2.0, which the manufacturer says turns into an LED-illuminated number pad with a click of the sensor. The Ergo-Lift hinge should also make the ergonomically designed keyboard easier to use and improve cooling.

The Ultrabook has Windows 10 Home as the operating system pre-installed and a 4-cell battery with a capacity of 67 watt hours for a maximum runtime of 16 hours. This convertible notebook has a USB 3.2 port, an HDMI 1.4 port, two Thunderbolt ports, as well as WiFi and Bluetooth functionality. According to Asus, the scope of delivery of the model includes a handy transport bag, USB-C adapter, and Ethernet adapter. This Ultrabook has a rear camera and comes with a two-year manufacturer's warranty.

What is the screen to body ratio? The term screen-to-body ratio comes from English and can be translated as "screen-to-body ratio". It refers to the ratio of the display or surface of a smartphone to the front of the rest of the device. Values ​​are given as a percentage: Therefore, a 50 percent screen-to-body ratio is the ratio in which the same number of homes and displays can be viewed. A good Ultrabook has a value of more than 90 percent.

Advantages

• NumberPad 2.0 as touchpad
• Convertible Ultrabook

Deficiency

• Fewer ports than other Ultrabooks

5. Huawei MateBook X Ultra Ultrabook

• MateBook X Series
• Screen Size 33 inches
• Core i5-10210U CPU Model
• Memory installed RAM size 16 GB
• Windows 10 Home Operating System
• Description of UHD Graphics graphics card
• CPU speed 1.6 GHz
• Flash memory based SSD hard disk description

The Huawei MateBook X ultrabook and slim unibody are made of aluminum and therefore only 1.36 centimeters thick and weighs one kilogram. Inside the notebook is a 10th generation Intel Core i5-10210U processor with four cores, each clocked at 1.6 gigahertz. This ultrabook has 16 gigabytes of DDR3 RAM and an integrated SSD hard drive with 512 gigabytes of storage capacity. The 64-bit version of Windows 10 Home comes pre-installed as an operating system. According to Huawei, upgrading to Microsoft's latest operating system, Windows 11, is possible for free. This best Ultrabook has two built-in microphones, advanced heat dissipation, and a fingerprint sensor to unlock the screen.

With Huawei Share sensor: The Huawei MateBook X Ultrabook has a special Huawei Share sensor that the manufacturer says can be used to connect a Huawei smartphone to the touchpad at the touch of a button and control it.

This best Ultrabook has a 13-inch Infinite FullView touchscreen with 3:2 aspect ratio and 3K resolution, which is 3,000 x 2,000 pixels. Thanks to the 90 percent screen-to-body ratio, the screen should allow for a robust viewing experience. In terms of audio, this ultrabook has integrated quad speakers with a woofer and tweeter as well as separate frequency settings and dual speakers built into the keyboard for, according to Huawei, unique 3D sound. This notebook has a front camera with a resolution of one megapixel and an integrated lithium polymer battery for up to 9 hours of operating time. According to the manufacturer, the scope of delivery includes the Huawei MateDock 2 docking station, USB-C charging cable, power supply unit and user manual.

Are there different types of Ultrabooks? Yes, there is a difference between a touch, detachable and convertible ultrabook. Each variant has its own advantages and disadvantages. Readers can find out exactly what they look like and what else to consider in the guide after product comparison.

Advantages

• With fingerprint sensor
• According to the manufacturer, advanced heat dissipation
• 3D sound thanks to quad speakers with woofer and tweeter
• Sensors for Huawei Share
• Touch screen

Deficiency

• DDR3 memory only

6. LincPlus P1 Ultrabook

• LincPlus P1 Series Notebooks
• 13.3 inch screen size
• Hard disk size 64GB
• Celeron N4020 CPU Model
• RAM memory installed size 64 GB
• Windows 10 S . Operating System
• Special features Please choose M.2 2280 SATA SSD if you need an SSD card.
• Description of Intel UHD Graphics 600 . graphics card

The LincPlus P1 Ultrabook comes with the Windows 10 S operating system and has a 13.3-inch (33.8 centimeter) color screen with a maximum resolution of Full HD. This notebook is equipped with an Intel Celeron N4000 processor, which Intel says is perfect for mobile devices. The internal lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 4,500 mAh and a runtime of 6 to 8 hours depending on the number of programs running. According to the manufacturer, a trial version of Microsoft Office is also included in the package.

With a keyboard in a Qwerty layout: According to the manufacturer, the Ultrabook LincPlus P1 has an ergonomically designed keyboard and large format keys. The classic Qwerty layout and UV coating are designed to contribute to efficient and satisfying typing.

Other features of the notebook include 64 gigabytes (GB) of internal SSD storage and 4 gigabytes (GB) of RAM. Storage space can be increased up to 512 gigabytes (GB) if desired. This best ultrabook is also equipped with a 2.4G + 5G Wi-Fi module for a secure internet connection. There is also a Bluetooth 4.0 generation function. This slim laptop case is made of aluminum and is said to be very sturdy.

What is a qwerty layout? Qwerty keyboard layout is a collective term for keyboard layouts in which the first six keys in the top row of letters are occupied by the letters Q, W, E, R, T and Z. Qwertz is a synonym for keyboard layout.

Advantages

• Keyboard in Qwerty layout
• With a trial version of Microsoft Office

Deficiency

• Small SSD storage and RAM storage

7. Ultrabook Microsoft Surface Pro FNT-00001

• Surface Pro Series
• generation 7 generation
• 12.3 inch screen size
• Windows 10 Professional operating system
• Memory storage capacity 128GB
• Connectivity type 4.1
• Dimensions of the item W x W x H 29.2 x 0.8 x 20.1 centimeters
• Item weight 0.77 kilograms

The Microsoft Surface Pro FNT-00001 Ultrabook is a 12.3-inch (31.2-centimeter) tablet with a 3:2 screen ratio, combining a dedicated interface with a keyboard. It is covered with Alcantara and should offer a pleasant feel. This device can be used both as a tablet and as a laptop. The display has the manufacturer's PixelSense technology, so the ultrabook can be operated in laptop mode either via the touchpad or via the touchscreen. When used as a drawing tablet, the device can be set to studio mode - the screen is raised slightly to make drawing or painting easier.

Technical data: The Microsoft Surface Pro FNT-00001 Ultrabook contains an Intel Core 2 Duo processor with 4 gigabytes (GB) of random access memory. The hard drive offers up to 128 gigabytes (GB) of space. The onboard Intel HD Graphics 615 graphics card is built into the mainboard.

The tablet has a USB port, Surface Connect port, headphone jack, and WiFi and Bluetooth functionality. If you want more connection, you can get a docking station as an accessory. The integrated lithium-ion battery lasts almost 13.5 hours. The Windows 10 Pro operating system is pre-installed. The Surface Pro has a fanless cooling system and therefore works silently. There is a 5-megapixel front camera and an 8-megapixel camera on the back of the ultrabook. According to the manufacturer, the buyer receives a one-year warranty from the date of purchase.

How do I clean my ultrabook? Since crumbs and dust quickly accumulate on the keyboard, it is a first-class breeding ground for pathogens. Therefore, regular cleaning is important. Don't forget the look too. The exact procedure is described in the guide following the product description.

Advantages

• Silent cooling without fan
• PixelSense display for touch screens

Deficiency

• Multiple connections without docking stations

8. Ultrabook Microsoft Surface Go THH-00038

• Surface Laptop Go . Series
• 12 inch screen size
• CPU Model Core i5-1035G1
• Windows 10 Home Operating System in S Mode
• Description of Integrated graphics card
• CPU Speed ​​3.6 GHz
• Solid State Drive hard disk description
• Item weight 1.11 kilograms

The Microsoft Surface Go Ultrabook THH-00038 has a 12.45-inch Pixelsense touchscreen with a characteristic 3:2 ratio and a resolution of 1536 x 1024 pixels. Inside the laptop is a 10th generation Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor with four cores each clocked at 3.6 gigahertz. Microsoft relies on Intel UHD Graphics for its graphics cards. This ultrabook has 8 gigabytes of DDR4 RAM and an integrated SSD hard drive with 128 gigabytes of storage capacity. The operating system is Windows 10 Home in S mode, a free upgrade to Windows 11 is possible.

Long-lasting battery with fast-charging function: The Microsoft Surface Go Ultrabook THH-00038 has a battery life of up to 13 hours and, according to the manufacturer, has a fast-charge function that restores up to 80 percent of battery capacity in just one hour.

The Ultrabook has an integrated precision trackpad measuring 11.5 x 7.66 centimeters, which Microsoft says supports five-finger gesture control. There is also an HD front camera with 720p resolution. In addition, this laptop has integrated dual microphones, Omnisonic speakers with support for Dolby Audio and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth version 5.0. According to the manufacturer, the following connections are available:

• 1x USB-C
• 1x USB A
• 1x Surface Connection port
• 1x3.5mm jack for headphones

This model also has an integrated fingerprint sensor for screen unlocking and comes with a 365-day trial for Microsoft 365 Family.

What is Bluetooth? Bluetooth is a radio standard for transmitting data, video, pictures or music over short distances. This allows two paired devices to communicate with each other without any wired connection between them. Bluetooth was developed in the 1990s.

Advantages

• Fast charging function for 80 percent battery in one hour
• With dual microphones and Dolby Audio speakers
• Fingerprint sensor to unlock screen
• Pixelsense touch screen
• Surface Connection Port

Deficiency

• Relatively few connections

9. Ultrabook LG Gram 17Z90P-G.AA89G

• Gram Series
• 17 inch screen size
• Hard disk size 1TB
• Core i7 CPU models
• Memory installed RAM size 16 GB
• OS 2021 Win 11
• Description of Integrated graphics card
• CPU Speed ​​4.7

The LG Gram 17Z90P-G.AA89G Ultrabook has a 17-inch (43.2-centimeter) screen, but is still in the ultrabook category because of its flat design with a thickness of just under 1.78 millimeters. The display has a 16:10 screen format and a maximum resolution of 2,560 × 1,600 pixels. The device is equipped with a 10th generation Intel Core i7 1065G processor and 16 gigabytes (GB) of RAM. An SSD hard drive with 1 terabyte of storage capacity is also included. This best ultrabook has a magnesium alloy casing which should guarantee a long life.

Meets military quality standards: The LG Gram 17Z90P-G.AA89G Ultrabook conforms to the MIL STD 810G military quality standard. The standard defines tests for the compatibility of equipment and devices under extreme conditions of temperature and air pressure, solar radiation, humidity, chemicals, acceleration forces and vibrations.

This Ultrabook is equipped with a fingerprint sensor, illuminated keyboard, Bluetooth 5.0, and "DTS:X Ultra 3D Sound" - so there's nothing to worry about in terms of performance, security and comfort. Windows 11 comes pre-installed as an operating system on slim laptops. An HDMI port, three USB-A 3.1 ports, a USB-C 3.1 port, and a microSD card reader are available as interfaces. Ultrabook weighs 1.35 kilograms.

What is DTS:X? DTS:X is an object-based 3D audio format intended to enhance stereo and multichannel sound. It competes directly with Dolby Digital. It is currently unclear which standards will apply in the long term.

Advantages

• Conforms to military quality standards
• Durable housing

Deficiency

• No touch screen

10. Kruger & Matz Explore 1406 Ultrabook

• Series EXPLORE 1406
• Screen Size 14.1 Inches
• Celeron model CPU
• RAM memory installed size 4 GB
• Operating System Windows 10 Pro
• Graphics card description Integriert
• Resolution 1080p
• Item weight 1.35 Kilograms

The Kruger&Matz Explore 1406 Ultrabook has an integrated dual-core Intel Celeron N4000 processor, both cores are clocked at 1.1 gigahertz and offer turbo boost of up to 2.6 gigahertz. This Polish manufacturer uses Intel UHD Graphics 600 as a graphics card. This slim laptop has 4 gigabytes of DDR4 RAM and 64 gigabytes of internal memory, which can be expanded up to 128 gigabytes with a memory card. Windows 10 Pro 64-bit version comes pre-installed as an operating system. This best ultrabook has an integrated lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 5,000 mAh and a voltage of 7.4 volts.

What is a lithium ion battery? A lithium-ion battery is an accumulator based on lithium ions in all three phases of an electrochemical cell. They are characterized by a high energy density and have a service life of usually several years. Lithium-ion batteries are now standard in devices such as smartphones and laptops.

The Ultrabook has a 1.41-inch IPS display with an aspect ratio of 16:9 and a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels, also known as Full HD. The integrated front camera has a 2 megapixel image resolution. According to Kruger&Matz, a microphone and speakers are also included. The slim laptop has WLAN functionality, Bluetooth version 4.0 and the following ports and outputs:

• 1x USB 3.0
• 1x USB2.0
• 1x Mini HDMI
• 1x USB-C
• Headphone/microphone combination
• 1x microSD card reader up to 128 gigabytes

Advantages

• Expandable with a microSD card
• With camera, microphone and speaker

Deficiency

• No information about warranty

11. HP Pavilion x360 Ultrabook 14-dy0247ng

• 39Z43EA . Series
• 14 inch screen size
• Hard disk size 512 GB
• Core i5 . Family CPU Models
• Windows 11 operating system
• Description of Integrated graphics card
• Flash memory based SSD hard disk description
• 1080p resolution

The HP Pavilion x360 14-dy0247ng Ultrabook has a 14-inch bezel-less display with a maximum resolution of Full HD and can be operated not only via the touchpad, but also via the touchscreen. According to the manufacturer, the screen is connected to the keyboard via a 360-degree hinge, making this notebook a convertible ultrabook. This slim laptop is equipped with an Intel Core i5 type 1135G7 processor with 16 gigabytes (GB) of working memory. HP provides SSD hard drive internal memory with 512 gigabytes (GB) on.

Available with an optional fingerprint sensor: The HP Pavilion x360 14-dy0247ng Ultrabook is available with an optional fingerprint sensor. With it, users can safely and quickly "login" to the Ultrabook when the screen is locked.

The case is made of recycled aluminum, while the two internal speakers are made of recycled plastic. The integrated lithium-ion battery offers an average runtime of 8.75 hours. According to the manufacturer, the Ultrabook supports operation with a magnetic, rechargeable "HP MPP 2.0 Tilt-Pen", which is not included in the shipping coverage. The following connections are available:

• 2 x USB3.1
• 1 x HDMI2.0
• SD card reader
• Microphone/headphone combo

What is a convertible ultrabook? The so-called convertible ultrabook has a display that can be folded 360 degrees. If necessary, the screen can be folded down to the back of the notebook so that the ultrabook can be used like a tablet. According to Intel and LG, the convertible can now be as thick as 23 millimeters to be considered an ultrabook. More information about these and other types of ultrabooks can be found in the following guide on product comparison.

Advantages

• On request with fingerprint sensor
• Touch screen

Deficiency

• No pen included

12. Razer Blade Stealth 13 . Ultrabook

• Blade Stealth 13 Series (11th Generation Intel)
• 13.3 . screen size
• CPU Models Intel Core i7
• RAM memory installed size 4 GB
• Windows 10 Home Operating System
• Description of GTX 1650 Max-Q graphics card
• NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 . graphics co-processor
• CPU Speed ​​2.8 GHz

According to the manufacturer, the Razer Blade Stealth 13 Ultrabook is designed specifically for the needs of gamers. The screen size is 13.3 inches and the maximum resolution is Full HD at a refresh rate of 120 Hertz. The display is said to provide sharp images even at viewing angles of over 170 degrees and covers all colors of the Adobe RGB color space. The Razer Chroma keyboard is also said to offer over 16.8 million color options. According to the manufacturer, a special technique ensures that even buttons that are pressed at the same time are registered and processed. The best ultrabooks can be operated via an external touchpad or mouse.

The powerful inner workings: The Razer Blade Stealth 13 Ultrabook contains a 10th-generation Intel Core i7 quad-core processor of the 1065G7 type with up to 4.0 gigahertz (GHz). The graphics card is an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Max-Q with 4 gigabytes (GB) of VRAM used, while the dual-channel 16 gigabytes (GB) RAM is meant to ensure maximum performance.

The internal SSD hard drive offers 512 gigabytes (GB) of storage space. According to the manufacturer, buyers can count on maximum connectivity: Thunderbolt 3, USB-C, USB-A, and Wireless AX are available as connections. Ultrabooks have an integrated infrared camera. The body of this notebook is reinforced with aluminum and anodized black on a sub-molecular level - this will make it even stronger. This Ultrabook has four integrated speakers and an amplifier that should produce 7.1 surround sound.

What is VRAM? VRAM or Video RAM is the English abbreviation for "Video Random Access Memory". They are RAM modules developed for use in graphics cards that temporarily store image data for display on a monitor. The larger the video RAM capacity, the more complex graphics and videos the PC can play and display.

Advantages

• Large RAM memory
• Multiple interfaces

Deficiency

• No fingerprint sensor

What are Ultrabooks?

The term ultrabook was coined by the US hardware giant Intel. In 2011, chip manufacturers want to build a new class of devices on the market together with other notebook and laptop manufacturers. The introduction of the ultrabook was initially controversial, as many felt that Intel was too inspired by rival Apple, which in 2008 managed to position an ultrabook prototype on the market with the MacBook Air. With ultrabooks, Intel wants to fight Apple and at the same time question the supremacy of Apple's iPad tablet.

Ultrabooks are laptops that are more compact, faster and lighter than conventional notebooks. The lighter ones usually have a longer battery life and minimal but high-quality tools. To better understand the differences between ultrabooks, notebooks, and laptops, Intel sets certain requirements on well-known device manufacturers such as Asus, Acer, Samsung, LG, Lenovo, or Dell that a laptop must meet in order to be considered an ultrabook. Ultrabook is a registered trademark of Intel. An overview of the current requirements can be found a few paragraphs further in this guide.

Quick Establishment in the Market: Initially, there were only a few of the best Ultrabooks that were expensive compared to other devices. However, in recent years, the range has increased significantly - there are now ultrabooks in almost all price ranges.

How do Ultrabooks work?

The general function of the best ultrabooks is not much different from other notebooks and laptops. The most important component of any ultrabook is the built-in processor, which is responsible for calculating all the data. It is also often referred to as a CPU unit - CPU stands for Central Processing Unit. Every computer has graphics and a sound card for calculating sound and image data. Like any computer, the main memory of the ultrabook is responsible for storing the necessary temporary data for a short period of time.

The biggest difference between Ultrabooks and conventional notebooks is that most Ultrabooks have an internal SSD hard drive, which runs faster and uses less power than a regular HDD hard drive. They are also much smaller, which supports the slim design of portable notebooks. Because ultrabooks are so compact, they offer very little space for all of the hardware components. Therefore, sound and graphics cards are only available as onboard chips that are directly integrated into the mainboard in many models.

What's the motherboard? The mainboard, also known as the motherboard, is the central circuit board of a computer. Most of the components of a computer are connected to each other in it - this includes, for example, the processor, graphics card, and main memory, also known as RAM memory.

Important requirements for every Ultrabook

In order for a portable notebook to be called an ultrabook, it must meet a number of requirements. Behind this is the fact that "Ultrabook" is a registered trademark of Intel. The requirements include:

1. Processor: Since "Ultrabook" is a registered trademark of Intel, a "genuine" Ultrabook must have an Intel processor. Strictly speaking, competitors who rely on processors from big competitors Ryzen should not call their notebooks ultrabooks.
2. Screen: The ultrabook display should be at least Full HD resolution of 1,920×1,080 pixels. However, many models already have a much higher resolution.
3. Boot speed: Boot speed indicates how long it takes the computer to boot up completely from the shutdown state. Genuine Ultrabooks don't need more than 3 to 5 seconds for this. It should be faster on boot from standby mode. How fast an Ultrabook is depends on its internal SSD hard drive and technologies like Rapid Start technology that many manufacturers have built into their notebooks. A "True" Ultrabook must have at least 20 gigabytes (GB) of carrying a large SSD as cache for the hard drive.
4. Dimensions: If the ultrabook screen is smaller than 14 inches, the thickness of the case should not exceed 2.0 centimeters. If the screen is larger than 14 inches, it must not be thicker than 1.3 centimeters. Intel and Intel partner LG Display prescribe this. Convertibles, which are notebooks with screens that can be folded 360 degrees, can reach up to 2.3 centimeters thick to be considered an ultrabook.
5. Battery life: According to Intel, the ultrabook's battery life should be at least long enough to be able to play videos in full HD for 5 hours at a time. Ultrabooks with Windows operating systems must also be able to survive an idle period of at least 9 hours.
6. Security and operating system: The Ultrabook must support the Intel encryption function in the CPU unit and must have Windows or macOS X as the operating system.
7. Other requirements: Ultrabooks must be equipped with "Intel Wireless Display", WiDi for short. In addition, each ultrabook must be able to operate with voice control and a two-way microphone must be installed. At least one USB port must comply with the 3.0 standard. WLAN and Bluetooth interfaces must also be installed.

Not all notebooks are ultrabooks: Only a few notebooks with narrow bezels are "genuine" ultrabooks. However, the term ultrabook is also used for notebooks and laptops that are light and compact and have a screen diagonal of about 13 inches.

Pros and cons of ultrabook

The main advantages of ultrabooks compared to conventional notebooks are compactness and high working speed. Because ultrabooks are so thin, they can easily be carried in a briefcase or backpack and are perfect as mobile computers. In direct comparison, however, ultrabooks are cheaper, don't have an integrated drive and usually only a few connection options due to their design.

Different types of Ultrabooks at a glance

Ultrabooks can be divided into three different types: touch ultrabooks, detachable ultrabooks and convertible ultrabooks:

• Touch ultrabooks: Touch ultrabooks are primarily characterized by their integrated touch screen. It usually has a screen diagonal of 13 to 15 inches and can be operated by touch of a finger, as is usual with smartphones or tablets. Operation via mouse and touchpad is also possible.
• Detachable ultrabooks: So-called detachable ultrabooks are a combination of notebook and tablet and are often referred to as "hybrid PCs". "Detachable" means "removable" in German, which is the case with the keyboard of such ultrabooks - it can be completely removed to use the notebook as a tablet. The disadvantage is that detachable ultrabooks are usually heavier and only offer a very manageable number of connection options.
• Convertible Ultrabooks: Convertible Ultrabooks have a 360-degree foldable display. If necessary, the screen can be folded onto the back of the notebook to use the device like a tablet. This works without separating the keyboard and screen. The modern ultrabooks offer very flexible usage options.

Ultrabook: Display techniques explained

Apart from their construction, Ultrabooks differ in terms of their displays and how they work. Manufacturers speak of so-called "display panels", of which the following types are primarily used in ultrabooks:

• LCD panel: The abbreviation LCD comes from English and means "Liquid Crystal Display". Such screens are characterized by liquid crystals that adjust their deflection depending on the electrical voltage. Depending on the direction in which the pixels point, they allow more or less light to pass through. The pixels each have a green, blue and red filter - this enables the LCD panels to display the entire color spectrum perceptible to the human eye. LCD displays are comparatively cheap to buy and enable compact designs. Due to their strong backlight, however, they cannot achieve deep black levels. Black images often look gray or anthracite on LCD panels.
• IPS panel: IPS panels, short for "In-Plane Switching" panels, also work with liquid crystals. Here the pixels have a horizontal impact, which enables a very stable viewing angle. An IPS panel can also be viewed from the side without the images appearing distorted. IPS screens are also known for their strong color representation. Disadvantages are the high energy consumption and the comparatively slow reaction speed.
• LED panel: The abbreviation LED comes from the English and stands for "Light Emitting Diode". The mode of operation hardly differs from LCD panels. The main difference is that instead of simple fluorescent tubes, modern LED lights are used, which allow for cheaper and more efficient backlighting. LED lamps are able to control individual image positions, while the backlighting of the black areas does not work. LED panels achieve significantly lower black levels than LCDs.

Important criteria when buying an Ultrabook

Ultrabooks, like all notebooks and laptops, are complex technical devices and there are a number of factors to consider before purchasing them. These include:

• Processor: The performance of the processor is decisive for the working speed of the Ultrabook. The performance can be estimated based on the number of processor cores and their gigahertz (GHz) value. For example, many ultrabooks have a quad-core processor with four cores each clocked at 1.6 gigahertz (GHz) .are clocked. There should be at least two processor cores with the same frequency.
• Screen: Most ultrabooks have 13 or 14 inch displays, but there are also models with up to 17 inches. On a larger display, users have a better overview and can use several programs at the same time. A large display is not only associated with larger dimensions, but also with higher power consumption and thus influences the battery life.
• Graphics: Most ultrabooks have a graphics processor housed in the CPU unit, labeled "Intel Graphics HD". It is compact, consumes little power and is sufficient for typical areas of application. Some ultrabooks have a higher quality graphics card. This makes sense above all if the ultrabook is to be used for games - in such cases a 3D graphics chip should be available.
• RAM: The amount of available RAM has a big impact on how fast an ultrabook will run. Many ultrabooks offer 8 gigabytes (GB) Main memory, a value of 4 gigabytes (GB) should not be undercut. Memory is divided into DDR3 and DDR4 RAM . DDR4 devices work significantly faster than those with the outdated DDR3 memory.
• Operating system: If you buy a new ultrabook, you can be sure that the operating system is up-to-date. Therefore, the question of the type of operating system becomes more important. You can choose between Windows, macOS, Chrome OS from Google and Linux. The majority of ultrabooks work with Windows or Windows 10 Home. Windows is characterized by its high compatibility with various hardware and software. A popular alternative is the macOS operating system, which is found exclusively on Apple MacBooks. The MacBook operating system has a user-friendly and innovative user interface. The Google Chrome OS operating system allows for quick system startup and easy management via an Internet browser. The Linux operating system is aimed more at programmers who want to tinker a bit on their own.
• Connectivity options: In terms of connectivity, an Ultrabook should have at least three USB ports, two AUX ports for headphones and microphones, and an HDMI port for connecting to various display devices. The Bluetooth function version 4.0 and above is useful for wireless data traffic.
• Hard drive: One of the minimum requirements for an ultrabook is an SSD hard drive. Alternatively, buyers can also use HDD hard drives, but they will have to install at a slower speed. In return, ultrabook prices fell. Cheap ultrabooks usually only have 32 gigabytes (GB) of storage capacity– in such cases, there isn't much space left for programs and media, as the operating system takes up most of the hard disk capacity. So if you want to store music, movies, and other data-intensive media on your ultrabook, you should pay attention to a minimum storage capacity of 128 gigabytes (GB). Basically, the more, the better.
• Internet connection: WLAN technology for wireless connection to the Internet is available in every notebook. If you want to access WLAN from anywhere, you must make sure that the LTE or UMTS module is integrated. The LAN connection is attractive to those who primarily want to use their ultrabook at home.
• Battery life: Minimum should be 5 hours, but 8 to 10 hours is better. Be careful, manufacturers like to cheat a bit when it comes to battery life information. If you want to be safe, you should get specific opinions and information about the model in question from ultrabook tests and comparisons.

Proper Ultabook care and cleaning

To enjoy your new ultrabook as long as possible, the best ultrabooks should be cleaned regularly:

Clean the keyboard

The computer keyboard is one of the dirtiest items in the home, something that many people are not aware of. Crumbs, droplets and accumulated dust form excellent breeding grounds for germs, which everyone has after typing. To solve this problem, the keyboard of every laptop and notebook should be cleaned once a week. But washing your hands regularly can also prevent the build-up of germs on the keyboard.

A simple disinfectant cleaner is ideal for cleaning keyboards. If it's very damp, it's best to squeeze it out before cleaning so that moisture doesn't get inside the ultrabook. If you don't have such a cloth, you can also use a slightly damp microfiber cloth. Dust accumulation in hard-to-reach places can be removed with a cotton swab or brush.

Clear screen

You only need a damp microfiber cloth to clean the screen. Special display cleaning agents can be used for very stubborn dirt. Cleaning agents containing alcohol and chemical glass cleaners are not suitable. Both attack the plastic surface of the screen.

Accessories suitable for Ultrabook

There is a wide range of accessories for modern ultrabooks. The most important accessories include:

• Surf stick: If you want to access the Internet with your ultrabook on the go, but your device doesn't have an LTE or UMTS module, you can get a surf stick. They are conventional USB sticks with a SIM card slot. For this reason, an appropriate surfing rate is needed, so that the ultrabook can go online independently without a WLAN connection. A good option for smartphone owners is the multi-SIM function - this is a second SIM card with the same tariff or contract, which allows access to the mobile Internet from two devices.
• Mouse: Every Ultrabook has an integrated trackpad as an alternative to a mouse. However, many people find the touchpad to be cumbersome and not very precise. Therefore, for many users, the mouse is the most important accessory for their Ultrabook. We recommend a Bluetooth mouse that can be connected to an ultrabook without tangling cables - this is especially useful for mobile use.
• External Drive: Most ultrabooks abandon the integrated drive in favor of a more compact design. External drives can still be used to access physical media such as DVDs and CDs.
• External hard drive: The Ultrabook's multiple storage capacity can be managed. If you want more leeway, you should get an external hard drive. They're cheap these days and often offer more than 1,000 gigabytes (GB) of storage space.
• Bags/backpacks: If you primarily want to use your new ultrabook while traveling, you should get a laptop bag or backpack for transportation. Good means of transportation must be strong and waterproof.

Overview of famous manufacturers and brands

Not all companies that specialize in manufacturing desktop PCs also make ultrabooks. However, there is a lot of overlap. The best known manufacturers and brands of Ultrabooks include:

• Acer: Taiwanese company Acer was founded in 1976 as "Multitech" and initially operated as a parts sales company for electronic devices. Acer soon developed further as a manufacturer of microprocessors. It wasn't until 1987 that the company changed its name from Multitech to Acer. Acer is now the second largest computer manufacturer after HP. In addition to desktop PCs, this product line also includes smartphones, tablets, notebooks, and ultrabooks.
• Microsoft: The US company Microsoft was founded in 1975 and is considered the market leader for operating systems with "Windows". Microsoft is less well known as a PC manufacturer. It's different with notebooks and ultrabooks, where Microsoft plays an important role with the Surface series. The unique selling point of some of Microsoft's ultrabooks is the Google Chrome OS operating system.
• Asus: ASUStek Computer Inc., Asus for short, is a Taiwanese manufacturer of computer hardware and is based in the state capital, Taipei. The Asus range includes notebooks, ultrabooks and desktop PCs, but also mainboards, graphics cards, optical storage media and workstations. According to Asus, it employs 14,500 people in 2020.
• Lenovo: Lenovo Group is a Chinese manufacturer of computers and smartphones. The company was founded in 1984 and, along with HP and Acer, is one of the world's market leaders in computer sales. Lenovo produces various information technology devices, such as ultrabooks, workstations, servers, and computer monitors. The mainstay of the two companies is the smartphone.
• Huawei: Founded in 1987, Huawei is a Chinese telecommunications equipment and hardware manufacturer based in Shenzhen - China's special economic zone around Hong Kong. Huawei focuses on manufacturing communication technology devices such as smartphones, but its range also includes notebooks and ultrabooks. At the end of 2019, the group employed about 194,000 people.
• HP: HP Inc. is one of the largest US PC and printer manufacturers based in Wilmington in the US state of Delaware and with corporate headquarters in California. Since November 2015, HP Inc. has become independent of Hewlett Packard Enterprise as part of the company split. Therefore HP is no longer an abbreviation of Hewlett-Packard, but the official name of the company. According to the company, HP Inc. currently has around 55,000 employees.

Frequently asked questions about Ultrabook

Which Ultrabook is the Best?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to all of these questions as the needs of each potential buyer and available budget are different. That's why it's important to think about your own needs before buying.

Where is it worth buying an ultrabook?

The best ultrabooks are available at your local electronics or computer store or online. Both variants have their respective advantages and disadvantages:

• In local trade, buyers benefit from personal advice, the quality of which is always highly dependent on the competence of the advisory staff. There is only a limited selection of products in local stores and no way to clearly compare individual model data.
• Online retailers offer a wider selection of ultrabooks that can be compared at a glance. There is access to hundreds of reviews from other customers and all shopping can be done from the comfort of your own home, any time of the day or night. No need for personal consultation.

Buy an Intel or Ryzen processor?

This is a matter of personal preference. Ryzen processors from AMD manufacturers typically have more compute cores and thus higher performance for tasks optimized for more cores - this includes, for example, video editing. Intel processors have higher clock frequencies, at least until late 2020, which has a positive effect on performance in PC gaming. Meanwhile, however, AMD is on par in this regard.

How much do ultrabooks cost?

Ultrabooks were still very expensive in their early days, but slim laptops are now available in the lower triple digit range. For a high-performance model of the luxury class, however, buyers will still have to factor in a four-figure investment. The best Ultrabooks can be divided into the following price ranges:

• Low price class: 200 to $700
• Mid-range: 700 to $1,100
• Strong high end: from $1,100

How to increase Ultrabook battery life?

There are several ways to extend the Ultrabook's battery life. The first call port should be display. A lot of power can be saved by reducing the brightness. Power can also be saved by disabling the WLAN and GPS functions and closing all programs that are not currently needed.

Check system settings: Most operating systems have several options in the system settings to increase the battery life of the ultrabook.

Conclusion

Its thin shape and high specifications make ultrabooks in demand by many people. With an ultrabook, you can do your work more optimally.

We have reviewed how to choose and provide the best line of ultrabooks products for you. Is there an ultrabooks that captivates your heart? Please use this article as a guide to compare the products you are after.

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