Here is what I'm after, a reasonably fast tablet that can do h,264 decoding, but still easy enough on batteries that I can get decent battery life (>4 hours). I'd also like small but super tiny is not required. The goal is a trumped up PVP that can actually play the files I have as well as doing a few other things to keep me occupied while in airports and airplanes. A regular laptop just isn't the right form factor for the job. So, here is my question. What are the standard sizes for the 'convertibles'? I have seen some that look reasonably fast for prices I wouldn't mind paying. But I think 14 inches is a little large to be holding up on a plane. 12.1 might do it, but is the a standard size any smaller? This *should* give me another term I can use to filter results with and whittle down the pack for those in my budget, at a target size, and with the batter life I am after.
Most tablets have 12" screens. the Fujitsu lifebook convertible is much smaller, but has a pittyful battery life of 2 hours unless you have the extended 6 hour version which hangs out the back like a cancerous growth (sort of defeats the whole compact size, IMO). For weight, size, build quality and battery life I recommend the Motion Computing LE1600 --up to eight hours continuous running time with everything switched on. Compact size, only one inch thick, and 3.5 pounds in weight. Magnmesium chassis covered in carbon-fibre reinforced plastic bezel. I have one of these, and it's excellent, although pricey (about £1300,-- in the UK, or $1900,-- in the US). Using Yahoo Widgets Informer and Text Calendar... It's sooo thin (and the screen --which is visible in sunlight-- has insane viewing angles)! Reading an article... A HP TC1100 can be snapped up used for a decent price, and is also very good and sturdy, but battery life is about 4 hours max. For a convertible, the HP TC4200 series is generally the best choice in terms of size, weight and build quality. Battery life is again 4 to 5 hours.
