As technology continues to advance, portable computers keep getting faster and less expensive. Today, the computing speeds that cost thousands of dollars just a couple of years ago can now be found for just a few hundred dollars. Many of the cost savings have come from advancements in mobile computing technologies that power modern tablets. Therefore, when combined with Black Friday specials, you can usually find devices offering all the features you need for a fraction of the prices that most people are accustomed to paying.
When you buy a portable computer in today’s world, you have to choose between a laptop and a tablet. Although tablets tend to be smaller, you usually have to sacrifice performance to save space. However, you should also keep in mind that many laptops are now just as small as tablets. To decide whether you should buy a laptop or tablet this year, have a look at some of the deals that are currently available.
Microsoft Surface Pro
The Microsoft Surface Pro is a hybrid laptop/tablet that delivers serious power in a seriously convenient package.
Moreover, Best Buy has a 12.3-inch Surface that comes with an Intel Core M3 processor and a 128GB SSD for just $959. That’s a $410 savings for those keeping track at home.
Pros
- With its dual-core processor and solid-state drive, the Surface Pro provides users with lightning-fast precision on the go.
- The device comes packaged with a Surface Pro Type Cover.
- Best Buy includes a free six-month subscription to Webroot Internet Security with Antivirus 2018 with purchase.
Cons
- Limited built-in storage.
- 4GB of memory is less than desirable for those with a lot of heavy lifting to do.
iPad Mini
Apple’s 2019 iPad Mini is the ideal solution for the casual Internet browser.
At Best Buy, the iPad Mini is going for its full list price of $399 right now. However, they’re throwing in four free months of Apple Music, one free month of iCloud, and a six-month subscription to Webroot Internet Security with Antivirus 2018 to sweeten the deal.
Pros
- A12 Bionic chipset should be able to handle most of your needs without a problem.
- 64GB of storage is quite a bit for a tablet.
- The battery lasts up to 10-hours on a single charge.
Cons
- This deal doesn’t save you any money on the list price of the iPad Mini.
- It’s only a great deal if you’re interested in the added subscriptions.
- As with all Apple products, you can’t expand the device’s memory with an SD card.
Lenovo Thinkpad T495
Choosing a laptop for your home office or workplace can be a chore. If it’s something that you plan on using every day, you’re going to need something that can handle the heavy workload and stand the test of time.
The Lenovo ThinkPad T495 certainly checks off a lot of those boxes. This 14-inch screened workhorse is powered by an AMD Ryzen CPU and Vega GPU. Plus, it has a battery that charges fast and lasts all day long. There are a few build options available, but the best one features 8GB of RAM, a 256GB solid-state drive, and a one-year warranty.
The T495 is available for $1,140.30.
Pros
- The 14-inch screen is a great size for visibility and portability.
- Incredible savings.
Cons
- The laptop doesn’t have a full-sized SD slot.
- The unit lacks a Thunderbolt 3 input.
Samsung Plus 2-in-1 12.2-inch Chromebook
A Chromebook is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a fast, lightweight, and reliable option for digital streaming, surfing, and the like.
The Samsung Plus 2-in-1 Chromebook delivers on all aspects. The unit has 4GB of RAM, 32GB of flash memory, a touchscreen, an Intel Celeron processor, and a 360-degree flip-and-fold design.
Head on over to Best Buy right now and get it for $349. This is a whole $100 off the typical asking price. Plus, it includes a six-month subscription to Trend Micro Internet Security and four free months of Apple Music.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight and portable.
- The touchscreen increases the device’s ease of use.
- One of the best, premium Chromebooks on the market today.
Cons
- No HDMI output.
- Only 32GB of storage.
- Lacks a backlit keyboard.
Asus TUF 15.6-inch FHD High Performance Gaming Laptop
Going down the gaming rabbit hole can be an expensive proposition. That’s what makes the Asus TUF 15.6-inch FHD High Performance Gaming Laptop such a refreshing product.
The ASUS TUF comes with an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 Ti graphics card, Eighth Generation Intel Core i7-8750H processor, 256GB SSD, and a 15.6-inch, full HD display. Plus, it uses an anti-dust cooling system that helps keep your machine running smoothly for as long as you are.
At its current price on Amazon, this Asus TUF is a steal. Right now, you can get it for $948.21, which is a savings of $651.78 off.
Pros
- Aan affordable entry-point to high-performance gaming laptops.
- It’s Eighth Generation Intel Core i7-8750H processor, 256GB SSD, and 15.6-inch, full HD LCD display make for a fantastic gaming experience.
Cons
- The battery life could certainly be better.
- The fans can run a bit loud
- The laptop runs hot when taking on demanding tasks.