Tech Tips | Device Picks (Spring 2016)
Finally, I’ve got some new recommendations. This update has been a long time coming. All of those new laptops that were announced last fall are starting to trickle into the Microsoft Store. So this update is kind of exciting.
Mid-Range Laptops
There isn’t much selection at this price point. I expect that to change shortly as stock is replenished.
- Dell Inspiron 15 – $570
15.6 inch screen, AMD A10, 8 GB RAM, 1 TB Hard drive, 5.34 lbs.
High-End Laptops / 2 in 1 Detachable Devices
- Acer Aspire V 13 – $850
13.3 inch screen, Intel Core i5, 6 GB RAM, 256 GB Hard drive, 3.58 lbs. - Dell Inspiron 13 – $1,000 (Convertible)
13.3 inch screen, Intel Core i7, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB Hard drive, 3.44 lbs. - Lenovo Yoga 3 Pro – $1,400 (Convertible)
13.3 inch screen, Intel Core M, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB Hard drive, 2.65 lbs. - Surface Pro 4 – $1,450 (Detachable screen)
12.3 inch screen, Intel Core i5, 4 GB RAM, 128 GB Hard drive, 2.37 lbs.
Price & weight include Keyboard Cover ($170) - HP Spectre x360 – $1,500 (Convertible)
13.3 inch screen, Intel Core i7, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB Hard drive, 3.19 lbs.
Phones
One thing to keep in mind when looking at phones is the amount of storage on the device. Some manufacturers are still releasing 16 GB options which is way to small and limiting. Go for 32 GB and up depending upon your needs. Also, check out Costco’s mobility booth before making a choice as they often have better prices than the carriers if you’re buying on contract.
Apple (iOS)
- iPhone SE – $710 unlocked / $230 on contract
4 inch screen, 64 GB Storage - iPhone 6s – $1,030 unlocked / $530 on contract
4.7 inch screen, 64 GB Storage - iPhone 6s Plus – $1,160 unlocked / $660 on contract
5.5 inch screen, 64 GB Storage
Google (Android)
- Google Nexus 5X – $500 unlocked / $0 on contract
5.2 inch screen, 32 GB Storage - Google Nexus 6P – $700 unlocked / $100 on contract
5.7 inch screen, 32 GB Storage
BlackBerry
- BlackBerry Priv – $800 unlocked / $350 on contract
5.4 inch screen, 32 GB Storage
As always, if you have any questions please contact me.
Craig Pike
(866) 963-8075
cpike@bfgon.com