Shaping up to Windows size

WINDOWS 8 computers come in many unorthodox shapes

• TOSHIBA SATELLITE P840

Toshiba, $1699

Windows 8 is best experienced with a touchscreen and, while it may not look like it, this solid 14-inch laptop offers one. The Toshiba Satellite P840 looks like a solid, knockabout workhorse, thanks to an understated grey lid, a 2.9cm thick body, and a weight of 2.05kg.

But while it won't win beauty contests, it will complete most computing assignments. This Satellite comes with 8GB RAM, a 1 terabyte hard drive, and an Intel Core i7 processor, making it capable of everything from video-editing to rapid multi-tasking. Harman Kardon speakers sit at each side of the keyboard to give it some multimedia talents.

The tablet unit itself is more powerful than most. A third-generation Intel Core i5 chip powers Windows 8 Pro, as well as 4GB RAM and a 128GB hard drive.

The tablet also features its own USB 3.0 connection, a stylus, space for a MicroSD memory card and a Micro HDMI cable for TV displays. might take a moment to adjust to the tablet's length or its weight but angle when docked, and the dock-and-tablet combination's weight of 1.6kg will put out some travellers. Regardless, a user-friendly solution to a modern problem.

• ASUS TAICHI 21

Asus, $1599-$1899

It's hard to know which side of this computer requires attention. Open its lid and the Asus Taichi looks and works like a laptop, albeit an unnaturally slender one. Close its lid and you can continue working on the Taichi's exterior 11.6-inch screen like it's a tablet computer.

The transfer from one screen to another takes only seconds, making it the perfect arrangement when you need to show off photos, share a website or play an important app without the distraction of a keyboard.

Asus has also packed enough power into this machine, with an Intel Core i5 or i7 chip, 4GB RAM and 128 or 256GB solid-state drives making quick work of Windows 8 Professional, and ensuring multi-tasking is simple. The Taichi is heavier than a tablet at 1.25kg, but it's speed and USB ports make itmore useful. But users must prepare for fingerprint smudges and buy a travel case.

• HP ENVY x2

HP, $999

HP has made a lot of hardware and that experience shows in this machine. The Envy x2 is a sophisticated device with a premium aluminium shell. Its lid curves to a thin edge and its buttons are recessed attractively. This machine is not just well built, however; it's also unorthodox.

While the Envy x2 feels like a laptop, complete with full-sized keyboard and touchpad, two USB ports and space for an HDMI cable, it's actually a tablet-laptop hybrid. Slide a metal switch to the left and this laptop's 11.6-inch screen can be lifted out to be used as a Windows 8 tablet.

While its solid form and 1.4kg weight is superior to others of its ilk, the Envy x2 doesn't feature as much computing oomph.storage, 31GB of which is already used by Windows and pre-loaded programs.  Envy x2 is certainly a slick, travel-friendly hybrid, but  may need to bring their own storage.

• SAMSUNG ATIV SMART PC Pro

Samsung, $1399

Those who can't decide whether to buy a tablet or a laptop computer may have an easier decision after seeing the Samsung ATIV Smart PC Pro. The hybrid device can be used as either, as it arrives as an 11.6-inch elongated tablet that fits into a sturdy keyboard dock.Once pushed into this dock, confirmed with a jaunty sound, the tablet transforms into a capable laptop, complete with two USB ports. The tablet unit itself is more powerful than most. A third-generation Intel Core i5 chip powers Windows 8 Pro, as well as 4GB RAM and a 128GB hard drive.

The tablet also features its own USB 3.0 connection, a stylus, space for a MicroSD memory card and a Micro HDMI cable for TV displays.