ACER ASPIRE R7

Despite Windows 8's poor sales, there's never been a better time to invest in a new laptop computer. With the new operating system, Microsoft has gone to great lengths to make Windows more of a lifestyle product by introducing touch capabilities and a completely new user interface and this week Acer has just launched a new notebook that really makes windows 8 a compelling alternative to a MacBook and Mac OS.

At a glitzy New York press launch, Acer unveiled a slew of new notebooks  specifically designed for Windows 8. The top-of-the-range model is the Aspire R7.

Sec-wise the R7 is no slouch as well as the Full HD 1920 x 1080 touchscreen display, there's a Intel Core i5 processor, up to 12GB of memory, up to 1T B hard drive , or up to 256 GB SSD and a full-size backlit keyboard. It also includes a volume control button, HDMI port, SD card reader, audio jacks , three USB ports, WiFi, Bluetooth and a convenient port supporting VGA, RJ45 and USB.

The R7's  main selling point, apart from the impressive spec, is a clear hinge that allows the screen to be moved into 4 different positions so you can really utilize the high definition screen to be moved into 4 different positions so you can really utilize the high definition touchscreen to it fullest.

Ezel model is the most interesting  nad allows you to pull display closer, removing the need to reach across the laptop to use touch screen . By pulling the display closer , switching between touch screen, keyboard and touch pad is as seamlessly as you get on Windows 8.

Notebook mode is pretty self-explanatory. It allows you to slide the display behind the keyboard for a traditional notebook setup.

If you flip the screen over into display mode and its's positioned perfectly for watching a movie, showing photos or giving a presentation. With Acer's proven dula-torque design, the screen flips easily yet remains rigid when touched.

Pad Mode allows you to pull the touchscreen down and lay it on top os the keyboard with the screen facing up -essentially it turns the R7 into a rather bulky iPad. But the ergonomic 4-degree tilting angles makes it perfect for browsing , writing casual touch games.

The Acer Aspire R7 is available is available at Rs 75,266