Worthy or Not?

Toshiba’s newest Kira Ultrabook looks good and does well — if you’re willing to pay for it

Solid. That’s how I can describe the Toshiba Kira Ultrabook in one word. One look at it and you’ll know you have something that combines sleek design with the performance you would expect from an Ultrabook (even though it looks similar to another something out there)…
Anyway, what we have here is a 13.3” beast that is packed with great features. One of the first things I noticed is that under bright-light conditions (hello, summer), you may have a little difficulty peering into it, even at its brightest setting. Not much of a drawback, since you probably rarely use your laptop under the sun, right?
It’s about 23 mm at its thickest and goes all the way down to 19.9 mm at its thinnest point — so yes, this is a great option if you’re looking for a rather thin mobile computer. The keyboard is nice to type with, and the trackpad isn’t too bad either.
As for performance, it didn’t disappoint. There are times when it stutters a bit when you start loading it up with multiple programmes or apps, but this is largely ignorable. Sometimes, though, I’m having trouble swiping from the edges — it’s Windows 8-powered, by the way. Other than that, the 10-point multi-touch display is very accurate.

AND SO…
While I did mention stutters earlier, the overall experience is excellent, from booting to actual usage. It’s very portable and very stylish, which adds to its appeal even more. The Ultrabook lore is evolving, and Toshiba has something here in the Kira to boast about — if you can handle another “solid” thing about it: its price. It is expensive.
The Launchpad

Jabra Sport Rox Wireless
Workouts too easy? Jabra’s newest gizmo is for those “ultimate sporters pushing workout limits”. It also provides “unprecedented enhanced sound” during workouts, so you’ll probably never get bored or tired while you’re at it. (Dh599)

Alcatel OneTouch Smart Watch
If you picked up a number of awards at the CES, then you must really have something. At a “fraction of the cost of competitors”, this useful gadget is available in several designs, offers multiple fitness functions and connects to both Android and iOS devices. (TBA).

Microsoft Lumia 540 Dual-SIM
Young, ambitious and on the lookout for your first serious smartphone? Then look no further. This one has the latest Windows 8.1 offerings in a 5” display and “crafted design” details. It’s also lined up to be upgraded to Windows 10, which is expected to roll out later this year. (Dh549)
 alvin@khaleejtimes.com 

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