<p>I am going into electrical engineering and while I will probably do many assignments in the lab, I want a capable, powerful laptop if the opportunity should arise. I watch a lot of movies and TV shows online so I need speed and a good screen, but transportability is more important as I plan on taking it around to the library and whatnot.</p>
<p>My original favorite was the HP Envy 14 Spectre; it is BEAUTIFUL and has a screen/display superior to the ones I am looking into now, but the $1400 price is too high. I don’t want compatibility issues so Macbook is out, though I am an Apple fanboy(girl).</p>
<p>HP Folio 13: Overall solid and highly rated. $900</p>
<p>Toshiba Portege Z835: Wins out in terms of looks and weight (only 2.5 vs HP’s 3.3) and slightly larger RAM (6gb vs HP’s 4gb). Not a huge difference, but it’s nice and still affordable. $1000</p>
<p>These two are fairly similar; which would you pick? They have an i5 processor, good performance, and good speed. The screens are identical in size and resolution. I came down to these after looking at so many (Dell XPS 13, Samsung Series 7, Zenbook, etc).</p>
<p>Of these two, I’d go with the toshiba.</p>
<p>I recently looked into these models.</p>
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<p>The Toshiba Z835, IMO, is the better model. I would purchase it over the HP. You’re right about the 6GB RAM and lighter weight (Z830 series is the lightest 'top in the ultrabook category) adding to the speed and transportability to the device. However, there need to be some sacrifices for those features.</p>
<p>For example, the screen on the Z835 seems very flexible - still built sturdy, but has a lot of bend to it since it’s so thin and light, there wasn’t really room to put in a metal frame to supprt it. I personally don’t mind this since the rest of the machine is rather solid, but it’s something to note. Also, since you mention watching movies and TV on it, I have heard/read the Z835 has a glossy display so there may be some glare depending on the lighting and viewing angle. The direct ordered Z830 I am told does not have a gloss screen and may be better for viewing. Someone can correct me who actually owns the device though.</p>
<p>Overall, Toshiba currently has a better reputable service and, IMO, are known for lasting a good while. I’ve mentioned before that I have a Toshiba Satellite X-205 17" from late 2007 that still runs like a beast (my main and only computer currently) and I have yet to have any single compenent fail <em>knock on wood</em>. I think it was worth my money spent.</p>
<p>VOTE: Toshiba Z835</p>
<p>In fact, if I eventually don’t get an MBA, then I’ll end up picking the Z830/5 up.</p>