We all know that Apple has the “cool” hardware. They always have and probably always will. I’ve been a Mac fan ever since my first Mac in the 80’s. I love my MacBook Pro which I use every day. However, I must say the time has come to donate my one year old MacBook Pro to a good cause. This fall I’ll definitely be purchasing a new touch-screen, Windows 8 Ultrabook!

Between now and Christmas, you’ll see a ton of new fresh PC-hardware, and some are almost as cool as Apple makes. The new hardware falls into three categories – Tablets & Convertibles, Laptops & Ultrabooks, and Desktops & All-in-ones. The big theme this year will be touch – touch tablets, laptops, and all-in-ones. Have a look…

Tablets & Convertibles 

Laptops & Ultrabooks

Desktops & All-in-ones

Interestingly enough, Microsoft has now decided to enter the hardware business with their debut of the Microsoft Surface. It’s virtually the same weight and size as an iPad (a little longer and narrower). However, these come with a built-in kickstand, a keyboard built right into the 3.25 mm thin cover, full-size USB port, HDMI-mini port, microSD slot, and Microsoft Office. The only downside to the Surface RT is that you cannot run desktop applications, like StudioPlus Spectra. You’ll have to wait until the Surface Pro comes out in January to do that.

Tomorrow, I’ll discuss using StudioPlus Spectra on Windows 8, including tablets.