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Even if you never use it in tablet mode, this 12.5-inch convertible is a solid Ultrabook in its own right.

Dell has revamped its rotating Duo laptop concept into the much-improved XPS 12, but like most convertibles, it makes a better laptop than tablet.

The Dell XPS 12 hybrid ultrabook/tablet features a flip-and-fold display, providing ultrabook specs and performance with tablet functionality.

Featuring a well-designed flipping display and smooth performance, the Dell XPS 12 is a sleek Windows 8 Ultrabook that doubles as a tablet.

Overall, the XPS 12 works well in its dual roles. It's a fully functional laptop with no obvious compromises, and as a tablet it works as well as anything else.

If you're on the fence about needing a convertible, you'll want to shop around a bit more. As a tablet, it's too heavy to be of much use. And as an ultrabook, it's heavy as well, outweighing competing ultrabooks.

Mediocre battery life is our primary criticism, but if you can look past that the XPS 12 is the most convincing Windows 8 laptop we’ve gotten our hands on.

Dell deserves credit for a clever flip screen design in the XPS 12. But it’s very hard to make a computer that’s both a great laptop and a great tablet, even if the operating system contains elements of both.

Should You Buy It? You have to be a very specific kind of computer user to really love this one. The XPS's main virtue is that it's a great laptop that you can use like a real laptop—along with an awesome, touchable display.

As a laptop, I have no real complaint with the XPS 12. But, tragically, it’s largely unusable as a tablet.

Throw in a Full HD IPS screen, excellent speakers, a great keyboard and flexible specs under the hood with good battery life, and this well-built machine is a recommended contender if you’re after a powerful Windows 8 convertible.

Having tablet functionality is an added extra that enables you to get the best out of Windows 8 when you need it, which makes the Dell XPS 12 a real heavyweight, in every sense of the word.

A tablet would be cheaper and lighter, but it would not be able to replace the PC or notebook at home. That is what makes this newest addition to the XPS series so attractive - if the buyer has enough money for it.

While the design is a better laptop than a tablet, the XPS 12 is a solid performer, thanks to ultrabook-grade specs, an impressive battery life, and a design that prioritises comfort and usability.

If you're in the market for an ultrabook, you'll quickly discover the XPS 12 isn't the cheapest option out there. However, the XPS 12 is a solid, well-built system that has some additional features you won't find on these lower-priced ultrabooks.

Dell's first Windows 8 convertible is a doozy, combining ultrabook power and tablet functionality in a portable package with few compromises. It's big for a tablet, but the 1080p display is drool-worthy.