The year in review: ROG Flow Z13 to Galaxy Book2 Pro, five best laptops of 2022

by James · December 8, 2022

As demand for thinner and lighter laptops increases, it’s no surprise that device makers are going all out to pack as much as possible into compact form factors, even if that means experimenting with convention. Quite a few laptops were launched this year, and many of them focused on delivering a better user experience, while others simply offered premium features such as ecosystem advantage, large-capacity battery, and solid construction. From experimental form factors to two-in-ones and compact devices in the thin and light category, here are the five devices that will shape the notebook market in 2022:

Asus ROG Flow Z13

The Asus ROG Flow Z13 is a gaming-centric device, which is first and foremost a tablet. However, it works like a laptop. It takes cues from Microsoft’s Surface Pro X devices and has a multi-angle support for ease of use. Even with the tablet form factor, the device does not compromise on I/O ports. It has a USB-A port, USB-C port, a Thunderbolt 4 port, a headphone jack and a microSD card slot. ROG Flow Z13 has a full HD IPS LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. Like most gaming laptops, it also has RGB lighting on the keyboard and on the back of the device.

Price: Rs 1,36,990 onwards

Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro

The Galaxy Book 2 Pro marked the return of the South Korean electronics maker in India, and was among the first laptops in the country to be powered by Intel’s 12th generation Core processors. Complementing Samsung’s product ecosystem, the laptop starts the Windows 11 Home operating system loaded with several Samsung apps for an immersive experience – if you have supported Samsung smartphones, tablets and audio accessories. It is a portable laptop that is easy to carry around and convenient to use. It has a USB-C port for charging and two front-facing microphones with built-in noise reduction technology.

Price: Rs 1,14,990 onwards

Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio

Aimed at creators, the Surface Laptop Studio is a one-of-a-kind laptop with an experimental form factor. Unlike other two-in-one devices, the screen is neither attached to the lid nor does it detach completely from the body. There is a hinge that allows free movement of the screen without having to adjust the lid. The design is good and so is the screen. It has a 14.4-inch touchscreen with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and support for Dolby Vision. Complementing the visual experience is the solid sound system with Dolby Atmos for a surround sound experience.

Price: Rs 1,65,999 onwards

Microsoft Surface Pro X

The Microsoft Surface Pro X is essentially a tablet, which works like a laptop. Instead of the Intel Core CPU and integrated GPU, it is equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8CX processor and has integrated 4G connectivity. It’s a slim tablet with barely any bezels and has a built-in kickstand on the back, which nestles nicely with the rest of the body when closed. It runs Windows 11 interface and is also compatible with Surface Slim Pen. On the front, it has a 5MP camera for video calls, surrounded by IR sensors for Windows Hello-based face unlock technology.

Price: Rs 97,290 onwards

Asus Vivobook Pro 16X OLED

The Asus Vivobook Pro 16X OLED laptop is aimed at content creators who need fast components and some specialized features. What really stands out is the screen. It has a 16-inch 4K OLED screen with natural colors and very fast response times. It has an Asus Dial in the trackpad, which can be used in Adobe’s Creative Suite apps and to control volume and screen brightness. The power button on the keyboard also functions as a fingerprint reader.