Get a Vizio 14-inch ultrabook for $598
That's about $200 less than you'll pay for most other ultrabooks. This model isn't top of its class, but it sure is attractive.
Ultrabooks -- often regarded as the Windows camp's answer to the MacBook Air, but really just a marketing term to describe thin, lightweight laptops. (In my day they were called ultraportables, but whatever.)
Most ultrabooks start at $799, a hard price to swallow given that non-"ultra" laptops packing just as much power often sell for half as much.
So on paper, at least, today's deal is looking mighty sweet: While supplies last, Wal-Mart has the Vizio Thin+Light CT14-A0 ultraportable for $598, with free store pickup. Obviously you'll be on the hook for sales tax as well.
The CT14 features an Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM, a 128GB solid-state drive (yum), and a 14-inch LED-backlit screen. It's also packing Bluetooth, a Webcam, two USB 3.0 ports, and an HDMI output.
Of course, the really sexy specs are these: the unit measures 9.2 by 13.3 by 0.67 inches (translation: it's mighty thin) and weighs 3.2 pounds. Sure, the MacBook Air still has it beat, but the MacBook Air starts at $1,000.
Like I said, all this sounds pretty good on paper. But according to CNET's review of the Vizio CT14, not everything here is as "ultra" as it should be.
Specifically, the reviewer dinged its battery life and touch pad, both important considerations in any laptop purchase. Other demerits came from the non-backlit keyboard and curious lack of an SD slot.
On the plus side, the CT14 was praised for having "an excellent consumer-electronics-inspired design" and being "enviably thin and light." No mistake about it: this baby's a looker.
It's also the single most affordable ultrabook I've seen to date. If you don't need an all-day battery but do need an extra $200 in your pocket, this might be worth a look.
Bonus deal: Looking for a cute little Bluetooth speaker you can toss in your bag for anytime, anywhere audio? Geeks.com has the Hype HY-525-BT portable Bluetooth speaker for $17.99, plus around $3 for shipping. It promises up to 4 hours of play time, recharges via USB, and has a line-in jack for use with non-Bluetooth devices.
Deals found on The Cheapskate are subject to availability, expiration, and other terms determined by sellers.
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