Get an HP Core i3 convertible tablet for $699.98

Every so often I get an e-mail asking me to share a good tablet PC deal. My response: as soon as I find one, I will!

Tablet PCs (by which I mean the kind that have traditional laptop keyboards but can transform into slates) just haven't come down much in price over the years.

Today, however, there's a compelling exception: the HP TouchSmart tm2t convertible tablet is on sale for $699.98 shipped (when you apply coupon code NB3749 at checkout). Regular price: a thousand bucks.

This isn't some low-grade 2007 leftover, either. The tm2t features an Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM, a 500GB hard drive, and a 12.1-inch LED-backlit touch screen. It's powered by Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit.

In other words, this sucker's loaded for bear, as well-equipped as any higher-end laptop that doesn't happen to have a rotating, fold-down screen. HP even bundles an external LightScribe DVD burner, making it easier to install any software you have that's still on CDs. (It also lets you watch and burn DVDs, natch.)

CNET hasn't reviewed the tm2t, but Engadget had mostly good things to say, calling it "one of the better convertible laptops for students or just those that just want to reach out and touch a screen."

I should note that with the same coupon code and another 50 bucks, you can get the tm2t with a Core i5 processor. Probably worth it if you're concerned about performance (which, frankly, Engadget said was just so-so with the Core i3.)

Anyone have any hands-on experience with this tablet? If so, share it in the comments!

Bonus deal: Two great items for Mac users! First, Digiarty Software is offering a new free edition of MacX DVD Ripper. It can rip copy-protected DVDs to any number of popular formats. Second, awesome indie game World of Goo is on sale for $2.99 when you use coupon code WOG299. (It's also available for Windows at that price.)