6 best laptops and tablets combo for Father's Day

We've got great gift ideas for gadget-loving dads

Published: June 11, 2014 11:45 AM

HP Split 13-g210dx x2 Convertible Ultrabook

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Tablets

Want to keep your dad plugged into the latest technology this Father's Day? A new computer, a tablet, or a two-in-one computer would make a great gift, especially if you're chipping in with a sibling or two.

Here are six great ideas for high-tech dads.

For the tablet-toting dad

A great display, lots of content (especially for subscribers to Amazon Prime, which costs $80 a year), and free, quick on-screen tech support distinguish Amazon's Kindle Fire HDX ($230). It's also very portable and comfortable to hold for long periods.

If you're looking for a larger tablet, there's always the Apple iPad Air ($500). It's a great performer with a beautiful display, and of course, a phenomenal app store. Both tablets are great for playing games of all sorts.

Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch

For the dad who's on the go

The latest version of the 13-inch Apple MacBook Air ($1,000) is the undisputed leader among laptops when it comes to battery life. Can you say more than 16 hours? That's three hours longer than the nearest Windows competitor. It's as thin and light as always, weighing in at 3 pounds. Plus, it's an excellent performer.

If dad's a Windows guy, get him the Asus Zenbook UX302LA-BH15T08 ($800). Battery life on this 13-inch laptop is 8.5 hours, and it weighs 3.4 pounds. And if your dad likes to play a little Call of Duty during the wee hours, this laptop is among the best for gaming.

Before you shop, check our buying guide and Ratings for computers and tablets.

For the dad who wants it all

No need to stop at one gadget when you can have two for the same price. The HP Split 13-g210dx x2 Convertible Ultrabook ($900, pictured at top) is a detachable 13-inch laptop. Pull the display out of the keyboard, and you've got a Windows tablet. Laptop performance is excellent, with 12 hours of battery life when docked.

If you don't mind giving your pop a rain check, the Microsoft Surface Pro 3 (starting at $800) is available for pre-order. It's a 12-inch Windows laptop-tablet combo that has a cool keyboard (optional, $130) and a stand that you can adjust in multiple positions. We haven't tested this version yet, but the Microsoft Surface Pro 2 topped our Ratings.

--Donna L. Tapellini