We had a chance to go hands-on with HP's striking new ultrabook, the Envy 14 Spectre, and see first-hand how much care went into designing a high-end ultrabook experience that differentiates it from the pack. Given that it's slightly thicker, heavier, and more expensive than some of the other options out there, the Spectre yet goes a long way to convince you the tradeoff is worthwhile.
Featuring a unique glass body design, the glossy black back on the Spectre gives the device a distinct and classy look and feel. On the specs side of the house we have a 14-inch screen supporting 1600 x 900 resolution, an Intel Core i5 processor, 4GB RAM, backlit keyboard, and a reported 9 hours of battery life. The Spectre also brings a few rather unique features to the table including, surprisingly, support for NFC. Traditionally used in mobile payments, whilst on board the HP Spectre it will allow you to transfer URLs and other bits of data between the ultrabook and other devices you may own including smartphones and tablets.
Other unusual features include Beats audio, full copies of Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Elements, a wireless audio feature allowing music streaming to up to four other devices, and an included two-year subscription to Norton Internet Security. Optional upgrades will include maxing out the RAM to 8GB and the storage to a 256GB solid-state drive. The basic configuration will start at $1,399 when the Spectre goes on sale this February 8.
Don't miss our gallery of the HP Envy 14 Spectre »
CES 2012: HP Envy 14 Spectre ultrabook video hands-on
Innovative design and a unique featureset make this laptop stand out from the pack
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