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Review Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B Tablet

Pulled all the punches? Only 10 millimeters thick, yet a Windows tablet with the usual speedy performance? Sony believes demanding users can work more productively than ever with a Windows tablet today without sacrificing comfort or mobility. Is it the tablet highlight of the year?
Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B: Can the slimmest also be the best?
Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B: Can the slimmest also be the best?

For the original German review, see here.

How can you turn a clamshell laptop into a tablet without making it into a bulky and unhandy convertible? Many answers have been found for this question in the past two years. Some separate the screen from a keyboard dock (HP Spectre 13), others simply fold the screen in a frame (Dell XPS 12), and even others invent a 360 degree hinge to fold the screen on the back (Lenovo Yoga models, e.g. Yoga 11S). Sony opted for a slide mechanism for its Vaio Duo 11 and Duo 13 models early, and was quite successful with that on the market. At least, we believe this looking at the feedback from the readers.

The numerous convertibles of the past two years emerged for system reasons: How can you build a "tablet" that features the same performance, and (customary) comfort of a real keyboard? Convertibles seemed to be the best solution for this because the same Intel Core platforms could partly be installed as in subnotebooks.

However, there were also pure tablet form factors for the Windows World. Devices, such as the Microsoft Surface Pro or the early Samsung Series 7 XE700T1A-H01DE Slate PC suffered from a fairly short battery runtime, high weight, and massive throttling in some cases (Surface Pro). We also encountered some full-fledged models that represented an all around work device, and that had a reasonable price, e.g. Wortmann's Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro.

Sony now attempts to reinforce exactly this lineup of genuine Windows tablets without the ballast of convertibles. At 10 millimeters (~0.4 inches), the Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B wants to be the thinnest Win-Tablet on the market, offer long runtimes, and give the user Intel Core computing power.

Microsoft's Surface Pro 2, recently positioned itself as a direct competitor for the slim Windows 8 Vaio. Also equipped with the Haswell generation, it stands out with virtually unleashed performance, and a very good screen. Lenovo's ThinkPad Helix 3G is at the very top of professional users' wish list because it features first-rate input devices (keyboard dock) alongside high processing power, and many interfaces.

The Vaio Tap 11 is available starting at 800 Euros (~$1094). Sony makes this possible by using a low-priced entry-level configuration in the form of a Pentium 3650Y. The review sample however costs 1300 Euros (~$1778) in the Core i5 configuration with a 256 GB SSD.

Case

The tablet and the keyboard add up to 15 millimeters. The chassis does not slip out of the hands. Bad: Pressure marks are visible on the screen when handling the tablet, or light pressure is applied on the screen's right.
The tablet and the keyboard add up to 15 millimeters. The chassis does not slip out of the hands. Bad: Pressure marks are visible on the screen when handling the tablet, or light pressure is applied on the screen's right.

Sony states that it is the "thinnest Windows 8 tablet in the world". That is well possible because its thickness of 10 millimeters has not yet been achieved in this performance category with an Intel Core processor. The build's height increases to 15 millimeters (~0.6 inches) with the same external dimensions when placed on the keyboard. The Surface Pro 2 is four millimeters (total ~0.76 inches) thicker, and Lenovo's Helix reaches 20 millimeters (~0.79) with its keyboard dock. Apple's iPad (3rd Gen. 2012) has the lead with 9.5 millimeters (~0.37), but it does not sport Intel Core components.

The keyboard is connected to the sleek tablet only magnetically. This is just enough to lift the tablet without losing the keyboard. At the same time, the 3-pin connector ensures a certain hold against lateral shifting. Overall, it is fun to carry the tablet with its connected keyboard. However, the keyboard plate often slips slightly, but the magnets pull it back in the park position immediately.

How is the tablet propped up in front of the keyboard? Like in Microsoft's Surface 2, there is a stand on the back, but it is much more delicate in this case.

The tablet exhibits even gaps, but the matte plastic frame can be pushed away with a fingernail in some places. The plain looks of the overall matte casing (the backside is hard plastic) are interrupted a bit by the interface flaps. We touched the wobbly left cover frequently when handling the device and it sometimes even opened.

The keyboard's weight of 290 grams (~10.2 ounces) is relatively high, and is due to the thin aluminum plate that composes its base. The keyboard is very pliable, but that is not a problem when placed on the desk.

Right: Headphone/microphone, power on, volume rocker
Right: Headphone/microphone, power on, volume rocker
Left: AC, micro HDMI, USB 3.0
Left: AC, micro HDMI, USB 3.0
Top: Micro SD card slot, NFC receiver position
Top: Micro SD card slot, NFC receiver position

Connectivity

USB and micro-HDMI are the only significant mechanical ports on the Tap 11. Unfortunately, both are located on the far upper left, which looks especially unsightly on the desk when cable/s is/are connected. At least the power supply's cord is pulled to the very bottom, and has a special feature: The plug can either be bent down or "pulled off". Thus, no one will stumble over the cord and tear the tablet from the desk.

Software

A generous supply of software or bloatware? Sony stuffs the 256 GB hard drive full of programs, including full and trial versions. The user only has 140 GB available in the state of delivery after deducting McAfee LiveSafe, Sociallife, and Office 365 (trial). Sony does not install commercial software like Imagination Studio (video, audio creation/editing) on the Vaio Fit 13A (value: 99 Euros; ~$135). However, this seems appropriate in view of the target group.

Communication & Security

Like almost all review samples, Intel's Wireless-N 7260 Wi-Fi adapter only transmitted up to a distance of 10 meters (~33 feet) without clearly losing signal strength. It lost contact with the router at a distance of 15 meters (~49 feet) outside of the building. All other tested devices still displayed a signal strength of at least 2 - 3 bars. Apparently, this is not due to poor antennas because all Wireless-N 7260 modules exhibit this range limit (e.g. Vaio Pro 13, Vaio Fit 13A, Lenovo IdeaPad U430pDell Inspiron 7737). The router runs with a transmission performance of 50% in our non-standardized tests. Both Bluetooth 4.0, and an NFC module are installed for contact-less connections, for example with "NFC enabled" Bluetooth headphones.

The Vaio does not feature exclusive hardware security features, such as a TPM module or fingerprint scanner. It does not even have a Kensington lock. However, Intel's Anti-Theft is installed. The BIOS only has a few, consumer-typical options, e.g. entering a system password.

Cameras & Multimedia

Both webcams are identical with the ones in the Vaio Fit 13A, and the same applies to their quality. Besides the front-facing camera (0.9 MP, 1280x720 pixels), there is an 8 megapixel primary camera on the back (3264x2449 pixels). The picture quality in daylight is good. The Tap 11 displayed an incorrect focus on the object in the medium resolution (1920x1080). The focus is also behind the object in the maximum resolution (screenshot 3). This can be prevented by making several attempts and by focusing the object exactly in the picture's center in the best case.

Otherwise, the pictures are displayed clearly, there is no noise, and the colors look natural. We took the shots under heavily overcast conditions. The front-facing HD camera is not at all as good. Its pixelated, dark pictures are only suitable for snapshots or video conferences.

8 MP: 1920x1080 close-up
8 MP: 1920x1080 close-up
8 MP: 1920x1080 long-shot
8 MP: 1920x1080 long-shot
8 MP: 3264x2449 close-up
8 MP: 3264x2449 close-up
8 MP: 3264x2449 long-shot
8 MP: 3264x2449 long-shot
Reference: Canon EOS 1100D
Reference: Canon EOS 1100D
0.9 MP: 1280x720
0.9 MP: 1280x720

Maintenance

The 11.6-inch tablet does not have maintenance covers; the battery is not removable.

Warranty

Sony includes a two-year warranty on its Vaio Tap 11. The manufacturer offers the same warranty upgrades for all Vaio devices; information can be found on the corresponding website. The 4-year warranty upgrade costs 170 Euros (~$233).

Accessories

Sony puts a digitizer pen in the box that fits to the touchscreen's grid surface. An Ethernet Wi-Fi and HDMI-to-VGA adapter are optionally available. Together they cost 60 Euros (~$82, Sony Store).

Guides, product and warranty information, and flyers
Guides, product and warranty information, and flyers
Standard: Digitizer Stylus VGP-STD2
Standard: Digitizer Stylus VGP-STD2
The stylus is powered by a triple-A battery
The stylus is powered by a triple-A battery

Input Devices & Controls

Keyboard

The small keyboard is connected to the Tap 11 via Bluetooth and is enabled via NFC. It is connected without notification as soon as it comes near the tablet. It can be completely disabled via a switch. The drop is sufficient, and the pressure point is clear; unfortunately, the latter results in a spongy stroke. However, the key bed does not yield since the input is level on the desk. The keys feel uneven, particularly on the left, and their surfaces yield only slightly when hit by the finger. The layout and key spacing allows swift typing. The even keys however do not give touch-typists a particularly good accuracy.

Touchpad

The touchpad is part of the Bluetooth buttons, and it can be disabled via a switch. Subtle dots indicate the pad's surface. The pad with dedicated mouse buttons is sensitive up to its edges, and supports the standard multi-touchpad functions. However, we could not do more than zoom or scroll with two fingers because the options in the mouse driver are much too limited. The device is only listed as an HID compliant mouse, and only the Windows settings are available for the input device.

Two buttons are below the long key's right and left. They have a short drop, and a stiff yet clear pressure point. Overall, the pad's quality is acceptable, but it would have had to feature a considerably better typing feedback for the premium class.

Touchscreen

The touchscreen responds to finger inputs immediately. Clicks on small icons are detected accurately. Modifications via the Vaio Control Center were not necessary. The included VGP-STD2 digitizer stylus is the ideal tool for effectively integrating the touchscreen in the Windows work life. The aluminum pen is comfortable to hold (appropriate weight). As soon as the stylus hovers over the screen, finger inputting is disabled, and we could place our palm or finger on the touchscreen. The pen implements writing or drawings on the screen without delay. We did not ascertain any deviations at the edges.

Unlike in the Vaio Fit 13A, Sony does not install Vaio Clip and Vaio Paper on the SSD, but rather Note Anytime. This tool enables creating notes from web content, programs, and of course handwritten inputs. The named tools can be downloaded from Sony or from the Windows Store. CamScanner is installed and even recognized text from a picture taken with the camera via OCR. However, the recognition rate was poor in our tests.

Stylus for the digitizer screen
Stylus for the digitizer screen
Touchpad - dotted surface; too short key drop
Touchpad - dotted surface; too short key drop
Keyboard - sufficient drop, spongy feedback
Keyboard - sufficient drop, spongy feedback

Display

Sony only sells its 11.6-inch tablet in one configuration - with a glossy FHD screen (1920x1080 pixels). This results in a pixel density of 190 ppi. The IPS screen has fairly wide viewing angles as typical for the category, and a surface for digitizer pens. The ThinkPad Helix and Surface Pro 2 contenders feature exactly the same screens according to the technical specs.

The contrast and brightness are the most important features of a screen. However, they only differ marginally among the contenders. The Helix leads in contrast (949:1), followed by our Tap 11 (831:1), and the Surface Pro 2 (682:1) comes in third. Since the fluctuations in TFTs range from 250:1 to 1500:1, the difference here can be considered marginal. It looks the same in brightness; the differences are within a one-digit range. These, and the other rates are very identical with that of the Vaio Fit 13A multi-flip SV-F13N1L2E/S convertible that is however a 13.3 inch device.

420
cd/m²
416
cd/m²
422
cd/m²
409
cd/m²
407
cd/m²
427
cd/m²
404
cd/m²
367
cd/m²
438
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
VVX11F019G00 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 438 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 412.2 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 84 %
Center on Battery: 407 cd/m²
Contrast: 831:1 (Black: 0.49 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 8.85 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 8.1 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
61% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
61.7% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
85.2% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
61.8% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 3.15
sRGB color space: not covered
sRGB color space: not covered
AdobeRGB color space: Only covered to 61%
AdobeRGB color space: Only covered to 61%

The screen's illumination is quite good in view of the high brightness of 412 cd/m², although the luminosity decreases a bit in the lower center. We did not notice clouding at the edges or in any sectors of the screen.

The Tap 11 cannot reproduce either the sRGB or AdobeRGB color spaces. The screen can only display 61% of the latter, which is however quite good compared with most consumer devices. The smaller sRGB space is not reproduced either. This is more important for professionals, still the competition is no better in this field; they are worse.

We measured the screen with the X-Rite i1Pro 2 spectral photometer. CalMAN showed visible deviations in the grayscale, which is underlined by a high DeltaE of 8. Deviations in blue, magenta, and red were detected among the colors. They are the reason that the grayscale shifts into warm hues. The gray hues strongly shift into blue (cold) in most no-name screens. These deviations are averagely 10 (ColorChecker). The Helix is first place in grayscale and saturation (avg. DeltaE 3); the Surface Pro 2 (3.5) follows close behind.

CalMAN Grayscale
CalMAN Grayscale
CalMAN Saturation Sweeps
CalMAN Saturation Sweeps
CalMAN ColorChecker
CalMAN ColorChecker
Display
Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B
HD Graphics 4200, 4210Y, Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD256HAGM
Display P3 Coverage
61.8 % ∼62%
sRGB Coverage
85.2 % ∼85%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
61.7 % ∼62%
Toshiba Portege Z10t
HD Graphics 4000, 3339Y, Toshiba THNSNF256GMCS
Display P3 Coverage
47.37 % ∼47%
sRGB Coverage
69.4 % ∼69%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
48.74 % ∼49%
Acer W700-53334G12as
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Toshiba THNSNS128GMCP
Display P3 Coverage
46.24 % ∼46%
sRGB Coverage
68.3 % ∼68%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
48.01 % ∼48%
Sony Vaio Duo 11 SV-D1121X9EB
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Toshiba THNSNS128GMCP
Display P3 Coverage
46.89 % ∼47%
sRGB Coverage
69.6 % ∼69%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
48.56 % ∼49%
Lenovo ThinkPad Helix
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Intel SSD 525 Series SSDMCEAC180A3L
Display P3 Coverage
46.12 % ∼46%
sRGB Coverage
67.8 % ∼68%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
47.79 % ∼48%
Gigabyte S1185
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Phison SSG128GPTC0-S81
Display P3 Coverage
63.5 % ∼64%
sRGB Coverage
83.2 % ∼83%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
60.3 % ∼60%
Microsoft Surface Pro 2
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hynix HFS128G3MNM
Display P3 Coverage
44.23 % ∼44%
sRGB Coverage
66.2 % ∼66%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
45.74 % ∼46%
Wortmann Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, 128 GB SATA SSD
Display P3 Coverage
39.18 % ∼39%
sRGB Coverage
57.7 % ∼58%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
40.19 % ∼40%
Screen
Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B
HD Graphics 4200, 4210Y, Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD256HAGM
Brightness middle
407 cd/m² ∼142%
Brightness
412 cd/m² ∼162%
Brightness Distribution
84 % ∼104%
Black Level *
0.49 cd/m² ∼129%
Contrast
831 :1 ∼110%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
8.85 ∼74%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
8.1 ∼65%
Gamma
3.15 ∼107%
CCT
7203 ∼46%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
61 % ∼165%
Toshiba Portege Z10t
HD Graphics 4000, 3339Y, Toshiba THNSNF256GMCS
Brightness middle
301 cd/m² ∼105%
Brightness
277 cd/m² ∼109%
Brightness Distribution
73 % ∼90%
Black Level *
0.26 cd/m² ∼68%
Contrast
1158 :1 ∼153%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
4.33 ∼36%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
2.75 ∼22%
Gamma
2.29 ∼78%
CCT
6785 ∼44%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
44 % ∼119%
Acer W700-53334G12as
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Toshiba THNSNS128GMCP
Brightness middle
379 cd/m² ∼132%
Brightness
355 cd/m² ∼140%
Brightness Distribution
85 % ∼105%
Black Level *
0.39 cd/m² ∼103%
Contrast
972 :1 ∼129%
Sony Vaio Duo 11 SV-D1121X9EB
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Toshiba THNSNS128GMCP
Brightness middle
417 cd/m² ∼145%
Brightness
382 cd/m² ∼150%
Brightness Distribution
84 % ∼104%
Black Level *
0.46 cd/m² ∼121%
Contrast
907 :1 ∼120%
Lenovo ThinkPad Helix
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Intel SSD 525 Series SSDMCEAC180A3L
Brightness middle
389 cd/m² ∼136%
Brightness
371 cd/m² ∼146%
Brightness Distribution
89 % ∼110%
Black Level *
0.41 cd/m² ∼108%
Contrast
949 :1 ∼126%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
3.12 ∼26%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
2.79 ∼23%
Gigabyte S1185
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Phison SSG128GPTC0-S81
Brightness middle
309 cd/m² ∼108%
Brightness
288 cd/m² ∼113%
Brightness Distribution
84 % ∼104%
Black Level *
0.317 cd/m² ∼83%
Contrast
975 :1 ∼129%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
3.82 ∼32%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
3.53 ∼29%
Gamma
2.46 ∼83%
CCT
6106 ∼39%
Microsoft Surface Pro 2
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hynix HFS128G3MNM
Brightness middle
375 cd/m² ∼131%
Brightness
358 cd/m² ∼141%
Brightness Distribution
91 % ∼112%
Black Level *
0.55 cd/m² ∼145%
Contrast
682 :1 ∼90%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
3.53 ∼30%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
5.31 ∼43%
Gamma
2.55 ∼86%
CCT
6504 ∼42%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
40 % ∼108%
Wortmann Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, 128 GB SATA SSD
Brightness middle
287 cd/m² ∼100%
Brightness
254 cd/m² ∼100%
Brightness Distribution
81 % ∼100%
Black Level *
0.38 cd/m² ∼100%
Contrast
755 :1 ∼100%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
11.89 ∼100%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
12.38 ∼100%
Gamma
2.95 ∼100%
CCT
15561 ∼100%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
37 % ∼100%

* ... smaller is better

Sun worshipers do not appreciate glossy tablets, but almost all devices feature a reflective-type screen. Even exceptions, like the Toshiba's Z10t, are only covered with a matte screen protector. The high brightness can defy relatively gloomy daylight, but the reflections can sometimes have a very adverse effect for the viewer.

Overcast, indirect light
Overcast, indirect light
Overcast, light from the side
Overcast, light from the side
Overcast, reflections
Overcast, reflections

The Tap 11 features first-rate viewing angles. We see a razor-sharp and color-stable picture from every position. The contenders with an IPS screen can compete with this.

Viewing angles: Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B
Viewing angles: Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B

Performance

How can Sony put the maximum power in a thin casing without breaking the battery and temperature limits? The magic words here are ultra low voltage, but this time in the perfected form of a Core i5-4210Y. While the Core i5-4200U sister model (1.6 - 2.6 GHz) is already frugal with a TDP of 15 Watts, the Y-model's clock is not as high, and only ranges in a vicinity of 1.5 to 1.9 GHz. This reduces the TDP to 11.5 Watts. Then there is the HD Graphics 4200 (200 - 850 MHz) as the most economical model of the Haswell iGPUs. The CPU-GPU combination is quite rare; we have only tested a very similar setup in the Spectre 13-h205eg x2 (Core i5-4202Y) until now.

This energy-efficient bundle is complemented with 4 GB of RAM, connected in dual-channel mode (2 x 2048 MB on-board), and Samsung's PM841 MZMTD256HAGM 256 GB SSD.

System info CPU-Z CPU
System info CPU-Z Cache
System info CPU-Z Mainboard
System info CPU-Z Memory
System info GPU-Z HD 4200
CrystalDiskMark 495 MB/s seq. read
ASSSD 502 MB/s seq. read
System information: Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B

Processor

Cinebench R11.5 Multi CPU@1.3 GHz
Cinebench R11.5 Multi [email protected] GHz
Prime95 Multi CPU-Stress: CPU@1.2 GHz
Prime95 Multi CPU-Stress: [email protected] GHz
R11.5 OpenGL not consistently loaded
R11.5 OpenGL not consistently loaded

Can the Core i5-4210Y really combine frugality and power? Looking at Cinebench R11.5, this is not the case. All tablets and convertibles featuring a 15 Watt (Haswell) or even a 17 Watt (Ivy Bridge) processor are 45 to 67% faster (multithread). The single thread tests slightly balance this difference.

Toshiba's Z10t also sports a Y-processor, but scores higher. The reason for this is the 3339Y can consume 13 Watts, and clock up to 2.0 GHz (spec sheet). Besides that, Toshiba modified the processor, and increased the Turbo to 2.1 GHz, which is also available in multithreading.

However, those are no reasons for these major differences. Sony has clipped the Turbo. The R11.5 multi benchmark ran with 1.3 GHz, and a consistently running CPU-only stress test achieved a clock of 1.2 GHz (Prime95 multithread). That is clearly below the default clock of 1.5 GHz. The theoretical Turbo of 1.9 GHz did not even come close to being achieved during our CPU tests.

Intel's SDP (scenario design power) might be an answer in this case. OEMs have the option of setting the PL1 to 6 or 11.5 Watts in Y-CPUs (power level in terms of time). The CPU could theoretically achieve 11.5 Watts during shorter loads; it would however drop back to 6 Watts during longer loads. More information about this can be found in this ars-technica article.

We ran all benchmarks on AC power, and using the Performance or High Performance modes (Vaio Control). An option for Turbo on/off is neither available there nor in the BIOS. The low performance is not reduced in battery mode (identical R11.5 scores).

Cinebench R11.5
CPU Multi 64Bit (sort by value)
Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B
HD Graphics 4200, 4210Y, Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD256HAGM
1.5 Points
Toshiba Portege Z10t
HD Graphics 4000, 3339Y, Toshiba THNSNF256GMCS
2.1 Points +40%
Acer W700-53334G12as
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Toshiba THNSNS128GMCP
2.18 Points +45%
Sony Vaio Duo 11 SV-D1121X9EB
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Toshiba THNSNS128GMCP
2.35 Points +57%
Lenovo ThinkPad Helix
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Intel SSD 525 Series SSDMCEAC180A3L
2.38 Points +59%
Gigabyte S1185
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Phison SSG128GPTC0-S81
2.5 Points +67%
Microsoft Surface Pro 2
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hynix HFS128G3MNM
2.51 Points +67%
Wortmann Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, 128 GB SATA SSD
2.5 Points +67%
CPU Single 64Bit (sort by value)
Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B
HD Graphics 4200, 4210Y, Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD256HAGM
0.85 Points
Toshiba Portege Z10t
HD Graphics 4000, 3339Y, Toshiba THNSNF256GMCS
0.95 Points +12%
Acer W700-53334G12as
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Toshiba THNSNS128GMCP
1.09 Points +28%
Sony Vaio Duo 11 SV-D1121X9EB
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Toshiba THNSNS128GMCP
1.07 Points +26%
Lenovo ThinkPad Helix
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Intel SSD 525 Series SSDMCEAC180A3L
1.06 Points +25%
Gigabyte S1185
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Phison SSG128GPTC0-S81
1.12 Points +32%
Microsoft Surface Pro 2
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hynix HFS128G3MNM
1.14 Points +34%
Wortmann Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, 128 GB SATA SSD
1.09 Points +28%

We performed Geekbench 2/3 (32-bit) and GFXBenchmark to compare the performance with Apple's iPad Air. The scores were still clearly in favor of the Intel system (20 to 50%), even when compared with premium-range Android tablets. The Galaxy Note 10.1 however achieved a higher score in Geekbench 2. The ARM-based CPUs are still inferior in the single core tests.

Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B
HD Graphics 4200, 4210Y, Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD256HAGM
Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1, 2014 Edition
Adreno 330, 800 MSM8974, 16 GB eMMC Flash
Apple iPad Air 1 2013
PowerVR G6430, A7, 16 GB eMMC Flash
HP SlateBook x2
GeForce Tegra 4, 4, 16 GB SSD
Geekbench 2 - 32 Bit
Total Score
3581
3959
11%
Geekbench 3
-31%
-21%
-39%
32 Bit Multi-Core Score
3364
2995
-11%
2687
-20%
2513
-25%
32 Bit Single-Core Score
1907
956
-50%
1479
-22%
893
-53%
GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7
-42%
-29%
-51%
T-Rex Onscreen
32
15
-53%
21
-34%
16
-50%
1920x1080 T-Rex Offscreen
35
24
-31%
27
-23%
17
-51%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-21% / -27%
-25% / -25%
-45% / -45%

System Performance

Clipped processing power also leads to a lower application performance. Sony tries to counter this with a very swift SSD (one of the best PCMark 8 Storage Scores), but it is almost always only enough for the last place in the comparison with premium hardware. The differences in the various PCMark tests are 11 to 28%.

PCMark 7 details
PCMark 7 details
PCMark 8 Creative details
PCMark 8 Creative details
PCMark 8 Home details
PCMark 8 Home details
PCMark 8 Work details
PCMark 8 Work details
PCMark 8 Storage details
PCMark 8 Storage details
Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B
HD Graphics 4200, 4210Y, Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD256HAGM
Toshiba Portege Z10t
HD Graphics 4000, 3339Y, Toshiba THNSNF256GMCS
Wortmann Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, 128 GB SATA SSD
Gigabyte S1185
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Phison SSG128GPTC0-S81
Microsoft Surface Pro 2
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hynix HFS128G3MNM
PCMark 7
Score
3661
4064
11%
3906
7%
4393
20%
4808
31%
PCMark 8
3%
15%
7%
25%
Home Score Accelerated
2016
2235
11%
2625
30%
2386
18%
3012
49%
Creative Score Accelerated
1978
1933
-2%
2237
13%
2204
11%
Work Score Accelerated
3671
3778
3%
4533
23%
3742
2%
Storage Score
4906
4915
0%
4641
-5%
4768
-3%
4914
0%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
7% / 5%
11% / 14%
14% / 10%
28% / 27%
PCMark 7 Score
3661 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated
2016 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated
1978 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated
3671 points
Help

Storage Device

Sony relies on a swift SSD model from Samsung. The PM841 MZMTD256HAGM with a gross capacity of 256 GB delivers very good rates in read and write of both big and small data blocks. There is no sign of the weakness as occasionally observed in a few models in sequential read (Gigabyte S1185, Wortmann Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro) or write (Toshiba Z10t) of small blocks. The Read 4k turns out exceptionally well, where the Tap 11 outclasses the contenders by 16 to 62%. We summarized the Tap 11's advantages in the chart.

Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B
HD Graphics 4200, 4210Y, Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD256HAGM
Toshiba Portege Z10t
HD Graphics 4000, 3339Y, Toshiba THNSNF256GMCS
Lenovo ThinkPad Helix
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Intel SSD 525 Series SSDMCEAC180A3L
Wortmann Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, 128 GB SATA SSD
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
-6%
-17%
-32%
Read Seq
495.5
486.7
-2%
447
-10%
452.4
-9%
Write Seq
250.4
450.3
80%
260.2
4%
87.8
-65%
Read 4k
26.31
16.23
-38%
18.54
-30%
22.06
-16%
Write 4k
60.8
21.1
-65%
42.34
-30%
37.95
-38%
Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD256HAGM
Sequential Read: 495.5 MB/s
Sequential Write: 250.4 MB/s
512K Read: 418.2 MB/s
512K Write: 249.2 MB/s
4K Read: 26.31 MB/s
4K Write: 60.8 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 248 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 214.3 MB/s

Graphics Card

The low-end HD Graphics 4200 processor graphics card clocks with 200 - 850 MHz according to the spec sheet. This could unfortunately not be read out from the Vaio. However, the benchmarks based on the HD 4000, and the capacity indicator from GPU-Z indicate that it does not clock with 850 MHz during load, at least not stably. The HD 4000 in the Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro managed a 21% higher score despite its single-channel RAM. The ThinkPad Helix even achieved +29% with the same iGPU (both Ivy Bridge). The HD 4400 Ivy Bridge successor even accomplished a steep 115% more with dual-channel mode (Surface Pro 2).

Consequently, gaming should be placed at the bottom of the Tap 11 user's priority list. Only older tracks might be smoothly playable in the lowest settings. We exhaustively tested the HD 4200 in the Spectre 13-h205eg x2. The ascertained frame rates should reflect what will be achievable with the Vaio in the best case. Our review sample's throttling will likely lead to lower rates, as Tomb Raider (41%) proves.

Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B
HD Graphics 4200, 4210Y, Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD256HAGM
Wortmann Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, 128 GB SATA SSD
Lenovo ThinkPad Helix
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Intel SSD 525 Series SSDMCEAC180A3L
HP Spectre 13-h205eg x2
HD Graphics 4200, 4202Y, Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD128HAFV mSATA
Microsoft Surface Pro 2
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hynix HFS128G3MNM
Tomb Raider
1024x768 Low Preset
22.4
29
29%
37.1
66%
31.5
41%
3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
3043
3376
11%
2871
-6%
4256
40%
6067
99%
Cinebench R11.5
OpenGL 64Bit
9.68
11.86
23%
15.15
57%
16.2
67%
22.38
131%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
21% / 21%
39% / 39%
49% / 49%
115% / 115%
3DMark 06 Standard Score
3107 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
20149 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
2471 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
273 points
Help
low med. high ultra
Deus Ex Human Revolution (2011) 27.5 15.4
Tomb Raider (2013) 22.4 12.3
Dota 2 (2013) 28.3 15.8

Emissions

Vent on the top back side
Vent on the top back side

System Noise

Android tablets do not make noise. This is different in Intel systems, with a few exceptions (Bay Trail Atom). An interesting exception is the fan-less 13-inch HP Spectre 13-h205eg x2 (i5-4202Y), which has an identically low TDP of 11.5 Watts.

The Tap 11 is noiseless at idle because the fan is inactive. The fan's performance mode does not play a role here (performance, quiet). It gets louder during load in Performance mode. We ascertained 36.6 dB(A) in the stress test, as well as during normal load via 3DMark 06. Silent Mode only mutes the noise level marginally. The competition does a better job here: Lenovo's ThinkPad Helix and the Surface Pro 2 only achieved just below 32 dB(A) even in the stress test. The Helix remained extremely quiet during normal load in routine use with 30 dB(A).

Temperature

Stress test: Simultaneous Prime95 & FurMark - CPU@1100 MHz
Stress test: Simultaneous Prime95 & FurMark - CPU@1100 MHz
Stress test: Silent Mode - 600 to 700 MHz
Stress test: Silent Mode - 600 to 700 MHz

The waste heat during idle (upper and underside) is extremely low. The hot spot temperatures are even lower than that of most competitors named in the performance diagrams. Microsoft's Surface Pro 2 is 20% warmer, and the Helix even has a 29% higher temperature.

Lenovo blunders in load; the Helix reaches a temperature of 67 degrees Celsius (152.6 degrees Fahrenheit) selectively. The Tap 11 only just reaches 42 degrees (107.6 Fahrenheit) in the same stress situation (warmest spot).

The clock rate analysis confirms the results ascertained under Performance. The CPU soon throttles to 1.1 GHz, and remains there for the duration of the simultaneous load (two-hour stress test). Thus, the temperatures of the CPU can be kept at 55 degrees Celsius (131 Fahrenheit). We deem the settings as a bit over-cautious because the chip reached a temperature of just 57 degrees (134.6 Fahrenheit) during the test. The manufacturer probably has the tablet scenario in mind, where the chassis should not heat up excessively.

The CPU throttles its clock rate even more in the fan's Silent Mode (setting in Vaio Control), so down to 600 to 700 MHz. The iGPU clock could not be read out.

 26.5 °C
80 F
27.1 °C
81 F
25.6 °C
78 F
 
 25.5 °C
78 F
26 °C
79 F
25.1 °C
77 F
 
 25.5 °C
78 F
26.6 °C
80 F
25.3 °C
78 F
 
Maximum: 27.1 °C = 81 F
Average: 25.9 °C = 79 F
26.8 °C
80 F
30.2 °C
86 F
30.3 °C
87 F
25.1 °C
77 F
27.3 °C
81 F
27.8 °C
82 F
25.1 °C
77 F
26.6 °C
80 F
26.7 °C
80 F
Maximum: 30.3 °C = 87 F
Average: 27.3 °C = 81 F
Power Supply (max.)  30 °C = 86 F | Room Temperature 22.4 °C = 72 F | Voltcraft IR-360
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 31.5 °C / 89 F, compared to the average of 30.2 °C / 86 F for the devices in the class Convertible.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 35 °C / 95 F, compared to the average of 35.3 °C / 96 F, ranging from 19.6 to 55.7 °C for the class Convertible.
(±) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 42.1 °C / 108 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 25.9 °C / 79 F, compared to the device average of 30.2 °C / 86 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are reaching skin temperature as a maximum (33 °C / 91.4 F) and are therefore not hot.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.1 °C / 82.6 F (-4.9 °C / -8.8 F).
Noise
Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B
HD Graphics 4200, 4210Y, Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD256HAGM
Idle Minimum *
29.6 dB ∼110%
Idle Average *
29.6 dB ∼110%
Idle Maximum *
29.6 dB ∼110%
Load Average *
36.6 dB ∼113%
Load Maximum *
36.6 dB ∼113%
Wortmann Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, 128 GB SATA SSD
Idle Minimum *
31.5 dB ∼117%
Idle Average *
31.7 dB ∼117%
Idle Maximum *
32.2 dB ∼119%
Load Average *
39.8 dB ∼122%
Load Maximum *
41 dB ∼126%
Toshiba Portege Z10t
HD Graphics 4000, 3339Y, Toshiba THNSNF256GMCS
Idle Minimum *
30.1 dB ∼111%
Idle Average *
30.1 dB ∼111%
Idle Maximum *
31.7 dB ∼117%
Load Average *
36.6 dB ∼113%
Load Maximum *
40.6 dB ∼125%
Acer W700-53334G12as
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Toshiba THNSNS128GMCP
Idle Minimum *
29.4 dB ∼109%
Idle Average *
29.4 dB ∼109%
Idle Maximum *
30.6 dB ∼113%
Load Average *
34.5 dB ∼106%
Load Maximum *
37.4 dB ∼115%
Gigabyte S1185
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Phison SSG128GPTC0-S81
Idle Minimum *
31.2 dB ∼116%
Idle Average *
31.5 dB ∼117%
Idle Maximum *
31.8 dB ∼118%
Load Average *
37.1 dB ∼114%
Load Maximum *
37.4 dB ∼115%
Lenovo ThinkPad Helix
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Intel SSD 525 Series SSDMCEAC180A3L
Idle Minimum *
29.6 dB ∼110%
Idle Average *
29.6 dB ∼110%
Idle Maximum *
30.4 dB ∼113%
Load Average *
30 dB ∼92%
Load Maximum *
32.7 dB ∼101%
Sony Vaio Duo 11 SV-D1121X9EB
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Toshiba THNSNS128GMCP
Idle Minimum *
30.1 dB ∼111%
Idle Average *
30.4 dB ∼113%
Idle Maximum *
30.4 dB ∼113%
Load Average *
38.3 dB ∼118%
Load Maximum *
39.9 dB ∼123%
Microsoft Surface Pro 2
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hynix HFS128G3MNM
Idle Minimum *
27 dB ∼100%
Idle Average *
27 dB ∼100%
Idle Maximum *
27 dB ∼100%
Load Average *
32.5 dB ∼100%
Load Maximum *
32.5 dB ∼100%
Heat
Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B
HD Graphics 4200, 4210Y, Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD256HAGM
Maximum Upper Side *
35 °C ∼84%
Maximum Bottom *
42.1 °C ∼95%
Idle Upper Side *
27.1 °C ∼84%
Idle Bottom *
30.3 °C ∼102%
Wortmann Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, 128 GB SATA SSD
Maximum Upper Side *
47 °C ∼113%
Maximum Bottom *
50.6 °C ∼114%
Idle Upper Side *
33 °C ∼102%
Idle Bottom *
34.5 °C ∼116%
Toshiba Portege Z10t
HD Graphics 4000, 3339Y, Toshiba THNSNF256GMCS
Maximum Upper Side *
40.5 °C ∼97%
Maximum Bottom *
38.6 °C ∼87%
Idle Upper Side *
33.8 °C ∼104%
Idle Bottom *
33.1 °C ∼111%
Acer W700-53334G12as
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Toshiba THNSNS128GMCP
Maximum Upper Side *
39.6 °C ∼95%
Maximum Bottom *
41.2 °C ∼93%
Idle Upper Side *
28.2 °C ∼87%
Idle Bottom *
30.1 °C ∼101%
Gigabyte S1185
HD Graphics 4000, 3337U, Phison SSG128GPTC0-S81
Maximum Upper Side *
41.5 °C ∼100%
Maximum Bottom *
43.1 °C ∼97%
Idle Upper Side *
33 °C ∼102%
Idle Bottom *
40.2 °C ∼135%
Lenovo ThinkPad Helix
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Intel SSD 525 Series SSDMCEAC180A3L
Maximum Upper Side *
55.7 °C ∼134%
Maximum Bottom *
67.1 °C ∼151%
Idle Upper Side *
35 °C ∼108%
Idle Bottom *
37.7 °C ∼127%
Sony Vaio Duo 11 SV-D1121X9EB
HD Graphics 4000, 3317U, Toshiba THNSNS128GMCP
Maximum Upper Side *
30.6 °C ∼73%
Maximum Bottom *
44.1 °C ∼99%
Idle Upper Side *
25.7 °C ∼79%
Idle Bottom *
29.3 °C ∼98%
Microsoft Surface Pro 2
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hynix HFS128G3MNM
Maximum Upper Side *
41.7 °C ∼100%
Maximum Bottom *
44.5 °C ∼100%
Idle Upper Side *
32.4 °C ∼100%
Idle Bottom *
29.8 °C ∼100%

* ... smaller is better

Speakers

The speakers are on the tablet's back side, exactly where the hands would be when carrying it around. This can distort the sound adversely. However, the stereo speakers do not produce a rich sound anyway. They strongly emphasize the mids, but neglect the trebles (differentiation), not to mention low ranges. There is not even a hint of bass. The maximum volume is quite high, and can fill a small room with sound without distorting or scratching. Whether the music sounds good in this case is another question. Headphones are strongly recommended for music lovers.

Energy Management

Power Consumption

The 44-Watt power supply only needed 2:08 hours for recharging the completely drained battery. The Terra Mobile needs four hours for its twice as strong battery. The power supply seems very over-sized in view of the low consumption in the stress test. The power consumption dropped to 17 Watts (without recharging the battery) due to throttling (600 - 700 MHz). The stress test using only Prime95 consumed 15.7 Watts (@1.2 GHz).

The Tap 11 is not the best of its class with a minimum idle power consumption of 4 WattsMicrosoft's Surface Pro 2 only consumes 3.1 Watts. Lenovo's ThinkPad Helix is a downright guzzler with 7.9 Watts. Throttling becomes very obvious during load. First, there is no difference between normal load and the stress test (16.5 Watts), and second, the Tap 11 is at least 48% more energy saving than the competition named under Performance (Toshiba Z10t). The Surface and Helix consume 43 and 34 Watts. A Y-processor is also installed in the mentioned Toshiba Portégé Z10t, but with a TDP of 13 rather than 11.5 Watts.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 1 / 0.5 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 4 / 7.1 / 7.1 Watt
Load midlight 16.4 / 16.6 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Voltcraft VC 960
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.

Battery Runtime

We ascertain the battery runtime in four scenarios. Wi-Fi browsing and video playback likely come closest to real-life use here. A script opens a new website every 45 seconds, some with videos, in the Wi-Fi test. The brightness is set to 150 cd/m² for this (sensor disabled), and the fan/performance modes are set to "Silent" and energy saving. The Tap 11 lasted for 5:13 hours in this case. Both the ThinkPad Helix (+40%) and Surface Pro 2 (+24%) do better here. Even Wortmann's comparatively affordable Terra Mobile Pad 1160 (+67%) lasts almost four hours longer. What is Sony still doing wrong after investing so many tricks and know-how in energy saving?

The battery's capacity is too low; 30 Wh is simply too little. The ThinkPad Helix (42 + 28 Wh in the dock), Surface Pro 2 (42 Wh), and Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro (72 Wh) sometimes have twice the capacity. In return, the Mobile Pad 1160 also weighs 1.5 kilograms (~3.3 pounds) with a thickness of almost 14 mm (~0.55 inches). The Helix seems to be a good compromise as it shifts 28 Wh of battery power to the keyboard dock, and thus some of the weight.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
7h 26min
WiFi Surfing
5h 13min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
4h 30min
Load (maximum brightness)
2h 04min

Verdict

Expensive Christmas: The test configuration of Sony's Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B costs 1299 Euros.
Expensive Christmas: The test configuration of Sony's Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B costs 1299 Euros.

Sony worked very hard. The thinnest Windows tablet was supposed to be on the shelves for 2013 Christmas sales. It is now here with a thickness of just 10 millimeters (~0.4 inches), with a good IPS screen (FHD), and a usable NFC keyboard. Unfortunately, the manufacturer pulled out all the stops to ensure that the 11.6-inch tablet manages well with a lightweight, small 30 Wh battery. Besides that, this kind of tablet should not get too warm during use, or too loud for that matter (active fan).

Sony focuses on power consumption, and installs the weakest Intel Core i5 in the 11.5-Watt version (Y model). In the end this results in a speedy Windows tablet; the swift SSD compensates the CPU's weakness to an extent. However, we would not call it ultrabook performance in a thin tablet format. All contenders calculate, to some extent, much faster, although they are heavier, thicker, and usually also warmer and louder.

The Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B is not suitable for performance geeks. Mobile workers and those who are on the go with the Vaio will nevertheless have fun with it. Microsoft's Surface Pro 2 is suited for price-conscious customers who do not want to exceed 1000 Euros (~$1369). Like Lenovo's ThinkPad Helix, it has a lot more computing power, and actually features ultrabook performance.

Wortmann's Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro is a small personal tip. It offers very long battery runtimes, subnotebook performance, and also has a (digitizer) stylus for less than 900 Euros (~$1232). Wortmann also has a pretty good keyboard dock that can be used as a protection cover among its accessories.

Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B: Sony knowingly accepts performance disadvantages in favor of a thin casing, low weight, and usable battery runtimes. It cannot not be called a "laptop" in tablet size.
Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B: Sony knowingly accepts performance disadvantages in favor of a thin casing, low weight, and usable battery runtimes. It cannot not be called a "laptop" in tablet size.
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In Review: Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B, Courtesy of Sony Germany
In Review: Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B, Courtesy of Sony Germany

Specifications

Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B (Vaio Tap Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-4210Y 2 x 1.5 - 1.9 GHz, Haswell
Graphics adapter
Memory
4 GB 
, on-board, dual-channel
Display
11.60 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel, 10 fingers, VVX11F019G00, IPS Triluminos, digitizer, glossy: yes
Mainboard
Intel Lynx Point-LP
Storage
Samsung SSD PM841 MZMTD256HAGM, 256 GB 
, 140 GB free
Soundcard
HD Audio
Connections
1 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 HDMI, Audio Connections: microphone / headphone combo, Card Reader: micro SD, IR transmitter, NFC, keyboard connector 3-pin
Networking
Intel Wireless-N 7260 (b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/), Bluetooth 4.0
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 10 x 350 x 188 ( = 0.39 x 13.78 x 7.4 in)
Battery
30 Wh Lithium-Polymer, VGP-BPS39
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 8 Pro 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: Rear: 8 MP, Front: 0.9 MP
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: no, digitizer pen, CamScanner, VAIO Clip, VAIO Paper, McAfee LiveSafe, Vaio Control, various tools, 24 Months Warranty
Weight
1.05 kg ( = 37.04 oz / 2.31 pounds), Power Supply: 260 g ( = 9.17 oz / 0.57 pounds)

 

The thinnest Windows 8 tablet on the market?
The thinnest Windows 8 tablet on the market?
Based on an Intel Core processor, and full-fledged hardware,...
Based on an Intel Core processor, and full-fledged hardware,...
...the Vaio Tap 11 is to be a workplace for on-the-go.
...the Vaio Tap 11 is to be a workplace for on-the-go.
Following the motto: Whoever still carries a laptop around...
Following the motto: Whoever still carries a laptop around...
...is beyond help.
...is beyond help.
Sony complements its Vaio Tap 11 with a Bluetooth keyboard and a digitizer pen by default.
Sony complements its Vaio Tap 11 with a Bluetooth keyboard and a digitizer pen by default.
Windows is still very widespread particularly in the professional field.
Windows is still very widespread particularly in the professional field.
The underside of the just 5 millimeter thick keyboard has small feet.
The underside of the just 5 millimeter thick keyboard has small feet.
A status LED indicates whether the tablet is recharging the wireless keyboard.
A status LED indicates whether the tablet is recharging the wireless keyboard.
Tiny feed on the tablet's underside prevent scratches, and ensure a secure stand.
Tiny feed on the tablet's underside prevent scratches, and ensure a secure stand.
A stylus belongs to the standards of the Tap 11.
A stylus belongs to the standards of the Tap 11.
The pen has a battery, two buttons, and an aluminum housing.
The pen has a battery, two buttons, and an aluminum housing.
The rubber ring around the tip provides grip for the finger.
The rubber ring around the tip provides grip for the finger.
A micro SD card reader is installed.
A micro SD card reader is installed.
The stand is adjustable.
The stand is adjustable.
It is metal, fits tight on the tablet,...
It is metal, fits tight on the tablet,...
...and has a rubber coating.
...and has a rubber coating.
It can be adjusted to almost 90 degrees, which tilts the tablet to almost 45 degrees.
It can be adjusted to almost 90 degrees, which tilts the tablet to almost 45 degrees.
The stand can also be used to hold the tablet.
The stand can also be used to hold the tablet.
There are no maintenance openings; screws are not visible.
There are no maintenance openings; screws are not visible.
The tablets only weighs 762 grams (~1.7 pounds). The keyboard adds 290 grams(~0.6 pounds).
The tablets only weighs 762 grams (~1.7 pounds). The keyboard adds 290 grams(~0.6 pounds).
Sony installs a rare 11.5-Watt processor in the 11.6-inch device.
Sony installs a rare 11.5-Watt processor in the 11.6-inch device.
It regrettably throttles its clock during high, consistent load.
It regrettably throttles its clock during high, consistent load.
Consequently, the 44-Watt power supply is never maxed out. We measured a maximum power consumption of 17 Watts.
Consequently, the 44-Watt power supply is never maxed out. We measured a maximum power consumption of 17 Watts.
The new power plug can no longer be used as a leash for the tablet.
The new power plug can no longer be used as a leash for the tablet.
The plug is released when it is bent in its socket.
The plug is released when it is bent in its socket.
Thus, no one will stumble over the cord and tear the tablet from the desk
Thus, no one will stumble over the cord and tear the tablet from the desk
The Vaio Fit multi-flip models also feature this plug model.
The Vaio Fit multi-flip models also feature this plug model.
The keys feature a good, and distinct drop. However, the thin aluminum plate on the underside yields clearly.
The keys feature a good, and distinct drop. However, the thin aluminum plate on the underside yields clearly.
Picture of the connector for recharging the keyboard battery.
Picture of the connector for recharging the keyboard battery.

Similar Devices

Similar devices from a different Manufacturer

Devices from a different Manufacturer and/or with a different CPU

Lenovo Miix 2 11 Convertible Review
HD Graphics 4200, Core i3 4012Y

Devices with the same GPU and/or Screen Size

Acer Aspire Switch 11 SW5-171-31U3 Notebook Review Update
HD Graphics 4200, Core i3 4012Y, 1.55 kg
Acer Aspire Switch 11 Pro 128GB HDD Dock Convertible Review
HD Graphics 4200, Core i5 4202Y, 1.643 kg
HP Pro X2 410 G1 Convertible Review
HD Graphics 4200, Core i5 4202Y, 1.596 kg

Links

Compare Prices

Pros

+Slim size with keyboard
+Low weight
+USB 3.0 type A
+Stable viewing angles, bright TFT
+Low waste heat
+Swift SSD
 

Cons

-Comparatively short runtimes
-Audible fan during load
-Lowest performance in the category

Shortcut

What we like

The low weight, the bright IPS screen. Sony sells the entry-level Tap 11 model for starting at 800 Euros (~$1094).

What we'd like to see

Really business-suitable input devices with first-rate feedback. The build does not quite justify the steep price.

What surprises us

We'd accept a bit more weight, and a thicker chassis for performance that can really compete with good ultrabooks. However, everyone not keen on performance may see this differently.

The competition

Toshiba Portege Z10t

Lenovo ThinkPad Helix

Microsoft Surface Pro 2

Acer W700-53334G12as

Gigabyte S1185

Wortmann Terra Mobile Pad 1160 Pro

Rating

Sony Vaio Tap 11 SVT-1121G4E/B - 08/04/2014 v4(old)
Sebastian Jentsch

Chassis
82 / 98 → 84%
Keyboard
80%
Pointing Device
76%
Connectivity
45 / 80 → 56%
Weight
75 / 35-78 → 93%
Battery
86%
Display
82%
Games Performance
55 / 68 → 81%
Application Performance
70 / 87 → 80%
Temperature
90%
Noise
94%
Average
76%
82%
Convertible - Weighted Average
Sebastian Jentsch, 2013-12-24 (Update: 2018-05-15)