Lenovo Thinkpad X230i (12.5-Inch, 2012)

Very low noise emissions; Good possible upgrades (in comparison to the rest of the class); USB 3.0 included; Very good keyboard; Keyboard backlight; Good battery life; Bright display with a matte surface

Case is weak in certain spots; Display has weak contrast and low viewing angle stability; Somewhat poor port positioning

First would be the ThinkPad X230 with IPS display. However, even the Dell Latitude E6330 and HP ProBook 6360b are worth a look. If you can live without typical business qualities, then you might favor the Asus Zenbook Prime UX31A or the Samsung 900X3C.