The Best Two-In-One Laptops
If your computer work doesn't require extraordinary amounts of processing power, two-in-one laptops could be a great upgrade option for you. These types of personal computers feature touchscreens and hinges that allow for 360 degrees of motion, effectively turning laptops into tablets. While not all two-in-ones are made equally, all of them share the aforementioned functions and boast incredibly lightweight designs. When your job requires constant communication but more functionality than a cell phone, our top two-in-ones allow you to speed through downloads, handle larger apps or programs, and make streaming a breeze when you're ready to wind down after your shift is over.
What to Look For
In our research, we found that the best two-in-one laptops are portable, versatile, and can hold a charge long enough to complete your tasks. We liked the HPx360 for its affordability and impressive battery life. Plus, the large screen is ideal for work and play. If you need something that can handle just about whatever you throw at it, consider the Microsoft Surface Pro 7. Read on to learn more about our favorite picks. We’re sure you’ll find the right laptop for your needs.
HP x360 Chromebook
A charge that won't disappoint
The X360 by HP is a general use two-in-one laptop built for users who are consistently on the go. To start, this device’s Android operating system may not pull the weight of a traditional laptop, but it does have an impressive amount of storage for the price. When combined with the 100 gigabytes of cloud storage given to every Chromebook user, the MicroSDXC slot can provide an impressive level of storage for all file types. More than anything, the x360 excels at video chat and streaming, thanks to its robust 12+ hour battery life and huge 15.5-inch screen.
Pros:
- HP offers built-in Android OS antivirus software to keep your laptop running smoothly.
- The x360 conveniently offers universal stylus compatibility, making it easy for you to sign documents and make digital sketches.
Cons:
- The Intel processor is somewhat slow when running multiple apps at once.
Lenovo Flex 5 Chromebook
School friendly
If you need a little more juice for research and multi-tasking without extravagant pricing, the Flex 5 by Lenovo is a fantastic choice of two-in-one. Flex 5 ventures more into the serious computing realm with its Intel i3 processor and expanded hard drive. While the operating system still limits you to the Google Play Store, this device can handily deal with countless tabs and a couple of apps without skipping a beat. On top of this, the generous port offerings, quality speakers, and stylus compatibility make the Flex 5 a hit in the lecture hall, on the green, and even behind the DJ booth.
Pros:
- With moderate usage, the Flex 5 boasts a whopping ten hours of battery life.
- We think the anti-glare screen comes in handy for folks who like to use their laptops outdoors.
Cons:
- There’s a lot to love about this pick, but the poor webcam quality is certainly a downside.
Microsoft Surface Pro 7
Take on any task
Microsoft’s Surface Pro 7 is less for individuals looking to supplement their laptops and more for those looking for a full replacement. As far as two-in-one laptops are concerned, we think the Surface Pro is in a class of its own. The Windows Pro OS is a welcome addition because it enables the same functionality as a desktop. Considering the extremely compact size of the Surface Pro, it kicks out a lot of power. With that said, this device is great for busy offices, warehouses, and classrooms where uncompromising speed is the name of the game.
Pros:
- We love how ultra-lightweight the Surface Pro is. It weighs in at just under two pounds.
- Microsoft offers this pick in gorgeous black, platinum, or matte finishes.
Cons:
- We do wish that Microsoft included a keyboard with this two-in-one laptop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I want a two-in-one laptop?
There are plenty of reasons for someone to want a two-in-one laptop. Their versatility makes them an enticing purchase for most. However, if you’re interested in creating digital art, two-in-one laptops can be particularly well-suited for your needs. Many of these laptops offer universal stylus compatibility, making it easier than ever to sketch out beautiful digital drawings. Also, two-in-one laptops frequently have higher processing speeds than tablets, which makes them a smarter choice for those looking to collaborate on the fly with other artists. There’s no better way to bring your digital artwork to the next level than with a top-notch two-in-one laptop.
What’s the difference between a Chromebook and a two-in-one laptop?
While they frequently overlap, two-in-one laptops and Chromebooks are not the same devices. Two-in-one laptops have the ability to rotate 360 degrees and utilize touch screen capability. Because two-in-ones are often purchased for entertainment, they are often lumped into the Chromebook category of computers. As the name suggests, Chromebooks are an invention of Google based on the Chrome browser to provide a low-cost PC alternative. While Chromebooks lack a large hard drive and the ability to download large programs, they run on the lightweight Android operating system. This allows for super-fast boot times and incredible browsing speeds for individuals that only need access to the internet.
How should I care for my two-in-one laptop?
To keep your two-in-one laptop running smoothly, we recommend following a regular cleaning schedule and abiding by a couple of common-sense rules. First, laptops, in general, should be cleaned more often than desktops because they are more fragile. Most components are integrated into the motherboard, meaning they cannot be replaced without expert help, if at all. Be sure to keep your fan’s vent clear of dust and debris and your screen and keyboard clean with a damp microfiber cloth and compressed air cleaner, respectively. Lastly, please do not keep your device charging while it is at full capacity. Overcharging can severely reduce the life expectancy of a battery, although it is often one of the few laptop components that can be replaced somewhat easily.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.