Why Choose a 2-in-1 Laptop?
A 2-in-1 laptop, also known as a convertible or hybrid laptop, combines the functionality of a laptop and a tablet. Here are some key benefits:
- Versatility: With touchscreen capabilities, 2-in-1 laptops allow you to switch between traditional laptop mode and tablet mode. This is perfect for note-taking, drawing, presenting, and entertainment.
- Portability: Most 2-in-1 laptops are designed to be thin and lightweight, making them ideal for on-the-go use.
- Productivity: Many models come with stylus support, perfect for creative tasks like design and photo editing. Additionally, the tablet mode is useful for reading, presenting, or working in tight spaces.
2-in-1 laptops are ideal for students, professionals, and creative users who want both laptop functionality and the flexibility of a tablet in a single device.
Best 2-in-1 Laptops in 2024
1. Microsoft Surface Pro 9
- Overview: The Surface Pro 9 is an ultra-light and versatile 2-in-1 with a detachable keyboard. It functions as a laptop and a tablet, with excellent stylus support and an impressive display.
- Key Features:
- 13-inch PixelSense touchscreen with pen support.
- Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, or ARM-based SQ3 processor for 5G connectivity.
- Up to 15.5 hours of battery life.
- Best For: Students and professionals needing a lightweight, flexible laptop for note-taking and tablet use.
- Price: Starting at £999 (keyboard and stylus sold separately).
2. HP Spectre x360 14
- Overview: The HP Spectre x360 14 is a high-end 2-in-1 with a premium build and a stunning OLED display option. Known for excellent performance and a sleek design, it’s ideal for productivity and creative tasks.
- Key Features:
- 13.5-inch 3:2 OLED display option with vibrant colors.
- Intel Core i5 or i7 12th Gen processors.
- Up to 13 hours of battery life with fast charging.
- Best For: Creative users and professionals who prioritize display quality and performance.
- Price: Starting at £1,200.
3. Lenovo Yoga 9i (2024)
- Overview: The Lenovo Yoga 9i is a powerful and stylish 2-in-1 with a 14-inch touchscreen. It offers excellent audio quality with a rotating soundbar and is equipped with the latest Intel processors, making it ideal for multitasking.
- Key Features:
- 14-inch OLED or FHD touchscreen display.
- Intel Core i7 13th Gen processor.
- Up to 10 hours of battery life.
- Best For: Multitaskers looking for performance, great sound, and a beautiful display.
- Price: Starting at £1,300.
4. Dell XPS 13 2-in-1
- Overview: Dell’s XPS 13 2-in-1 combines portability with performance in a sleek design. With its 13-inch touchscreen and detachable keyboard, it’s perfect for those who need both a laptop and a tablet.
- Key Features:
- 13-inch FHD+ or 3K touchscreen display.
- Intel Core i5 or i7 processors.
- 10 hours of battery life.
- Best For: Students and professionals needing a flexible, portable device.
- Price: Starting at £1,000.
5. ASUS ZenBook Flip 14
- Overview: The ASUS ZenBook Flip 14 is a versatile 2-in-1 with a 360-degree hinge, a touchscreen, and a stylus for creative tasks. It’s thin, lightweight, and affordable, making it great for general productivity and creative work.
- Key Features:
- 14-inch FHD touchscreen with 360-degree hinge.
- AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5 processors.
- Up to 12 hours of battery life.
- Best For: Budget-conscious users who want a reliable, flexible device for productivity.
- Price: Starting at £800.
6. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5
- Overview: The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 is a budget-friendly 2-in-1 that offers reliable performance and flexibility. It’s ideal for students and casual users who need basic productivity features with touchscreen capabilities.
- Key Features:
- 14-inch FHD touchscreen.
- AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5 processors.
- Up to 10 hours of battery life.
- Best For: Budget-conscious students needing a versatile device for everyday tasks.
- Price: Starting at £550.
7. Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro 360
- Overview: Samsung’s Galaxy Book2 Pro 360 is a lightweight 2-in-1 with an AMOLED display, great for streaming and productivity. It’s compatible with the S Pen for creative tasks, and it integrates well with other Samsung devices.
- Key Features:
- 13.3 or 15.6-inch AMOLED touchscreen.
- Intel Core i5 or i7 processors.
- Up to 20 hours of battery life in video playback.
- Best For: Users in the Samsung ecosystem who want a high-quality screen and seamless integration with other devices.
- Price: Starting at £1,100.
Conclusion: Should You Get a 2-in-1 Laptop?
- Yes, Get a 2-in-1 if you want the flexibility to switch between laptop and tablet modes, frequently take notes, or enjoy sketching and drawing. These laptops are also great for presenting, reading, and watching videos in tablet mode.
- Consider Traditional Laptops if you don’t require touchscreen features, need more processing power for intensive tasks, or prefer the traditional laptop design.
Top Picks:
- Best Overall: Microsoft Surface Pro 9 and HP Spectre x360 14 offer excellent performance, display quality, and portability.
- Best for Budget: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 and ASUS ZenBook Flip 14 provide reliable features at an affordable price.
Each of these models provides unique benefits, so your choice will depend on budget, performance needs, and how you plan to use the 2-in-1’s flexibility.