Top 5 Best 2-in-1 Laptops In 2024
“If you’re unsure whether to buy a laptop or a tablet, consider a 2-in-1 device that combines the features of both. Our expert advice and product reviews can guide you in finding the perfect convertible or detachable 2-in-1 laptop that suits your needs, as we have thoroughly tested numerous options.”
For laptop shoppers who prioritize portability, 2-in-1 devices offer the best of both worlds. These laptops can transform into tablets, offering touch screens and stylus support. There are two types: convertible 2-in-1 laptops with 360-degree hinges and detachable models that become standalone tablets when the keyboard is removed. This flexibility provides the convenience of a keyboard and touchpad when needed, and touch screen capabilities when desired. Unlike Android tablets, these devices run on full operating systems like Chrome OS or Windows. Apple’s MacBooks don’t fit into this category, as the company directs users seeking touch screens and convertibility to its iOS-based iPads and iPad Pros with optional keyboards. Below, we’ve outlined our top picks for the best 2-in-1 laptops of 2024, followed by essential considerations for buying one. A detailed specs comparison of our top models is included at the end of the article.
1: Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 8
Lenovo’s Yoga 9i Gen 8 stands out as our top pick among consumer convertibles, thanks to its exceptional 14-inch OLED touch display that supports pen input. This laptop’s outstanding performance, powered by Intel’s 13th Generation technology, further solidifies its position. The Yoga 9i also boasts impressive sound quality and a sleek, sophisticated design. The inclusion of a pen and carrying case makes it an excellent choice for those who value handwritten notes and on-screen sketching. With its slim, all-metal chassis, the Yoga 9i exudes elegance and refinement, making it a top-notch option for those seeking a premium 2-in-1 experience.
The Yoga 9i Gen 8 is a top-tier 2-in-1 laptop that excels in both touch input and traditional laptop functionality, making it ideal for individuals who require advanced handwriting and drawing capabilities without sacrificing laptop performance. Its stunning OLED screen and exceptional audio quality are complemented by Lenovo’s most refined and versatile flip-and-fold design yet, offering a seamless transition between laptop, tablet, and presentation modes
Pros
- Excellent performance from new Intel “Raptor Lake” silicon
- Superb OLED touch screen with pen support
- Fantastic sound with sophisticated design
- Pen and carrying case included
- All-metal design looks sharp, feels even better
Cons
- Battery life is decent, but not long
- Extra function keys aren’t customizable
2: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i 14 (2023)
- 【14″ FHD Touchscreen Display】14″ Full HD WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS Anti-Glare Narrow Bezel Display. Embark on a visual journey where vibrant colors and high resolution come to life at your fingertips.【2-in-1 Design】Convert to a tablet with the flip of a screen around a 360° hinge.
- 【Intel i3-1315U Processor】Experience a perfect balance of performance and efficiency with a powerful processor, delivering smooth multitasking, reliable performance, and impressive power savings, making it an excellent choice for everyday computing tasks.
- 【8GB LPDDR4X RAM】Plenty of high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run your games as well as multiple programs. 【128GB SSD】Save files fast and store more data. With massive amounts of storage and advanced communication power, great for major gaming, multiple servers, backups, and more.
- 【Intel UHD Graphics】Enjoy solid image quality that brings your everyday content to life with vibrant colors and sharp details.【Backlit Keyboard】The illuminated keys make it easier to locate specific keys and improve typing accuracy, allowing you to be more productive and focused on your tasks.
- 【Chrome OS】Using Chrome OS lets you connect effortlessly with colleagues in the cloud and easily access calendars, documents, and other business data. 【Dimensions & Weight】12.42 x 9.02 x 0.78 inches, 3.52 lbs. 【Ports and Accessories】1 x USB-A 3.2, 2 x USB-C 3.2, 1x Headphone/Microphone Combo, 1x MicroSD Card Slot; Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1. Gray, Bonus 128GB Hotface USB Card.
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i 14 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a versatile 2-in-1 laptop. Its 14-inch display is ideal for portability and convertible use, while its 13-hour battery life ensures all-day productivity. Powered by an Intel Core i5-1335U processor, it handles projects and entertainment with ease. Additionally, it features a range of useful ports and a 1080p webcam, making it our top pick for budget-friendly convertible laptops, especially suitable for note-takers who prefer writing or drawing with a pen.
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i 14 is an excellent option for those on a budget, offering a winning combination of mobility, power, and impressive features that go beyond the norm for a 2-in-1 convertible laptop.
Pros
- Strong application performance
- Right-size screen for 2-in-1 versatility
- Crisp, accurate 1080p webcam
- Varied and useful port selection
- Long runtime
Cons
- No CPU or screen upgrades
- Display’s color coverage is lacking
- Gray keys clash with deep blue chassis
3: Microsoft Surface Pro 9
- Powerful Performance – The Surface Pro 9 Tablet is powered by a Core i7 10th Gen i7-1265U Deca-core (10 Core) processor, ensuring smooth performance and effortless multitasking.
- Large Storage Capacity – Equipped with a large 1TB SSD storage and 32GB RAM, the Surface Pro 9 Tablet ensures smooth multitasking and ample space for all your files, games, and applications. Experience the best of Microsoft with this powerful and efficient laptop.
- High-Resolution Display – The 13-inch PixelSense Display with a resolution of 2880 x 1920 provides stunning visuals and vibrant colors for an immersive viewing experience.
- Long Life Battery – Enjoy extended usage with up to 15.50 hours of battery life, perfect for those long work or gaming sessions. Experience the power of a 10th Gen i7-1265U Deca-core processor and 32GB RAM in a sleek, lightweight design. With a 1TB SSD, you’ll have plenty of storage for all your important files and favorite games. Plus, the Surface Pro 9 runs on Windows 11 Pro, offering the latest in security, productivity, and design.
- Windows 11 Pro – Equipped with Windows 11 Pro, the Surface Pro 9 Tablet offers advanced security, enterprise-level features, and the flexibility to work from anywhere. Its powerful Core i7 10th Gen processor and 32GB RAM ensure smooth multitasking while the 1TB SSD provides ample storage space. The PixelSense Display offers stunning visuals, making it an ideal choice for both work and entertainment.
The Surface Pro 9, powered by Intel Core, stands out as the premier detachable tablet, boasting exceptional performance, remarkable battery life, and a 3:2 aspect ratio screen ideal for pen input. Building on its iconic design, refined over generations, the latest model combines cutting-edge hardware with enhanced battery life, sleek aesthetics, expandable storage, and two USB Type-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, making it the most versatile and capable tablet-style 2-in-1 available, and our top pick among Windows detachables.
The Surface Pro 9 is perfect for individuals seeking a flexible, tablet-centric device for various purposes, including work, entertainment, mobile productivity, and effortless note-taking. The device’s exceptional digital inking capabilities will delight fans of pens and styluses, while its compatible keyboard accessories and docking solutions make it a viable laptop alternative – though these extras come at an additional cost. Unlike some manufacturers, Microsoft adopts a similar approach to Apple’s iPad, selling the keyboard and stylus separately from the tablet.
Pros
- Impressive performance and battery life
- Outstanding cameras
- Sleek design, with inking-friendly 3:2 screen
- Two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports
- User-upgradable storage
Cons
- Essential accessories still not included
- No more headphone jack
- 5G only available with SQ3 processor
- High starting price
4: Microsoft Surface Go 3
- The most portable Surface touchscreen 2-in-1. Perfect for your everyday tasks, homework, and play.
- Go-anywhere tablet with laptop productivity for the whole family. Starting at just 1.2 pounds,(4) with high-res 10.5” 220ppi touchscreen, adjustable Kickstand, Surface Pen, and Type Cover.
- All-day battery life. Get up to 11 hours (1) of on-the-go power, plus Fast Charging to take you from low to full when you do need to plug in.
- The new, more intuitive Windows. Work, play, and create in the way most natural to you with Windows 11.
- Plug in the accessories you use today with included USB-C port, headphone jack, Bluetooth 5.0, and MicroSDXC Card Reader.
Despite being released in 2021, the Surface Go 3 remains a popular choice, outlasting many competitors that have come and gone. While its performance may not be remarkable, even with the upgraded Intel Core i3 option, its numerous strengths make it a compelling option. These advantages include a vibrant and glossy display, a robust yet lightweight design with a sturdy metal kickstand, an SD card reader, and an impressively long-lasting battery. It’s no wonder Microsoft continues to sell this version, given its well-rounded features and enduring appeal.
If you’re on a limited budget or seeking a tablet for a student, the Surface Go 3 is the top choice to consider. Although it doesn’t come with a keyboard cover, which would add to the overall cost, it dominates a niche market with minimal competition. Fortunately, this tablet offers a premium feel and experience at an affordable price, making it the most luxurious Windows tablet option in its class.
Pros
- Low starting price
- Lightweight
- Sunny display with vivid colors
- Windows Hello webcam with 1080p video support
- Integrated kickstand
- SD card reader for easy storage expansion
- Long battery life
Cons
- Keyboard cover not included
- Only one USB-C port
- Optional extras pump up price quickly
- Disappointing computing performance, even with Core i3 upgrade
5: HP Spectre x360 14 (2024)
This HP Spectre x360 14 2024 edition is worth looking at if you work from home or are often on Zoom calls. The gorgeous OLED display, which has touch screen functionality in addition to a sharp appearance, will catch your eye right away. Subsequently, the 4K webcam will captivate you, and the integrated software enhances your appearance. You’ll quickly become aware of the lively performance and long battery life of this convertible 2-in-1. The Spectre x360 14 offers grab-and-go productivity and mobility, making it the perfect option if you need to maintain productivity while leaving a good virtual impression.
The Spectre x360 14 is one of the greatest consumer convertibles we’ve seen to date if you’re a professional working remotely, whether that means conducting everyday business from home or simply attending meetings from a distance. It’s a favorite for regular video conferences and productivity because of its OLED display, 4K webcam, and the latest Intel Core Ultra CPUs’ excellent performance.
Pros
- Gorgeous OLED touch screen
- Impressive productivity performance
- Lengthy battery life
- Elegant design
- World-class webcam
Cons
- Expensive when fully loaded
- No SD/microSD card slot or cellular internet
- No HDMI port (two USB-C docks included)
- No internal pen storage
Buying Guide: The Best 2-in-1 Laptops for 2024
What Does ‘2-in-1’ Mean When Buying a Laptop?
This straightforward phrase refers to a certain kind of laptop that doubles as a tablet. For our purposes, 2-in-1 laptops are divided into two categories: the detachable tablet (which splits in two) and the convertible laptop (a one-piece device).
Convertible laptops may change from laptops to tablets and back again. The majority of these devices include a hinge design that enables the keyboard to be folded or rotated 360 degrees and moved back behind the screen. If you want to use the keyboard frequently, this kind of 2-in-1 is the greatest option because you can be sure that it will always be with you. (You wouldn’t want your worst enemy to experience typing the Great American Novel or even a routine business report on the firm, flat surface of a virtual onscreen keyboard.)
A convertible laptop’s hinge allows for a range of motion modes, which typically allow you to use the machine in multiple ways. You can set the keyboard part face down on the desk (also known as “stand” or “display” mode) and have the screen visible up front, kiosk-style, if you wish to be able to share the display with everyone in a meeting. Alternatively, you can use the “tent” or “A-frame” mode, which requires less room than the other modes, to prop it up on its leading edges. This type of 2-in-1 is hard to beat for flexibility.
As with a conventional laptop, the battery and motherboard of a convertible device are often found in the base, making the device balanced for use on a lap or tabletop. A detachable keyboard case’s occasionally flimsy panel is not as good a typing surface as the clamshell’s sturdy bottom lid. Additionally, a laptop’s form factor allows for more battery space (the bottom half never disappears), which enhances battery life.