The Top 2-in-1 Laptops for 2023

We have updated our recommendations and made multiple selections below. Take a look!

Laptops and tablets complement each other effectively, but a device that merges both functionalities is the ideal tool for enhancing productivity. 2-in-1 laptops seamlessly integrate the traditional laptop design with a touch-screen tablet mode, allowing you to effortlessly switch between the two modes.

UPDATE: 10/24/2023

We've reviewed our recommendations and have updated multiple picks below. Check it out!

Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1

Best 2-in-1 Laptop Overall See at Best Buy

ASUS VivoBook Flip 14

Best Budget 2-in-1 Laptop $419 at Amazon

Lenovo Flex 5 2-in-1

Best 2-in-1 Laptop for Students See at Best Buy

ASUS ROG Flow X16

Best 2-in-1 Laptop for Gaming See at Best Buy

acer chromebook spin 713

Best 2-in-1 Chromebook $330 at Amazon

See More

Microsoft Surface Pro 9

Best 2-in-1 Laptop for Drawing $1197 at Amazon

What to Look For in a 2-in-1 Laptop in 2023

2-in-1 laptops are sleek, lightweight devices equipped with a touch screen and a versatile hinge mechanism that allows them to function as both a laptop and a tablet. Some models may include a stylus or a detachable keyboard, although this is not always guaranteed. It is worth noting that due to their unique design, 2-in-1 laptops typically come at a slightly higher price compared to regular laptops with similar specifications.

However, similar to any laptop, it is crucial to pay attention to important hardware components to ensure optimal performance. While the processor and graphics card are significant, the touch screen of the laptop is the most essential aspect. As you will frequently use the screen rather than the keyboard or trackpad, it is essential to have a minimum Full HD resolution screen with good color saturation and brightness. Anything below this may hinder the usability of the 2-in-1 in tablet mode.

When choosing a 2-in-1 device, you have the option of either a Windows computer or a Chromebook. For a Windows device, it is recommended to look for an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 CPU, a minimum of 8GB RAM, and at least 512GB of SSD storage to ensure smooth OS performance.

On the other hand, Chromebooks can function well with slightly lower specifications since ChromeOS is not as demanding as Windows. However, it might be challenging to find Chromebook models with ample internal storage. In such cases, it will be necessary to purchase an external hard drive or rely on cloud storage for storage purposes.

When searching for a 2-in-1 laptop suitable for creative tasks, it is crucial to ensure that the specifications meet your requirements. If drawing is a priority, the touch screen and stylus functionality should be given great importance. On the other hand, if photo editing is your focus, the color accuracy of the screen becomes a significant factor to consider.

For those interested in a gaming 2-in-1 laptop, it is essential to ensure that the graphics card (GPU) is powerful enough for your specific games. As these laptops tend to be slim, high-end GPU options are not commonly available. Nonetheless, it is recommended to check the wattage of the GPU, especially in the case of an NVIDIA GPU, as it varies among different laptop models and can affect performance.

Finally, the laptop-to-tablet convertible action of most 2-in-1 laptops is facilitated by a hinge mechanism. The reliability of this hinge holds utmost importance, considering the frequency with which the laptop is folded. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the hinge mechanism is both strong and sturdy. Even if the 2-in-1 laptop is exceptionally powerful, it becomes utterly useless if the hinge is prone to breaking easily.

Best 2-in-1 Laptop Overall: Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 4K OLED

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When considering a 2-in-1 device, it is essential to prioritize its slim and lightweight design, as well as its powerful performance. The Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 4K OLED exemplifies these qualities perfectly.

In this particular version of the Yoga 9i, we have a highly capable Intel Core i7-1360P processor. Coupled with 16GB DDR5 RAM and a spacious 1TB SSD, there is ample storage and efficient multitasking capability. As the focus is on productivity, a separate dedicated GPU is not included, which eliminates unnecessary bulk and heat in a 2-in-1 device.

The ability to function as a tablet is one of the standout features of a 2-in-1 device, making a high-quality touch screen crucial. Among the various options available, the 4K OLED version of the Yoga 9i stands out as the best choice. With a resolution of 3840 x 2400 and a brightness level of 400 nits, the screen is impressive. Additionally, the OLED technology enhances apparent contrast, delivering richer blacks.

In terms of ports, the Yoga 9i offers ample connectivity options. It includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a USB-C 3.2 port, and a USB-A 3.2 port. Although it lacks an HDMI port, the Thunderbolt connections support DisplayPort functionality. Furthermore, the device supports both Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth for wireless connectivity.

Lenovo predicts a battery life of up to 10.5 hours for the 4-cell battery, which is impressive for a 2-in-1 device. Additionally, the Yoga 9i can be conveniently charged with a maximum power supply voltage of 100 watts.

An added bonus is that the laptop comes with a stylus pen included in the box, eliminating the need for a separate purchase, unlike many other 2-in-1 laptops.

The Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 laptop is considered the best overall in its category. It boasts a powerful hardware configuration, a stunning OLED touchscreen, and an impressively slim and lightweight design, making it a top choice for those looking for a versatile device.

See at Best Buy

Best Budget 2-in-1 Laptop: ASUS Vivobook Flip 14

ASUS

The ASUS Vivobook Flip 14 strikes the perfect balance between affordability and compromises when it comes to budget laptops. It comes in various versions, with the main difference being the CPU options. Our recommendation is the model featuring the 11th Gen Intel Core i3 CPU.

Priced at under $500, and potentially even lower during sales, the i3 CPU version offers exceptional value. However, at this price point, you will have to settle for 4GB of RAM and 128GB of SSD storage. Nonetheless, ASUS ensures that you still get a lightweight chassis, a sturdy hinge, and an enjoyable user experience in both laptop and tablet modes.

Despite a few design flaws, such as sharp corners and deck flex, these issues do not significantly affect the user experience. When I tested the ASUS Vivobook Flip 14, I specifically tried the more expensive Ryzen 5000 version priced at $600, but it failed to make a strong impression. However, the i3 version offers better value compared to its direct competitors, including the Surface Go 3.

Moreover, the ASUS Vivobook Flip 14 boasts exceptional battery life. ASUS claims that the battery can last all day, and unless you are performing CPU-intensive tasks, it should live up to that claim. Although the screen may not be the brightest or most color-accurate, it is still capable of getting the job done.

ASUS VivoBook Flip 14

Experience the Best Budget 2-in-1 Laptop$419 $480 Save $61 with the ASUS VivoBook Flip 14. Its impressive battery life, sleek design, and durable hinge provide an exceptional 2-in-1 laptop experience.

$419 at Amazon

Best 2-in-1 Laptop for Students: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 2-in-1 14”

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 2-in-1 14-inch is the ideal choice for students who prioritize easy portability. Its compact size allows students to quickly fit it into their bags and retrieve it for note-taking or coursework. Moreover, its affordability is a significant advantage for students and parents on a budget. Despite the lower price, the 14-inch Flex 5 still boasts impressive specifications such as an Intel i5-1335U processor, 8GB RAM, and 256GB storage. While the Intel Iris Xe graphics may not be suitable for gaming, they excel in image editing and various school-related tasks.

Companies often compromise on certain aspects to achieve a lower price point, but that wasn't the case with the Flex 5. Its 14-inch screen boasts a sharp 1920 x 1200 resolution, which is quite impressive. As is typical for a 2-in-1 device, it also features a touchscreen. The only area where Lenovo seems to have cut costs is the keyboard, as it lacks backlighting.

When it comes to ports, the Flex 5 may not offer an extensive variety, but it provides sufficient options for connecting any necessary accessories. You'll find a single USB-C port, a pair of USB-A ports, an HDMI connector, and a headphone jack. Additionally, there's an SD card slot, which proves useful for expanding storage or transferring files from cameras.

For tasks requiring advanced graphics, students may prefer sacrificing portability for a larger screen. In such instances, the Lenovo Flex 5 2-in-1 with its 16-inch display proves to be an excellent choice, offering not only a bigger screen but also increased storage capacity.

Best 2-in-1 Laptop for StudentsThe Lenovo Flex 5 2-in-1 is a 14-inch model that is light, portable, and powerful enough to make it perfect for students on the go.

See at Best Buy

Best 2-in-1 Laptop for Gaming: ASUS ROG Flow X16

ASUS

Due to the compact nature of 2-in-1 laptops, incorporating gaming hardware becomes challenging. Consequently, the market offers limited options for 2-in-1 gaming laptops, with the ASUS ROG Flow X16 emerging as the top choice.

The ASUS ROG Flow X16 offers impressive hardware, including a powerful Ryzen 9 6900HS CPU and a choice between the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti, 3060, or 3070 Ti for the graphics card. It also boasts up to 64GB DDR5 RAM and up to 2TB NVMe PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage. Additionally, users have the option to add an external RTX 3080 GPU using ASUS' XG Mobile external GPU box. With these specifications and ASUS's reputation, there is no doubt that this gaming laptop is truly remarkable. Moreover, it excels as a versatile 2-in-1 laptop, thanks in large part to its exceptional display.

The ASUS ROG Flow X16 features an impressive Mini-LED display with QHD+ resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate. With 100% coverage of the DCI-P3 color space and a brightness of 1,100 nits, users can enjoy an exceptional gaming viewing experience even in tablet mode.

In addition to its powerful hardware, this gaming laptop weighs just 4.59 pounds, making it relatively light for a device of its size. Its build quality is outstanding, although the battery life may not be the longest, it is still sufficient for a gaming laptop.

The ASUS ROG Flow X16 is the ultimate 2-in-1 laptop for gaming. It boasts exceptional hardware and an unparalleled display that sets it apart from any other laptop on the market.

See at Best Buy See at ASUS See at Amazon

Best 2-in-1 Chromebook: Acer Chromebook Spin 713

Acer

The Acer Chromebook Spin 713 is renowned for its exceptional value and quality, solidifying Acer's reputation for crafting outstanding laptops. Since its initial release, it has consistently ranked as one of the top Chromebooks on the market.

While Chromebooks may not offer cutting-edge hardware, the Spin 713 exceeds expectations in all the essential areas. It boasts an advanced 11th Gen Intel Core CPU, providing various options between i3, i5, and i7 chips. Additionally, it offers a choice of either 8GB or 16GB LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB SSD storage. Despite appearing modest, these specifications ensure seamless performance with ChromeOS. Furthermore, the inclusion of Thunderbolt 4 compensates for the limited internal storage, further enhancing the device's capabilities.

The star feature of this device is its 3:2 aspect ratio display, boasting a 2,256x1,504 pixel resolution. Not only is it one of the finest displays available on a Chromebook, but it also rivals those found on Windows laptops at a similar price range. With excellent color reproduction and ample brightness, this display choice, along with its 3:2 ratio, offers a remarkable experience, especially in tablet mode.

Furthermore, this device exhibits a sturdy build quality, providing a premium feel. Its battery life is also commendable, lasting a full day. This is particularly impressive considering the high-resolution screen and x86 Intel chip, both of which typically consume significant battery power on Chromebooks.

The Acer Chromebook Spin 713 is an exceptional 2-in-1 Chromebook. With a discounted price of $330, you can save a whopping $469. This Chromebook boasts impressive hardware and offers one of the finest screens available in its price range.

$330 at Amazon Walmart

Best 2-in-1 Laptop for Drawing: Microsoft Surface Pro 9

Microsoft's Surface Pro line has always approached 2-in-1 laptops differently, prioritizing the tablet aspect over the laptop aspect. This unique approach harmoniously combines the two functionalities, making the Surface Pro the flagship hardware of Microsoft. With the latest iteration, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9, this approach reaches its peak.

Although the Surface Pro 10 (distinct from the mobile Surface Pro X) is yet to be released, the Pro 9's hardware is still impressive. It may be a generation behind some of our other recommendations, but the Intel Evo i7 processor in the Surface Pro 9 provides ample speed. Combined with 16GB RAM and 256GB storage in the selected model, there is no shortage of computing power.

The screen on the Surface Pro models is consistently impressive, and the 13-inch display in this case boasts a sharp resolution of 2880x1920. Not only is it a touchscreen, but the ability to completely detach the keyboard sets the Surface Pro 9 apart from many other 2-in-1s, allowing it to offer the convenience of an iPad with the computing power of a high-quality laptop.

One major advantage of the company that develops both the operating system and the hardware is evident in the battery life of the Surface Pro line. Microsoft estimates an average battery life of up to 15.5 hours, although this duration may vary depending on how the laptop is being used. Nevertheless, achieving this level of battery life is certainly feasible.

One crucial consideration, particularly for those interested in drawing, is that the Surface Slim Pen 2 and keyboard are not included with the Surface Pro 9. While it is technically possible to use the Surface Pro 9 without these accessories, to fully maximize the potential of the hardware, it is highly recommended to have both the Surface Slim Pen 2 and keyboard.

Microsoft Surface Pro 9

The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is the top choice for a 2-in-1 laptop specifically designed for drawing. With a price tag of $1197, you can save $403 on Amazon. This device offers exceptional hardware performance, a sleek form factor, and an impressive touchscreen. However, it is important to remember to purchase the stylus and keyboard separately.

FAQ

What does a 2-in-1 laptop mean?

A 2-in-1 laptop, also known as a convertible laptop or 360-degree laptop, is a touchscreen laptop equipped with a hinge that allows the screen to be fully folded back, enabling it to be used as a tablet.

How do I protect the keyboard on a 2-in-1 laptop?

Are 2-in-1 laptops good for drawing?

When you fold a 2-in-1 laptop into tablet mode, both the keyboard and trackpad automatically disable. To provide additional protection for your keyboard, you can opt for a keyboard cover.

Not all 2-in-1 laptops offer excellent drawing capabilities, including screens and stylus experience. However, it is worth noting that there are higher-priced models of 2-in-1 laptops that specifically excel in this area.

How do I clean my laptop screen?

The most effective method for cleaning a laptop screen is to first remove any dust particles and then use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to wipe it down. It's important to avoid using glass cleaners or rubbing alcohol as they can potentially harm the screen. Instead, it's recommended to dampen the cloth with a small amount of water.

How do I factory reset my laptop?

You can factory reset your laptop using the Reset this PC option in the Settings app on Windows. On a Chromebook, you can do it using the Powerwash option.