2-in-1 laptops

As the line between laptops and tablets blurs, we pit three of the best hybrid models against one other

- Christian Guyton

The 2-in-1 laptop has never been better. While systems that combine elements of both laptops and tablets are nothing new, this last year has seen these ultralight devices reach new heights in both design and performance.

While Microsoft might have fought to popularise the detachable keyboard with its Surface series of tablets, and Dell ventured into something unique and weird with the XPS Duo’s revolving display, it’s become clear that the optimum form for 2-in-1 devices is a simple convertible design, where the keyboard folds around to sit flush against the rear of the screen. This is what differentiates 2-in-1s from similar Ultrabook devices, which share the lightweight design yet tend to lack any kind of touch controls and a nifty ‘tablet mode’.

What makes 2-in-1 devices so coveted? The answer is simpler than you might think: we want all the cool tech handed to us all at once, and hybrid devices scratch that itch rather perfectly.

Advancements in processors, graphical power and intelligent small-scale data storage mean that these quasi-tablets are now more powerful than ever before. They’re capable of taking on increasingly demanding tasks, and appeal to a wide range of users from creative types to business professionals. Let’s take a look at three of the best 2-in-1’s now to help you find your dream machine…

WHAT’S ON TEST…

1 HP Spectre x360 13.3 Perhaps the most visually appealing of our three convertibles is this latest model of the Spectre x360, which comes equipped with a 10thgeneration Intel Core i7 processor. It’s a sleek, beautifully designed laptop that also manages to include top-notch internal hardware, some useful cyber security features, and a luscious 4K screen. £1,799, hp.com