Best 2 In 1 Laptops For 2021

Tight budget but still craving that sweet 2-in-1 laptop action? We get it. This guide is for the ultimate cost-cutters, the bargain hunters who refuse to pay premium prices. We're diving deep into the best 2-in-1 laptops of 2021 that won't break the bank.

Why a 2-in-1 Matters (Even on a Budget)

2-in-1 laptops offer the flexibility of a tablet with the power of a laptop. Need to take notes in a meeting? Flip it into tablet mode. Time to crunch numbers? Switch back to laptop mode for that keyboard comfort.

They’re perfect for students, remote workers, or anyone who juggles different tasks throughout the day. Forget lugging around both a laptop and a tablet; a 2-in-1 does it all.

Our Top Picks for 2021 (Budget-Friendly Edition)

We've scoured the market and hand-picked these 2-in-1 laptops based on their affordability, performance, and overall value. We've divided them into categories for different user needs.

For the Student on a Shoestring: Lenovo Chromebook Duet

Super portable and ultra-affordable, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet is a fantastic option for students. It's lightweight, has a decent battery life, and comes with a detachable keyboard.

Perfect for taking notes in class, browsing the web, and writing papers. Chrome OS keeps things simple and secure.

The Remote Worker's Reliable Companion: HP Pavilion x360 14

The HP Pavilion x360 14 balances price and performance. It offers a larger screen, a more powerful processor, and plenty of storage for your work files.

Great for video conferencing, editing documents, and multitasking. It's a solid all-around performer for everyday productivity.

The Entertainment Enthusiast's Delight: Microsoft Surface Go 2

The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is a compact and stylish 2-in-1 that's perfect for media consumption. It has a vibrant touchscreen display and decent speakers.

Ideal for watching movies, streaming videos, and playing casual games. The optional Surface Pen adds a layer of creativity.

Detailed Reviews: The Nitty-Gritty

Lenovo Chromebook Duet

This Chromebook shines in its portability and price. Don't expect blazing-fast performance, but it handles basic tasks with ease.

The keyboard can feel a bit cramped for extended typing sessions. Battery life is excellent, often exceeding 10 hours.

HP Pavilion x360 14

The Pavilion x360 14 offers a more traditional laptop experience. The keyboard is comfortable, and the touchpad is responsive.

The integrated graphics are sufficient for light gaming and video editing. The hinge feels sturdy and allows for smooth transitions between laptop and tablet modes.

Microsoft Surface Go 2

The Surface Go 2 is a premium-feeling device at a more accessible price point. The display is sharp and bright, making it a joy to use.

The keyboard cover and Surface Pen are sold separately, which adds to the overall cost. Performance is adequate for everyday tasks, but it can struggle with demanding applications.

Side-by-Side Specs & Performance

Note: Geekbench scores are approximate and may vary depending on configuration.

Customer Satisfaction: What Are Users Saying?

We've analyzed customer reviews from various sources to gauge overall satisfaction.

• Lenovo Chromebook Duet: Users praise its portability and value for money. Some complain about the keyboard size and performance limitations.
• HP Pavilion x360 14: Customers appreciate its balance of price and features. Some report issues with battery life and bloatware.
• Microsoft Surface Go 2: Users love the premium design and display quality. The high price of accessories and limited performance are common complaints.

Maintenance Costs: Planning for the Future

Consider potential maintenance costs before making a purchase.

• Chromebooks generally require less maintenance due to their lightweight operating system. However, screen repairs can be costly.
• HP Pavilion x360 14: Replacing the battery or hard drive can be relatively straightforward, but may require professional assistance.
• Microsoft Surface Go 2: Repairs can be expensive due to the device's compact design. Consider purchasing an extended warranty.

Key Takeaways: Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right 2-in-1 laptop on a budget requires careful consideration. The Lenovo Chromebook Duet is the most affordable option, ideal for basic tasks. The HP Pavilion x360 14 offers a better balance of price and performance for productivity. The Microsoft Surface Go 2 provides a premium experience for media consumption.

Factor in your specific needs, budget, and potential maintenance costs. Don't be afraid to read online reviews and compare prices.

Time to Decide!

Armed with this knowledge, you're ready to make an informed decision. Click the links below to check prices and availability, and start enjoying the flexibility of a 2-in-1 laptop without emptying your wallet!

Find Lenovo Chromebook Duet Deals

Find HP Pavilion x360 14 Deals

Find Microsoft Surface Go 2 Deals

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on these laptops?

A: The RAM on the Lenovo Chromebook Duet is not upgradeable. The HP Pavilion x360 14 and Microsoft Surface Go 2 may offer limited upgrade options, depending on the configuration. Check the manufacturer's specifications for details.

Q: Do these laptops come with a stylus?

A: No, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet and HP Pavilion x360 14 do not come with a stylus. The Microsoft Surface Go 2 supports the Surface Pen, but it is sold separately.

Q: Which laptop is best for gaming?

A: None of these laptops are ideal for demanding games. The HP Pavilion x360 14, with its more powerful processor and graphics, will provide the best gaming experience, but still limited to casual titles.

Q: What is the warranty on these laptops?

A: The standard warranty is typically one year. Consider purchasing an extended warranty for added protection.