There are a ton of two-in-one laptops on the market at any given moment, and almost all of those models are available in multiple configurations to match your performance and budget needs. So if you're feeling overwhelmed with options when looking for a new two-in-one, it's understandable. To help simplify things for you, here are the main things you should consider when you start looking.
Price
The search for a new two-in-one for most people starts with price. If the statistics chipmaker Intel and PC manufacturers hurl at us are correct, you'll be holding onto your next laptop for at least three years. If you can afford to stretch your budget a little to get better specs, do it. That stands whether you're spending $500 or more than $1,000. In the past, you could get away with spending less upfront with an eye toward upgrading memory and storage in the future. Laptop makers are increasingly moving away from making components easily upgradable, so again, it's best to get as much two-in-one laptop as you can afford from the start.
Generally speaking, the more you spend, the better the two-in-one. That could mean better components for faster performance, a nicer display, sturdier build quality, a smaller or lighter design from higher-end materials or even a more comfortable keyboard. All of these things add to the cost of a laptop. Right now, the sweet spot for a reliable two-in-one that can handle average work, home office or school tasks is between $700 and $800 and a reasonable model for creative work or gaming upwards of about $1,000. The key is to look for discounts on models in all price ranges so you can get more of what you want for less.
Operating system
Choosing an operating system is part personal preference and part budget. For a two-in-one, you have a choice between Microsoft Windows and Google's ChromeOS. (Apple has yet to merge its MacBook laptops and iPad tablets into a convertible device.)
The majority of two-in-ones feature Windows, but if you are on a tight budget, consider a Chromebook. ChromeOS is a different experience than Windows; make sure the applications you need have a Chrome, Android or Linux app before making the leap. If you spend most of your time roaming the web, writing, streaming video or using cloud-gaming services, they're a good fit.
Size
With a two-in-one, you have to find the balance between being big enough to be useful in laptop mode and compact enough to be manageable in tablet mode. A 16-inch model that might be attractive as a laptop could feel unwieldy to you as a tablet. On the flip side, an 11-inch tablet might be the perfect entertainment device but will likely feel cramped in laptop mode for getting work done.
Size is primarily determined by the screen -- hello, laws of physics -- which in turn factors into battery size, laptop thickness, weight and price. Keep in mind other physics-related characteristics, such as an ultrathin laptop isn't necessarily lighter than a thick one, you can't expect a wide array of connections on a small or ultrathin model and so on.
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