What is the difference between a touch screen laptop and a 2 in 1 laptop

A 2-in-1 laptop opens up a whole new, different world, and that’s what makes it so enticing as a personal computer. By combining a laptop and tablet into a single device, it provides portability and access to tasks you simply couldn’t perform with a traditional laptop.

Are you considering buying a 2-in-1 laptop? Let’s take a look at their benefits and the multitude of features included in these versatile devices.

What is a 2-in-1 laptop?

A 2-in-1 laptop blends the core functions of a traditional clamshell laptop with a tablet. It also makes for a broad category of devices. There are machines that lean closer toward being tablets with laptop capabilities, and devices with high processing power that can double as a tablet.

However, the device must have several key components to be considered a 2-in-1 laptop.

• Touch screen
• Keyboard
• Complete operating system such as Microsoft Windows or Chrome OS
• More processing power than a standard tablet

Are 2-in-1 laptops worth it?

2-in-1 laptops may be the perfect device for you, depending on your intended use. If you need a portable machine with a touch screen display and convertible features, then you can't go wrong with a 2-in-1 laptop. These hybrid laptops can do just about anything, from office work to media streaming, while providing incredible portability and flexibility.

Furthermore, 2-in-1 laptops can be a worthwhile investment for many remote workers and students who want to use their device for recreation on off-hours. You can use the Windows OS in tablet mode on almost all 2-in-1 models, which makes it a more feature-rich option for those who love the tablet experience but are frustrated by some of a tablet’s more limited features.

However, if you need additional processing power for more intensive tasks such as gaming or video editing, then a 2-in-1 laptop may not be the right choice after all.

2-in-1 laptops vs traditional laptops

2-in-1 laptops excel in terms of portability and flexibility, and they accomplish this through streamlined specs and components. While traditional laptops offer room for more storage, RAM, and other specs for improved power, this leads to bigger dimensions and heavier machines.

There are two different types of 2-in-1 laptops, and they provide features that traditional laptops simply can’t.

Convertible laptop

Convertible laptops are more closely linked to a traditional laptop, because they typically have durable keyboards and higher-tier components. Convertibles also feature a strong hinge that allows you to rotate the keyboard of the device up to 360 degrees, though the keyboard itself remains fixed to the screen.

Detachable 2-in-1 laptop

If you want something more tablet-oriented, then you’ll want to consider a hybrid or detachable 2-in-1 laptop. These devices allow you to completely remove the keyboard from the device. They tend to be lighter weight and more portable than either traditional and convertible options.

Both the convertible 2-in-1 laptop and hybrid 2-in-1 laptop offer something unique from their more traditional clamshell cousin. Also, you can find either option at a variety of prices and intended uses, from a sleek media device up to something more powerful for professional use. The one you choose depends on your individual routine.

Top 5 reasons why you should buy a 2-in-1 laptop

There are a number of reasons to consider a 2-in-1 laptop. Beyond the more obvious reasons of portability and flexibility, they offer superb value and extended battery life. But what else? Keep reading to learn the top 5 reasons why you should buy a 2-in-1 laptop.

1. Portability for work or school

A 2-in-1 laptop is a great choice for students and professionals who don't want to invest in both a laptop and a tablet. For professionals, a convertible laptop may be the right choice, because they balance performance with functionality. But for students, who may favour portability above all else, a detachable 2-in-1 laptop could be the right choice. It all depends on your routine.

As masters of portability, a 2-in-1 laptop rarely weighs more than 4 lbs, making it perfect for running to class or dashing from the office to the boardroom. It saves you from bringing along multiple devices, too, which will make your backpack even lighter.

2. Longer battery life

2-in-1 laptops generally provide superior battery life compared to traditional laptops because they use more efficient, but also less power-intensive, components. This is particularly true with convertible 2-in-1 laptops, which store the battery in the base just like a traditional laptop. However, some detachable laptops come with additional battery cells in their detachable portions, allowing for hours of use in tablet form.

3. More modes for ultimate flexibility

One of the key advantages of 2-in-1 laptops is their remarkable flexibility, which is accomplished through a variety of modes. Beyond the standard laptop and tablet modes, you can use most 2-in-1 laptops in two additional ways: tent and reverse mode. These allow you to adjust the hinge to create an ideal viewing experience for any use.

In tent mode, you can rotate the hinge 360 degrees, which allows you to face the screen upward while bringing the keyboard behind it in a downward position. This is ideal when you want to view media or conduct a presentation, all while using the base and keyboard as a stand for your device. In contrast, reverse mode keeps the laptop standing upwards and allows you to view the screen without the keyboard getting in the way.

4. Excellent value

One of the top reasons to purchase a 2-in-1 laptop is that you get two devices built into one. This means that you don't have to buy or maintain both a traditional laptop along with a tablet. This can help you save both time and money, because you’re not dealing with the hassle of keeping yet another device updated and secure. You'll also only need one charger and one set of accessories, allowing you to cut down on clutter, using just one device for work, school, travel, and leisure.

5. Touch screen for enhanced use

Perhaps the biggest reason to buy a 2-in-1 laptop is the touch screen; a feature that gives these devices their unique character. Do you prefer taking notes by hand? Just flip your laptop into tablet mode and you’re good to go. Or maybe you want to write, draw, and do everything else with a digital pen? When you choose the HP Spectre x360, you’ll receive an HP Tilt Pen with your purchase so you can immediately enjoy the laptop’s “inking mode” in tablet or laptop mode.

You can also use the touch screen like you would with a traditional tablet, which makes a 2-in-1 laptop ideal for commuters. Plus, many of these devices include fingerprint scanners for quick, easy security.

HP 2-in-1 laptops to consider

2-in-1 laptops are a great value buy for anyone who wants to handle all of their work, school, and media viewing needs in a single device. In addition to their excellent battery life, small form factor, and multiple usage modes, these laptops serve as a stellar middle ground between a traditional laptop and a tablet.

HP® has a variety of excellent 2-in-1 laptops on offer. Along with the HP Spectre x360, there are the HP EliteBook x360 and the HP Chromebook x360 available. The HP Elitebook x360 is a high-end option with a powerful Intel® Core™ i7 processor and 16GB of RAM, two specs that rival many traditional laptops. In contrast, the HP Chromebook x360 is a more affordable choice, but it’s just as snappy thanks to the included Chrome OS and streamlined setup.

While all three are fantastic 2-in-1 laptops, there are other options to consider from HP® as well. And once you're convinced that a 2-in-1 laptop is right for your needs, you’ll be ready to enjoy one of the most portable, flexible, and versatile devices on the market.

About the Author: Daniel Horowitz is a contributing writer for HP® Tech Takes. Daniel is a New York-based author and has written for publications such as USA Today, Digital Trends, Unwinnable Magazine, and many other media outlets.

Which is better a laptop or 2

Is touchscreen worth it on a laptop?

What is the point of a 2

Which laptops are better touch screen or not?