Do you crave the flexibility of a tablet for sketching or taking notes, but also need the power of a laptop for work or creative projects? If you’re tired of carrying two separate devices, a 2-in-1 laptop with a pen or stylus might be perfect for you. With many options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This guide will explore the top contenders in the 2-in-1 market, helping you navigate confusing specs and find the perfect convertible laptop that fits your needs. Consider these key factors to ensure a perfect fit:
- Performance: Prioritize processors like Intel’s 13th Gen Core i7 or AMD’s Ryzen 7 7830U, paired with at least 16GB RAM for robust multitasking. Opt for a mid-range Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 with 8GB RAM for lighter tasks like note-taking and browsing.
- Display: Choose a minimum Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution for sharp visuals. For creative work like graphic design, look for displays with high color accuracy (aim for over 90% sRGB). OLED panels offer excellent contrast but may drain the battery faster.
- Pen/Stylus: Active pens provide pressure sensitivity for a natural writing feel, unlike basic styluses. Consider battery life and weight; a lighter pen with an ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue during extended use.
Best 2 In 1 Laptops With Pen Table
| Best 2 in 1 laptops With Pen | Screen Size | Display Resolution | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Surface Pro 9 | 13 Inches | 2880 x 1920 Pixels | Check On Amazon |
| SAMSUNG Galaxy Book2 Pro | 15.6 Inches | 1920 x 1080 Pixels | Check On Amazon |
| Lenovo Flex 14 | 14 Inches | 1920 x 1080 Pixels | Check On Amazon |
| HP Envy x360 | 15.6 Inches | 1920 x 1080 Pixels | Check On Amazon |
| Acer Chromebook Spin 311 | 11.6 Inches | 1366 x 768 Pixels | Check On Amazon |
| Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 | 15.6 Inches | 1920 x 1080 Pixels | Check On Amazon |
Best 2 In 1 Laptops With Pen Reviews
1. Microsoft Surface Pro 9
The Surface Pro 9 from Microsoft merges a sleek design with powerful performance. Equipped with the latest Intel Core processors on the Intel Evo platform, it guarantees fast multitasking and efficient software usage. Its 13-inch touchscreen boasts a high resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels, delivering vibrant visuals and precise touch sensitivity. Additionally, adaptive color technology fine-tunes the screen’s colors to suit your environment.
The built-in Kickstand and Surface Pro Signature Keyboard make it versatile. You can easily switch from tablet to laptop mode. The Surface Slim Pen 2 provides a natural writing and drawing experience, ideal for creatives and professionals.
Despite its lightweight design, the Surface Pro 9 offers up to 19 hours of battery life. This makes it perfect for those on the go. It also connects seamlessly to various peripherals through the Surface Dock, making it a great tool for mobile professionals.
Specifications:
- Processor: Intel Core i5, 4.4 GHz
- RAM: 8 GB LPDDR4
- Storage: 256 GB SSD
- Display: 13-inch touchscreen, 2880 x 1920 resolution
- Battery Life: Up to 15.5 hours
- Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
- Camera: 1080p HD
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Special Features: Adjustable Kickstand, Surface Pen compatibility, Dolby Vision IQ
Pros:
- High-resolution display with adaptive color technology.
- Excellent Battery Life, supporting long hours away from power sources.
- Versatile Design with built-in Kickstand and detachable keyboard.
- Top-Notch Pen Experience with Surface Slim Pen 2.
- Robust Performance thanks to the latest Intel processors.
Cons:
- Pricey Accessories, such as the keyboard and pen are sold separately.
- Limited Port Selection, which might require additional adapters.
- Kickstand Comfort can be an issue when used on the lap for extended periods.
2. SAMSUNG Galaxy Book2 Pro
If top performance and connectivity in a sleek design are your priorities, consider the SAMSUNG Galaxy Book2 Pro. It comes with a 1260P Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM, providing fast computing for various tasks. The 15.6″ AMOLED display is notable, delivering stunning FHD visuals, making it perfect for creative work and HD entertainment.
This 2-in-1 laptop has modes like Flex, Yoga, and Tablet, adapting to your work and leisure. It includes a sensitive AES stylus pen, perfect for precise design and note-taking.
The Galaxy Book2 Pro isn’t just powerful; it’s also about connectivity. With Thunderbolt 4, expect fast data transfer and docking. This is crucial for professionals who need to stay productive. Plus, Intel Wi-Fi 6E ensures fast and reliable internet for remote work and online meetings.
Specifications:
- Processor: Intel Core i7-1260P, 2.1 GHz up to 4.70 GHz
- RAM: 16 GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 2 TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD
- Display: 15.6-inch FHD AMOLED Touchscreen
- Battery Life: Up to 15 hours
- Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1
- Ports: Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, MicroSD Reader
- Camera: 1080p FHD
- Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
Pros:
- Exceptional Display Quality with AMOLED technology for vivid colors and deep contrasts.
- Massive Storage Capacity of 2 TB, catering to extensive data needs.
- Advanced Connectivity Options including Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6E.
- Highly Versatile with multiple usage modes and included stylus pen.
- Lightweight and Thin Design, making it highly portable without sacrificing performance.
Cons:
- Battery Life could be better, considering the high-end specs.
- Integrated Graphics may not suffice for intense graphical tasks.
3. Lenovo Flex 14
The Lenovo Flex 14 is designed for budget-conscious users who need a versatile and efficient device. Featuring an AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor and 12 GB of RAM, it’s well-suited for everyday tasks and light multitasking. The 14-inch Full HD touchscreen offers clear visuals, although it may lack the vibrancy of pricier models.
One notable feature of the Flex 14 is its true block privacy shutter on the webcam, providing peace of mind for digital security. The included active pen is useful for students and professionals who like to take notes or sketch on the screen.
Despite its affordable price, the Lenovo Flex 14 includes features often found in more expensive models, such as HDMI, USB-C, and a responsive touchscreen. Its battery life can last up to 10 hours on a single charge, though this may vary based on usage.
Specifications:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 3500U, 2.1 GHz
- RAM: 12 GB DDR4
- Storage: 256 GB SSD
- Display: 14-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) Touchscreen
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon Vega 8
- Wireless: Bluetooth
- Camera: HD with privacy shutter
- Operating System: Windows 10
- Special Features: Active pen included, privacy shutter
Pros:
- Affordable Price with solid performance.
- Active Pen Included for interactive use.
- Privacy Shutter on Webcam enhances security.
- Comprehensive Connectivity with USB-C and HDMI ports.
- Light and Portable, easy to carry around.
Cons:
- Screen Brightness is adequate but not suitable for outdoor use.
- Battery Performance can vary significantly with intensive tasks.
- No USB-C Charging, limiting modern connectivity options.
- Bloatware includes unwanted pre-installed software that may slow down the system.
4. HP Envy x360
The HP Envy x360, featuring an AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor and 32 GB of RAM, delivers outstanding performance for video editing, programming, and multitasking. Its 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreen is both vibrant and responsive, significantly enhancing your work and entertainment experience.
A key feature of the Envy x360 is its sturdy build. The hinge rotates 360 degrees, allowing it to switch easily between laptop and tablet modes. The included stylus pen is great for taking notes, drawing, or marking documents.
It has plenty of connectivity options: USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, and an SD card reader. However, it is slightly heavier than some competitors, which might affect portability. Also, the battery life is decent but may not last all day with intensive use, which is important for frequent travellers.
Specifications:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, 2.0 GHz up to 4.5 GHz
- RAM: 32 GB DDR4
- Storage: 1 TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD
- Display: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) Touchscreen
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours
- Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
- Ports: USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, SD card reader
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Special Features: Backlit keyboard, Stylus pen included
Pros:
- High Performance with Ryzen 7 processor and 32 GB RAM.
- Robust Build Quality ensures durability and longevity.
- Versatile Modes thanks to the 360-degree hinge.
- Ample Storage with a 1 TB SSD.
- Comprehensive Connectivity with multiple ports.
Cons:
- Heavier Design which may affect portability.
- Moderate Battery Life compared to some competitors.
- Occasional Overheating under heavy loads.
5. Acer Chromebook Spin 311
The Acer Chromebook Spin 311 is ideal for users seeking both mobility and ease of use. Powered by the MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor and 4 GB of RAM, it efficiently manages everyday tasks such as browsing, streaming, and document editing. Its 11.6-inch HD touchscreen, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, is both durable and highly responsive.
The Spin 311’s best feature is its 360-degree hinge. This lets it switch between laptop, tent, stand, and tablet modes smoothly. It’s lightweight and ideal for students, travelers, and people on the go. The included stylus pen adds more functionality, making it easy to take notes, draw, and annotate documents.
With up to 15 hours of battery life, the Acer Chromebook Spin 311 lets you work or play all day without needing to recharge. Its Chrome OS offers a secure and fast user experience, with access to thousands of apps through the Google Play Store. The device also has various connectivity options, such as USB-C, USB-A, and a MicroSD card reader, ensuring it works with a wide range of peripherals.
Specifications:
- Processor: MediaTek Kompanio 520, 2 GHz
- RAM: 4 GB DDR4
- Storage: 64 GB eMMC
- Display: 11.6-inch HD (1366 x 768) Touchscreen
- Battery Life: Up to 15 hours
- Graphics: Integrated ARM Mali-T604
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
- Ports: USB-C, USB-A, MicroSD card reader
- Operating System: Chrome OS
- Special Features: Stylus pen included, Gorilla Glass touchscreen
Pros:
- Highly Portable with a compact and lightweight design.
- Excellent Battery Life lasting up to 15 hours.
- Flexible Design with a 360-degree hinge.
- User-Friendly Interface with Chrome OS.
- Durable Touchscreen protected by Corning Gorilla Glass.
Cons:
- Limited Performance with 4 GB RAM and MediaTek processor.
- Modest Storage Capacity at 64 GB.
- Lower Display Resolution compared to higher-end models.
- Not Suitable for Heavy Tasks like video editing or gaming.
- Limited Expandability with non-upgradable RAM and storage.
6. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5
The IdeaPad Flex 5 from Lenovo combines solid performance with flexibility at a reasonable price. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor and 16GB of DDR4 RAM, it handles a variety of tasks with ease. Whether it’s everyday computing or more demanding applications, this laptop delivers efficient performance. Its 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreen offers clear and vivid visuals, making it suitable for both work and entertainment.
A key feature of the IdeaPad Flex 5 is its 360-degree hinge. This allows it to switch between laptop, tent, stand, and tablet modes easily. This flexibility makes it ideal for users who need a device that adapts to different scenarios. The laptop also has a fingerprint reader for added security and a backlit keyboard for comfortable typing in low light.
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 balances performance, features, and portability. Its battery life is impressive, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge. This makes it great for long workdays or travel. The device includes various connectivity options, such as USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and a 4-in-1 card reader, ensuring compatibility with many peripherals.
Specifications:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5700U, 1.8 GHz up to 4.3 GHz
- RAM: 16 GB DDR4
- Storage: 512 GB SSD
- Display: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) Touchscreen
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
- Ports: USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, 4-in-1 card reader
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Special Features: Fingerprint reader, Backlit keyboard
Pros:
- Solid Performance with Ryzen 7 processor and 16 GB RAM.
- Flexible Design with a 360-degree hinge.
- Good Battery Life lasting up to 10 hours.
- Multiple Connectivity Options including USB-C and HDMI.
- Affordable Price offering good value for money.
Cons:
- Heavier than some competitors affecting portability.
- Display brightness could be better for outdoor use.
- Integrated graphics may not suffice for high-end gaming or graphics-intensive tasks.
Key Factors To Consider When Buying 2 In 1 Laptop
When considering 2-in-1 laptops bundled with a stylus, it’s crucial to prioritize certain features before deciding to buy. Understanding these features can greatly impact your satisfaction and productivity with the device. Let’s explore into each of these significant aspects:
1. Touchscreen Technology
2-in-1 laptops are notable for their touchscreen capability, allowing effortless interaction with the device. Whether navigating menus, flipping through documents, or sketching, the experience is seamless and intuitive. When evaluating touchscreen technology, consider factors such as responsiveness, accuracy, and multi-touch support. A high-quality touchscreen enhances laptop performance and enhances user enjoyment.
2. Pen/Stylus Precision And Sensitivity
Incorporating a pen or stylus into 2-in-1 laptops greatly enhances their utility, particularly for artists, designers, and note-takers. These tools enable precise drawing, handwriting recognition, and annotation, with factors such as pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition impacting their quality. A responsive and accurate pen fosters creativity and efficiency through seamless touchscreen interaction.
3. Versatile Modes (Laptop, Tablet, Tent, Stand)
2-in-1 laptops excel in their versatility, effortlessly transitioning between various modes. They function as conventional laptops for tasks such as typing, convert to tablets for browsing or media consumption, and adapt to tent or stand modes for presentations or video viewing. Prioritize models with robust hinges and durable construction for seamless and secure mode switching.
4. Processor Power And Performance
The performance of a convertible laptop hinges greatly on its processor’s capabilities. A powerful processor ensures efficient multitasking, smooth app operation, and user responsiveness. Prioritize laptops equipped with the latest Intel or AMD chips for optimal power, enabling seamless computing across tasks like photo editing, video streaming, and software usage.
5. Storage Capacity
Sufficient space ensures storing files, videos, documents, and apps without running low. Opt for laptops equipped with solid-state drives (SSDs) for enhanced speed in booting up, file access, and overall performance. Tailor your choice based on intended laptop usage, whether for video editing, gaming, or professional tasks, ensuring ample storage to accommodate your requirements.
6. Connectivity Options (Thunderbolt, USB Type-C)
Effective connectivity is crucial for convertible laptops. Thunderbolt and USB Type-C ports facilitate swift data transfer, external display linkage, and charging. It’s wise to assess the quantity and types of ports to ensure compatibility with your peripherals. Consider opting for Thunderbolt 4 or USB 4-enabled laptops for enhanced future connectivity.
2 In 1 Laptop With Pen – FAQs
Not all styluses are equal for 2-in-1 laptops. Basic capacitive styluses mimic your finger and work on any touchscreen, but they’re not great for drawing or writing. For better control and pressure sensitivity, you’ll need an active stylus compatible with your laptop’s technology (like Microsoft Pen Protocol or Wacom AES). Always check your laptop’s manual or the manufacturer’s website to find the right stylus.
Pen pressure sensitivity on a 2-in-1 laptop enhances creativity by varying stroke thickness and opacity based on pen pressure. This mimics real drawing, allowing fine details, shading, and natural writing. It boosts artistic expression and improves handwriting recognition, making note-taking and sketching intuitive. Without it, lines are uniformly thick, limiting creativity and precision.
2-in-1 laptops with pen support come in various sizes, from compact 11-inch models ideal for students and travelers to larger 15.6-inch options suited for designers. Many users prefer the 13.3-inch to 14-inch range for its balance of portability and screen space. Your best choice depends on your needs: smaller screens for portability, larger ones for creative work, or multitasking.
Not all 2-in-1 laptops have detachable keyboards. There are two main types: detachable, like the Microsoft Surface Pro, which has keyboards that can be removed for use as a tablet, and convertibles, which have keyboards that fold back 360 degrees for tablet-like use. If you need a detachable keyboard, ensure the device is a detachable 2-in-1 before purchasing.
2-in-1 laptops can handle video editing, but their effectiveness depends on the model and project complexity. High-end models with powerful specs are suitable for demanding software like Adobe Premiere Pro. Mid-range 2-in-1s are good for basic editing, but for serious work, traditional laptops with strong specs are often better. 2-in-1s offer flexibility and portability, making them a good option for those who value these features.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect 2-in-1 laptop with pen functionality requires careful thought. Key aspects include touchscreen capabilities and processing power. Focus on adaptability, efficiency, and connectivity to customize the device to your needs and boost productivity. A high-quality 2-in-1 laptop with pen features promotes innovation, collaboration, and efficiency, whether for creativity, education, or professional use. To help you make an informed decision, here are three top recommendations:
- The Lenovo Flex 14 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop includes a stylus for enhanced creativity, a 14-inch FHD IPS touchscreen for crisp visuals, and a versatile 360⁰ hinge. Equipped with AMD Ryzen 5 4500U processor and Radeon graphics, it delivers robust performance for various tasks. Enjoy up to 10 hours of battery life and fast charging.
- The HP Envy x360 2-in-1 Flip Laptop excels in performance, powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor and Radeon graphics, enabling smooth operation across applications. Boasting 32 GB RAM and a generous 1 TB SSD, it competes with top-tier desktop PCs, perfect for multitasking and demanding computing tasks.
- The Samsung 360 2-in-1 Laptop features a robust 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P Processor, 16GB RAM, and 1TB SSD for seamless multitasking. Its 15.6″ FHD AMOLED touchscreen, Thunderbolt 4, AES pen, and adaptable design foster creativity and efficiency in laptop or tablet mode.
