GizBot Buying Guide: Pros and Cons of Convertible Laptops

| Updated: Saturday, February 7, 2015, 11:15 [IST]

Over the past few months, PC makers have been trying to push 2-in-1 laptop computers. These versatile hybrid computers aims to provide the functionality of a tablet and a laptop in one single device.

2-in-1 come with advantages of both tablets and laptops. For instance, Acer One 2-in-1 is a capable hybrid device. It also comes with a detachable keyboard. The device allow users to get work done as a notebook and then detach the keyboard to use it as a tablet.

Like Acer One, Microsoft too offer a 2-in-1 hybrid computer - Surface Pro 3. Unfortunately, the Surface Pro 3 is still not available in the country.

2-in-1s are great for traveling. They are also useful for students. 2-in-1s usually run on Windows or Android. They come in different screen sizes and processor types

So is a 2-in-1 right for you? While there is a few drawbacks or cons of buying a 2-in-1, it offers certain improvements over a tablet device. If you are considering buying a 2-in-1, you should take a look and see all Advantages and disadvantages, and then you will be able to make the best possible decision.

5 Advantages of 2-in-1 Hybrid Computer

2-in-1s generally offer great battery life. You can always opt for a model where the keyboard offers extra battery capacity.

5 Advantages of 2-in-1 Hybrid Computer

Travelling can be very hectic, as you need to carry important documents and even laptop. Carrying two devices on your next business trip is not a good idea. Switch to a 2-in-1 and you'll finally have a reason to relax with less charging cords and wires.

5 Advantages of 2-in-1 Hybrid Computer

Convertible notebooks are available in both Windows 8.1 and Android flavours. All of these operating systems are made for safer computing.

5 Advantages of 2-in-1 Hybrid Computer

Unlike a traditional laptop, 2-in-1s have touchscreen displays. Since Microsoft's Windows 8 OS support touchscreen display, a 2-in-1 computer is obviously a better choice compared to a tablet device.

5 Advantages of 2-in-1 Hybrid Computer

You can use a 2-in-1 computer for taking notes. In a meeting, switch to tablet mode for your note-taking.

5 Disadvantages of 2-in-1 Hybrid Computer

2-in-1s are tad bulkier than a tablet device. Yes, you heard that right! Since most of them have a notebook-like design, they are heavy and thicker than normal tablets.

5 Disadvantages of 2-in-1 Hybrid Computer

In some cases, a user need to buy an additional keyboard. Not just that, an average keyboard will cost you as high as Rs. 6,000 or even more.

5 Disadvantages of 2-in-1 Hybrid Computer

A 2-in-1 notebook is available in different form factors. Some trying to bridge the gap between notebooks and tablets. Some have detachable screens. Perhaps it seems that a hybrid laptop is a mere experiment. Basically the designs are too clunky and awkward.

5 Disadvantages of 2-in-1 Hybrid Computer

The keyboards can be small and cramped. The device may be so light, but still most of the available models have bad keyboards.

5 Disadvantages of 2-in-1 Hybrid Computer

Windows app store doesn't offer the wide selection of apps that Android and Apple do. So if you're an Apple user, you may not like then native Windows store.