What Are the Laptops That Turn Into Tablets? A Comprehensive Guide to 2025’s Best 2-in-1 Convertibles

The boundaries between laptops and tablets have never been more blurred than they are in 2025. With advances in processing power, battery life, and display technology, today’s 2-in-1 convertible laptops offer unprecedented versatility for professionals, students, and creative users alike. These innovative devices combine the productivity of a traditional laptop with the convenience and portability of a tablet, all while delivering performance that rivals dedicated laptops.

Whether you’re looking for a device that can handle demanding professional workflows, support creative endeavors with stylus input, or simply provide the flexibility to work and play across multiple form factors, 2025’s crop of 2-in-1 laptops represents the pinnacle of hybrid computing technology.

Understanding 2-in-1 Laptops: The Technology Behind the Transformation

Before diving into specific models, it’s essential to understand what makes a laptop “convertible.” 2-in-1 laptops, also known as convertible laptops, feature either a 360-degree hinge mechanism that allows the screen to fold completely back onto itself, or a detachable design where the screen can be completely separated from the keyboard base.

The 360-degree hinge design is most common in 2025 models, offering four primary usage modes:

• Laptop Mode: Traditional clamshell configuration for typing and productivity
• Tablet Mode: Screen folded completely back for touch-based interaction
• Tent Mode: Inverted V-shape ideal for presentations and media consumption
• Stand Mode: Screen angled forward for optimal viewing during video calls or entertainment

These devices typically feature touchscreens with active stylus support, making them particularly appealing to digital artists, note-takers, and professionals who need to annotate documents or sign contracts on the go.

Microsoft Surface Pro 11 (2025): The Ultimate Portable Powerhouse

Starting Price: $999 (12-inch), $1,049 (13-inch)

Microsoft’s Surface Pro 11 represents the pinnacle of the company’s tablet-first philosophy, now in its 11th generation. This 2025 model marks a significant departure from previous iterations, featuring powerful ARM-based processors that deliver exceptional performance while maintaining all-day battery life.

Key Specifications:

Processor Options:

• Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus (10-core, 3.4 GHz)
• Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite (12-core, up to 4.0 GHz)

Display:

• 12-inch: 2,196 × 1,464 pixels, 90Hz refresh rate
• 13-inch: 2,880 × 1,920 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate
• Optional OLED display available on select configurations
• 3:2 aspect ratio optimized for productivity

Memory and Storage:

• 16GB or 32GB LPDDR5x RAM (depending on model)
• 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB SSD storage options

Battery Life:

• Up to 14 hours (13-inch model) or 16 hours (12-inch model) of local video playback
• Fast charging via USB-C or Surface Connect

Dimensions and Weight:

• 12-inch: 27.4 x 19 x 0.78 cm, 686 grams
• 13-inch: 28.7 x 20.9 x 0.93 cm, 895 grams

Notable Features:

The Surface Pro 11 introduces Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC experiences, leveraging the 45 TOPS Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for AI-accelerated tasks. The device supports Windows Studio Effects for enhanced video calls, including automatic framing, background blur, and eye contact correction.

The optional Surface Pro Flex Keyboard ($350) can operate wirelessly when detached from the tablet, enabling new usage scenarios where the keyboard sits on your lap while the screen is positioned elsewhere. The device also supports the Surface Slim Pen for precise digital ink input.

One of the most significant improvements in the 2025 model is the enhanced app compatibility. Microsoft’s new Prism emulation layer delivers much better x86 app compatibility compared to previous Windows on ARM devices, though some performance compromises remain for non-native applications.

Pricing Configuration:

• Base model (Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD): $999
• OLED model (Snapdragon X Elite, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD): $1,499
• Surface Pro Flex Keyboard and Slim Pen bundle: $449

Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition (2025): Premium Performance Meets Elegant Design

Starting Price: $1,459

Lenovo’s flagship 2-in-1 convertible enters its tenth generation with significant improvements in performance, display quality, and AI integration. The Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition represents the company’s premium offering, targeting creative professionals and demanding users who need versatile, high-performance computing.

Key Specifications:

Processor Options:

• Intel Core Ultra 5 256V (6 performance cores, 8 efficiency cores)
• Intel Core Ultra 7 258V (8 performance cores, 8 efficiency cores, up to 4.8 GHz boost)

Display:

• 14-inch 2.8K (2880 × 1800) OLED touchscreen
• 120Hz adaptive refresh rate
• 100% DCI-P3 color gamut
• 1,100 nits peak brightness
• Dolby Vision HDR support

Memory and Storage:

• 16GB or 32GB LPDDR5x-7467 RAM
• 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD

Graphics:

• Intel Arc 140V integrated graphics (with Core Ultra 7)
• Intel Arc 130V integrated graphics (with Core Ultra 5)

Battery and Charging:

• Up to 15 hours of battery life
• 75Wh battery
• 65W fast charging

Dimensions and Weight:

• 12.44 x 8.66 x 0.65 inches
• 2.91 pounds

Notable Features:

The Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition introduces Lenovo’s new AI-enhanced features, including Smart Note application that automatically launches when the included Yoga Pen approaches the screen. The device features a rotating soundbar hinge that provides superior audio quality in all usage modes.

The laptop’s “cosmic blue” colorway offers a distinctive aesthetic that changes appearance under different lighting conditions. The precision-engineered 360-degree hinge mechanism has been tested for thousands of conversions, ensuring long-term reliability.

AI features include attention mode to reduce distractions and shield mode to protect privacy during video calls. The 5MP webcam with infrared support provides excellent video quality and supports Windows Hello facial recognition.

The device achieves impressive performance metrics, with Geekbench 6 scores of 2,751 (single-core) and 11,059 (multi-core), putting it among the top performers in the convertible laptop category.

Pricing Configuration:

• Core Ultra 5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD: $1,459
• Core Ultra 7, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD: $1,749 (frequently available for $1,499)

HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 (2025): The Spectre x360 Evolution

Starting Price: $1,449

HP’s OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 represents the evolution of the beloved Spectre x360 series, now rebranded under the OmniBook lineup. This premium convertible maintains the elegant design philosophy of its predecessor while incorporating the latest Intel Lunar Lake processors and enhanced AI capabilities.

Key Specifications:

Processor Options:

• Intel Core Ultra 5 226V (4 performance cores, 4 efficiency cores)
• Intel Core Ultra 7 258V (4 performance cores, 8 efficiency cores)
• Intel Core Ultra 9 288V (4 performance cores, 8 efficiency cores, up to 5.1 GHz boost)

Display:

• 14-inch 3K (2880 × 1800) OLED touchscreen
• 120Hz variable refresh rate
• 500 nits peak brightness
• Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection
• Support for 4096 pressure sensitivity levels

Memory and Storage:

• 16GB or 32GB LPDDR5x RAM
• 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD

Graphics:

• Intel Arc 140V integrated graphics
• Support for XeSS upscaling in supported games

Connectivity:

• 3 USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports
• 1 USB-A 3.2 port
• 3.5mm audio combo jack
• Wi-Fi 7 support
• Bluetooth 5.4

Battery and Charging:

• Up to 16 hours and 15 minutes battery life
• Fast charging capability
• USB-C Power Delivery support

Dimensions and Weight:

• 12.32 x 8.83 x 0.63 inches
• 2.98 pounds

Notable Features:

The OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 features HP’s signature haptic touchpad, providing precise feedback without mechanical clicking. The device supports the HP 705 Rechargeable Multi-Pen for creative work and note-taking.

AI features include HP’s Poly Camera Pro technology for enhanced video calling, along with Windows Studio Effects for automatic background blur and noise cancellation. The 9MP webcam with infrared support delivers exceptional video quality for professional communications.

The laptop’s thermal design enables sustained performance without excessive fan noise, making it suitable for demanding creative workflows including video editing and 3D rendering.

Pricing Configuration:

• Core Ultra 5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD: $1,449
• Core Ultra 7, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD: $1,599
• Core Ultra 9, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD: $2,150

Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 (2025): The Android Ecosystem Champion

Starting Price: $1,699

Samsung’s Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 represents the company’s flagship 2-in-1 offering, designed specifically for users invested in the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem. This device excels at seamless integration with Samsung smartphones and tablets, while delivering premium performance and display quality.

Key Specifications:

Processor Options:

• Intel Core Ultra 5 226V (Series 2)
• Intel Core Ultra 7 256V (Series 2, up to 47 TOPS NPU performance)

Display:

• 16-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X touchscreen
• 3K (2880 × 1800) resolution
• 120Hz adaptive refresh rate
• Anti-reflective coating with Corning Gorilla Glass DX
• Support for S Pen with 4096 pressure levels

Memory and Storage:

• 16GB or 32GB LPDDR5x RAM
• 512GB or 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD

Graphics:

• Intel Arc integrated graphics

Connectivity:

• 2 USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports
• 1 USB-A 3.2 port
• HDMI 2.1 port
• MicroSD card reader
• 3.5mm audio combo jack
• Wi-Fi 7 support

Battery and Audio:

• Up to 25 hours battery life (16-inch model)
• Fast charging: 35% in 30 minutes
• Quad-speaker system with larger 38mm woofers
• Dolby Atmos support

Dimensions and Weight:

• 355.3 x 252 x 12.7 mm
• 1.69 kg (3.73 pounds)

Notable Features:

The Galaxy Book5 Pro 360’s standout feature is its deep integration with the Samsung ecosystem. Phone Link functionality allows users to mirror smartphone notifications, answer calls, and access mobile photos directly on the laptop. Quick Share enables seamless file transfer between Galaxy devices.

The device supports Auto Hotspot, automatically connecting to a paired Galaxy smartphone’s data connection when Wi-Fi is unavailable. AI Select feature allows users to circle, highlight, or click on screen elements for instant information or purchasing options.

The included S Pen magnetically attaches to the laptop and supports natural writing with enhanced tilt sensitivity. The device’s 1080p webcam with staggered HDR ensures professional video quality for remote work and collaboration.

Pricing Configuration:

• Core Ultra 5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD: $1,699
• Core Ultra 7, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD: $1,999

ASUS Vivobook 16 Flip (2025): The Value-Performance Champion

Starting Price: $999 (frequently available for $999-$1,019)

ASUS’s Vivobook 16 Flip represents exceptional value in the 2-in-1 market, offering premium features typically found in more expensive devices while maintaining an accessible price point. This 16-inch convertible targets users who need a large screen for productivity without sacrificing portability.

Key Specifications:

Processor:

• Intel Core Ultra 7 258V (Lunar Lake, 8 cores)
• 47 TOPS Neural Processing Unit for AI acceleration

Display:

• 16-inch 3K (2880 × 1800) ASUS Lumina OLED touchscreen
• 120Hz adaptive refresh rate
• 500 nits peak brightness
• 100% DCI-P3 color gamut support
• Support for ASUS Pen 2.0 (sold separately)

Memory and Storage:

• 32GB LPDDR5x memory-on-package (non-upgradeable)
• 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD

Graphics:

• Intel Arc 140V integrated graphics
• Support for XeSS upscaling

Connectivity:

• 1 Thunderbolt 4 port
• 1 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port
• 1 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port
• 1 USB 2.0 port
• HDMI 2.1 port
• 3.5mm audio combo jack

Battery and Performance:

• Up to 22 hours battery life
• 75Wh battery capacity
• Fast charging support

Dimensions and Weight:

• 13.98 x 9.62 x 0.67-0.69 inches
• 3.9 pounds

Notable Features:

The Vivobook 16 Flip meets MIL-STD-810H military standards for durability, ensuring reliable operation in challenging environments. The device’s large 16-inch display makes it ideal for multitasking, content creation, and media consumption.

ASUS IceCool thermal technology utilizes an 8mm heat pipe and IceBlade fan design for efficient heat dissipation while maintaining quiet operation. The laptop supports Windows Hello facial recognition and fingerprint authentication for secure access.

The device’s audio system features Harman Kardon certification and Dolby Atmos support, delivering impressive sound quality for a laptop in this price range.

Pricing Configuration:

• Single configuration: Core Ultra 7, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD: $1,349 (frequently discounted to $999-$1,019)

Performance Analysis: Benchmarks and Real-World Usage

Processing Power Comparison

The 2025 crop of 2-in-1 laptops showcases two primary processor architectures: Intel’s Lunar Lake Core Ultra Series 2 and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series. Each offers distinct advantages:

Intel Lunar Lake processors excel in:

• x86 application compatibility
• Single-threaded performance
• Gaming performance with Arc integrated graphics
• Professional software support

Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors excel in:

• Power efficiency and battery life
• AI processing capabilities
• Fanless operation in many devices
• Instant-on connectivity

Battery Life Performance

2025’s 2-in-1 laptops achieve impressive battery life figures:

• Microsoft Surface Pro 11: 14-16 hours
• Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1: Up to 15 hours
• HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14: Up to 16.25 hours
• Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360: Up to 25 hours
• ASUS Vivobook 16 Flip: Up to 22 hours

These figures represent significant improvements over previous generations, largely due to more efficient processors and optimized power management.

Display Quality Assessment

All featured devices offer high-quality OLED displays with the following characteristics:

• Color accuracy: 100% DCI-P3 coverage standard
• Brightness: 500-1,100 nits peak
• Refresh rates: 120Hz adaptive
• Touch responsiveness: Sub-1ms latency
• Stylus support: 4096+ pressure levels

Creative and Professional Applications

Digital Art and Design

For digital artists and designers, the combination of OLED displays and precision stylus support makes these devices compelling alternatives to dedicated drawing tablets. The Lenovo Yoga 9i and Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 particularly excel in this area, offering color-accurate displays and responsive pen input.

Business and Productivity

The versatile form factors make these devices ideal for business users who need to adapt to different work environments. Presentation mode, touch input for signing documents, and excellent video calling capabilities address key business requirements.

Education and Research

Students benefit from the note-taking capabilities, long battery life, and ability to use these devices across different study environments – from traditional desk work to casual reading in tablet mode.

Connectivity and Ecosystem Integration

Universal Standards

All featured devices support modern connectivity standards:

• USB-C Thunderbolt 4 for high-speed data transfer and display connectivity
• Wi-Fi 7 for fast wireless networking
• Bluetooth 5.4 for accessory connectivity

Ecosystem-Specific Features

Microsoft Surface Pro 11 integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365 services and Windows ecosystem applications.

Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 offers unique advantages for Samsung smartphone users, including seamless file sharing, notification mirroring, and automatic hotspot connectivity.

Other manufacturers provide broader compatibility across different smartphone and cloud service platforms.

Future-Proofing and AI Integration

Copilot+ PC Capabilities

Most 2025 models qualify as Copilot+ PCs, featuring dedicated Neural Processing Units (NPUs) that enable:

• Local AI processing for enhanced privacy
• Real-time language translation
• Advanced photo and video editing
• Intelligent power management
• Enhanced video calling features

Software Compatibility

The transition to ARM-based processors (particularly with Microsoft Surface) requires consideration of software compatibility. While most common applications now offer native ARM versions, specialized professional software may still require x86 emulation, potentially impacting performance.

Purchasing Considerations and Value Analysis

Price-to-Performance Ratios

Best Overall Value: ASUS Vivobook 16 Flip at $999-$1,019 offers exceptional specifications including 32GB RAM and 1TB storage.

Premium Choice: Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition provides the best balance of performance, build quality, and features at $1,459-$1,749.

Ecosystem Integration: Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 justifies its $1,699 starting price for users invested in the Samsung ecosystem.

Professional Focus: HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 targets business users with superior build quality and support at $1,449-$2,150.

Innovation Leader: Microsoft Surface Pro 11 offers the most tablet-like experience with detachable keyboard functionality starting at $999.

Configuration Recommendations

For most users, mid-tier configurations offer the best value:

• 16GB RAM (sufficient for most use cases)
• 512GB-1TB SSD (balances storage needs with cost)
• Core Ultra 7 processors (optimal performance-efficiency balance)

Warranty and Support Considerations

• Microsoft: Standard one-year warranty with optional Microsoft Complete coverage
• Lenovo: One-year warranty with Premier Support options
• HP: One-year warranty with Care Pack extensions available
• Samsung: One-year warranty with Samsung Care+ options
• ASUS: One-year warranty with Perfect Warranty programs

Accessories and Expandability

Essential Accessories

Styluses: All devices support active styluses, though quality and features vary. The included Samsung S Pen and optional Lenovo Yoga Pen offer the best experiences.

Keyboards: Detachable keyboards (Surface Pro) or laptop keyboards (all others) provide different typing experiences. The Surface Pro requires separate keyboard purchase, while others include integrated keyboards.

Docking Solutions: USB-C docking stations enable desktop-like connectivity for office use.

Storage Expansion

Most devices offer limited internal upgradability due to their thin designs. Cloud storage and external USB-C storage solutions provide expansion options.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right 2-in-1 for Your Needs

The 2025 generation of 2-in-1 laptops represents a maturation of the convertible concept, offering genuine laptop-class performance in versatile form factors. Each device in our comparison serves different user needs:

Choose the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 if you prioritize portability and tablet-first usage, particularly for note-taking, document review, and light creative work.

Select the Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition for the best overall balance of performance, build quality, and features, especially for creative professionals and power users.

Opt for the HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 if you need premium build quality with strong business features and long-term reliability.

Consider the Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 if you’re invested in the Samsung ecosystem and need excellent display quality with seamless smartphone integration.

Pick the ASUS Vivobook 16 Flip for exceptional value, offering premium specifications at an accessible price point, ideal for students and budget-conscious professionals.

The 2-in-1 laptop category has evolved beyond compromise devices to become genuine alternatives to traditional laptops, offering unique advantages in versatility and user experience. With performance that rivals dedicated laptops, all-day battery life, and innovative AI features, these devices represent the future of mobile computing – where the line between tablet and laptop continues to blur in favor of user flexibility and enhanced productivity.

Whether you’re a creative professional, business user, student, or technology enthusiast, 2025’s 2-in-1 laptops offer compelling options that can adapt to your changing needs while delivering the performance required for modern computing tasks.