Best 2-in-1 Laptops (2026): Microsoft, Lenovo, and the iPad

You can now choose a 2-in-1 laptop that prioritizes either a full desktop operating system or a touch-first tablet experience, with improved options in both categories.

Microsoft's Surface Pro 12 is highlighted as a top 2-in-1 laptop pick, praised for its portability and affordability, especially its 256GB storage option and Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor. The Surface Pro 13.8 is also recommended for users needing more screen real estate and better laptop replacement capabilities, though it is noted as being more expensive. iPads, particularly the M4 iPad Air, are positioned as strong tablet-first 2-in-1s due to their app ecosystem and improved iPadOS features, offering a compelling alternative to Surface devices. Convertible laptops, like the Lenovo Yoga 9i and Framework Laptop 12, offer traditional laptop form factors with 360-degree hinges for added versatility. Gaming-focused 2-in-1s, such as the Asus ROG Flow Z13, are also available. Budget-friendly Chromebook options, like the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 and Lenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9, cater to users seeking more affordable 2-in-1 solutions.

The market for 2-in-1 devices continues to show a bifurcation between full-fledged Windows-based tablets aiming for laptop replacement and iPad-based devices leveraging a robust app ecosystem for a tablet-first experience. Microsoft's Surface line, particularly the Pro 12, is leaning into affordability and portable design with ARM processors, while the larger Pro 13.8 offers more premium features but at a higher cost. This strategy suggests a market segment that values the flexibility of a convertible form factor but requires a conventional operating system for productivity.

Meanwhile, Apple's iPad, with its Magic Keyboard, is increasingly viable as a laptop replacement, driven by iPadOS enhancements and a superior app selection for touch interaction. This indicates a growing acceptance of tablets as primary computing devices, especially for users prioritizing a touch interface and app-centric workflows. The continued innovation in convertible laptops from brands like Lenovo and Framework highlights a sustained interest in versatile form factors, while the presence of specialized devices like gaming 2-in-1s and budget Chromebooks shows a broad market catering to diverse needs and price points.