Is a hybrid laptop right for you?

If you’re looking for a portable computer, you might be torn between a tablet and a full-sized laptop. Both have their advantages, but there’s a third option that could give you the best of both worlds: a hybrid laptop. Also known as convertible laptops, these feature a detachable keyboard, allowing them to function as touchscreen devices or with the traditional mouse and keyboard input.

This solves one of the long-running problems with tablet PCs: while as easy to use as a smartphone (in fact, a tablet is essentially a bigger, souped-up smartphone) the touchscreen interface isn’t ideal for long periods of typing. Meanwhile, full-sized laptops are often a little too bulky to be truly portable, often requiring their own carry cases, whereas tablets can easily be slipped into a handbag.

Of course, there’s always a trade-off: hybrids tend to lack the processing power of larger laptops, and they’re still somewhat heavier and bulkier than tablets (although the gap is closing as keyboards become thinner). If you think a hybrid laptop is for you, here’s a quick run-down of a few popular models:

 

Lenovo Thinkpad Helix

Lenovo thinkpad helix

This Windows 8-powered device from Lenovo features an 11.6-inch screen with a super-thin dockable keyboard. There’s also a 128GB solid-state drive which delivers excellent boot-up times and app launches, and an integrated high-definition webcam. All in all, it’s a highly flexible all-rounder for Skypeing, watching movies or office applications.

 

HP Envy X2

hp-envy-x2-21

A good budget option, the HP Envy X2 also has an 11.6-inch screen and an impressive battery life. Storage space is somewhat lower than other hybrids at 64GB, and the Intel Atom 1.8GHz isn’t the most powerful processor on the market, but if you only plan to use basic apps and web surfing this could be the cheap alternative you’re looking for.

 

Sony Vaio Duo 11

sonyDUO11

At the pricier end of the spectrum, the Sony Vaio Duo 11 packs some superior hardware: an Intel Core i3 processor, 128GB hard drive and 4GB of RAM all make this a hybrid that can hold its own against many bigger laptops. It’s all upgradable too – if you’re prepared to shell out for more RAM or a better processor it gets even more impressive.

You can find these laptops in the UK at Misco

You can find these laptops in the US at Best Buy

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.