Need to Replace Laptop- How about The 2-In1s?

[Deactivated] on 15/03/2017 - 12:22

I've been doing my homework researching a replacement for a AMD A8/16G hardwared notebook that got cremated in an incident last week. My requirements are for something that is reasonably transportable and packs a bit of processing power. Occasionally I need to compile code when on the road. Graphics are not a primary driver but an HDMI output is almost essential. A usable keyboard is a must.

Some of the 2-in-1s look interesting, but in all the reviews I have read the "cons" seem to outweigh the "pros"; flimsy docking, lousy keyboard or the keyboard being optional at an outrageous price, poor battery life, etc..

Any real life experiences here you'd care to share that might help me decide.

Thanks

Computing

Comments

  • scrimshaw on 15/03/2017 - 12:36

    You buy a two in one when you value portability over processing power and durability.

    I would probably only buy a two in one if I was still in uni and had the need to use a stylus supported laptop for note taking, or if I found myself needing to use it while standing.

    I currently own (or owned the following) devices:

    HP Elitebook Folio 940m + dock (my current laptop that I use for almost every situation)
    Surface Pro 1 (my first convertible device)
    Surface Pro 3rd gen (really great for stylus, but the keyboard is terrible to type on)
    Pendo Pad X360 netbook (great for one handed use, and is light to boot)

    If you're going to be sitting down and doing coding work, or you need a faster GPU for the odd bit of Adobe Premiere or gaming, I'd recommend getting a traditional clamshell notebook, as you probably wouldn't be using the touchscreen or a stylus, you'd be bashing away at a keyboard.

  • stargalaxy on 15/03/2017 - 12:39

    If you travel a lot, then 2 in 1 is good, else get a normal laptop. Screen size and keyboard is a big compromise if you need to do some serious works on them, I only use my HP Spectre X2 when I travel as it is covenient, all other times, it stay in the drawer.

  • [Deactivated] on 15/03/2017 - 12:53

    Thanks, guys.

  • jaffar on 15/03/2017 - 19:42

    Thought I might share my experience using an Asus TF700T 10.1" transformer pad. Keyboard, while made of premium materials was uncomfortable and no way as nice as my 11.6" cheapo Chromebook. Dock was fine at the start but then became a pain as with usage, as the keyboard would constantly time out/disconnect and have to be manually re-docked. Pros are it was definitely portable, and there was a battery in the keyboard. Not sure how newer ones stack up/or how larger 2-in-1s, but how often do you envision yourself detaching the tablet? If you own another tablet, or just use your phone, it might make sense to not go for the 2-in-1, or at least be wary of the dock and see what reviews say. (Also, make sure the tablet part isn't too heavy compared to the keyboard. The TF700T tablet part was a lot heavier than the dock. It balanced okay, but the slightest brush, and it would be liable to fall over.)

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