As a graphic designer, you need a laptop that can handle all the tasks that come with the job. But with so many different models and brands on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of the 10 best 2-in-1 laptops for graphic design. These laptops combine power and portability, making them perfect for on-the-go designers. Let’s get started!
2-in-1 Laptop Comparison
| Image | 2 in 1 Laptop | Screen Size | Processor | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Microsoft Surface Book 3 | 15" | Intel Core i7-1065G7 | See details at Amazon |
 | HP Envy X360 | 15" | Intel Core i7-10510U | See details at Amazon |
 | Lenovo Yoga C940 | 14" | Intel Core i7-1065G7 | See details at Amazon |
 | HP Spectre x360 | 13.3" | Intel Core i7-7500U | See details at Amazon |
 | Dell XPS 15 2-in-1 | 15,6" | Intel Core i7-8705G | See details at Amazon |
 | Acer Spin 5 | 13.5" | Intel Core i7-1065G7 | See details at Amazon |
 | Dell XPS 13 | 13.3" | Intel Core i7-7Y75 | See details at Amazon |
 | HP Pavilion x360 | 14" | Intel Core i5-1035G1 | See details at Amazon |
 | Lenovo Flex 5 | 14" | AMD Ryzen 5 4500U | See details at Amazon |
 | Dell Inspiron 14 5400 | 14" | Intel Core i5-1035G1 | See details at Amazon |
Best 2-in-1 Laptop for Graphic Design in 2022 – Our Top 10
1. Microsoft Surface Book 3
If you want the best 2 in 1 laptop for graphic design, look no further than the Microsoft Surface Book 3. You can detach the screen from the monitor to get a compact table for on-the-go work, as the quad-core powered, 10th Gen Intel Core processors deliver a powerful performance.
The NVIDIA GTX GeForce GPU boasts incredibly fast graphics. Those who often work outside would appreciate laptops with a long battery life, like this one with up to 17.5 hours!
However, while it comes equipped with built-in speakers, many have claimed that they barely work. The customer service is not very commendable either.
Pros
- Detachable screen
- NVIDIA GTX GeForce
- 17.5-hour battery
Cons
- Poor built-in speakers
- Poor customer service
2. HP Envy X360
The HP Envy X360 is best known for its excellent security features, like the Webcam Kill Switch as well as an integrated fingerprint reader. Easily switch between laptop and table to stand or tent mode to accommodate a variety of uses.
Meanwhile, the BIOS Recovery and Protection can ensure your PC is at its optimal health. The computer itself is made using environmentally friendly materials.
There truly is not much to complain about this HP laptop, as it boasts a quad-core processor and Intel Core i7. Not to mention the 15.6-inch Full HD IPS touchscreen!
Perhaps the only downside we can think of is it does not actually detach for a separate tablet device.
Pros
- Excellent security feature
- BIOS Recovery and Protection
- Environmentally conscious
Cons
- Does not detach
3. Lenovo Yoga C940
The Lenovo Yoga C940 prides itself in its 14-inch 10-point multitouch screen, an excellent surface for various graphic-related projects. The 12GB RAM means you can run video-editing apps, while the 512 SSD lets you open programs faster.
In terms of its looks, nothing could beat the sophisticated metal casing and sleek frame. Best of all, it comes with a fingerprint reader for extra security and easier access to your laptop!
Several users have found a common problem with this Lenovo laptop, which is frequent freezing. You might also receive a defective product, which is why it’s important to choose the right seller.
Pros
- 12GB RAM and 512 SSD
- Fingerprint reader
- Sophisticated look
Cons
- Freezing
- Defective product
4. HP Spectre x360
For a smaller 2 in 1 laptop, the HP Spectre x360 is a great choice with its thin and visually stunning exterior. The 13.3-inch screen has an IPS display.
It boasts the Intel Turbo Boost Technology with Core i7 processor for lightning-fast performance, as well as a 12-hour battery life. Plus, the Bang & Olufsen audio with two speakers are an added bonus for seamless audio performance!
In terms of its disadvantages, the official circulated photos of the HP Spectre x360 do not show the actual port positions.
If your purchase does not come with an extended warranty, you should be careful as many products could fail after a few months of use. Suffice to say, the customer service is not the best either.
Pros
- Intel Turbo Boost Technology
- 12-hour battery
- Bang & Olufsen audio
Cons
- Different port positions than photo
- Bad customer service
5. Dell XPS 15 2-in-1
The Dell XPS 15 2-in-1 comes with a quad-core 8th Gen Intel® Core™ processor and Radeon™ Vega M graphics. This allows you to operate multiple applications at once and still enjoy increased performance.
You might want the best possible display for graphic design, so this anti-reflective IPS panel screen and 400-nit brightness is perfect for that.
In addition, this laptop could give you up to 15 hour and 53 minutes of battery life at a FHD display. Working on a project on the go cannot be any easier!
However, it only has USB-C ports so you may need adaptors and docks. The keyboard feel is also not the smoothest, but shouldn’t be a problem if your work doesn’t involve much typing.
Pros
- Radeon™ Vega M graphics
- 400-nit brightness
- Long battery life
Cons
- Only USB-C ports
- Mediocre keyboard feel
6. Acer Spin 5 Convertible Laptop
The Acer Spin 5 weighs only 2.65 lbs, making it perfect to work anywhere. The 360° Dual-Torque Hinge lets you use four different modes, while the thin bezel design and 80% screen-to-body ratio gives you more screen to work on!
However, the game changer lies in its quick charging dock, which could give you 90 minutes of power with only 15 seconds!
This is also the perfect choice for graphic designers because of the Acer Active Stylus, which has Wacom AES 1.0 and features 4,096 different levels of pressure sensitivity.
It will feel exactly like you’re writing on paper. Although, some have claimed that Acer’s hinge technology is not the strongest.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Thin bezels
- Quick charging
- Paper-like writing experience
Cons
- Flimsy hinge
7. Dell XPS 13
Next up is the Dell XPS 13, which comes with a 13.3-inch FHD touchscreen. The InfinityEdge technology with edge-to-edge Corning Gorilla Glass 4 and 10-finger multi-touch support are all you need for an efficient workflow.
For any virtual meetings you have, the built-in 720P webcam could give you a high-definition image. Meanwhile, its battery life of 15 hours is another excellent plus!
At only 2.70 lbs, you can easily lug this laptop around to work in your favorite cafes or spots. Unfortunately, this Dell laptop is known to break down after months of use and it could prove troublesome to try and get Dell to fix it.
Pros
- InfinityEdge technology
- HD webcam
- 15-hour battery
Cons
- Not durable
8. HP Pavilion x360
The HP Pavilion x360 is one of the best 2 in 1 laptop for graphic design on the market today. In addition to a 14-inch 360-degree IPS touchscreen, this laptop boasts a 10th gen Intel Core i5, 8GB of RAM and a fast SSD.
Moreover, its BIOS recovery and protection can automatically scan your PC health, secure local storage and protect it against external threats.
The battery can last up to 9 hours 45 minutes on wireless streaming, while the fast charge can give you 50% in only 45 minutes!
However, customers have found that the battery life is not as strong on mixed usage and video playback. You might also experience frequent glitches, thus interrupting your workflow.
Pros
- 14-inch bendable screen
- 45 minutes fast charging
- BIOS recovery and protection
Cons
- Poor battery life
- Glitches
9. Lenovo Flex 5
The Lenovo Flex 5 is more than just a laptop, it’s a fashion statement. With a sleek and intricate design, you can choose between 4 modes of laptop, tent, stand or tablet for a variety of uses.
The AMD Ryzen 4000 processor delivers an incredible performance for faster and smoother multitasking. Meanwhile, the narrow bezels framing the FHD IPS screen gives you more monitor while looking extremely modish.
We also love the Lenovo Active Pen so you can easily scribble on the screen and write quick notes. Unfortunately, many say that Lenovo Support is not the best, especially for this specific model.
Some have also claimed to receive defective parts with their purchase, so you might need to choose your seller carefully.
Pros
- 4 multi-modes
- AMD Ryzen 4000
- Narrow bezels
- Lenovo Active Pen
Cons
- Bad support
- Defective parts
10. Dell Inspiron 14 5400
Finally, we have the Dell Inspiron 14 5400, which features a FHD 14.0-inch IPS touchscreen and a 10th Generation Intel Core i5-1035G1 Processor, as well as a 256GB SSD for faster boot-ups.
Its most unique feature is undoubtedly the fingerprint reader, which allows fast sign-on and better security. Meanwhile, the lid sensor means you can turn on your laptop just by opening it.
Additionally, the premium audio and vibrant colors by Dell Color Profiles will allow you to enjoy an immersive, lifelike cinema experience.
One downside is the persistent microphone issue it seems to pose, as well as problems with sharing screen to a separate monitor.
Pros
- 256GB SSD
- Fingerprint reader
- CinemaColor and CinemaSound
Cons
- Microphone issue
- Sharing screen problems
How to Choose a 2-in-1 Laptop for Graphic Design
Here are some important things you should consider when choosing a 2 in 1 laptop for your graphic design projects.
1. Screen Size
The best 2 in 1 laptop for graphic design is the right one for you. To find that, you need to figure out what screen size works for you.
Do you want smaller and compact screens or larger ones you can use to give presentations? 2 in 1 laptops vary from 10 inches up to 15-inches models.
See also: 10 Best Curved Monitors for MacBook Pro
2. Detachable or Attached?
These laptops come in two designs: detachable and attached. If you are going to type and navigate using the touchpad a lot, an attached model (also called a convertible laptop) would be best.
However, if you prefer a tabletlike experience and don’t mind navigating using the touchscreen, you might like the detachable model (also called a hybrid laptop). This lets you save some space in your bag too!
3. Processor (CPU)
The CPU is essentially the brain of your computer, as it will process and execute instructions. For intense graphic design work, I recommend getting at least a Core i7 HQ processor, or even a Core i9.
Of course, the price tag will increase the more powerful the processor is.
4. Graphics Card (GPU)
When it comes to designing graphics, the GPU of your laptop may be the most important thing too. It produces the images on your screen and determines how fast it buffers and how smooth it appears.
You will find that most would recommend Nvidia, although AMD is another great choice.
5. Memory (RAM)
RAM is like the short-term memory of the laptop and a higher RAM can process information better. For works in graphic design, it is best to have at least 8GB, although 16GB is preferable for 3D renders. Again, more RAM means a higher price too.
6. Storage Type
The more popular and recommended storage type today are SSDs. They are faster and more efficient than HDDs but are more expensive. Better yet – SSDs run more quietly!
However, HDDs are still more durable in the long run, although technology is continuously improving in favor of SSDs.
7. Keyboard Quality
The keyboard quality is essential for a graphic designer, especially for typing out your project briefs, portfolio and other texts.
The best ones will feel springy without being stiff and do not “bottom out”. In short, a good keyboard lets you type things quickly and comfortably.
8. Price
The price for a 2 in 1 laptop can range, from more affordable models to high-end ones. Of course, the right one for you should fit within your budget.
While spending more than you need on unnecessary features may not be wise, so is sacrificing quality for a cheaper price!
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the best 2 in 1 laptop for graphic design is one which can meet all your needs and preferences.
Think about the right screen size, if it’s just bendable or fully detachable, the CPU and GPU, memory, storage and keyboard quality. Most importantly, it has to fit with your budget!
FAQs
1) What is a 2-in-1 laptop?
A 2-in-1 laptop is a hybrid computer that can be used in different modes like tablet mode, tent mode, or laptop mode. It has the capabilities of a tablet and the keyboard often comes with an additional touchpad for gestures and navigation similar to using a mouse.
2) How much RAM should I get?
A graphics designer will typically need 8GB-16GB of RAM to meet the requirements for graphic design. Some designers may even prefer 32GB or more, but that’s not necessary if you’re just starting.
3) Should I get an SSD (Solid State Drive)?
SSDs are faster than traditional hard drives and are becoming more affordable. They’re also great for graphic designers who work with large files because they can hold data without taking up too much space.
SSDs can be expensive, so if you want to save some money, buying a 2-in-1 laptop with an HDD (hard drive) will do the job just fine.
4) What kind of display should I get?
A higher resolution is typically better in graphic design. 1440 pixels across the diagonal is a good choice if you want to be able to see more on your screen without too much scrolling. QHD (Quad-HD) or 4K displays are even better because they provide an even better viewing experience and the pixels are not too small.
5) Is a 2 in 1 laptop good for drawing?
A 2-in-1 laptop is good for drawing because you can use a pen to draw directly on the screen. However, keep in mind that this type of laptop does not typically come with a digital stylus as some traditional laptops do.
6) What’s better: A touchscreen or traditional trackpad?
Touchscreen displays are great because you can use gestures on them like swiping and scrolling. There are plenty of trackpads such as the Microsoft Precision Trackpad that come with Windows 10 laptops. If you don’t want a touchscreen, then definitely consider getting one with a precision trackpad or mouse.