Convertible computers used to be very expensive. But today, in 2021, you can find a 2-in-1 laptop for every budget. Yes, almost every laptop manufacturer now offers at least one convertible 2-in-1 line. The reason is that these types of gadgets have gained a lot of popularity among users over the years. And no wonder: they make our daily tasks like work, study, and even entertainment very convenient and easy. Plus, you can turn your computer into a tablet whenever needed, with just one gesture. So, if you wonder what the best budget 2-in-1 laptops money can buy in 2021, please keep reading this post.
Best Value in 2021: Microsoft Surface Go 2 2-in-1 Device
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is technically a tablet, but it is designed to work with a detachable keyboard. Connect one, and you have a full-blown Windows-based computer that is highly portable. Besides being only a 10.5-inch device (measured diagonally), the Microsoft Surface Go 2 is among the smallest and the lightest 2-in-1 laptops on the market in 2021.
And sure, this gadget by no means is a powerhouse but performs really well for day-to-day tasks like checking emails, homework, extensive web surfing, and such.
The cheapest Surface Go 2 configuration costs only $399.99. You get an Intel Pentium 4425Y dual-core processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB eMMC drive for this price. Granted, it may not be enough for most users. However, this particular configuration works best for students.
For business use, Microsoft has an Intel Core m3 configuration with optional LTE. In addition, this model has a larger 128GB SSD storage and 8GB RAM.
Wi-Fi configuration will cost you $629.99, and if you want to upgrade to a Wi-Fi + LTE version, the price is $729.99.
Lowest Cost: Lenovo IdeaPad Chromebook Duet
The Lenovo IdeaPad Chromebook Duet is another 2021 budget-friendly 2-in-1 laptop hybrid that works exceptionally great for students. This model is even smaller than the Surface Go 2, being only a 10.1-inch tablet device with a detachable keyboard. It comes in a single configuration of 4GB RAM and 128GB SSD drive powered by the MediaTek Helio P60T processor.`
As all nearly all Chromebooks, the Duet model runs on Chrome OS. It charges fast, thanks to the USB Type-C port, and has stylus support. Outstanding battery life is another perk the little Lenovo IdeaPad Chromebook Duet has to offer. You can leave the house without a charger, as it can give you approximately 13 hours of continuous use. And unlike the Surface Go models, where you have to buy your keyboard separately, Ideapad Chromebook Duet already comes with one. The best part is that the laptop costs only $299.00.
Best Budget AMD-Based Vestion: HP ENVY x360 13 AMD Ryzen 5 2-in-1 Laptop
The model was released in 2020, but it remains a user favorite well into 2021. And as for us, we just love HP Envy x360 series models for being stylish and versatile.
The HP ENVY x360 13 is portable (less than 3 lbs) 2-in-1 laptop with premium components. But for the specs, it is rather affordable. For example, you can buy the base Ryzen 5 4500U model for as little as $699.99. it comes with the FHD 13.3-inch IPS 400-nits display, but for $60, you can upgrade to a 100-nits one. $699.99 price includes 128GB SSD drive and 8GB RAM. Windows 11 Home is pre-loaded.
Envy x360 2-in-1 series are among some of the best-performing laptops on the market, and this model is no exception. Being a 13.3-inch model, the ENVY x360 13 is ultra-thin and light, making it a perfect travel computer. In addition, the battery lasts all day, and it can even handle some light gaming.
As far as performance, we can honestly say that the Envy x360 13 works just as well as the more expensive high-end HP Spectre x360 series 2-in-1 laptops, remaining a great budget-friendly option in 2021.
Best Premium Work Laptop: Dell Inspiron 14 5406 2-in-1 (2021)
The Dell Inspiron 14 series 2-in-1 is a budget-friendly laptop suitable primarily for creative professionals like graphic designers and content originators. The base Inspiron 5406 2-in-1 model is powered by the 11th generation Intel Core i5 processor and can be purchased for as low as $654.98 directly from Dell.
This 2-in-1 budget laptop is incredibly responsive, fast, and portable. And users love the wide-viewing, nearly edgeless 14-inch touchscreen display. The design is minimal, making it suitable for the business environment. Its aluminum back cover feels expensive and durable.
Base Core i5 unit comes with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD, but you can configure it to a Core i7 processor with more juice online.
In Conclusion
There are plenty of convertible 2-in-1 budget laptops on the market in 2021. Some are even as cheap as $300 like the Lenovo IdeaPad Chromebook Duet discussed above. Another great alternative, HP Envy x360, always makes our favorite laptops list. So if you are looking to buy one but not sure what to do with your older laptop, we at Gadget Salvation are at your service. Visit our site to sell your used laptop for some extra cash today.
