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You need the best 2 in 1 laptops for artists but you don’t know where to start from? We’ve got you covered in this post. We did our findings and present to you a roundup of 7 of the best 2 in 1 laptops for digital creatives. Out of them all, ✅Microsoft Surface Book stands out as the best 2 in 1 laptop for artists.
Before now, conventional tools for artists were brushes, pens, papers, paints, etc.
However, every artist needs a good laptop to survive today and not just any laptop but a 2 in 1 laptop which can be taken anywhere and everywhere.
In case you’re wondering what you need to look out for in the best 2 in 1 laptop for artists, the requirements are similar to those highlighted here.
Basically, you need a convertible laptop with a decent-sized screen, good resolution, fast CPU and GPU, fast RAM and storage, decent battery life, and portability.
Continue reading to choose the best 2 in 1 laptop for artists.
Best 2 In 1 Laptops For Artists -Comparison Table
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| S/N | Product | Image | Specifications |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Microsoft Surface Book 2 |   | Processor: Intel Core i7 Display size: 15" RAM: 16GB Hard Disk: 1TB Weight: 4.2lbs Battery life: Up to 17hrs |
| 2 | Acer Spin 5 |   | Processor: Intel Core i7 Display size: 13.5" RAM: 16GB Hard Disk: 512GB Weight: 2.65lbs Battery life: Up to 15hrs |
| 3 | HP Scepter x360 |   | Processor: Intel Core i7 Display size: 15.6" RAM: 16GB Hard Disk: 512GB Weight: 2.6lbs Battery life: Up to 17.5hrs |
| 4 | Dell XPS 13 |   | Processor: Intel Core i7 Display size: 13.4" RAM: 32GB Storage: 512GB Weight: 2.9lbs Battery life: Up to 12hrs |
| 5 | Acer Chromebook Spin 13 |   | Processor: Intel Core i5 Display size: 13.5" RAM: 8GB Storage: 128GB Weight: 3.5lbs Battery life: Up to 10hrs |
| 6 | Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 |   | Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 Display size: 14" RAM: 16GB Storage: 256GB Weight: 3.64bs Battery life: Up to 10hrs |
| 7 | HP Pavilion x360 |   | Processor: Intel Core i5 Display size: 14" RAM: 8GB Storage: 512GB SSD . Weight: 3.5lbs Battery life: Up to 9hrs |
1. Microsoft Surface Book 2 -Best 2 in 1 Laptop For Artists
There’s more to Microsoft Surface Book 2 than meets the eye.
We think it’s designed to compete with Apple’s MacBook Pro and it does that effectively.
For starters, it’s a high-performance laptop/tablet hybrid with so much power, versatility, and functionality packed into its 15inch frame and for us, it’s the best 2 in 1 laptop for artists.
Design
This laptop is the ultimate definition of 2-in-1.
You can convert it from a laptop to a tablet by completely detaching the screen or keyboard from the body.
Furthermore, its aluminum-metal chassis is all shades of sleek and beautiful.
In addition to that, it sports a slim profile that makes it even more endearing.
However, the unusual fulcrum-like hinge leaves a visible space between the screen and the keyboard when closed.
Screen
One of the most useful features of a laptop for artists is the screen because that’s every artist’s canvas.
For Surface Book 2, the screen game is top-notch with a stunning 15inch WLED display and resolution of 3240 x 2160.
This offers you the best in terms of clarity and color contrast for all your creative works.
Interestingly, you can completely detach the screen from the body by simply pressing a button on the top right side above the function key row.
When you detach it, your laptop becomes a canvas/drawing pad or tablet where you can unleash your creativity.
It’s very satisfying to use and the included Stylus/Surface Pen is known to be the best way to work on a screen, especially for artists.
Keyboard
The detachable keyboard comes in a cool island style.
Although the touchpad is slightly smaller than expected, it works well with the keyboard to provide you with a satisfying typing experience.
Software / Hardware / Connectivity
As an artist, you’d be working with sophisticated software which naturally would make hefty demands on your laptop.
Surface Book 2 would come in as a valuable addition to you with the efficient 8th generation Intel Quad-Core i7 processor, GeForce GTX 1060 GPU with 6GB independent memory, and 16GB main memory.
When you need to take a break from your design work for a brief gaming session or movie, everything would run smoothly with this powerful combination.
Also, with 1TB SSD storage, there’s more than enough space to store your digital creative works and files.
For connectivity, it has a USB Type-C port, USB Type-A, Bluetooth, WiFi, and a free USB Type-C to HDMI/VGA/DVI adapter to which you can connect other external devices.
Weight
It’s relatively heavy at 4.2lbs but you’d still be able to take it off-site for design works.
Also, it becomes lighter if you detach the keyboard and take it around as a tablet.
Battery
Battery life is up to 17.5hrs which is very impressive.
PROS
- Gorgeous detachable Screen
- Long battery life
- Powerful processor
- Fast RAM and large storage
- Free Surface Pen and USB-C Adapter included
CONS
- The lid doesn’t close completely because of the fulcrum-hinge.
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2. Acer Spin 5 -2nd Best 2 in 1 Laptop For Artists
As the brainwork of Intel and Acer, the Spin 5 convertible laptop should be every artist’s favorite.
It’s the next best 2 in 1 laptop for artists today.
Design
Spin 5 features an improvement in design over previous models, particularly in portability and mobility.
As a 2in1 laptop, you can use it in any mode you feel most comfortable designing in and it also goes everywhere with you.
Also, you’d be surprised at how premium and sleek it looks.
It sports a slim frame made of light magnesium-alloy metal, giving it a smooth finish.
Overall, it’s about the size of an A4 paper.
Also, it comes with a stylus/active pen which you can safely store in its slot where it also charges.
Screen
Going further, one of its best features is the bright 13.5″ 2K 2256 x 1504 IPS touch display with brilliant color accuracy.
The screen is just perfect for your design applications and programs.
Although it’s a little above 13inch, the slight increment in height gives you significantly more room to work on your designs.
Also, it has an 80% screen-to-body ratio leading to an additional 18% screen real-estate to work with.
It’s very comfortable for sketching and drawing with the rechargeable active digital pen included.
The Stylus itself is the brainchild of Acer and Wacom AES and gives you the feeling of using an actual pen and paper (while designing).
Keyboard
The backlit keyboard is just as wide as the frame allows.
Naturally, there’s no allowance for additional features like a dedicated 10-key number pad.
Also, the trackpad reportedly feels plastic.
Hence, you may have to apply more pressure to get it working the way you want.
Software / Hardware / Connectivity
Despite the small size, Spin 5 is a powerhouse.
For instance, it features a 10th generation Intel Core i7, Intel Iris Plus Graphics, and 16GB RAM.
With these, you’re well able to run multiple applications like Adobe suite, ZBrush, etc together, at the same time.
Also, it comes with a 512GB SSD for storing your digital files.
Although well-experienced artists might find this restrictive, third party storage solutions would work to resolve this.
Weight
You can comfortably work with this sleek laptop on your palm at 2.65lbs.
Battery
Regarding battery life, you’d use it for up to 15hrs on a single charge.
PROS
- Amazing touchscreen and digital pen
- Impressive CPU
- Fast RAM and storage
- Sleek and sturdy design
CONS
- The touchpad feels plastic.
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3. HP Sceptre x360
Indeed, there are a few laptops that are as close to being the best 2 in 1 laptop for artists, as HP Scepter x360.
Design
It’s really one of the most beautiful laptops around in all its ash-silver sandblasted glory.
The unique gem-cut design and chamfered edges of the chassis give the laptop a regal and premium feel and look.
You can’t miss it in a crowd of laptops.
The shiny, stylish logo on the lid perfectly matches the gold-plated hinges in color.
As a 2in1 laptop, the hinges are flexible and they allow you to transform the laptop into a mini-studio for your artistic creations.
Also, you can use it in other modes such as a tent, tablet, display or stand and the screen wouldn’t wobble or shake in active use.
Screen
It features a 15.6″ diagonal 4K Ultra High Definition edge-to-edge display.
For artists, it’s the perfect canvas for your creations!
The screen quality and color clarity are simply through the roofs with a resolution of 3840 x 2160.
Also, you can unleash your creativity in several different dimensions with an HP Active Stylus for scribbling and doodling all your creative ideas, and a leather sleeve for safe storage.
Keyboard
Furthermore, the backlit keyboard features large chiclet-style keys that are evenly-spaced with decent key travel.
Also, the touchpad comes with Windows Precision drivers for a better experience.
Software / Hardware / Connectivity
HP Sceptre x360 is equipped with an 8th generation Intel Core i7 processor, a dedicated 2GB NVIDIA graphics card, and 16GB RAM.
This is very sufficient for all your advanced artistic works on the HP Sceptre x360.
While 512GB may not be completely sufficient for extensive storage, it’s well able to take care of all your basic storage needs and you also have the option of cloud storage.
It comes with 1 Thunderbolt 3, 2 USB Type-A, headphone/microphone jack, and a microSD card slot.
Weight
At 2.6lbs, it’s lightweight and can easily be transported with you, wherever your creative works take you.
Battery
The laptop lasts up to 17.5hrs on a single charge.
PROS
- Ultra HD screen
- Long battery life
- Good keyboard
CONS
- Loud fans
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4. Dell XPS 13
If you place the Dell XPS 13 side-by-side with an Apple Macbook Air, you’d have a tough choice to make there.
This is because Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 FHD laptop is an eye-candy and performance powerhouse.
Needless to point out that we consider it one of the best 2 in 1 laptops for artists.
Design
It has an eye-catching all-aluminum body that feels smooth and looks premium.
While we believe the new variable torque hinge makes opening the laptop easier, it also provides a nice contrast against the black frames of the screen.
Furthermore, it’s sturdy enough to keep the screen from moving which comes in really useful especially when you’re creating in motion.
Screen
It features a stunning HDR 400 certified 13.4″ FHD WLED Touch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200.
Also, the screen enables 1.07billion colors with great depth and dimension.
It offers you precise details, clear, and sharp visuals which are particularly important for artistic creations.
Furthermore, we think the fantastic screen-to-body ratio of the Dell XPS 13 is also a point of attraction for artists.
Keyboard
The backlit keyboard is reasonably sized and offers a smooth typing experience.
However, you might find the trackpad a tad annoying to use as it reportedly wobbles under pressure.
Also, it has a fingerprint reader to make it easier for you to access the laptop without typing in a password.
Software / Hardware / Connectivity
With an 11th generation Intel Core i7, Intel Iris Xe graphics card, and 32GB onboard (main) memory, you’ve got all the power to get your creative juices running very smoothly.
Also, it comes with 512GB SSD which provides enough space for storing your digital files.
You’d be able to also store your files in external drives or the cloud if you run out of storage space which is bound to happen at some point.
Also, you’d love the port distributions on both sides of the laptop because it’s pretty flexible.
It has a Thunderbolt 4(USB Type-C) with power display ports on one side while on the other side, it has another USB Type-C and MicroSD card slot and a free Type-C to USB-A v3.0 adapter.
Weight
It’s very light at 2.9lbs
Battery
The battery would last for up to 12hrs on a single charge.
PROS
- Bright screen
- Good processor
- Fast RAM
CONS
- Inferior trackpad
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5. Acer Chromebook Spin 13
Unlike the other laptops featured on this list which run on Microsoft Windows office, Acer Chromebook Spin 13 uses Chrome OS and web browser as an interface.
Besides the fact that it’s relatively affordable, we love it because it’s able to handle a lot of design programs such as Adobe suite.
As a creative artist, we know you’d love this too.
It’s one of the best 2 in 1 laptops for artists.
Design
With an impressive design and fantastic build quality, Spin 13 is a beauty to handle and behold.
It comes stylishly packaged in an all-aluminum chassis.
Also, the 360degree hinges give you the durability you need while creating on the Chromebook.
Thanks to the flexibility, you can use it in any mode that’s easiest for you to create.
Screen
The screen is one of the best features of the Spin 13.
It’s equipped with a stunning 13.5″ 2256 x 1504 multi-touch 2K display.
This provides you with fantastic visuals, beautiful color clarity, and accuracy.
Furthermore, the tough Corning Glass strengthens the screen and gives it more smoothness, and also protects it from scratches as you create.
In addition to that, it comes with an integrated Wacom digital pen which is great for sketching and designing.
You have to note also that when you create in a vertical position on the VertiView Display, you get 18% more vertical screen real-estate.
Keyboard
Although there are a couple of variations between the backlit keyboard and Windows keyboards, however, it’s decent-sized, accompanied by a smooth touchpad.
It’s easy to use and comfortable.
Software / Hardware / Connectivity
Spin 13 has the latest 8th generation Intel Quad-Core i5 driving its performance.
Add an 8GB RAM to the mix and you have all you require for your basic to midlevel creative activities.
Although Intel Core i5 isn’t the latest, fastest, or most powerful processor.
However, it would get your creative tasks done powerfully in record time, provided you do not make unnecessary demands on the laptop.
We would have loved to see better storage than the available 128GB, this would be barely sufficient for your basic storage needs.
However, cloud storage can help take the pressure off the laptop.
The best part is that you can store your digital files on Google drive for free, up to 100GB, and these can be accessed offline even without WiFi connectivity.
Furthermore, it has a decent range of ports for connectivity such as HDMI, SD media card reader, 2 x USB Type-C, 1 x USB Type-A, etc.
Weight
It weighs 3.5lbs.
Battery
The battery life is up to 10hrs of use.
PROS
- Very bright display
- Good battery life
- Great keyboard
CONS
- Limited storage
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6. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5
If you need a lower-priced but reliable 2in1 laptop as an artist, Lenovo Flex 5 14″ is worth taking a second look at.
We profiled it as one of the best 2 in 1 laptops for artists because it offers power, flexibility, and affordability all in one package.
Design
With a sleek, lightweight, portable, and slim profile, it’s designed for you to take anywhere so you can keep the creative juice flowing.
Also, the 360degree hinge allows you to create on this in any mode you find convenient.
Overall, it’s well-built, solid, and feels durable.
The only factor that takes slightly away from the IdeaPad’s claim to fame/premium quality is the partial plastic design.
Other than that, it’s a pretty little laptop suitable for creative artists.
Screen
It features a 14″ 1920 x 1080 touchscreen display which is sufficiently bright for artistic endeavors, and any other task for that matter.
Also, it comes with a Lenovo Active pen which comes in handy when you have to scribble or sketch.
Keyboard
Flex 5’s backlit keyboard is quality in feel and smooth in typing.
You’d find the touchpad accurate and relatively responsive.
However, it doesn’t seem to have as much depth as other laptops in its range.
It doesn’t come with a number pad but has a fingerprint sensor/reader integrated on the deck.
Software / Hardware / Connectivity
It’s powered by the incredibly fast AMD Ryzen 5 4500U processor with Radeon graphics to provide you with more excellent performance, all round.
In addition to that, it has 16GB RAM and comes with a base 256GB SSD for storage.
Speed is pretty fast and you’d enjoy creating on this laptop.
Weight
At 3.64lbs, it’s light enough to be taken around.
Battery
The battery would take you up to 10hrs of use on a single charge.
Plus, you can restore it to 80% capacity from zero, within 1hr.
PROS
- Reasonably bright screen
- Great design
- Fast processor
- Fast charge
- Comes with Lenovo Active Pen
CONS
- Relatively low storage capacity
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7. HP Pavilion x360
Last but not the least, HP Pavilion x360 is another HP laptop that is deserving of being considered as one of the best 2 in 1 laptops for artists.
Design
It features a simple design.
Also, it comes in a small, compact, light, and sleek design.
The thin and slim profile makes it easy for you to take around with you every day and the 360degree hinges allow you to create in different convenient modes.
Screen
It’s equipped with a 14inch diagonal FHD IPS micro-edge, WLED-backlit multi-touch display.
With an 80% screen-to-body ratio and narrow micro-edge frames, you have enough blank canvas for your creative designs.
The screen is smooth and responsive.
Sketching and drawing on it feels as natural as pen on paper with more accurate ink strokes and reduced lag on the screen.
However, you’d have to purchase the pen separately.
Keyboard
The keyboard is reasonably sized, smooth and a delight to type on.
Also, the deck features a brushed pattern for a unique touch.
Software / Hardware / Connectivity
It’s driven by a 10th generation Intel Core i5 Quad-Core processor with 8GB RAM.
This allows rapid boot-up and a fast opening of applications and programs.
Also, it comes with a 512GB super-fast SSD for storing all your digital creations.
Also, it comes with a good range of ports and also works with Alexa voice service for your convenience and comfort.
Weight
It weighs 3.5lbs.
Battery
The battery life is up to 9hrs of usage on a single charge.
However, it can get to 50% charge from 0 within 45minutes.
PROS
- Good screen
- Fast processor
- Smooth keyboard
CONS
- Digital Pen is sold separately.
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Conclusion On The Best 2 in 1 Laptops For Artists
In conclusion, the Microsoft Surface book takes the crown as the best 2 in 1 laptop for artists.
Click here ✅Microsoft Surface Book.
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