Laptop and tablet hybrids - best 2 in1 of 2015

It has smarter search, improved multitasking and a broader array of compelling apps. But Microsoft’s Windows 8.1 OS doesn’t really shine unless you have a great tablet or hybrid to go along with it. After all, the software is tailor-made for touch and 2-in-1 devices, not traditional clamshells. With so many manufacturers launching new products in so many sizes and configurations, it can be pretty tough picking the right tablet or hybrid for your needs and budget. These are our top picks, based on Laptop Mag’s rated reviews.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="491"] Laptop and tablet hybrids - best 2 in1 of 2015[/caption]

Although its sharp edges and 3.3-pound weight make it less than comfortable to hold as a tablet, the HP Spectre x360 is still one of the better convertibles out there. It has a stylish aluminum design, bright 1080p touch screen (with UltraHD option), a Core i5 processor and a 256GB SSD. Plus, it lasts 9.5 hours on a charge, making this a hybrid you can take anywhere.

The Asus Transformer Book is a 2-in-1 detachable that gives you both an 11.6-inch tablet and laptop for less than the cost of an iPad. The quad-core Intel Atom CPU provides smooth performance, and the hard drive bay in the dock lets you easily augment the 64GB of onboard storage. Other highlights include a comfortable keyboard and touchpad, and useful bundled photo and video editing apps. The 6.5 hours of battery life isn't best in class, but you get decent endurance for the price.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="497"] Laptop and tablet hybrids - best 2 in1 of 2015[/caption]

Microsoft’s Surface Pro 3 delivers a bigger and sharper 12.5-inch display (2160 x 1440 pixels) in a design that's significantly lighter and thinner than its predecessor. We also appreciate the more flexible hinge and a new magnet on the Keyboard Cover, which makes for comfortable lap use. If you want to take notes with the pen, just click the top of it to fire up OneNote. Although the battery life could be better, the Surface Pro 3 is a very versatile hybrid device.

Dell is taking a page from Lenovo's design playbook--and we don't have any complaints. The Inspiron 11 3000 sports a rotating hinge that lets you enjoy multiple modes (laptop, tablet, tent, stand) with a quick flip. We also appreciate the handsome design, which feels quite solid despite the sub-$500 price. Although the touchpad could be better, the Inspiron 11 3000 lasts an hour longer on a charge than the competing Yoga 2 11.

Weighing just 2.6 pounds, the Yoga 3 Pro almost makes the MacBook Air look bloated. We love the elegant watchband-style hinge, as well as the vibrant quad HD touch display and powerful JBL speakers. Lenovo's software is smart enough to automatically suggest apps as you switch modes. And there are plenty of modes, including tablet, notebook, stand and tent. The Yoga 3 Pro is pricey, but it's one versatile hybrid.

With a zippy Intel Core M processor, a vibrant 11-inch display and booming speakers, the Dell Venue 11 Pro 7000 is a solid multimedia device. Add a mobile keyboard with an onboard battery, and you get not only a boost in productivity, but also excellent battery life. The Venue 11 Pro 7000 also offers plenty of connectivity options, including a microSD card reader, making it a superb companion for the power user on the go.

A compelling tablet for work and play, the ThinkPad 10 comes with a pen to maximize your productivity and an optional keyboard that has plenty of cushy travel. This hybrid also has serious staying power, as it lasted nearly 9 hours on the Laptop Mag Battery Test. The 8-MP camera snaps sharp-looking photos, and you can launch this shooter with a quick flip of the optional cover

The ThinkPad Yoga is a well-designed business hybrid with a rotating full HD display, excellent keyboard and long battery life. Lenovo builds on its innovative bendable design by having the keys retract in slate mode, making for a more comfortable experience.

It’s thinner and sharper than the MacBook Air, more practical than the Surface Pro 3 and more affordable than both. We first saw this beauty at CES 2015. We were impressed with ASUS’ impressively versatile Transformer Book Chi T300, which measures just 0.65 inches thick. It even packs a powerful Core M processor in a fanless design. Thanks to neodymium magnets, the Chi T300 quickly detaches from its base for full-fledged enjoyment of the available QHD display. Then, when it’s time to work, the comfortable clamshell design makes this hybrid a more practical partner than the Surface’s awkward keyboard cover. But best of all is the $699 starting price.

Laptopmag.com