In this post, we will explore the different types of notebook computers and how they differ from each other. One major difference is whether or not a laptop has a touch screen as well as handwriting recognition. We’ll also talk about what type of keyboard is available on these machines, both physical and virtual. Lastly, we’ll discuss some of the pros and cons to owning a particular type of laptop. This post will cover three different types: convertible, detachable, tablet-only.
Convertible Notebook
convertible laptops are the ones that have the ability to convert from a traditional laptop into a tablet. This includes devices like Microsoft’s Surface Book, Dell’s XPS line, Lenovo Yoga series, Acer Spin series, HP Spectre x2, ASUS Zenbook Primes and more. They come with touch screens as well as stylus input built in for taking notes via handwriting recognition. Some of these machines also allow you to flip the screen around so that it is facing away from the keyboard in order to watch videos or use it in “tent” mode to share information with others face-to-face. These notebooks typically have versatile keyboards that can be used either flat on a desk or angled towards you for comfort while typing. Detachable laptops are ones that come apart at the screen and keyboard, with the screen able to function as a standalone tablet. This includes devices like Microsoft’s Surface Pro, HP Spectre x360 and others. These typically have a kickstand that pops out from the back of the device to prop it up when used as a tablet and a virtual keyboard that pops up on-screen when needed. The downside to these laptops is that they are often heavier and thicker than traditional clamshell style laptops. Tablet-only notebooks are just what they sound like: notebooks without keyboards that can only be used as tablets. They don’t have any type of hinge to allow them to convert into other form factors. These tend to be smaller and lighter than convertible or detachable machines and are great for those that want a simpler device. Some examples of tablet-only notebooks include ones like Apple’s iPad Pro, Google’s Pixel C and Microsoft’s Surface 3 (which is technically not a tablet, as it has an adjustable kickstand and can run desktop apps).
Pros:
Convertibles allow you to swap between laptop mode and tablet mode, depending on what your needs are at the time. Detachables give you the same ability but also let you disconnect the keyboard if desired. The additional bulk and weight of these two options don’t matter as much when in tablet form, unlike convertible laptops which tend to be heavier than traditional clamshell notebooks. Tablet-only machines take up less space and weight than convertibles or detachables, making them perfect for those that want a lighter and smaller device.
Cons:
Convertibles and detachable laptops are often more expensive than traditional clamshell style laptops. They also tend to have shorter battery life because of the extra components needed to convert or detach the screen. Tablet-only notebooks don’t have any type of physical keyboard, so you’ll need to be comfortable using a virtual keyboard or an external keyboard if needed.
it’s up to you what type of notebook computer you decide to buy. All three types have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it really comes down to what your needs are. If you’re someone that likes the idea of having a traditional laptop with the ability to convert into a tablet, then a convertible is the way to go. If you want a device that can be used as both a laptop and a tablet, but don’t mind the extra bulk and weight, then a detachable is your best option. And finally, if you only need a tablet and don’t mind sacrificing some of the traditional laptop features, then go for a tablet-only machine.
Convertible Notebook
Convertible laptops are devices that have the ability to change from being a traditional laptop into a tablet. This includes machines like Microsoft’s Surface Book, Dell’s XPS line, Lenovo Yoga series and others. These notebooks typically have a clamshell design meaning the screen and keyboard are kept together, but can be opened like a traditional laptop to use them as one large tablet, or brought apart like two pieces of paper to watch videos or place the device on your lap.
These convertibles typically have versatile keyboards that can be used either flat on a desk or angled towards you for comfort while typing. Some even include additional features such as touch-enabled trackpads that allow you to use multi-touch gestures just like Apple’s MacBook line. The biggest downside to these laptops is their hefty price tag which comes from all the extra components required to make it convertible into other form factors besides just laptop mode. And remember, you’ll also need to purchase a separate keyboard and touchpad to use when in tablet mode.
Detachable Notebook
Detachable laptops are the same as convertibles in that they allow you to switch between laptop mode and tablet mode, but unlike their larger counterparts, these two pieces don’t connect together. They typically look like traditional clamshell notebooks until you push down on the screen or pull it away from the dock allowing it to detach into an expensive looking tablet. These notebooks offer better battery life than their convertible counterparts due to having less components, like hinges for example. The price tag is also much lower than convertibles because there aren’t any additional parts needed in order to make them detachable; just simply adding a docking port or built-in magnets so the screen can attach/detach from the keyboard.
One major disadvantage of these laptops is that since they don’t have a traditional clamshell design, there is no built-in keyboard; it will be sold as an accessory for you to use if needed. This can lead to harsh criticism because detachable keyboards typically feel flimsy and may not be comfortable enough for extended typing sessions. You’ll also need to purchase additional hardware such as touchpads or docking stations if you plan on using them in tablet mode, which could seriously drive up the overall price if you’re looking for versatility between laptop and tablet form factors.
Tablet only notebooks are devices that look like tablets but don’t include any type of physical keyboard at all. This means that they aren’t designed to be used as traditional laptops, but rather they are optimized for use on the go with their built-in touch screens. This includes devices like Apple’s iPad Pro or Samsung’s Galaxy Tab series. Since they don’t have keyboards or trackpads, you’ll need to buy a separate Bluetooth keyboard and/or mouse in order to do more complex tasks if needed.
Tablets
If all you’re looking for is a tablet that can run your favorite apps on the go, then one of these tablets will easily meet your needs. If you want more functionality compared to what a standard tablet offers, however, you might be better off spending slightly more money for a convertible device so you won’t constantly find yourself huddled around tables trying to type up emails or documents.
Traditional clamshell laptops are still the best choice for most people because they offer the best balance between portability and a proper physical keyboard. Convertibles and detachable devices may look cool but usually feel flimsy in comparison to their more rigid laptop counterparts, which isn’t what you want when you’re paying hundreds of dollars for a piece of hardware that’s going to be used every single day. If battery life is your biggest concern then tablet only notebooks might be worth looking into if you don’t plan on doing any extensive typing sessions. Just remember that none of them come with an actual keyboard so if you’re planning on writing more than just emails, then this might not meet your needs. Figure out what type of tasks you’ll be using your new notebook for and then decide what type of device will fit those needs the best.
