The Lenovo Flex 5 excels in delivering essential features, including a 13-inch Full HD touchscreen, an exceptional keyboard, and a 10th-generation Intel Core i3 processor. Despite the limited 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, the Flex 5 performed well in evaluations. The laptop also offers one USB-A and two USB-C ports, eight hours of battery life, and a 360-degree hinge that transforms it into a tablet, making it even more versatile, especially with Chrome OS supporting Android apps.
At an average price of $400 and sometimes available for as low as $300 during sales, the Flex 5 is a sound choice for anyone seeking a cost-effective, browser-based machine.
Number 5. Microsoft Surface Pro 9
For those who require their laptops to transform into tablets, the Surface Pro series is a viable option. Devices with kickstands, like the Surface Pro, are typically slimmer and lighter compared to laptops with rotating hinges. The Surface Pro 9 is Microsoft’s latest 2-in-1 model, and it is advisable to opt for the Intel version rather than the ARM model. Testing has shown that the 5G ARM version of the Pro 9 was significantly slower than expected due to the fact that many Windows apps available on Intel’s x86 hardware have to be emulated to work on Microsoft’s custom ARM SoC. Given the cost of at least $1,000 for any Surface Pro 9 model, it is best to choose a configuration with as few limitations as possible.
The Surface Pro 9 is among the thinnest and lightest laptop alternatives available, with a sleek design and stunning 13-inch display. The Microsoft Type Cover is still considered one of the best keyboard accessories, though it comes at an additional cost of $100 to $180. The Slim Pen 2 is another standout feature and a must-buy for anyone who loves to draw or takes handwritten notes. In conclusion, if you need a device that can smoothly transition from a laptop to a tablet, the Intel Surface Pro 9 is one of the top options. However, if you are loyal to the Apple ecosystem, the iPad Pro is a consideration.
