You are contemplating a new 2-in-1 laptop purchase, we will help you choosing the best one out there.
Based on the personal and professional considerations, our experts have reviewed more than 50 2-in-1 laptops under 500 dollars, to finally come up with a list of 8 best laptops for the given price range.
Therefore, if you have not purchased a laptop till now, even with the Black Friday sales around, you might consider reading through the list for gaining better insights regarding the purchase. However, finding the best laptop that fits into your budget can be trickier than usual as you do come across a million products every day.
Furthermore, identifying the best 2-in-1 laptops under 500 dollars can be slightly more difficult considering the inherently higher price tag that they flaunt.
As far as gadget functionality is concerned, the best 2 in 1 laptops under 500 dollars, especially the convertibles, are easy to carry around. Moreover, they usually have a slimmer chassis and a long battery life. Besides, 2-in-1 notebooks come with touchscreen displays, which further the usability quotient.
While 2-in-1 laptops under 500 might not feature dedicated GPUs and high-end processors, alternatively you may access an SD card reader, ultra-fast Wi-Fi standard, excellent display, and other relevant resources.
Editor’s Choice: Lenovo Ideapad Flex 5
Based on the portability quotient, screen quality, and value for money, the Lenovo Ideapad Flex 5 comes forth as our favorite 2-in-1 laptop for the given price range. While you need to be exceedingly lucky to grab this masterpiece for under 500 dollars, there are quite a few powerful variants of the same, in case you are willing to shell an additional amount.
Coming to the functionality, the reviewed Lenovo Ideapad Flex 5 swears by an AMD processor and stacks in a decent chunk of RAM and even an acceptable storage capacity.
8 Best 2-in-1 Laptops under $500 Dollars Enlisted
In the subsequent sections, we shall enlist some of the best 2 in 1 laptops under $500, based on the feature sets, functionalities, features relevant to device-scanning you may want, unique identifiers and standard, gadget measurement and audience insight, battery life, and other aspects.
1. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 Convertible 2 in 1 Laptop
PROS
- Stellar touchscreen display
- Ultrafast RAM
- Long-lasting battery
- Supports multiple tablet optimization
- Lightest of the lot
CONS
- Restricted keyboard
- Not enough processing firepower
- CPU- AMD Ryzen 3 4300U Quad Core Processor
- RAM-4GB DDR4
- Storage- 128GB m.2 NVMe SSD
- Screen- 14.0″ FHD IPS Touch Display
- GPU – AMD Radeon Graphics
- Battery Life- Up to 13 Hours
- Weight- 2 Pounds
- Operating System- Windows 10
Review
If you are seeking the lightest and ideally configured 2-in-1 laptops under $500, you can always place your bets on the Lenovo Ideapad flex 5. Packed with Ryzen 3 4300U processor and the class-leading integrated graphics processor, this is one of the best hybrid 2-in-1 laptops for professionals who travel a lot.
Besides, this is one of the few 2 in 1 laptops under 500 dollars that doesn’t ask you to purchase an external keyboard and other accessories separately.
Design
This 2-in-1 laptop flaunts a pretty standard layout with hardened plastic being the core element. Then again, the Lenovo Ideapad Flex is the lightest one on the list at 2 pounds.
While the minimal structural footprint feels restrictive to some, it readily qualifies as one of the best 2 in 1 laptops under 500 dollars for cramped spaces and in-flight usage.
Display
The 14-inch screen stands out, courtesy of the exceptional resolution of 1920×1200 pixels. This qualifies the Lenovo Ideapad flex as one of the best 2-in-1 laptops under 500 dollars, in terms of visual clarity and screen sharpness. The color-accurate screen is your best resort for consuming media and reading eBooks on the move.
Internals
Powering the Lenovo Ideapad flex is the Ryzen 3 4300U, which flaunts dual-core architecture and works closely with 4GB of RAM. The inclusion of Ryzen 3 CPU validates the presence of this 2-in-1 laptop and equips you better towards handling the online workload.
As far as graphics-centric processes are concerned, the AMD Radeon graphics coprocessor is good enough for a majority of tasks initiated with the Windows 10 OS as the backdrop. Storage-wise,128GB SSD storage support is more than adequate for the users.
Unmatched Productivity
When it comes to connectivity, you only get access to a standalone USB Type-C port. This is followed by fast and reliable Bluetooth and Wireless connectivity standards. Moreover, this machine is best known for almost 13 hours of battery life.
Overall, the Chromebook Duet is easily one of the best 2-in-1 laptops under 500 dollars to invest in, if you are looking for a reliable travel tote for keeping up with your professional workload.
2. HP Chromebook x360
PROS
- 8th gen processor with excellent single-core performance
- Class-leading acoustic setup
- Reliable battery life
- Modern aesthetics
- Responsive display
CONS
- Lacks the HDMI port
- Not enough on-premise storage space
- CPU- Intel Core i3-10110U
- RAM-8GB
- Storage- 64GB eMMC
- Screen-14-inch Full HD
- GPU-Intel UHD graphics 620
- Battery Life -Up to 13-Hours
- Weight- 3.5 Pounds
- Operating System-Chrome OS
Review
As compared to Windows-powered, 2-in-1 notebooks, Chromebooks are way more affordable, provided you know where to look for them.
Considering every aspect of this search, including the sub-$500 price tag, user-friendliness, and excellent gadget autonomy, the HP Chromebook x360 comes forth as the best 2-in-1 laptop under $500 to invest in.
Design
The 3.5-pound HP Chromebook x360 is meticulously designed, exhibiting a robust layout, matte chassis, and multi-mode operability.
Besides, this 2-in-1 laptop isn’t all plastic and comes forth with several metallic accents, distributed uniformly. Not just that, the gadget slimness allows you to fit the laptop in any given backpack.
Display
As far as the display-centric attributes are concerned, the HP Chromebook x360 makes room for a vibrant and color accurate touchscreen. The 1080p panel is purely LCD, which is further bolstered by the IPS technology.
Therefore, it wouldn’t be wrong to consider this as a decent professional 2-in-1 laptop, especially for the creatives.
Internals
The HP Chromebook x360 makes room for a reliable U-series processor, boasting of two cores and four threads.
In case you are interested in the exact CPU, HP makes room for the Intel core i3-10110U chipset, which can reach excellent turbo clock speeds of up to 4GHz. The single-core processing brilliance of this SoC makes it good enough for basic accounting and excel-based tasks.
Supporting the Intel Core i3 processor is the 8GB RAM, capable of processing data and files at 2400MHz. The HP Chromebook x360, contrary to popular opinion, offers a pretty reliable GPU, intel UHD graphics coprocessor, to be exact. As it is a Chromebook, the on-premise storage capacity of 64GB is more than adequate.
Unmatched Productivity
Despite being a 2-in-1 laptop, HP Chromebook x360 still persists with a class-leading keyboard. Besides, you can use the same for other productivity-centric tasks, courtesy of the Bang and Olufsen speakers and a highly resourceful webcam. Navigation is hardly an issue with the gesture-supported touchpad in play.
However, the HP Chromebook x360 is best known for the excellent connectivity suite, led by the Type-C and Type-A ports. Then again, despite supporting Power-off USB charging, the port arrangement leaves out the HDMI slot. Regardless, you get access to Wi-Fi 5 standard, which is good enough for establishing faster connections.
Overall, the HP Chromebook x360 is one of the better 2 in 1 laptops under 500 dollars if you are planning to ditch the Windows operating platform. While this is probably the best on-the-go resource for web-savvy professionals, the 13-hour battery backup also makes it a reliable option for occasional globetrotters.
3. Dell Inspiron 5481
PROS
- Powerful octa-threaded processor
- High-end integrated GPU
- Up to 7 hours of battery life
- Reliable connectivity suite
- Sharp display
CONS
- Heats up a bit more than usual
- Could have been lighter
- CPU- Intel Core i3-8145U
- RAM-8GB
- Storage-128GB SSD
- Screen-14-inch Full HD
- GPU- Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Battery Life- Up to 7-Hours
- Weight-3.52 Pounds
- Operating System-Windows 10
Review
The Dell Inspiron 5481 is certainly justified as the best 2 in 1 laptop under 500 dollars, provided you have a penchant for a powerful processing conglomerate.
Stacked with a moderately powerful, Intel Core i3-8145U chipset, this 2-in-1 laptop 500 dollars is probably the only product on the list that can accommodate demanding processing tasks.
Design
The Dell Inspiron 13 is a crafty little beast that sets similar aesthetic standards as compared to the Dell XPS line-ups. At 3.52 pounds, the gadget is still on the heavier side for a sub-14-inch display.
However, this is one of the sleekest 2-in-1 laptops under 500 dollars to purchase, provided you are more interested in the slimness of the form instead of the heft.
Display
The Dell Inspiron 5481 is one of the few 2-in-1 laptops under 500 dollars to feature FHD displays. Besides, Dell accommodates the IPS technology for catering to creatives and casual gamers. Regardless of every other aspect, our experts were astounded by the sharpness of the viewing angles.
Despite being a budget convertible, this is one device for personalized ads and analytics, provided you are a CRM professional.
Internals
The Intel-tagged processor takes processing performances to a whole new level. However, the chipset gets adequate assistance from the 8GB RAM, which is a significant inclusion for the given price point.
The existing chunk of system memory followed by the 256GB SSD unit is a perfect computing resource for geographers and remote sensing professionals who are into mapping and monitoring Geolocation data and identification.
For casual gamers and creative evangelists, the integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 GPU is a reliable addition, further validated by the 8 usable GPU cores.
Unmatched Productivity
When it comes to impactful attributes, the Dell Inspiron 5481 doesn’t let you down, courtesy of the standard keyboard, stylus compatibility along with multi-touch support, and bottom-firing speakers. Besides, the tactile feedback, associated with the keyboard and trackpad, is top-notch and in sync with the copywriting expectations.
Nonetheless, the featured processor ensures the inclusion of SenseMI technology, which allows you to align the gadget resources based on functionality.
Other resourceful attributes include an expansive connectivity suite, including Type-C, Type-A, HDMI, and the SD card reader. The Wi-Fi AC standard helps you establish fast connections.
Overall, the Dell Inspiron 5481 is easily a reliable 2-in-1 laptop under $500, which stacks in an all-inclusive specs sheet but still offers close to 7 hours of long battery life.
4. Microsoft Surface Go 2
PROS
- Dual-core processor with lower TDP levels
- Wi-Fi 6 support
- Dual camera setup
- Enhanced gadget security
- Light and portable
CONS
- Lacks enough ports
- Smallish screen real-estate for professional usage
- CPU- Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y
- RAM-4GB
- Storage-64GB eMMC
- Screen-10.5-Inch PixelSense
- GPU-Intel UHD Graphics 615
- Battery Life-Up to 10-Hours
- Weight-1.75 pounds
- Operating System-Windows 10
Review
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is probably the best 2 in 1 laptop on the list when design and aesthetics are concerned. While the Intel Pentium processor is no pushover when basic to moderate-level tasks are concerned, the professional conglomerate is easily bested by the brilliant display and the empowering and affable aesthetics.
Design
For starters, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 flaunts a magnesium-clad chassis that is sleek, durable, and enviably light.
Besides, the existing structural footprint ensures a detachable format as the Surface Go 2 doesn’t work as a standard convertible. This detachable allows you to pair a Type-Cover, minimalistic keyboard, into the mix. This attribute pushes the gadget’s weight up to 1.75 pounds.
Display
The Surface Go 2 from Microsoft offers a 10.5-inch display for your streaming, media consumption, and even professional requirements.
What stands out though is the PixelSense panel, culminating into a resolution of 1920×1280 pixels. A good thing about this touchscreen display is its ability to endure minor hits and smudges, courtesy of the Corning Gorilla Glass 3 paneling.
Internals
The Intel Pentium Gold chipset is a reasonable computing resource that allows you to enjoy maximum clock speeds of up to 1.7GHz. In absence of the turbo boost mode, the chipset relies heavily on the 4GB RAM. However, you can always consider purchasing the 8GB variant provided you have the budget for the same.
This 2-in-1 also offers a 64GB eMMC module for addressing the storage requirements. Needless to say, the eMMC drive is slightly slower as compared to the SSD unit, available on the pricier variant. When it comes to the GPU, Intel UHD 615 is a good enough option for casual gaming.
Unmatched Productivity
While the processor associated with the Microsoft Surface Go 2 makes up for the lost firepower with efficient HyperThreading support, what excites us the most is the inclusion of a reliable keyboard, Windows Hello-compatible webcam, dual shooters, powerful stereo speakers, and studio-grade microphones.
- You can very easily make use of the 5MP front camera or rely on the 8MP AF shooter while using the same in tablet mode.
- Then again, the Surface Go 2 offers Windows 10 S mode as the pre-existing operating platform, which further adds to the visual brilliance of the tablet mode and even enhances the power-efficiency of this best 2-in-1 laptop under 500 dollars, from an aesthetical point-of-view.
Other reliable attributes include the easy-to-use Type-Cover keyboard that offers decent key travel and a smooth trackpad for seamless navigation.
Connectivity-wise, the Surface Go 2 stacks in a Connect Port for the kickstand followed by the Type-C, Bluetooth 5.0, and Wi-Fi 6 support. Besides, there is a functional TPM security chipset to account for, facilitating safer boot ups.
Overall, the Surface Go 2 from Microsoft is a brilliantly crafted notebook that churns out 10 hours of backup. Furthermore, you also get access to the Micro SD card reader, allowing you to use the Microsoft Surface Go 2 in tablet mode.
5. Samsung Chromebook 3
PROS
- Stellar display
- Excellent processing performances for the budget
- Offers value for money
- Long-lasting battery
- One of the best budget webcams
CONS
- Heats up a bit more than expected
- Underwhelming acoustics
- CPU- Intel Celeron N3060
- RAM-4GB
- Storage- 32GB eMMC
- Screen-11.6-inch HD
- GPU-Intel HD graphics
- Battery Life -Up to 10-Hours
- Weight- 2.5 pounds
- Operating System- Chrome OS
Review
In case you are still interested in the underrated and resourceful Chrome OS, the new Samsung Chromebook 3 is expected to fit in as a resourceful ally. While the screen size is slightly underwhelming for full-time professionals, you can very well use the same as a functional secondary 2-in-1 laptop.
Design
The Samsung Chromebook 3 flaunts a textured chassis that is mainly plastic but includes several metallic accents.
However, we were particularly impressed by the smaller footprint exhibited by the 2.5-pound 2-in-1 laptop. Besides, if you are looking for inspiration, this gadget resembles HP’s Stream 11, in terms of structure and even weight.
Display
In terms of display, Samsung Chromebook 3 flaunts an 11.6-inch HD screen. The existing screen flaunts a decent-enough display resolution of 1366×768 pixels, which eventually translates into an overall brightness level of 259-nits.
Internals
When it comes to the processing consortium, the Samsung Chromebook 3 houses the Intel Celeron N3060 chipset.
This dual-core chipset is still capable of reaching maximum clock speeds of up to 2.48GHz, which is still good enough for basic online tasks. Graphics support is rendered by the Intel HD graphics- a reliable source for a majority of online games.
Supporting the entire processing conglomerate is 4GB of RAM. The existing chunk of system memory is still more than capable of handling close to 10 browser tabs at once. As it is a Chromebook, 32GB of eMMC storage space seems adequate for your on-premise requirements.
Unmatched Productivity
Coming to productivity, this 2-in-1 laptop under 500 dollars accommodates a durable keyboard followed by a navigable touchpad. As far as port arrangement is concerned, you get access to the USB 2.0, USB 3.0, and an HDMI port.
- Besides, the Samsung Chromebook 3 also makes room for a fantastic webcam, which comes equipped with live video filters and innovative multi-shot support.
- Despite not having a dedicated thermal layout, this is one of the coolest Chromebooks in the market, especially if you are a hardcore professional, invested heavily in online activities.
Overall, the Chromebook 3 from Samsung is one of the best laptops in the market, especially 2 in 1 if you are looking for a gadget that can churn out close to 10 hours of extended backup.
While it is not a standard 2-in-1 laptop with touchscreen support, it still deserves a place on the list, owing to the sheer sleekness of the form and ultra-portability on offer.
6. Microsoft Surface Pro 4
PROS
- Portable and light
- Excellent security standards
- Stellar and sharp display
- Long-lasting battery
- Best gadget to access more detailed information on the go
CONS
- Lacks latest connectivity standards
- Doesn’t support identification through device scanning
- CPU-Intel Core i5
- RAM-8GB
- Storage-256GB SSD
- Screen-12.3-inch
- GPU-Intel HD Graphics
- Battery Life-Up to 9-Hours
- Weight-1.73-pounds
- Operating System- Windows 10 Pro
Review
Despite being launched way back in 2015, the Microsoft Surface Pro is still quite a relevant device, if we were to talk about one of the best 2 in 1 laptops under 500 dollars, in the retail space.
While the gadget starts off as a tablet, you can pair an external keyboard to use the same as a laptop. Besides, you can select the preferred variant, depending on the type of processor housed by the Surface Pro 4.
Design
As far as the structural presence is concerned, this 2-in-1 flaunts a high-end magnesium casing followed by a pretty restricted footprint or expansiveness.
The gadget, inclusive of the Type cover, weighs slightly north of the 1.7-pound mark. Moreover, this is one of the few gadgets to incorporate a kickstand followed by a dedicated slot for accommodating the stylus.
Display
Surface Pro 4 is easily one of the best laptops under 500 dollars, especially if you are into the market for the brilliant display on a 2-in-1 laptop.
This is one of the few laptops under 500 to make room for a 12.3-inch PixelSense display. When it comes to the standard resolution, the touchscreen makes way for 2736×1824 pixels.
Internals
Coming to the processing components and the concerned hardware, this 2-in-1 laptop under $500 flaunts an Intel Core i5 processor. Despite hailing from the 6th generation of processors, this is still one of the best 2-in-1 when synergistic processing performances are accounted for. As far as the system memory is concerned, the reviewed variant stacks in 8GB of RAM.
Considering the graphics-centric performances, based on moderate requirements, you get access to the HD graphics coprocessor.
Besides, Microsoft offers a decent enough storage space of 256GB, packed in as an SSD. Then again, you can always access the beefier variants with sizable storage capacities, provided you have the money to spare.
Unmatched Productivity
To start with, the Surface Pro 4, much like the Surface Go 2, also stacks in the TPM security chip. This feature, clubbed with camera-centric Windows Hello support, is good enough if you want to inhibit others from accessing cookies and process personal information.
- Besides, this gadget also brings forth the Windows 10 Pro operating system that performs in tandem with the dual-camera setup, including the 5MP front shooter and the 8MP rear shooter.
- Besides, you also get access to the stereo speakers with Dolby Audio support followed by Wi-Fi AC and Bluetooth v4.0 connectivity standards.
- Moreover, this gadget also showcases a restricted but functional gamut of ports; including a micro SD card reader, USB 3.0, and the Surface Connect port.
As far as the battery backup is concerned, you get 9 hours of support, which in turn qualifies this device as the perfect 2-in-1 laptop under 500 dollars if you change your preferences from a standard clamshell to a nifty detachable.
7. Lenovo Chromebook C330 2-in-1
PROS
- Reliable processing conglomerate
- 100GB of cloud storage
- Long battery life
- Excellent keyboard
CONS
- Not meant for power users
- Dull display
- CPU- MediaTek MT8173C
- RAM-4GB
- Storage-64GB eMMC
- Screen-11.6-inch HD
- GPU- PowerVR GX6250 Integrated
- Battery Life- Up to 10-Hours
- Weight-2.82 pounds
- Operating System- Chrome OS
Review
The Lenovo Chromebook C330 2-in-1 is one of the best convertibles in the market, provided you are interested in 2-in-1 laptops but with Chrome OS, added along.
Firstly, unlike the detachables, this 2-in-1 laptop under $500 strictly adheres to the concept of multi-mode operability. This means, despite the smaller form factor, you still get access to a comfortable and usable keyboard
Design
This Chromebook brings forth a comfortable layout, which in turn allows you to use the same either as a tablet or a standard clamshell device. Regardless, the fiber-clad chassis weighs close to 2.8 pounds, making it one of the more affordable options to invest in.
Display
Despite the affordable price tag, Lenovo flaunts the 11.6-inch IPS touchscreen. While the resolution is slightly middling at 1366×768 pixels, the viewing angles are still sharp and in sync with the 360-degree foldable design.
Internals
As a Chromebook, the Chromebook C330 2-in-1 stacks in a pretty decent specs sheet, especially when processing firepower is concerned. While the MediaTek MT8173C is a quad-core CPU, it still comes across as reliable support for the 64-bit systems, courtesy of the decent clock rates going up to 2.1GHz.
Other processing vitals include the 4GB of RAM followed by PowerVR GX6250 Integrated GPU that helps you manage online games and creative tasks sans hassles.
Storage-wise, this Lenovo Chromebook offers a 64GB eMMC drive, which boots up the Chrome OS in almost no time. However, you get an additional cloud storage space of 100GB for a majority of your online endeavors.
Unmatched Productivity
This 2-in-1 laptop under 500 dollars is adequate for intricate online games and browsing, provided you can make the best use of the comfortable keyboard in play. Besides, you also get access to a decent acoustic setup, an enthralling webcam, and a heartening collection of ports, including Type-C, Type-A, and more.
Nonetheless, this gadget also exhibits almost 10 hours of battery life, which in turn qualifies it as an exceedingly portable device, which may help you earn an affiliate commission as well, provided you can make individuals purchase the same from relevant websites during black friday sales.
8. Asus VivoBook Flip 14
PROS
- Brilliant aesthetics
- Reliable processor
- Long battery life
- Potent speakers
- Bundled stylus
CONS
- Lacks full-size HDMI
- The touchpad makes a loud clicking sound
- CPU- Intel Quad-Core Pentium N5000
- RAM-4GB
- Storage- 128GB SSD
- Screen- 14-inch Full HD
- GPU- Intel HD Graphics 620
- Battery Life- Up to 9-Hours
- Weight-3.3 pounds
- Operating System- Windows 10
Review
The VivoBook Flip 14 from Asus is an aesthetic masterpiece, boasting of a reliable processing conglomerate for managing diverse professional tasks with ease.
Design
Inspired by the MacBook, this 2-in-1 laptop under 500 dollars exhibits an aluminum-clad layout. Besides, this 3.3-pound convertible supports multi-mode operability, courtesy of the 360-degree usage and foldable layout.
Display
When it comes to the display, you get a 14-inch 1080p screen to work with. Besides, the touchscreen panel is exceedingly responsive and even flaunts sharper viewing angles.
Internals
As far as processing performances are concerned, the Intel Pentium chipset is a resourceful entry-level addition, best known for an excellent clock speed of 2.3GHz. Other relevant attributes include 4GB of high-speed RAM followed by a decisive, HD 620 graphics module.
Considering this to be a secondary device for your globetrotting indulgences, the 128GB SSD seems like a decent-enough storage capacity.
Unmatched Productivity
Asus incorporates a hush keyboard followed by a smooth trackpad, amplified speakers, and a decent collection of ports, including USB 2, micro HDMI, and more. When it comes to the battery, the Windows 10 OS adds to the power efficiency and allows for at least 9 hours of battery life.
Bottom-Line
While we could have created a biased list for a site we may earn an affiliate commission from, we chose to draft a selection of the best 2-in-1 laptops under 500 that are sleek, convertible, and mostly feature touch screen support.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q1. What is the best budget 2-in-1 laptop in terms of battery life?
A1. In case you are looking for the most affordable option, our vote goes to the Lenovo Chromebook Duet. -
Q2. What is the best 2-in-1 laptop for under $500?
A2. As mentioned, the Dell Inspiron 13 7000 is the best 2-in-1 laptop under 500 dollars. -
Q3. Is it worth getting a 2-in-1 laptop?
A3. Yes, 2-in-1 laptops are worth purchasing as they allow you to carry the professional and personal commitments even when you are on the move.