Laptop vs. Tablet vs. 2-in-1s: Pros and Cons

Performance: Laptops, otherwise known as notebook computers, include higher-performing processors because they are large enough to feature internal fans, which effectively cools the processors. As a result, laptops have more power than tablets and can easily run multiple programs simultaneously. This makes laptops particularly efficient and conducive to hardcore multitasking.

Storage: Because laptops use traditional hard drives, they have greater storage capacity relative to tablets. Most laptops today can have as much as 1 Terabyte (TB) or 1000 Gigabytes (GB) in hard drive capacity, which means you’ll have plenty of room for all your files, images and videos. Although the latest innovations in tablet technology make it possible to expand storage capabilities, it is more difficult and less seamless than doing so on a laptop. It is a simple process to connect laptops to external hard drives in order to store additional content.

Input Methods: An attached physical keyboard provides an easy, ergonomic typing experience. Without question, laptops offer a more convenient typing experience and are more useful for putting together longer documents or presentation decks with a high quantity of text. The trackpads on laptops also enable easier navigation in some cases relative to the touchscreen experience. And when trackpad navigation just won’t cut it, it’s a cinch to use a wireless Bluetooth mouse with your laptop.

Software and Compatability: Equipped with full desktop architecture, laptops can support a wider range of programs, from media software suites to mobile web apps and more.

Portability: Due to their thicker superstructures and heavier batteries, laptops weigh more than tablets. Most laptops weigh at least three pounds. Laptop screens are also considerably larger than most tablet screens, generally between 12-17 inches. Because of their weight and screen size, laptops can be more difficult to transport and may require the use of larger work bags or backpacks to fit them.

Price Range: Laptops are more expensive because of their higher quality hardware. While some lower-priced, basic laptops are now emerging in the market, laptops with the best functionality and most versatility will set you back considerably. Some of the highest quality laptops can be as much as $3000 or more. Because of this, some might consider a laptop a higher involvement purchase than a tablet.

Malware: Laptops can be vulnerable to viruses and malware attacks. Viruses are designed specifically to attack computers, so laptops are more at risk than tablets. If you purchase a laptop, you may want to consider purchasing anti-viral software to help protect your files and information.

Portability: Sleek and lightweight, tablet PCs are extremely portable and can fit in purses and even pockets. Some tablets weigh less than a pound. This makes them an ideal choice for frequent travelers.

Battery Life: Because of their smaller screen sizes and less hardware, tablets have longer battery life. Tablets can also have more reliable batteries. Some tablet models boast battery life for up to 14 hours.

Price Range: Tablets are less expensive than laptops as they have fewer features. It’s possible to find a functional tablet for less than $200. More cutting-edge tablets can also still be quite affordable for a variety of different budgets, and offer more functionality than the more basic models.

Storage: Tablets use SSDs (solid-state drives) for storage. This makes most tablets less bulky but also means they have less storage capacity. Tablets can be connected to external hard drives, but it's usually more complicated to expand the storage capability of this kind of device relative to laptops.

Software and Compatibility: Mobile apps and touch-optimized software mean that for full functionality, a developer has to make an app for your mobile operating system.

Input Methods: Tablets only have touchscreen keyboards, which is incredibly convenient when it comes to browsing. However, if you're planning on doing a large amount of typing on your tablet, you'll need to invest in an external keyboard with Bluetooth connectivity. An external keyboard is usually not quite as comfortable or functional as a built-in keyboard on a laptop, and it can be cumbersome to attach the keyboard to the tablet. Additonal device connectivity will require hubs and dongles to make your tablet as fully functional as a laptop.

Input Methods: While traditional tablets lack the ergonomic typing experience that a full keyboard offers, a 2-in-1 PC offers full typing capability. As a result, you don’t have to sacrifice the ability to comfortably type long documents on your device. There’s also no need carry around a clunky external keyboard, as it’s built into the computer or easy to seamlessly attach. Because 2-in-1 laptops feature both trackpad and touchscreen capabilities, users have multiple ways to control the navigational experience. This offers ultimate flexibility when using your device. If you’re scrolling through complex software programs, you can use a full trackpad. On the other hand, when you want to just put on your favorite Netflix show and relax, the touchscreen makes that a cinch.

Performance: Much like traditional laptops, 2-in-1 laptops often feature powerful processors that enable multitasking and efficient use of multiple programs at the same time. Therefore, you won’t need to compromise on productivity with a 2-in-1 or worry about overloading the device with too many open apps; you can toggle between all your favorite apps worry-free. 

Price Range: It’s important to note that all the functionality of a 2-in-1 laptop comes at a price. 2-in-1 devices tend to cost as much as higher-end laptops, which means that tablets are still the more affordable option. 2-in-1 devices are usually a substantial investment, and the leading models aren’t necessarily easy on the wallet.

Software and Compatibility: Right now, 2-in-1 laptops only run on either Windows or Chrome operating systems. Therefore, if you’re an avid iOS or Android fan, you won’t have those options available with a hybrid device. There are also fewer choices in general on the market right now compared to traditional laptops and tablets, which means your 2-in-1 options can be limited.

Will you be using the device as a home workstation? From video conferencing applications, to webcams, to word processing tools, your device will need to handle all the apps effectively and efficiently. The device will also require a long battery life or fast charging capabilities. An ergonomically-friendly design doesn't hurt either. In this instance, you might want to opt for a laptop or 2-in-1.

Because some tablets operate on closed systems, it is unlikely that you’ll catch a virus or malware on the device. As a result, your sensitive information may be more secure on a tablet. It's also a lot easier to move around with a tablet, or to take notes on the go. You can then transfer that information once you're back in the office.

Will you be using the device for web browsing or watching videos? If you plan on just using the device for pleasure, you might want to consider something completely portable like an iPad or lightweight Android or Windows tablet that can be used both in your home and outside of it. These lighter devices may not be able to run complex games or intensive apps, but they're great to take on-the-go as a larger alternative to a smartphone.

Tablets’ large screens make it easy to consume video content, e-books and other types of media. Because of their large touchscreens, tablets offer a pleasurable viewing experience and are great for catching up on your favorite TV shows, movies, or books while on-the-go. If you will mainly use the device for reading, consider a dedicated e-reader, which sometimes offers other apps or web browsing capabilities.