The Best 2-in-1 Laptops for Graphic Design in 2024

Looking for the best laptop for graphic design? A 2-in-1 laptop might be just what you need! These laptops can change from a regular computer to a tablet, making them perfect for drawing and designing.

Why choose a 2-in-1? They’re like having two devices in one. You can draw on the screen with a special pen, and then switch to typing for writing or editing.

In this guide, we’ll help you find the best 2-in-1 laptop for your graphic design work. We’ll look at things like the speed of the computer, how much memory it has, and the quality of the screen.

So, let’s get started!

Specs at a Glance:

• Processor: Up to the latest 13th Gen Intel Core vPro processors (I opted for the i7-1380H)
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics or optional Nvidia GeForce RTX Studio Laptop graphics (I went with the RTX 3050 for better performance)
• RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR5 (mine has 16GB)
• Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe Gen4 SSD (I have a roomy 1TB SSD)
• Display: 14″ WQXGA (2560 x 1600) IPS or stunning OLED option (I opted for the crisp IPS display)
• Pen: Integrated garaged ThinkPad Pen Pro with excellent pressure sensitivity
• Battery: Up to 15.6 hours claimed battery life (I realistically get around 10-12 hours with mixed use)

Pros:

• Powerhouse Performance: The combination of the 13th Gen Intel processor and the Nvidia graphics card handles demanding design software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator with ease. No lag, no hiccups, just smooth sailing.
• Built to Last: This ThinkPad lives up to its reputation for durability. The military-spec tested chassis feels incredibly sturdy, and the spill-resistant keyboard gives me peace of mind.
• A Dream to Type On: The iconic ThinkPad keyboard is simply unmatched. The key travel is perfect, and the backlighting makes working in low-light conditions a breeze.
• Pen Perfection: The included ThinkPad Pen Pro feels natural in hand and offers great pressure sensitivity, making it a joy to use for sketching and drawing.
• Surprisingly Thin and Light: For a powerhouse machine, the X1 Yoga Gen 8 is surprisingly portable. It easily fits into my bag without feeling bulky.

Cons:

• Pricey: This laptop isn’t cheap. Especially if you configure it with top-of-the-line specs like mine, the price tag can be quite hefty.
• Battery Life Could Be Better: While the advertised battery life is impressive, in real-world use, I get closer to 10-12 hours. This can be a concern for designers who need to work unplugged for extended periods.
• Not the Most Vibrant Display: While the IPS display is crisp and clear, it doesn’t quite match the vibrancy of some OLED options available on competing laptops.

Overall Verdict:

The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 8 is a fantastic 2-in-1 laptop for graphic designers who prioritize performance, durability, and portability. It’s not perfect, with a hefty price tag and a battery life that could be better. But for those who demand the best and can afford it, the X1 Yoga Gen 8 is a powerful and versatile machine that can handle any creative challenge you throw at it.

Specs at a Glance:

• Processor: Up to 13th Gen Intel Core i7 H-series processors (I’m using the i7-1360H)
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics or optional Nvidia GeForce RTX Studio Laptop GPUs (mine has the RTX 3050 Ti)
• RAM: Up to 64GB LPDDR5X (I have a well-equipped 32GB)
• Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe Gen4 SSD (my unit boasts a spacious 1TB SSD)
• Display: 14.4″ 3:2 PixelSense touchscreen display with 120Hz refresh rate (a joy to use!)
• Pen: Surface Slim Pen 2 sold separately (not included with my review unit, boo!)
• Battery: Up to 19 hours claimed battery life (more like 8-10 hours for me with design work)

Pros:

• Standout Hinge Design: The innovative hinge that transforms the laptop into a tablet mode is a real game-changer. It offers a comfortable angled position for drawing and sketching, something traditional 2-in-1s lack.
• Gorgeous Display: The 120Hz refresh rate display is buttery smooth and makes working with graphics and scrolling through webpages a delight. The 3:2 aspect ratio provides ample vertical space, perfect for design tasks.
• Surprisingly Powerful: Don’t let the sleek design fool you. This Surface Laptop Studio 2 tackles demanding design software with ease, thanks to the powerful processor and dedicated graphics card.
• Premium Build Quality: From the luxurious Alcantara fabric keyboard deck to the sturdy aluminum chassis, everything about this laptop feels high-end and built to last.
• Speedy Ports: The inclusion of a USB-A port alongside the Thunderbolt 4 ports is a welcome addition for connecting various peripherals.

Cons:

• Pen Not Included: A major letdown is that the Surface Slim Pen 2, essential for artists, isn’t included and has to be purchased separately, adding to the overall cost.
• Battery Life Could Be Better: The advertised battery life is quite optimistic. With real-world creative use, I get closer to 8-10 hours, which might not be ideal for long commutes or unplugged sessions.
• Limited Port Selection: While the addition of USB-A is appreciated, some users might miss an SD card reader for transferring photos directly from cameras.

Overall Verdict:

The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 is a compelling 2-in-1 for creative professionals who prioritize a stylish design, a smooth user experience, and strong performance. The innovative hinge and gorgeous display make it a joy to use for both work and leisure. However, the lack of a bundled pen and a somewhat underwhelming battery life hold it back from achieving true perfection. If you can stomach the premium price tag and don’t mind purchasing the pen separately, the Surface Laptop Studio 2 is a powerful and versatile machine that can elevate your creative workflow.

Specs at a Glance:

• Processor: Up to 13th Gen Intel Core i7 H-series processors (I’m rocking the i7-1370H)
• Graphics: Optional Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU (a welcome addition in my unit)
• RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR5 (my config boasts a healthy 16GB)
• Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe Gen4 SSD (I have a speedy 1TB SSD)
• Display: Stunning 14.5″ OLED display with 3.2K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate (it’s a beauty!)
• Pen: Optional Dell Active Pen (not included with mine, but purchasable separately)
• Battery: Up to 8 hours claimed battery life (more realistic at 5-6 hours for demanding workloads)

Pros:

• A Feast for the Eyes: The OLED display on this XPS 14 is simply phenomenal. The colors are vibrant, the blacks are inky deep, and the 120Hz refresh rate makes everything feel smooth and responsive.
• Surprisingly Powerful: Despite its slim profile, the XPS 14 packs a punch. The latest Intel processor and the optional RTX graphics card handle design software like a champ, allowing me to work on complex projects without a hitch.
• Lightweight Champion: This laptop is incredibly thin and light, making it a perfect choice for designers who are constantly on the move. It easily slips into my bag without adding any bulk.
• Superb Keyboard and Trackpad: Dell continues to deliver with its comfortable and responsive keyboard. The trackpad is spacious and precise, making navigating design tools a breeze.
• Killer Thermal Performance: While some laptops can get toasty under pressure, the XPS 14 stays surprisingly cool, even during extended design sessions.

Cons:

• Battery Life Could Be Better: The advertised battery life is a bit of a stretch. With demanding design tasks, I’m lucky to get 5-6 hours on a single charge. This might be a concern for designers who need to work unplugged for long stretches.
• No Pen Included: Similar to other laptops on this list, the Dell Active Pen, a valuable tool for creatives, is an extra cost.
• Smaller Screen Real Estate: While the display is gorgeous, the 14.5-inch size might feel limiting for some designers who prefer a larger workspace.

Overall Verdict:

The Dell XPS 14 (2024) is a fantastic choice for graphic designers who prioritize portability, performance, and a stunning visual experience. The lightweight design, powerful specs, and gorgeous OLED display make it a joy to use. However, the somewhat underwhelming battery life and the lack of a bundled pen are drawbacks to consider. If you value a larger screen or a longer battery life, you might want to look elsewhere. But for those who prioritize a sleek and powerful machine for on-the-go design work, the XPS 14 is a compelling option.

• CPU & RAM: Aim for a recent Intel Core i7/AMD Ryzen 7 processor and at least 16GB RAM for smooth multitasking. 32GB is even better for complex projects.
• Storage: Solid-state drives (SSDs) are essential. Opt for at least 512GB, ideally 1TB or more for heavy users.
• Screen Size: Balance portability with workspace. 14-inch might suffice, but 15-inch or even 16-inch options offer more room.
• Resolution & Color: Look for QHD (2560 x 1440) resolution and a wide color gamut (Adobe RGB/DCI-P3) for sharp visuals and accurate color representation.
• Pressure Sensitivity & Tilt Recognition: The higher these are, the more control you have over line weight, shading, and mimicking traditional art tools.
• Comfort is Key: Choose a pen that feels natural in your hand, especially for extended use.
• Battery Life: If you work unplugged often, prioritize a laptop with a long battery life (ideally 10+ hours). Fast-charging capabilities are a bonus.

While the reviewed laptops are fantastic choices, the best option is the one that best suits your workflow and budget.

For me, after testing these machines, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 stands out. The innovative hinge design creates a comfortable angled position for drawing, and the overall design feels incredibly premium. However, the lack of a bundled pen and a somewhat underwhelming battery life might be a concern for some.

So, take this knowledge, prioritize your needs, and embark on your journey to find the perfect 2-in-1 that will become your trusted partner in transforming your creative vision into reality.