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Convertible laptops are a versatile and affordable alternative to buying a separate laptop and tablet. They offer touchscreen capability, multiple viewing modes, and greater portability than traditional laptops, which is a perk for commuters. They’re also useful if you want a second screen but don’t want to invest in a full second laptop or desktop. One of the most popular options is the entry-level 14-inch ASUS Chromebook Flip CX1 Convertible Laptop, which is down to a record low of $279.99 (originally $369.99), according to price trackers.
It’s one of the most affordable convertible laptops with a 360-degree hinge, a 13-inch touchscreen, and all the essentials for everyday tasks like streaming video, getting work done, multitasking, or serving as a secondary device. That said, it’s not designed for more intensive tasks like design work, competitive gaming, and video editing.
It has an Intel Celeron N4500 processor, 8 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of eMMC storage, and lasts up to 11 hours per charge. It can be used in laptop, tent, or tablet mode, adding to its versatility. While it doesn’t have the high-end specs and performance of dedicated computers, this 2-in-1 does come with fingerprint login, a backlit keyboard, dual speakers, and a 1080p webcam. It also has fast-charging USB-C, USB-A, and micro-SD ports, offering more connectivity than many budget Chromebooks.
If you’re looking for a model that covers the basics and your priority is versatility and convenience at under $300, the Asus Chromebook Flip CX1 2-in-1 is a strong choice. However, if you need more storage, better brightness and visuals, and a more capable processor, it’s worth stepping up to a slightly more powerful model like the ASUS Chromebook CM14 Flip or the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus, though those upgrades will come with a higher price tag.
