In recent years, detachable laptops have gained significant popularity among tech enthusiasts, students, and professionals alike. These versatile devices offer the perfect blend of laptop functionality and tablet portability, making them ideal for users who need flexibility in their computing experience. As we delve into 2025, the market is brimming with impressive options that cater to various needs and budgets.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best detachable laptops available in 2025, providing in-depth reviews, a detailed buying guide, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a student looking for a budget-friendly option or a professional seeking high-end performance, this article will help you find the perfect detachable laptop to suit your needs.
What Are Detachable Laptops?
Detachable laptops, also known as 2-in-1 detachables or tablet PCs, are hybrid devices that combine the functionality of a laptop with the portability of a tablet. The key feature of these devices is their ability to separate the screen from the keyboard, allowing users to switch between laptop and tablet modes seamlessly.
Top Picks for Best Detachable Laptops in 2025
- Dell Latitude 7000 7320 Detachable 2-in-1 Laptop
- Microsoft Surface Pro 9
- Microsoft Surface Go 3
- Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch)
- Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook OLED
- ASUS ROG Flow Z13 (2022) Gaming Laptop Tablet
Let’s dive into detailed reviews of each of these top picks to help you make an informed decision.
1. Dell Latitude 7000 7320 Detachable 2-in-1 Laptop
The Dell Latitude 7000 7320 stands out as the best overall detachable laptop for 2025, offering a perfect balance of performance, portability, and versatility.
Key Features:
- Display: 13 inches, 1920 x 1080 resolution
- Processor: Intel Core i7
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- RAM: 16GB
- Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
Pros:
- Solid build quality ensures durability
- Excellent display for crisp visuals
- Powerful performance for productivity tasks
- Thin and light design for easy portability
- Comprehensive selection of business features
Cons:
- Premium pricing may not suit all budgets
- Keyboard and pen are additional purchases
- Battery life is slightly below average
The Dell Latitude 7320 is an excellent choice for professionals and power users who need a reliable, high-performance detachable laptop. Its robust build quality and powerful specifications make it ideal for demanding tasks, while its portability ensures you can work efficiently on the go.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option with similar performance, consider checking out our guide on the best i5 laptops.
2. Microsoft Surface Pro 9
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 continues the legacy of the Surface line, offering a premium detachable laptop experience with cutting-edge features.
Key Features:
- Display: 13 inches, 2880 x 1920 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Intel Core i7-1255U
- Storage: 1TB SSD
- RAM: 16GB
- Operating System: Windows 11
Pros:
- Sleek design with new color options
- Exceptional build quality
- Excellent Type Cover keyboard (sold separately)
- High-resolution webcam for clear video calls
Cons:
- Lacks a headphone jack
- Upgrades can be expensive
The Surface Pro 9 is perfect for users who want a premium Windows experience in a detachable form factor. Its high-resolution display and powerful processor make it suitable for creative professionals and productivity enthusiasts alike.
It’s also an excellent choice for teachers who need a versatile device for both classroom and administrative tasks. For more options tailored to educators, check out our guide on the best laptops for teachers.
3. Microsoft Surface Go 3
For those on a budget, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 offers a compact and affordable entry into the world of detachable laptops.
Key Features:
- Display: 10.5 inches, 1920 x 1280 resolution
- Processor: Intel Pentium Gold or Core i3 (configuration dependent)
- Storage: Up to 128GB SSD
- RAM: Up to 8GB (recommended)
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home in S mode (upgradable)
Pros:
- Excellent build quality for a budget device
- Superior display quality in its price range
- Great Active Pen support for note-taking and drawing
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons:
- Can become expensive with upgrades
- Mediocre battery life
The Surface Go 3 is an ideal choice for students or casual users who need a portable, budget-friendly device for basic tasks and light productivity work. If you’re looking for more powerful options within a similar price range, consider exploring our guide on the best laptops under $2000.
4. Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch)
While not a traditional laptop, the Apple iPad Pro with its Magic Keyboard offers a compelling detachable experience for Apple enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR, high resolution
- Processor: Apple M2 chip
- Storage: Up to 2TB
- RAM: Up to 16GB
- Operating System: iPadOS
Pros:
- Sleek and modern design
- Bright, vivid, and gorgeous display
- Exceptional performance with the M2 chip
- Apple Pencil hover feature for precise input
- Robust iPadOS for productivity and creativity
Cons:
- Stage Manager feature needs refinement
- Front camera placement is awkward
- Premium pricing
The iPad Pro is an excellent choice for creative professionals and Apple ecosystem users who want a powerful, versatile device that can handle both tablet and laptop tasks with ease.
Its powerful M2 chip makes it suitable for demanding tasks such as animation and 3D rendering. For those interested in dedicated laptops for animation work, check out our guide on the best computers for animation.
5. Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook OLED
The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook OLED offers an affordable and versatile detachable experience with the simplicity of Chrome OS.
Key Features:
- Display: 13.3 inches OLED, Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080)
- Processor: Snapdragon SC7180
- Storage: Up to 128GB eMMC storage
- RAM: Up to 8GB LPDDR4X RAM
- Operating System: Chrome OS
Pros:
- Acceptable productivity performance
- Impressive battery life
- Excellent OLED display
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- 16:9 aspect ratio may feel outdated
- Limited to Wi-Fi 5
- Kickstand add-on can be inconvenient
The IdeaPad Duet 5 is perfect for users who primarily work in the cloud and need a lightweight, affordable detachable with long battery life and a great display. Its OLED screen makes it particularly suitable for tasks that require color accuracy, such as light photo editing or graphic design.
6. ASUS ROG Flow Z13 (2023) Gaming Laptop Tablet
For gamers who want the flexibility of a detachable, the ASUS ROG Flow Z13 offers an innovative solution.
Key Features:
- Display: 13.4 inches, 165 Hz QHD resolution (1920 x 1200)
- Processor: Intel Core i9-13900H
- Storage: 1TB PCIe SSD
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
Pros:
- Bright, beautiful screen
- Amazing portability for a gaming device
- Ingenious design
- Surprisingly good gaming performance
- Comfortable keyboard and touchpad
Cons:
- Poor battery life
- Polarizing aesthetic
- Mediocre webcam, no Windows Hello
The ROG Flow Z13 is an excellent choice for gamers who need portability without sacrificing performance, offering a unique detachable gaming experience.
Its powerful processor and dedicated graphics make it suitable for demanding tasks like virtualization as well. For those interested in laptops specifically for virtualization, check out our guide on the best laptops for virtualization.
Buying Guide for Detachable Laptops
When shopping for a detachable laptop, consider the following key factors:
- Performance: Look for processors that match your needs, from Intel Core i3 for basic tasks to Core i7 for demanding applications.
- Display: Opt for high-resolution displays (at least 1080p) with good color accuracy and brightness. If you encounter issues with screen brightness, refer to our guide on fixing laptop brightness issues.
- Battery Life: Aim for devices that offer at least 8-10 hours of battery life for all-day use.
- Keyboard and Touchpad: Ensure the detachable keyboard is comfortable and responsive, as you’ll likely use it frequently.
- Portability: Consider the weight and dimensions of both the tablet portion and the full device with the keyboard attached.
- Operating System: Choose between Windows, Chrome OS, or iPadOS based on your software needs and ecosystem preferences.
- Price: Detachable laptops range from budget-friendly options around $400 to premium devices over $1500. Set a budget that aligns with your needs and expectations.
Detachable vs. Convertible Laptops
While both offer 2-in-1 functionality, detachable and convertible laptops have key differences:
Detachable Laptops:
- Screen can be completely separated from the keyboard
- Often lighter and more portable in tablet mode
- May have less powerful components due to size constraints
Convertible Laptops:
- Screen rotates 360 degrees but remains attached
- Often have more powerful components
- Typically heavier in tablet mode
Choose a detachable if you prioritize tablet use and portability, or a convertible if you need more power and primarily use the device as a laptop.
FAQs About Detachable Laptops
- Are detachable laptops good for gaming? While most detachables aren’t suitable for high-end gaming, devices like the ASUS ROG Flow Z13 offer decent gaming performance in a detachable form factor.
- Can I use a detachable laptop for graphic design? Yes, higher-end detachables like the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 or Apple iPad Pro can handle graphic design tasks, especially when paired with a stylus.
- How does the battery life of detachable laptops compare to traditional laptops? Battery life varies, but many detachables offer comparable battery life to traditional laptops. Some, like the Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5, excel in this area.
- Are detachable laptops suitable for students? Yes, detachable laptops can be excellent for students, offering the flexibility to take notes in tablet mode and type papers in laptop mode.
- Can I upgrade the components in a detachable laptop? Generally, detachable laptops have limited upgrade options due to their compact design. It’s best to choose a configuration that meets your needs from the start.
- Are detachable laptops good for accounting work? While not specifically designed for accounting, many detachable laptops can handle accounting software and tasks effectively. For dedicated options, check our guide on the best laptops for accounting.
Conclusion
Detachable laptops offer a unique blend of functionality and portability that caters to a wide range of users. From budget-friendly options like the Microsoft Surface Go 3 to high-performance devices like the Dell Latitude 7320, there’s a detachable laptop for every need and budget in 2025.
When choosing the best detachable laptop for you, consider your primary use case, budget, and desired features. Whether you’re a student, professional, or casual user, the flexibility and versatility of detachable laptops make them an excellent choice for modern computing needs.
As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more powerful and innovative detachable laptops in the future, further blurring the lines between tablets and traditional laptops.
