The convenience of carrying around a compact tablet instead of a laptop has some people ditching their old notebooks for a more portable experience, but the benefits of a full keyboard can still come in handy. Here are our top recommendations for tablets with complementary keyboard options.
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Google Pixel C
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/google-pixel-c/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (Outstanding)
The good: The Google Pixel C has a slim, compact aluminum build that feels sturdy. Its optional Bluetooth keyboard is equally solid and doubles as the tablet’s cover and it has a powerful, long-running battery. The tablet runs the latest version of Android and its performance is lightning fast. The screen is sharp, bright and colorful, and gaming graphics look stellar.
The bad: It’s a bit heavy when attached to the keyboard (which is sold separately). Big-name apps and games still tend to hit iOS before Android.
The cost: $734.31 to $742.00
The bottom line: The Google Pixel C is the best Android tablet money can buy.
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Dell XPS 13 2-in-1
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/dell-xps-13-2-in-1-2017/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: This new version of the XPS 13 adds a hybrid hinge and thinner body but retains the excellent keyboard. The edge-to-edge, nearly bezel-free display makes maximum use of space, and the starting price is extremely reasonable.
The bad: Standard USB ports get swapped for USB-C ones, the Intel Y-series processor isn’t as fast as those found in more traditional laptops and the power button can be tricky to hit.
The cost: $999.99 to $1,199.11
The bottom line: Despite a few trade-offs in ports and processing power, this slimmer hybrid version of the XPS 13 is an excellent full-time laptop and part-time tablet.
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Microsoft Surface Pro (2017)
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/microsoft-surface-pro-2017/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: The Surface Pro gets better performance and battery life from its CPU update, and most models are now fanless. The excellent kickstand is even more flexible.
The bad: Minimal redesign leaves out USB-C and Thunderbolt options. The Surface Pen stylus is no longer included by default, and new keyboard covers are more expensive than ever. Still not great for lap use.
The cost: $798.98 to $799.00 (without keyboard cover)
The bottom line: Microsoft’s flagship Surface Pro gets an extremely conservative update, but better battery life keeps it the gold standard of Windows hybrid PCs — for now.
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Samsung Galaxy TabPro S
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/samsung-galaxy-tabpro-s-review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: Samsung wisely includes a keyboard cover in the box. Battery life is excellent, and the AMOLED display is better than the screens in much more expensive systems.
The bad: The single configuration is stuck with a sluggish Core M processor, and the keyboard cover allows only two screen angles, neither of which may be right for you.
The cost: $429.99 (refurbished) to $747.99 (new)
The bottom line: Samsung builds a lot of value into the Galaxy TabPro S, including a keyboard cover and advanced display in a very slim Windows tablet.
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The following CNET staff contributed to this story: Section Editor Dan Ackerman, Associate Editor Xiomara Blanco and Senior Editor Laura K. Cucullu. For more reviews of personal technology products, please visit www.cnet.com.
