All-in-one Laptop Tablets: A Guide for Your Business

Many businesses are coming around to the notion that having a single device that can act as a laptop, tablet AND desktop computer, isn’t such a crazy idea.

These days, plenty of speed, storage and functionality can be squeezed into a device as small as 10.8-inches. And even in a device this small, there’s enough under the hood to keep the most tab happy business user productive.

How can an all-in-one replace my desktop computer?

The answer to this question is simple.

A docking station, large monitor and a desktop keyboard and mouse is all you need to get yourself running solely on an all-in-one laptop tablet.

When you’re at your desk (or desks if you work from more than one location on a regular basis), you can have a docking station connected to your proper monitor, keyboard, mouse and other accessories.

The dock will power the laptop, keep all your devices neat and tidy, and stop you from breaking ports or cables, or crawling around the floor looking for a power adapter.

Plus, the dock comes with a spare power adapter meaning you’ve got one in your bag or car when you’re mobile.

How do I choose the right all-in-one for me?

There are a couple of things you’ll want to consider when you’re looking at moving to an all-in-one laptop tablet to replace your current setup.

These are 4G or 5G connectivity and how small is too small for you?

Let’s look at these considerations in more detail.

Do I need 4G or 5G connectivity?

If you have business data in the cloud then 4G or 5G connectivity is a must for your all-in-one device.

Even a couple of years ago the idea of having built-in broadband connectivity in your laptop was not something that was really viable. The options were very expensive, the speeds slow and the benefits it provided were questionable. 

These days though, with many businesses keeping so much of their critical business systems in the cloud, the ability to access this information easily (and keep things syncing between devices) is extremely valuable. It’s also not very expensive or difficult to achieve.

And if you don’t have any of your business data in the cloud, then I highly suggest you speak with your trusted IT partner about the benefits of the cloud for your business.

There are some people who still insist on having enough local storage on their devices to keep all their stuff available locally.

But, why not just sync the stuff you need and keep the rest in the cloud to access as you need? I would encourage you to seriously consider it.

How small is too small?

The Microsoft Surface Pro starts at 10.8-inch screen size. And you’ll be surprised at the power, speed and efficiency you’ll get from something so small.

For those who are technically minded, in that tiny package you’ll find i7 CPU, 16Gb of RAM, 1 TB of SSD storage, speakers and USB ports. 

Seriously, these specs are similar to what’s in most high-end business workstations. But in such a small device? It would seem completely crazy, but it’s not!

But, despite its power, if you’re regularly mobile, that size screen might be way too small to work from. There’s also the weight difference – from a 10.8-inch to a 14-inch compact laptop you’re only looking at an increase of about 700grams. For that minimal weight gain you get a much larger screen and keyboard, and usually an extra USB port or two. 

So, unless you’re carrying this device in a bag all day every day the 13.3-inch or 14-inch options might be better for your needs.

Which is the best all-in-one laptop tablet for my business?

There are plenty of choices for all-in-one laptops for your business.
In my opinion, the leaders are – 

• The Microsoft Surface range
• The Lenovo Yoga
• The HP x360 range
• The Dell XPS

Whichever brand you choose, make sure you consider screen size and connectivity when you’re making your final selection. 

And if you aren’t sure where to start, then get in touch with your IT partner – they know your business and your technology needs and should be able to give you the right advice so you’ll get plenty of functionality and efficiency from your all-in-one laptop tablet.
 

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