Top tablets with keyboards
Google Pixel C
Cnet rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 The good: The Pixel C has a slim, compact aluminum build that feels sturdy. Its optional Bluetooth keyboard is equally solid, doubles as the tablet’s cover and 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 to $742
The bottom line: The Pixel C is the best Android tablet money can buy.
Dell XPS 13 2-in-1
Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5 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 bezelfree display makes maximum use of space, and the starting price is extremely reasonable.
The bad: Standard USB ports have been swapped for USB-C ones, the Intel Y-series processor isn’t as fast as those in more traditional laptops and the power button can be tricky to hit. The cost: $1,000 to $1,199
The bottom line: Despite a few tradeoffs in ports and processing power, this slimmer hybrid version of the XPS 13 is an excellent full-time laptop and parttime tablet.
Microsoft Surface Pro
Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5 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, and new keyboard covers are more expensive than ever. Still not great for lap use.
The cost: $799 (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.
Samsung Galaxy TabPro S
Cnet rating: 4 stars out of 5 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: $430 (refurbished) to $748 (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.