We've already taken a look at some of the leading contenders. But there are a few models that don't get quite as much attention. One computer that we think deserves some additional recognition is the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga. So we've decided to take a close look at what it offers and tell you what we've found. Because the more you know about your options, the more informed your decision will be.

Like buying any computer, the biggest thing to keep in mind is how you plan to use it. As you probably already know, some models and styles are best suited to specific purposes. The typical fan of the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga enjoys its lightweight and durable frame. Its design is described as both functional and beautiful, which gives it a leg up against luxury tech products. But there are a few issues that keep it from earning high marks across the board. We'll explore the pros and cons of the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga so you can determine if you are in its target market.

Before we look at this particular model, let's take an overview of the company itself. Lenovo is now a major tech company that combines its brand and IBM. So the company's history technically goes back to 1981 when the first personal computer appeared. That was called the IBM PC. And three years later, the same company created the first portable computer. That was called the IBM Portable PC and weighed in at a bulky 30 pounds. Its first laptop came in 1986 and cut that weight by more than half. Still, 12 pounds is undeniably heavy for a laptop.

The 1990s saw big advancements in processing power. At the same time, Lenovo continued to slash weight. The Thinkpad 755 CD of 1994 was the first notebook with a CD-ROM drive included. An associated Legend brand was making big strides of its own. By 1998 that company had already sold 1 million personal computers. Lenovo blossomed into a major power player in its own right throughout the 2000s. Now it is known for quality computer products with the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga at the top of the heap.

This two in one device might be perfect for anybody who puts a premium on productivity. Its high points are security features, graphics and styling. It can hang with most of its competitors as far as power and size. But some other brands offer bigger processors and slimmer hardware. 

Like the new breed of laptop hybrids including the Acer R11 Chromebook, it aims to provide it all. If you want the convenience of a tablet and the power of a laptop, give it a shot. Sure, it won't measure up on all counts. But to have many of those features in one device is a big selling point for many consumers. 

Designers and artists find the layout of the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga especially helpful. Being able to configure the device in just about any way imaginable is obviously an attractive option. Also, its remarkable display will show your creations in their best light. While it is ultra portable, we don't recommend it for uses that require long spans of time between recharges.

One of the biggest disappointments was a short battery life. It's not as abysmal as some early attempts at an all in one device. But there are definitely other contenders in this arena with a better battery performance. If you can do without lengthy periods of time between plugging into an outlet, though, it can do almost anything else. Plenty of fans use it just as a personal device. From streaming to web surfing, it offers plenty of power for your daily use. And many professionals find it provides the right balance of portability and function for their business needs.

So if you're reading this far, you're probably interested in seeing what the computer is actually capable of doing. Let's take a look at all of its features to see how it stacks up to some other choices. Tech analysts have already prepared deep reviews of this machine's potential. We've weighed all the evidence and want to provide our take on a popular and versatile computer. Looking at the nuts and bolts that keep this machine humming will give tech lovers something to chew on. Here's our take on the hardware and software you can expect when you buy a Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga.

This is probably the most striking attribute of this machine. Most users are huge fans of either type of casing you choose. We like the carbon fiber hybrid option. It exudes class and style. This computer looks like it could be an accessory with the most opulent luxury sedan or sporty coupe. You can also choose an elegant silver tone, which doesn't seem to have quite the appearance of durability. 

But whichever way you go, you can tell your new computer is assembled with care and precision. Though it is much lighter than those 13 pound models from decades ago, it has substantial heft. Not so much that it feels heavy, but enough to feel solid and sturdy in your hands. That being said, there are lighter options on the market if that is an important feature for you.

And there are several design features that just make this thing look pretty cool. First of all, there is the keyboard that moves in any direction you need. Then the actual layout of the computer will catch your eye. Understated design cues integrate features with style. The overall look is a sleek, interesting computer. You might find yourself looking at the new Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga for a few minutes before even turning it on.

The new model has some interesting and important tech upgrades. For starters, you'll find the two Thunderbolt 3 USB C ports for high end connectivity. Of course there are also the traditional USB and HDMI outputs. But some of the other ports are pretty clever, too. The Ethernet extension connector is brand new and unique for the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga. You'll also notice that the company has combined its headphone and microphone jacks.

And we love the Thinkpad Pro Pen. It might not be the most responsive or the most comfortable, but all around it works great. There are over 2,000 distinct pressure points to allow for almost exact translation onto the screen. And it charges quickly while tucked into its attached home inside the tablet's frame.

Looking at the specifications, you'll find a 128 megabyte HD graphics chip from Intel. And it's all operated on Windows 10 Home. Choose up to 1 terabyte of storage. Plus, the CPU power is sufficient at any level. But you can upgrade to a great 1.9 gigahertz Intel Core i7 processor with vPro.

We've discussed how the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga provides a number of innovative functions. But many of them are found in some form or another in competing models from other brands. So in this section, we'll take a look at how its features stack up against other computers. And we'll see what Lenovo has improved the most for its latest model.

A notable improvement is in security. Folks concerned about potential hacking of the computers microphone and camera need not worry. You can completely block these functions manually to prevent remote access. An added layer of security is a very user friendly fingerprint scanner. The best part of that feature is that Lenovo also created the scanning system. That means your identifying information is even more difficult to hack than in some other computers.

You'll also find layers of encryption and other redundant measures meant to increase user security. But perhaps the most notable feature -- and one you'll use every day -- is its hinge. We know there are lots of configurable two in one devices. But we just really like the way this device is hinged to sit in any position you need for a particular use.

Like most computers in its class, the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga offers pretty standard memory options. You can upgrade to a big internal storage bank if needed. And 16 gigabytes of RAM goes a long way in this machine.

A big reason for that is Lenovo's decision to keep software to a minimum. You'll find plenty of additions associated with the Windows operating system. But as far as the machine itself, it is fairly clean. And what is included gives you some helpful tools and information that you'll actually want. Even with the pre-loaded software Windows 10 slips in, this computer hums along nicely out of the box. 

Here's where we get technical. If you know about the hardware, you likely already know what these numbers and specs mean. For everyone else, let's just be clear: the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga is powerful. 

The computer is powered by the latest Intel Core processor. It's the eight iteration of this beast of a powerhouse. And the UHD 620 graphics provide a stunning display with lightning fast response. Of course, no all in one device is going to be as powerful as a dedicated computer. But if you are in the market for this type of computer, you will probably be pleasantly surprised. 

We've looked at professional reviews and average customer reactions to determine what most people think. As it turns out, there are a lot of features people say are very useful. And generally speaking, we also think this computer has a lot going for it. That being said, some of its specs don't quite measure up to expectations or other names in the segment. We broke down the most common pros and cons to provide a balanced look at the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga.

Okay, so maybe you've gotten to this point and you think this computer is not for you. If that's the case, or if you're just not convinced, here are some other options. These computers don't offer exactly the same features. But they provide different capabilities for shoppers looking for a portable and powerful machine.

The HP Spectre x360 is a great computer to test head to head against the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga. It offers more memory with up to 2 terabytes of solid state drive and 32 gigabytes of RAM. You'll also find a lean operating system to allow that memory to stay focused on the stuff you deem important. 

And it's a beautiful machine. A 15.6 inch screen gives you plenty of room to navigate and work. It comes with the AP Active Stylus pen, which we find responsive and easy to use. The Bang & Olufsen speakers give this machine a powerful sound. Plus, users say the battery life can max out at more than 8 hours. 

If you want power and screen size isn't a major issue, check out the latest Dell Inspiron two in one computer. This on offers 32 gigabytes of RAM. Plus get up to 4 terabytes of internal memory. A high definition display is among the best in the industry, even if it is on a 13.3 inch screen.

It's a bit lighter than the bulkier HP, weighing in at a little over 3 pounds. While we think the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga has one of the best hinges, we also like this one. You can set the Dell Inspiron 13 5000 series to four distinct positions. Choose from tent mode, stand mode, laptop mode and tablet mode in a snap. This is a supremely portable and incredibly powerful option.

We'll end with a more specialized offering in the two in one notebook segment. The Toughbook has a reputation for being highly durable. Sure, you'll find deficiencies against most of the others on the list in some areas. Memory, screen size and other metrics just can't stand up against the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga. 

If you demand a notebook that can double as a tablet, you have lots of options. If you also need it to survive just about anything you can throw at it, we think Panasonic has a solid option.

As our research has proven, this is a very popular market for computer companies to enter. Technology allows more access to smaller companies and lets bigger ones devote more to innovation. So consumers are left with many great options when shopping for a two in one notebook computer. We think the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Yoga deserves a close look by anyone in the market for such a device. It offers the best of a laptop and a tablet with several really cool features to boot.

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