When it comes to affordable convertible tablets, Chuwi has carved out a reputation for delivering impressive value. The Hi10 X2 is the latest addition to their lineup, and it marks an interesting shift in strategy that prioritizes efficiency over raw performance. But is it worth your money? Let’s dive deep into what this compact device offers.
Design and Build Quality
The Hi10 X2 maintains the design philosophy of its predecessor while refining the experience. Measuring just 10.1 inches with a thickness of 10.1mm and weighing a mere 610 grams (about 1.34 pounds), this tablet is genuinely portable. The aluminum alloy unibody construction feels premium in hand, offering a solid build that inspires confidence without being fragile.
The industrial design here is practical rather than flashy. The device fits comfortably, whether you’re holding it in one hand for reading or using it on a lap for work. The bezels are present but not obnoxiously large, giving you a respectable screen-to-body ratio. The ultra-thin profile makes it easy to slip into a bag or carry around for extended periods, making it ideal for students, travelers, and anyone who works on the go.
Display
The 10.1-inch IPS display operates at 1280×800 resolution with a 16:10 aspect ratio. While this isn’t a cutting-edge 2K or 4K panel, it’s perfectly adequate for the device’s price point and intended use cases. The display delivers vibrant colors and good viewing angles thanks to IPS technology. Content consumption is pleasant whether you’re browsing the web, watching videos, or reading documents.
At 1280×800, you have enough real estate for comfortable productivity work. Multiple windows can coexist on screen without too much crowding, and text remains readable without straining. The 16:10 aspect ratio is a nice touch, offering slightly more vertical space compared to wider 16:9 alternatives.
Processor and Performance
Here’s where Chuwi made an interesting choice with the X2. Instead of using the Intel N150 found in the X1, the company opted for an Intel Core i3-10100Y processor from the Amber Lake Y series. On paper, this might seem like an odd decision—the i3-10100Y is a dual-core chip while the N150 offers quad-core performance.
However, the rationale becomes clear when you understand the strategy: efficiency over raw horsepower. The Core i3-10100Y operates with lower thermal design power, which means better battery longevity. In practical terms, the processor handles everyday tasks effortlessly. Web browsing remains snappy, Microsoft Office applications run without hiccups, and video streaming is seamless. You shouldn’t expect to run demanding software or modern games, but for light productivity and entertainment, this chip is more than capable.
The 8GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking, allowing you to keep multiple applications open without noticeable slowdowns. The 256GB SATA SSD provides ample storage for documents, media files, and applications, with fast enough speed for quick boot times and responsive file transfers.
Battery Life
The 3,400mAh battery is modest in capacity, but paired with the efficient Core i3-10100Y processor, it delivers meaningful endurance. While the exact runtime depends on usage patterns, you can expect several hours of typical work, such as document editing, browsing, and streaming. For a device this portable and affordable, the battery performance represents a practical compromise. It won’t last an entire workday of heavy use, but for shorter work sessions or consumption-focused tasks, it holds up well.
Connectivity
Chuwi equipped the Hi10 X2 with an impressive array of ports for a device in this category. You get two USB Type-C ports (one fully featured), a Micro HDMI output, a USB-A port, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a keyboard connector. This comprehensive port selection means minimal need for dongles and adapters. The USB-A port in particular is valuable for users with legacy devices and flash drives.
Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6, a standout feature at this price point that ensures future-proof connectivity with faster speeds and better stability. Bluetooth 5.3 rounds out the wireless options, providing solid range and reliability for peripherals.
Cameras
The camera setup includes an 8MP rear sensor for document scanning and quick photos, as well as a 5MP front-facing camera for video calls and selfies. These cameras are serviceable but don’t offer spectacular image quality. They’re practical tools rather than creative instruments, which is perfectly appropriate for this device’s target audience.
Operating System and Software
The Hi10 X2 ships with Windows 11 Home pre-installed, offering a modern, familiar interface. This isn’t a stripped-down or simplified experience—it’s full Windows, which means access to the entire ecosystem of desktop applications, from Office to Creative Cloud to specialized productivity software. The ability to use a whole operating system sets this apart from traditional tablets running Android or iPadOS.
Value and Pricing
This is where the Hi10 X2 truly shines. The official price of $199.99 is already competitive, but with promotional codes available (dropping the price to around $177), you’re getting an exceptional value proposition. For a Windows device with 8GB RAM, 256GB storage, Wi-Fi 6, and a whole operating system, this represents a compelling bargain.
Who Should Buy This?
The Hi10 X2 is ideal for students, budget-conscious professionals, remote workers, and anyone seeking a second device for light work and entertainment. It’s perfect for web browsing, email, document editing, video streaming, and media consumption. Teachers can use it for online learning platforms, and travelers appreciate its portability.
However, it’s not suited for demanding tasks like video editing, programming with heavy IDEs, or gaming. If you require sustained high performance or already own a capable laptop, this shouldn’t be your primary device.
Final Verdict
The Chuwi Hi10 X2 represents a thoughtful evolution of the budget 2-in-1 tablet category. The processor switch to the Core i3-10100Y, while unconventional, demonstrates genuine engineering consideration—prioritizing battery life over marginal performance gains. The comprehensive port selection, modern Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, and full Windows 11 environment make this an easy recommendation for anyone looking for an affordable, portable second device.
At under $200 with a keyboard attachment available, the Hi10 X2 offers transformative value. It won’t blow you away with cutting-edge specs, but it will reliably handle the tasks most users actually need. For the asking price, it’s hard to find better.
Rating: 8/10
Pros: Affordable pricing, efficient processor, excellent port selection, Wi-Fi 6, lightweight and portable, full Windows 11. Cons: Limited processing power, modest battery capacity, basic camera quality, 1280×800 display resolution
