Lenovo’s Miix 2 tablets use magnets to switch into a laptop

Lenovo is launching its new Miix 2 range with lots of magnets and modes designed to complement the mixed PC and tablet experience of Windows 8.1. 

With the options of a 10.1-inch and 11.6-inch models, both work as a tablet that attaches to a keyboard dock.

Lenovo is using magnets to attach the tablet to the dock instead of complex hinges or other mechanisms.

The two models slot into place with the use of a magnet, allowing you to use it in the traditional laptop or a stand modes. 

The magnet connectors look similar to the kind that Microsoft is using on its Surface products, and they feel sturdy enough to keep the tablet in place. 

The strange part of this design is when you attempt to close it up. With a traditional laptop you push the display towards the keyboard and it all snaps away thanks to the hinge. 

The same approach can be used with the Miix 2, but it slips out of one magnet and attaches to another in an odd changing of the guard. 

Although it supports two modes in the dock, a flat tablet-style mode doesn’t work. It tries to attach, but it’s clearly not designed to slot into that particular orientation. 

That might be confusing or disappointing for some, but you can always separate it from the dock and use it as a regular tablet.

The 11.6-inch version charges using a USB 3.0 port. While smaller Windows tablets take advantage of micro USB, it’s unusual to find full-size USB port that also supports charging on a Windows laptop. 

Both models have a mini HDMI port, and the 10.1-inch version includes a micro USB port with an integrated USB connector on the keyboard dock. 

Lenovo says it’s shipping the 10.1-inch model with the keyboard dock for $499, but the 11.6-inch model will be sold without it for a base price of $799. 

The 10-inch Miix 2 will be available in March, with the 11-inch model shipping in April.