1. A portable computer configurable between a plurality of display modes including a closed mode, a laptop mode and an easel mode, the portable computer comprising: a single display component including a display screen; a base including a keyboard; a hinge assembly at least partially housed within the base and the display component configured to pivotably couple the display component to the base, wherein the hinge assembly defines a single longitudinal axis running along an interface between the display component and the base, and wherein the display component and the base are rotatable about the single longitudinal axis; wherein, in the closed mode, the display screen is disposed substantially against the base; wherein rotating either the single display component or the base by an operator about the single longitudinal axis up to approximately 180 degrees from the closed mode configures the portable computer into the laptop mode, wherein in the laptop mode the single display component is oriented towards the operator and the keyboard is oriented to receive input from the operator; wherein rotating either the single display component or the base by the operator about the single longitudinal axis beyond approximately 180 degrees from the closed mode configures the portable computer into the easel mode; and wherein in the easel mode the single display component is oriented facing the operator with the keyboard oriented away from the operator.