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The Best Laptop Deals This Week*
*Deals are selected by our commerce team
A laptop won’t revolutionize the minutiae of your life the way a smartphone can. You can’t easily whip one out to kill time in the elevator, capture a breathtaking sunset, or pay for a cup of coffee. But in the years since smartphones took on all these jobs, laptops have honed their own talents. Amazing battery life and breathtaking screens are now common if you look in the right place for them. The graphics muscle to play games at full HD is affordable. And those basic old-guard features that you won’t find on any mobile device, such as touchpads and full-size keyboards, tend to get better with almost every generation.With great features, though, has come great fragmentation. Amazon, Newegg, and even your local electronics mega mart have a dizzying array of cheap laptops, gaming laptops, 2-in-1 laptops, Chromebooks, and ultraportables. (Laptops for college students have even evolved as a subcategory all its own.) Here at PC Labs, we review as many laptops as we can—hundreds each year—so we’ve seen pretty much every remix of laptop you can buy. Our top picks for the best new laptops in 2024 are below, followed by a detailed buying guide that will tell you everything you need to know about how to buy your next laptop this year.
Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions. See how we test.
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Asus Zenbook 14 OLED Touch (UM3406)
Best Laptop for Home Use
Why We Picked ItBefore you know it, the need for adept local AI processing will matter, and a relatively affordable laptop capable of meeting the demands of this pervasive new technology will be helpful. Future-proofing aside, Asus’ latest Zenbook 14 OLED Touch is also an all-around top performer in its midrange class with a lengthy battery, thanks to its new AI-ready AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processor. Asus also crammed a decent amount of ports into the Zenbook’s ultraportable frame, maintaining capability while emphasizing portability. While the Zenbook could have a higher-resolution OLED display for the price, you’re getting so much more for missing a few thousand pixels.Who It’s ForThis is an ideal laptop for, well, most people. In that sense, this Zenbook is the best laptop for home use right now, filling that role with premium flair. If your midrange machine shows telltale signs of aging, this is a fine laptop to prepare you for the next few years. Its dedicated AI processing hardware will be ready for the point when we expect to see local AI demands pop off in earnest.
PROS
Peppy performance
High value
Long battery life
Lots of ports for its size
CONS
Just a 1200p display
No WWAN option or SD card slot
Face login only—no fingerprint reader
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Ultraportable
Processor
AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS
Processor Speed
3.3 GHz
RAM (as Tested)
16 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
512 GB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1200
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
OLED
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
AMD Radeon 780M Graphics
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
Dimensions (HWD)
0.59 by 12.3 by 8.7 inches
Weight
2.82 lbs
Operating System
Windows 11 Home
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
19:56
Learn More
Asus Zenbook 14 OLED Touch (UM3406) Review
Apple MacBook Air (2024, M3)
Best MacBook for Most Buyers
Why We Picked ItSurprising no one, the latest MacBook Air model is better than the last, taking Apple’s existing (and winning) design to new performance heights with its new M3 processor. With everything else unchanged, including the price, the 13-inch MacBook Air remains the most recommendable Apple laptop for most people interested in Macs. Gaming-ready power and the same battery life as before in the same gorgeous and capable frame? We’ll take it!Who It’s ForWhile the new M3 MacBook Air is the best Apple laptop for most people, if you own an M2 model, don’t fret. Sure, this is the most powerful MacBook Air to date, but it hasn’t eclipsed its predecessor either. Yes, we know the M3 chip can power two connected displays instead of one (with the Air’s lid closed), but unless that feature is essential to you, hold your cash for the next release. If you have an Intel or M1 model, however, this is the best one to catch up with.
PROS
Impressive blend of portability and power
Capable graphics performance
Slim, lightweight all-metal design
Expanded support for external displays
Speedy and versatile Thunderbolt 4 ports
All-day battery goes and goes
CONS
Distracting camera notch
Lower peak display brightness than expected
Limited monitor support when laptop is open
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Ultraportable
Processor
Apple M3
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
16 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
512 GB
Screen Size
13.6 inches
Native Display Resolution
2560 by 1664
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Apple M3 (10-core)
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
Dimensions (HWD)
0.44 by 11.97 by 8.46 inches
Weight
2.7 lbs
Operating System
Apple macOS Sonoma
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
21:38
Learn More
Apple MacBook Air (2024, M3) Review
Acer Aspire 3 (A315-24P)
Best Budget Laptop
Why We Picked ItThe reigning king of laptops under $500 is this lower-power machine from Acer. This 15.6-inch laptop works through basic web browsing and light work tasks with relative ease. While it has a plain design true to its price, this laptop’s battery runs for hours with its power-sipping processor. When strapped by a budget, focus on finding a laptop that nails the basics for as little cash as possible. Right now, this Acer Aspire will do just that.Who It’s ForFor those particularly hard-up to spend more than $500 on a laptop, Acer has an option for you in the latest 15.6-inch Aspire 3. It’s a smooth daily operator with lengthy battery life to get you through a whole day of work or classes. Of course, expect limited performance doing anything beyond basic web browsing and office suite tasks, but that’s all you’re here for anyway.
PROS
Smooth everyday operation
Extensive battery life
Current Wi-Fi connectivity
Competitive starting price
CONS
Limited performance headroom
Dated, somewhat flimsy design
Lackluster display
Top configuration is outclassed
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Budget
Processor
AMD Ryzen 3 7320U
Processor Speed
2.4 GHz
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
128 GB
Screen Size
15.6 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1080
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
AMD Radeon Graphics
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.2
Dimensions (HWD)
0.75 by 14.3 by 9.4 inches
Weight
3.77 lbs
Operating System
Windows 11 Home
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
16:46
Learn More
Acer Aspire 3 (A315-24P) Review
Asus Zenbook 14X OLED (Q420)
Best Ultraportable Laptop
Why We Picked ItSince ultraportable laptops can cover a spectrum of budgets, the Asus Zenbook 14X OLED (Q420) is the best ultraportable for most people, thanks to its just-below $1,000 price for snappy performance and a vibrant, 120Hz OLED touch screen. While you don’t get the discrete GPU found in the pricier UX3404 model, you get just about everything else along with the long battery life found even in that higher-end model. All told it’s a generally fantastic everyday laptop for anyone with about a grand to spend.Who It’s ForIf you have a decent budget for a premium laptop of around $1,000 but don’t want to go too far beyond that, then the Asus Zenbook 14X OLED (Q420) is the ideal Windows 11 option. Compared with the discrete GPU-equipped UX3404 option, this one has a slightly lesser CPU and half as much storage, but they’re enough for tasks of basic to medium intensity, like word processing, high-resolution video streaming, and photo editing.
PROS
Snappy 13th Gen Core i7 CPU
Attractive price
Super-slim, premium design
Vibrant 120Hz OLED touch screen
Long battery life
Decent port selection for its size
CONS
Lacks discrete GPU found in alternative 14X model
Only a 512GB SSD
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Ultraportable
Processor
Intel Core i7-13700H
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
16 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
512 GB
Screen Size
14.5 inches
Native Display Resolution
2880 by 1800
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
OLED
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
120 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Iris Xe
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD)
0.67 by 12.7 by 8.9 inches
Weight
3.44 lbs
Operating System
Windows 11
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
11:45
Learn More
Asus Zenbook 14X OLED (Q420) Review
Asus Chromebook Plus CX34
Best Chromebook
Why We Picked ItThe Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 shows that budget-friendly Chromebooks can be an incredible value through Google’s new Chromebook Plus initiative, with even faster performance and even better features for excellent sub-$500 prices. Equipped with a crisp 1080p display, a decent array of ports, and current Wi-Fi capabilities—all within a MIL-SPEC-certified frame—this the first Chromebook we’d currently recommend to almost anyone interested.Who It’s ForBudget sensibility is in the spirit of the Chromebook category already, and this Asus model has revived that essence with a compelling collection of features and performance capabilities inside an affordable and reliably built package. If you’re looking to a Chromebook to save as much money and compromise as little as possible, start your search with the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34.
PROS
Affordable price even with improved specs
Leading performance in every test
High-quality FHD display
Decent port array, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2
Durable MIL-SPEC-certified design and antimicrobial coating
CONS
Average battery life
No touch capability (at this price)
Limited UFS storage is just adequate
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Chromebook, Budget
Processor
Intel Core i3-1215U
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
UFS (Universal Flash Storage)
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
128 GB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1080
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel UHD Graphics
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth 5.2
Dimensions (HWD)
0.73 by 12.9 by 8.4 inches
Weight
3.17 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
12:46
Learn More
Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 Review
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12
Best Business Laptop
Why We Picked ItWhile not quite the stellar winner that its past two predecessors were, the latest ThinkPad X1 Carbon from Lenovo picks up the torch well enough to pick up an Editors’ Choice award. Since the 2023 model won’t be available to purchase for much longer, you’ll have to pay a newly steepened price to keep up with the leading ThinkPad line. At least that means a crisp and vibrant OLED screen and Intel’s latest Core Ultra processor with AI hardware built-in to future-proof your workhorse.Who It’s ForIt’s not quite as fast and long-lasting as it should be for the price it demands, but you still won’t find a higher-quality laptop for work than the ThinkPad Carbon X1 Gen 12 this year. If your current model is older than, say, 2022, then this is an excellent time to catch up with what Lenovo’s been cooking up for the Carbon these past few years and set you up for the next few.
PROS
Elegant and light design
Fabulous keyboard
Sharp, vivid OLED screen
USB-A, HDMI, and USB-C ports
CONS
Sky-high price
Decent but not class-leading performance and battery life
No SD or microSD card slot
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Business, Ultraportable
Processor
Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
32 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
1 TB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
2880 by 1800
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
OLED
Variable Refresh Support
Manual
Screen Refresh Rate
120 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Arc Graphics
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD)
0.59 by 12.3 by 8.5 inches
Weight
2.47 lbs
Operating System
Windows 11 Home
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
13:51
Learn More
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 Review
MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo
Best Desktop-Replacement Laptop
Why We Picked ItWith this AI-focused Prestige laptop, MSI has crafted a punchy and eminently affordable midrange desktop-replacement system. The Prestige 16 AI Evo brings a stunning 4K OLED screen together with a fresh Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, making for a powerful big-screen laptop that’s prepared for the local-AI-processing wave that will be incoming over the next few years. Considering this laptop’s size and screen resolution, the battery life is impressive, and MSI took further advantage of that size with a built-in Ethernet jack and an SD card slot. The MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo is the best deal in desktop-replacement laptops right now.Who It’s ForMSI’s latest mainstream big-screen laptop is tops for anyone looking for an everyday productivity system with a big screen, and it could be an affordable fit for photo editors and digital designers. However, without a dedicated graphics chip, this laptop will struggle to serve gamers and demanding content creators. With the Prestige 16 AI Evo, MSI presents a viable affordable alternative to high-end desktop replacements like the Dell XPS 16 and 16-inch Apple MacBook Pro if you need a focus on mid-level tasks.
PROS
Surprisingly affordable and surprisingly light
Handsome 4K OLED display
Epic battery life
Ethernet port and SD card slot
CONS
Only one USB-A port
Stiff keyboard
Perfectly fine rather than professional workstation or gaming performance
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Desktop Replacement, Business
Processor
Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
32 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
1 TB
Screen Size
16 inches
Native Display Resolution
3840 by 2400
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
OLED
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Arc Graphics
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD)
0.75 by 14.1 by 10 inches
Weight
3.31 lbs
Operating System
Windows 11 Home
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
18:55
Learn More
MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo Review
Apple MacBook Pro 16-Inch (2023, M3 Max)
Best Desktop Replacement MacBook
Why We Picked ItNot even a full year later, Apple has updated its leading desktop replacement MacBook with new silicon. This is the new 16-inch MacBook Pro with M3 Max, Apple’s most powerful and most efficient laptop processor yet. With a maximum of 40 GPU cores, the M3 Max takes the MacBook Pro to new performance heights in both creative endeavors and gaming, not to mention loads of other intense work applications. It does all this with class-leading battery life and one of the best laptop displays available—period—earning its place in our roundup handily.Who It’s ForIf you need a MacBook Pro for power and power alone, this is your ticket there. Apple designed the M series of processors to produce the same level of performance at full load regardless of whether the system is on battery, so the MacBook Pro is particularly useful for truly mobile professionals. Couple that with its unmatched efficiency, and you have the ultimate Mac on your desk and in your lap.
PROS
Fiery M3 Max processor
Beautiful Liquid Retina XDR display
Ample configuration options
Abundant ports and connectivity
Superb battery life
CONS
Expensive, particularly for higher configurations
Inconsistent GPU performance in testing
No touch screen
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Workstation, Desktop Replacement
Processor
Apple M3 Max
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
128 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
8 TB
Screen Size
16.2 inches
Native Display Resolution
3456 by 2234
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
Mini LED
Variable Refresh Support
ProMotion
Screen Refresh Rate
120 Hz
Graphics Processor
Apple M3 Max (40-core GPU)
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
Dimensions (HWD)
0.66 by 14 by 9.8 inches
Weight
4.8 lbs
Operating System
Apple macOS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
27:53
Learn More
Apple MacBook Pro 16-Inch (2023, M3 Max) Review
Apple MacBook Pro 14-Inch (2023, M3 Pro)
Best Laptop for Photo Editing
Why We Picked ItApple’s pedigree as a laptop maker for creative pros has been bolstered by the latest 14-inch MacBook Pro. This model with Apple’s M3 Pro processor is the best laptop for photo editing today. It’s also a top laptop for video editing, with our broader recommendation coming down to two primary factors: silicon and screens. The M3 Pro chip is an ace at exporting projects; meanwhile, the laptop’s high-res, mini LED Liquid Retina XDR display covers the color gamuts exceedingly well. All that, plus a decent array of ports and a fantastic metal build, make this MacBook Pro the one to beat for photo and video work.Who It’s ForCreative professionals who work in photography, cinematography, media editing, or visual design-related fields are the targets for a MacBook Pro. Less demanding? That’s what the MacBook Air is for, which is halfway decent at most of those aforementioned tasks. Even hobbyist content creators, though, will be hard-pressed to find a punchier or longer-lasting laptop than the 14-inch MacBook Pro.
PROS
Leading M3 Pro performance
Astonishing 30-hour battery life
Snappy keyboard and excellent trackpad
Many helpful connections
Premium all-metal construction
New finish and color options
CONS
Too heavy for easy portability
Configuration prices balloon quickly
No touch screen
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Workstation
Processor
Apple M3 Pro
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
18 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
512 GB
Screen Size
14.2 inches
Native Display Resolution
3024 by 1964
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
Mini LED
Variable Refresh Support
ProMotion
Screen Refresh Rate
120 Hz
Graphics Processor
Apple M3 Pro (14-core)
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
Dimensions (HWD)
0.61 by 12.3 by 8.7 inches
Weight
3.5 lbs
Operating System
Apple macOS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
30:27
Learn More
Apple MacBook Pro 14-Inch (2023, M3 Pro) Review
HP Spectre x360 14 (2024)
Best Convertible 2-in-1 Laptop
Why We Picked ItWhile it could be a few hundred bucks less, we love HP’s new Spectre x360 14, one of the first 2-in-1 laptops we’ve tested with one of Intel’s new AI-enabled Core Ultra processors. Starting at $1,500, this pricey option is made a bit more whole with some included accessories, but it’s the speedy performance and lengthy battery life that seal the deal. We also appreciate the laptop’s world-class webcam. If you’re a fan of 2-in-1 laptops, you’ll dig HP’s take on what an elite hybrid can look and feel like.Who It’s ForWell-to-do fans of convertible laptops should start their next laptop search with the HP Spectre x360 14. In addition to more power than ever and a lengthy battery, this laptop oozes cool and luxurious feels. If you’re looking for a laptop that will add to your style while working on the go as well as elevate your Netflix game, then consider HP—after all, it was the Readers’ Choice brand for 2-in-1 laptops in 2023.
PROS
Gorgeous OLED touch screen
Impressive productivity performance
Lengthy battery life
Elegant design
World-class webcam
CONS
Expensive when fully loaded
No SD/microSD card slot or cellular internet
No HDMI port (two USB-C docks included)
No internal pen storage
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Convertible 2-in-1, Ultraportable
Processor
Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
32 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
2 TB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
2880 by 1800
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
OLED
Variable Refresh Support
Dynamic
Screen Refresh Rate
120 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Arc Graphics
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD)
0.67 by 12.4 by 8.7 inches
Weight
3.19 lbs
Operating System
Windows 11 Pro
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
18:03
Learn More
HP Spectre x360 14 (2024) Review
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (Intel)
Best Detachable 2-in-1 Laptop
Why We Picked ItWe largely have Microsoft to thank for the current design of detachable 2-in-1 Windows tablets, and the company continues to lead in this category with the Surface Pro 9. Focused here on the Intel variety, this update largely improves on its internal components with more current and faster hardware. We generally recommend the 12th Gen Intel version over the ARM version of the Surface Pro 9 for its increased power and broader compatibility with all Windows apps.However, the ARM version, using Microsoft and Qualcomm’s SQ3 system-on-a-chip processor, does provide really long battery life and 5G mobile broadband connectivity. While that wasn’t enough to win us over in our review, features like that might be just what you need. We’re also bummed to see the headphone jack disappear for seemingly no good reason. Despite all that, the Surface Pro 9 is still tops in its category, with an excellent premium design, impressive performance, and a bevy of fantastic accessories.Who It’s ForIf you’re a fan of Microsoft’s 2-in-1 design and haven’t upgraded in a while, this latest version should serve you well. And, if you’re a mobile professional looking for a portable record-keeping, statement-making, emailing, and (or) mobile drafting device, the Surface Pro 9 is the 2-in-1 laptop to get.
PROS
Impressive performance and battery life
Outstanding cameras
Sleek design, with inking-friendly 3:2 screen
Two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports
User-upgradable storage
CONS
Essential accessories still not included
No more headphone jack
5G only available with SQ3 processor
High starting price
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Detachable 2-in-1
Processor
Intel Core i7-1255U
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
16 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
256 GB
Screen Size
13 inches
Native Display Resolution
2880 by 1920
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
120 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Iris Xe
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.2
Dimensions (HWD)
0.37 by 11.3 by 8.2 inches
Weight
1.9 lbs
Operating System
Windows 11 Home
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
13:12
Learn More
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (Intel) Review
MSI Cyborg 15 (2023)
Best Budget Gaming Laptop
Why We Picked ItBuying an affordable gaming laptop is all about minimizing compromise in the important areas, and at $999, the MSI Cyborg 15 delivers what you need. The 13th Gen Intel Core i7 CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 GPU are modern entry-level parts that provide a steady 1080p gaming experience, even if they won’t set speed records anytime soon. Even at higher settings in modern games, you can enjoy 60fps-plus frame rates, though you may need to dial down the detail settings in cutting-edge titles. The display could be brighter, and a larger SSD would be nice, but the downsides are minimal overall. The build is sturdy enough, and the battery life is respectable, too, making this a capable all-around system for the price.Who It’s ForWe can recommend this laptop to a wide swath of mainstream gamers shopping on a budget. It’s neither the absolute cheapest option, nor is it inflating the price with anything you don’t need. Many of us can’t spend more than $1,000 on a system, and this sits right at that limit. As long as you set your expectations reasonably, this is a smart pick for those seeking a top-end value and steady performance. The upsides are clear for the cost and the concessions aren’t deal-breakers, though we note some may chafe against the 512GB storage.
PROS
$999 price in our Core i7/RTX 4050 test unit
Able to play at the highest 1080p settings
Peppy processor for the money
Decent build for a budget gaming rig
CONS
RTX 4050 GPU didn’t wow versus RTX 3060s
Display is dim and disappointing
Sharp chassis edge can dig into wrists during typing
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Gaming
Processor
Intel Core i7-13620H
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
16 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
512 GB
Screen Size
15.6 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1080
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
144 Hz
Graphics Processor
Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU
Graphics Memory
6 GB
Wireless Networking
802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.1
Dimensions (HWD)
0.9 by 14.1 by 9.85 inches
Weight
4.5 lbs
Operating System
Windows 11 Home
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
7:16
Learn More
MSI Cyborg 15 (2023) Review
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8
Best High-End Gaming Laptop
Why We Picked ItGaming laptops used to largely have 15.6-inch displays, but that’s rapidly changing to slightly taller 16-inch screens. The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 has a particularly gorgeous display, with high resolution and a super-fast 240Hz refresh rate. The rest of this pro-grade Legion is equally impressive, with a top-end Intel Core i9 CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 graphics. It’s among the fastest gaming laptops we’ve tested, delivering well-future-proofed gaming performance for its price. (The model we tested rang up at $2,749, and the base model starts at $2,299.)Who It’s ForIf you want a gaming laptop that doesn’t give away its position, so to speak, this is the one for you. This Legion also looks more executive than garish gaming rigs, with a slick all-black design and plenty of ports, as well as Lenovo’s trademark comfortable keyboard. While it lacks battery life and can get a little noisy under load, the Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 is the best 16-inch gaming laptop we’ve tested.
PROS
Bright and colorful 240Hz display
Comfortable keyboard with RGB extras
Generous port selection
Full HD webcam with extra features
Relatively affordable in its category
Subtle design avoids gamer stereotypes
CONS
Noisy fans under heavy load
Lacking in battery life
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Gaming
Processor
Intel Core i9-13900HX
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
32 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
1 TB
Screen Size
16 inches
Native Display Resolution
2560 by 1600
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
G-Sync
Screen Refresh Rate
240 Hz
Graphics Processor
Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 Laptop GPU
Graphics Memory
12 GB
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1
Dimensions (HWD)
1 by 14.3 by 10.3 inches
Weight
6.1 pounds
Operating System
Windows 11 Home
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
6:13
Learn More
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 Review
HP ZBook Fury 16 G10
Best Workstation Laptop
Why We Picked ItWorkstation laptops are about one thing above all: power. The HP ZBook Fury 16 G10 is, without a doubt, one of the most powerful machines we’ve ever tested, thanks to a muscular Intel Core i9-13950HX processor and powerful Nvidia RTX 5000 Ada GPU that delivered competition-topping scores in nearly every area. Add to that professional features like a picture-perfect HP DreamColor 4K display, a customizable RGB-lit keyboard, a 5-megapixel webcam, and a tough all-aluminum chassis, and there’s no doubt that the premium ZBook Fury is worth the investment. Just be sure to keep the charger close, because this mobile workstation chews through battery life pretty fast.Who It’s ForIf portability is lower on the priority list than pure, professional-grade, number-crunching power, then the HP ZBook Fury 16 G10 is the beast you want. It may be bulky and have short battery life, but when you need to fly through complex renderings, churn through volumes of data, or design the next great invention, this mobile workstation lets you push right past competing workstations.
PROS
Leading speeds from top-flight silicon
Highly configurable and upgradable
Picture-perfect HP DreamColor 4K display
Customizable keyboard with RGB backlight
Superb-looking 5MP webcam
Robust aluminum chassis
CONS
Short battery life
Bulky design
Cramped arrow keys
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Workstation
Processor
Intel Core i9-13950HX
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
64 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
1 TB
Screen Size
16 inches
Native Display Resolution
3840 by 2400
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
120 Hz
Graphics Processor
Nvidia RTX 5000 Ada
Graphics Memory
16 GB
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD)
1.13 by 14.3 by 9.9 inches
Weight
5.3 lbs
Operating System
Windows 11 Pro
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
3:13
Learn More
HP ZBook Fury 16 G10 Review
Panasonic Toughbook 40
Best Rugged Laptop
Why We Picked ItThe Panasonic Toughbook 40 is an almost indestructible, ultra-customizable 14-inch armored data carrier. It’s fully rugged (as opposed to semi-rugged), which puts it in a class above semi-rugged systems like its 14-inch peers the Dell Latitude 5430 Rugged and Panasonic’s own Toughbook 55 Mk2. The Toughbook 40 can take a six-foot fall and carries MIL-STD 810H, MIL-STD 461G, and IP66 ratings—it’s dustproof (no dust can penetrate it) and immune to splashes and strong jets of water, though it can’t survive actual immersion underwater as some smartphones can.Who It’s ForAll of the ruggedization makes the Toughbook 40 heavy and expensive, of course. Expect to pay north of $4,000 for this 7-pound brute if you’re buying a single laptop. But nearly everyone who buys the Toughbook 40 isn’t just buying one. They’re buying a fleet for a police force, line technicians, or other similar organizations, which typically means significant (and confidential) discounts. Ordinary consumers need not apply.
PROS
Nearly invincible and invulnerable
Many modular options
Epic runtime with second battery
Keyboard and touchpad don’t require brute force
High-resolution webcam
CONS
Big and heavy
Pentagon-style price tag
Wi-Fi 6, not 6E
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Rugged
Processor
Intel Core i7-1185G7
Processor Speed
3 GHz
RAM (as Tested)
64 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
1 TB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1080
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD)
2.1 by 13.9 by 11.9 inches
Weight
7.4 lbs
Operating System
Windows 11
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
27:24
Learn More
Panasonic Toughbook 40 Review
Framework Laptop 13 (2023)
Best Repairable and Upgradable Laptop
Why We Picked ItWhile we do still call the HP Pavilion Plus 14 “one of the best deals for a Windows laptop right now,” the latest 13-inch Framework Laptop seriously challenges that. With a competitive entry-level price, the Framework promises more customizability, repairability, and upgradability than any laptop on the market today. However, even better is that upgrading an earlier Framework Laptop to the new 13th Gen Intel processor alone costs less than half the full laptop price. Not only is this an incredible value, but it’s a dream many have had for years finally come to fruition: laptops that are internally fixable and upgradable beyond more than just a few components.Who It’s ForIf you’re sick of “upgrading” your laptop by buying a brand-new model every few years, the Framework Laptop 13 shows major promise. With almost every part on the laptop being user-replaceable, the Framework Laptop 13 isn’t just a laptop but an investment into a platform that can improve over time within the same shell—no more throwing out an old laptop every few years. If you’re particularly nervous about fiddling with the insides of a computer, check out our reviews and see if this is outside your comfort zone. But if not, this is a unique prospect for sustainability-minded laptop shoppers.
PROS
Repairable, upgradable, and user-friendly design
Lightweight and portable, with 11-hour battery life
Swappable ports enable extreme customization
Expanded ecosystem of parts and accessories
Highly customizable before checkout
CONS
Expansion cards cost extra
Pre-built system comes at a premium
No touch-screen or OLED options (yet)
SPECS
Name
Value
Laptop Class
Ultraportable
Processor
Intel Core i7-1360P
Processor Speed
RAM (as Tested)
16 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
512 GB
Screen Size
13.5 inches
Native Display Resolution
2256 by 1504
Touch Screen
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Graphics Memory
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
Dimensions (HWD)
0.62 by 11.7 by 9 inches
Weight
2.9 lbs
Operating System
Windows 11 Home
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
11:12
Learn More
Framework Laptop 13 (2023) Review
Buying Guide: The Best Laptops for 2024
Figuring out what to pay attention to when buying a laptop can be maddening with how many individual specifications and features you’ll come across in your search. Which specific features, and which laptop class, are best for you depends on your budget and how you plan to use your laptop. It’s better to take a systematic approach when shopping. Let’s run through how to make a smart pick. Which Brand of Laptop Is the Best?Trying to choose your next mobile computer based on what might be the “best laptop brands” isn’t the best way to go about your purchasing decision. That way, you might miss out on a diamond in the rough with a logo on its screen lid you didn’t recognize. You will quickly find out in your laptop search that many brands have developed specific reputations for themselves as to what they’re best suited for.For instance, Apple has long been known for its MacBooks’ particular aptitude for creative professionals, from writers to photo/video editors and even digital designers. Meanwhile, Lenovo is best known for its class-leading keyboards and ThinkPad business machines and mobile workstations. As a last example, brands like Acer and Asus, while they play just fine in the high end, tend to dominate the midrange and budget sectors with maximum-value systems.If you still must know what the top laptop brands are, then go with the wisdom of the crowd: See what you can find within our running Readers’ Choice: Best Laptop Brands series, which polls readers like you to name their favorite laptop brands for certain use cases and scenarios.What Is the Longest-Lasting Laptop?Many laptops can last an entire day away from the power outlet, even when you’re using them for demanding but common activities like streaming internet video. You’ll find exceptions; a laptop with a 4K display and a powerful CPU probably will not last for more than eight hours or so before its battery dies, and most gaming laptops die far sooner. When you’re playing demanding games that tax the GPU, gaming laptops tend to run out of juice even more quickly off the plug than they normally do. You’ll find more than a few exceptions, though, and even powerful laptops have become adept at sensing when their maximum power isn’t required and reducing various components’ consumption.This is where PC Labs’ battery testing comes in. We evaluate battery life by playing a locally stored video file nonstop with no wireless connections active and 50% screen brightness. An excellent result on our test suggests that the laptop is adept at adapting its power use to the task at hand, and you can use the results to compare the potential of the machines you are considering. We evaluate all laptops using this test, and at the preceding link, you can see an extended summary of the best performers on our battery test.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
Measuring battery life is notoriously tricky, though, since it’s entirely dependent on how you use your laptop. Your usage profile probably doesn’t match our test—or anyone else’s—to a T. So you’ll want to look at tested battery life in a relative, rather than absolute, sense.However, if you’re keeping score, the Getac S410 G5 semi-rugged laptop is the longest-lasting laptop you can buy today, going for more than 29 hours in our battery rundown test. The Getac’s extra internal battery capacity certainly helped, but we’ve also seen MacBooks meet or come close to this figure.What Are the Best Laptop Specs for Work From Home?Because you’ll find only so many unique makes of processor, graphics chip, memory, and storage, the most identifiable and popular laptop “specs” aren’t all that different regardless of whether a given system was designed for working from home. However, a few key laptop specifications have an outsize impact on getting work done in a home office.First and foremost is the webcam. The laptop’s camera is your window into your working world, so it better be of high quality to make the best impression every time. Avoid webcams that aren’t at least 1080p in recording resolution, and it might behoove you to look out for newer laptops with Intel Core Ultra processors that enable AI enhancements to their webcam image, automatically improving lighting, framing, and audio.
(Credit: Brian Westover)
Also, pay close attention to the ports and other hard connections of any laptop you’re considering to buy for working from home. The laptop’s port selection will dictate whether you’ll need an additional USB hub or docking station to expand its connectivity.Otherwise, specs like CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage will be directed more by the type of work you need to accomplish at home and the hardware needed to meet those requirements. We explore all of those internal considerations below.How Much Will the Right Laptop Cost?Don’t care about cutting-edge design and powerful components? You might be satisfied with a cheap laptop. Today’s market is flooded with basic but full-featured models with list prices under $500. “Shopping holidays” like Prime Day and Black Friday, and actual holidays like Presidents’ Day, bring frequent sales, discounting some of these models even further. Most of them will handle word processing and e-mail checking just fine, but they’ll struggle with heavier tasks, such as keeping many web browser tabs, or memory- and CPU-demanding programs, open at once. You’ll want to look at our reviews to compare performance. PC Labs has tested many of the latest budget laptop models across the market; some of them are classic clamshells, and others are convertible or detachable 2-in-1s. (We’ve detailed a couple of our top cheap-laptop picks in our lineup of favorites above.)Increasing your budget to around $1,000 will unlock access to nearly all of the cutting-edge features modern laptops offer. These include slim, sturdy aluminum chassis, brilliant touch-enabled 4K displays, powerful processors and graphics chips, and batteries that will last all day and well into the night. We’re increasingly seeing laptops bring these features down closer to the $800 range, as well, in some models from brands like Acer, Asus, and HP.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
The major caveat in this price range is that you’ll have to pick and choose which features are most important. You might be able to land a laptop with a beautiful 4K display or a cavernous terabyte of solid-state storage at this price, but probably not one with both. If your piggybank has $2,000 or more, you can choose almost any combination of features you want. Even the most powerful laptop that money can buy, though, must still obey the laws of physics. Powerful hardware generates heat, and the cooling mechanisms that such components require take up space. Hardcore gamers who want a large display and a screaming-fast graphics processor that requires bulky cooling pipes and fans can’t expect to find it in a thin, light laptop. IT-manageable, security-conscious business laptops—models made primarily by Dell, HP, and Lenovo—have their own pricing dynamic, and they tend to cost a bit more, all else being equal. That’s because of their premium warranty or support plans, enterprise-specific silicon focused on manageability or security, fingerprint or face-recognition login features, and more rugged build quality.Windows vs. ChromeOS vs. macOS: Which Operating System to Get?Most laptops you’ll run across in-store or at your favorite online seller will run Windows 11 (unless the seller is named “Apple”), but Microsoft’s best-known product isn’t necessarily the best operating system for everyone. Thanks to the ascendance in recent years of Google’s ChromeOS up the ranks of budget laptops, you now have an alternative to Windows at every price level. The tipping point for non-Windows laptops is around $1,000; above a grand, your main alternative to a Windows machine is a MacBook; below it, it’s a Chromebook.
(Credit: Jose Ruiz)
Today, laptops based on ChromeOS are the primary alternatives to budget-priced Windows laptops. A Chromebook could be a fine, value-minded choice for someone who needs a laptop just to watch movies, create text documents, write emails, and work in basic spreadsheets. With a Chromebook, the main features you will need from your laptop are a decent screen and a comfortable keyboard, since cloud services like Google Drive can handle most of your storage and processing needs. And, if you still insist on key creature comforts, you can find midrange Chromebooks with full-HD (1080p) displays and comfortable keyboards just as easily as you can find bargain-basement ones these days. Indeed, Google’s Chromebook Plus program sets a level for impressive-quality Chromebooks at near-budget prices.PC Labs has tested Chromebooks all across the market, including clamshell models, convertibles, and even a few detachable 2-in-1 Chrome tablets. (We’ve detailed our top Chromebook pick in our lineup of favorites above.)For people with similar needs but larger budgets, an Apple MacBook might be the way to go, assuming you’re cool with running your day-to-day computing life on macOS. You won’t find a “cheap” MacBook anywhere in the Apple family, but you will find unmatched industrial design, universally excellent battery life, and a ton of built-in apps to manage your multimedia collection and sync with your iCloud account and the rest of your Apple devices. Higher-end MacBook Pros also suit content creators, with the option for a 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display and CPUs up to Apple’s own M3 Max. One of the most significant Mac-laptop drawbacks is a total lack of touch-screen support, which is an option in various ChromeOS and Windows machines.
(Credit: Brian Westover)
A Windows-based machine affords access to the widest range of software, including most AAA games; the subset of popular, first-rank game titles is much smaller on macOS, and games on ChromeOS are limited to what runs in a browser or what you can download as an Android app or from the Chrome Web Store. A Windows machine also drives the most form-factor flexibility. A few Chromebooks have designs built around detachable or foldable keyboards, letting you use them as tablets, but Windows offers a far broader selection of these flexible physical designs. The vast number of Windows devices means Microsoft’s OS gives you the most flexibility in choosing a laptop, period. Most of the rest of your buying decisions, which we’ll address below, are therefore relevant mainly to Windows machines. (We’ll be sure to note when Macs or Chromebooks offer a certain feature as well, however.)What Is an Ideal Weight and Size for a Laptop?Most people searching for a general-purpose laptop should choose one that measures about half an inch thick and weighs 3 pounds or less. In general, these are the maximum dimensions and heft a laptop can have for us to consider it ultraportable, and for most users, portability is the key to maximizing use and enjoyment.Aiming for that weight and thickness, in most cases, will limit the laptop’s screen size to 13 or 14 inches, although a few models with 15-inch or larger screens now fit into the ultraportable category. At most of these screen sizes, you can find models in either the conventional “clamshell” laptop shape or a 2-in-1 convertible design. The latter has a hinge that rotates the screen 360 degrees so you can use it as a makeshift tablet or prop it up like a tent for watching movies.
(Credit: Molly Flores)
Some Windows and ChromeOS laptops do have smaller displays, such as 10 or 11 inches. Some of these are not technically laptops in the pure sense, but rather tablets with detachable keyboards. Unless you’re specifically looking for a part-time tablet or the lightest possible laptop, avoid these designs. They’re lighter than most 13-inch ultraportables, often less than 2 pounds, but they’re not as effective at being tablets as the Apple iPad is, and their detachable keyboards mean they’re not much better at being laptops, either—typing on most of them tends to be subpar.At the other end of the size spectrum are 17-inch laptops. They mostly appeal to hardcore gamers, but you can find the occasional 17-inch productivity machine or workstation if you happen to like a larger screen for other reasons. A 17-inch laptop can closely mimic the experience of a desktop, at the expense of size and weight.Some of these designs can exceed 8 pounds and measure more than an inch thick. If you plan to park your gaming rig on your desk and seldom move it, a 17-incher is a possibility. Otherwise, most gamers should stick with a 15-inch laptop.However, mobile PC gamers have even bigger options now: 18-inch machines. The larger panels complement the latest GeForce and Radeon GPUs, which make use of the extra chassis space for cooling. These monsters from Alienware, Asus, and Razer (geared toward gaming) tackle the hardest graphics tasks to date to varying effects.What Kind of Laptop Screen Should You Get?Laptop screens have grown denser over the past decade, packing more pixels into the same area. That enables crisper text, sharper onscreen images, and, often, better-looking colors. Display density is sometimes measured in pixels per inch (ppi), but the main specification that defines a laptop screen is its native resolution, which is expressed in horizontal by vertical pixels.Most laptops that cost $500 or more have screens with at least “full HD” resolutions. Also known as “1080p” displays, they sport a resolution of 1,920 by 1,080 pixels (or in a few cases, 1,920 by 1,200) and typically employ LCD panels built on what’s known as in-plane switching (IPS) technology. IPS screens’ quality can vary, but they are best known for keeping the quality of the image high if you look at the screen from an oblique, or off-side, angle. Thin-film transistor (TFT), the other major screen type in modern laptops (and the kind often found in gaming-geared models), tends to shift colors or look faded if not viewed straight-on. That matters if you often share the contents of your screen with others—say, when giving impromptu presentations.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
Cheap Windows- and ChromeOS-based laptops will usually have lower-resolution thin-film transistor (TFT) displays (1,280 by 720 pixels and 1,366 by 768 are the common numbers there), which means text won’t appear as crisp and colors might not be as vivid as you’ve come to expect from your smartphone or TV. If you’re not picky about image quality, though, a lower-resolution display might be an acceptable sacrifice in the quest to save money.For the crispest text and details, you can go higher than full HD. Many high-end laptops now have displays with 4K native resolution (generally 3,840 by 2,160 pixels) as standard or optional extras. These screens mostly use the same IPS technology as full HD panels, but a few use OLED technology, similar to what you’ll find in cutting-edge smartphones. OLED screens command a premium, and their inky blacks and luxurious colors are best suited for movie buffs. Some laptops, particularly from Apple, Dell, and Razer, have moved to mini LED backlighting technology that introduces finer control over color depth and image brightness, especially boosting HDR content. Whether the screen is OLED, IPS, or TFT, people who plan to use their laptops in brightly lit rooms or outdoors will want to make sure that the panel has a maximum brightness level of at least 500 nits.Is a Laptop Touch Screen Necessary?To take advantage of the touch-screen support present throughout Windows and ChromeOS, you’ll want to seek out a touch-enabled laptop, and perhaps even a digital stylus to write or draw on it. Some Windows laptops come in both touch- and non-touch versions, so check the specifications of what you’re buying carefully. Glossy screens typically feature touch support, while most matte screens designed to filter out glare from ambient lighting do not.
(Credit: Molly Flores)
Since many gaming laptops have matte displays, touch support is much harder to find among their ranks. Many gaming laptops above budget level do offer high-refresh-rate screens, though. Hardcore gamers or esports hounds who are looking for silky-smooth visuals to give them a competitive edge will want to maximize the number of frames per second that their screen can display, and can do so by opting for a screen with a 120Hz or greater refresh rate.However, before you pay a major premium for a high-refresh screen, you’ll want to be sure that the graphics chip, or GPU, is muscular enough to push the kinds of games you play at a high enough frame rate to make a difference. Standard laptop screens have 60Hz refresh rates, and if you’ll be playing games at 60 frames per second or lower, in most cases a high-refresh screen won’t confer many benefits.What Is the Best Processor for Your Laptop?Most $1,000 ultraportables use Intel Core processors, or, less commonly, AMD Ryzen CPUs. All of these offer plenty of power for everyday computing tasks but keep in mind that higher CPU model numbers typically indicate more processor cores, higher maximum clock speeds, and sometimes even multithreading. With multithreading, each CPU core can run two sets of software instructions simultaneously, instead of just one. Modern software is designed to take advantage of as many CPU cores as possible, so it can run faster on multithreaded chips. Meanwhile, budget laptops typically use AMD A-series or Ryzen 3 processors, or Celeron, Core i3, or Pentium chips in Intel’s case. These typically have just two or four individual cores. At the other end of the spectrum, high-end powerhouse laptops have workstation-class Intel or AMD CPUs with double-digit core counts.
(Credit: Molly Flores)
Regardless of which CPU a laptop has, it’s typically designed to use less power and generate less heat than its desktop counterpart. Intel laptop CPUs in the latest mainstream, lightweight laptops typically consume 15 watts (W) of power or less to as much as 45W for the highest-end mobile tasks.Gaming laptops and mobile workstations typically feature higher-powered CPUs, usually denoted by an “H” in the CPU’s model name. These require more cooling hardware and consume more energy, but they drive performance that’s closer to that of a desktop PC. You’ll find H-series CPUs from both AMD and Intel. As for Apple, it’s in its third generation of M-series silicon for MacBooks. As of this year, all of Apple’s laptop models contain some variation of its M3 processors.Getting into laptop-processor specifics can get you pretty deep in the weeds, but for a decent overview that doesn’t overwhelm you, check out our guide to choosing a laptop CPU that fits what you do.Which Graphics Chip Should You Get in Your Laptop?A graphics processor that’s built into the CPU (also known as an “integrated graphics processor,” or IGP) is perfectly adequate for most everyday laptop use. You’ll know you’re looking at an IGP if you see a reference to Intel’s HD Graphics, UHD Graphics, or Iris as the graphics solution on an Intel-CPU laptop (or Radeon Graphics on an AMD-based laptop). An IGP shares the CPU’s processor cores, memory, or both. The amount of memory available to the integrated graphics chip is usually fixed, so increasing the amount of system memory won’t result in better graphics performance. Most gamers will want to consider a discrete GPU with dedicated computing resources. Even a budget gaming GPU will offer an immense advantage over an integrated graphics processor when it comes to playing 3D games. At the high end, hardcore gamers should look for Nvidia’s latest GeForce RTX GPUs. With gaming laptops, the level of GPU you need is deeply tied to the frame rate you want to run at the laptop’s native screen resolution and the kind of games you play. That’s where our reviews come in handy. We test with several demanding gaming and industry-standard benchmarks to give you a relative sense of a laptop’s graphics performance. Check out our roundup of the best gaming laptops overall and the best budget gaming laptops for much more. PC Labs has tested all of the latest gaming laptops across the market, from budget models to cost-no-object deluxe ones. We’ve also detailed our top picks in three categories (budget, mainstream, and high-end) in our lineup of favorites above.How Much Storage and Memory Does Your Laptop Need?Most laptops above entry-level come with solid-state drives (SSDs), which use memory cells instead of a spinning platter (the classic hard drive) to store data. Since information stored in cells is much faster to access, SSDs are the best and most common drive configuration. They’re also immune to jolts and bumps that might crash a spinning platter’s heads.Some laptops‚ especially larger-chassis ones designed for gaming, come with both kinds of drive: a small SSD to hold the operating system, essential apps, and a few games, and a larger spinning one to store the bulk of your game files or other space-consuming media. That’s a perfectly fine option if you’re looking to save some money or simply need the maximum possible local storage amount, but you should stick with an SSD-only setup whenever possible. Note that not all laptop SSDs are created equal. SSDs that use the more modern, generally faster PCI Express NVMe standard, as opposed to the older, slightly slower SATA interface, are preferable. (PCI Express SSDs are rapidly taking over the field in new laptops, in any case.) Either of these, however, is far better than a third type, which is a not-quite-SSD: the much slower eMMC, a kind of flash storage drive found in budget machines. (If your budget laptop has 32GB, 64GB, or possibly 128GB of local storage, it is probably using eMMC.) All of them are better than a traditional spinning hard drive unless you simply need sheer capacity for the least money.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
The minimum amount of storage space most laptop shoppers should consider is 256GB. This will accommodate the considerable requirements of operating system updates and large apps like Microsoft Office with room left over. People who have sizable collections of videos, photos, or music (or any but the most casual of PC gamers) should seek out a minimum of 512GB. At the high end, you’ll find laptops configurable with 1TB or even roomier SSDs, and these will sound exciting. But beware that the absolute highest capacities can cause a laptop’s price to skyrocket—a 4TB SSD can add thousands of dollars to the overall price of a high-end laptop. It’s more cost-effective to get a 512GB SSD and add an external drive if you need additional space. While a laptop’s SSD stores your data, its system memory (or RAM) works with the CPU to run apps and helps define its capacity to multitask. Basic productivity apps will run just fine with 8GB of memory, but you’ll want to configure a midrange laptop with 16GB to ensure that tomorrow’s more advanced apps will have access to enough memory. That’s also a decent target amount for heavy multitaskers, PC gamers, and people who surf the web with many tabs open. Modern web browsers loading multimedia-rich sites and web apps are voracious consumers of memory.Few people who aren’t professional or prosumer content creators will see much additive benefit from memory amounts above 16GB. On the flip side of that, a budget Windows system with just 4GB of memory will be sluggish with multitasking and is generally indicative of a bare-bones configuration. The same is true of Chromebooks—although ChromeOS is designed to demand fewer computing resources than Windows does, if you’re prone to performing memory-intensive tasks like browsing with dozens of tabs open at once, 4GB can be limiting. What Kind of Connectivity Does Your Laptop Need?If you plan to use your laptop’s touchpad, touch screen, and keyboard as the primary means of control, most of the time you may never need to plug in anything other than the power cord. In this case, you’ll rely on the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections that almost every laptop offers.The latest mainstream Wi-Fi standard is 802.11ax (also dubbed “Wi-Fi 6”) and it’s an important feature to look for in a laptop to ensure fast Wi-Fi connectivity in the future. Steer clear of the older 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5), though, as it’s now being phased out, with the high-end Wi-Fi 6E standard appearing in more premium laptop options. We’re also on the cusp of Wi-Fi 7 hitting the mainstream, so watch out for that even faster version to hit more laptops in the coming years. (It reduces latency and provides access to additional bandwidth.)
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
Serious gamers might want to opt for a machine with a Killer Networks setup. It will allow for more granular control over giving wired or wireless gaming traffic priority on your internet connection. Business users and gamers may also want a dedicated Ethernet jack. Most gaming machines will have one, and some gamers insist wired Ethernet is still the only way to go for competitive online gaming. Some laptops implement Ethernet as a full-size or fold-out jack; others may come with an adapter in the box that routes Ethernet through a USB port. Still, others come with neither, leaving wired Ethernet up to you to add via a dongle if you want it.
(Credit: Brian Westover)
As for other physical connections, you’ll want to examine the edges of a given laptop carefully and take count. If you have an external storage device like a thumb drive, you’ll want to pay attention to the type and quantity of USB ports. Look for laptops that have both USB Type-A and Type-C ports. Type-A is the familiar rectangular connector that has been around for decades, while Type-C is smaller, oval-shaped, and sometimes doubles as a receptacle for the laptop’s charging cable.Budget laptops may only have Type-A ports, which is a disadvantage in an increasingly Type-C world. On the other hand, some ultra-thin designs only have Type-C ports, which means you’ll need dongles to connect any Type-A peripherals you might already own. A mix is what you want.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
If video output matters to you, check for a dedicated port like an HDMI connector, especially if you plan to connect your laptop to your TV, desktop monitor, or lecture hall A/V system. Sometimes video outputs are implemented on laptops as micro HDMI or mini DisplayPort connectors to save space. You’ll need a special cable to use these, which may or may not be included in the box.Photographers will benefit from a built-in SD or microSD card reader for more convenient image uploading. And if you plan to use your laptop in a public, unsecured location, a security notch for fastening a physical locking cable is helpful. These fall into two types, the Kensington-cable style and the Noble-lock style. Make sure the notch type matches the kind of cable you intend to use to tether the machine to an immovable object.Are Refurbished Laptops Worth Buying?Every manufacturer and reseller has different standards for refurbishing previously used laptops. A slight discount on a rigorously tested MacBook Pro that Apple sells with the same warranty as a new one might be worth the cost savings, while a laptop refurbished by a third party you’ve never heard of could be chancy. It’s best to buy any refurbished machine directly from the manufacturer’s online store as opposed to from a reseller, especially a reseller that may be hawking refurbs from “marketplace” sellers or third parties on its platform.Some resellers or third parties will rate their refurbished stock with a grade. (It pays to ask who has done the refurbishing—the manufacturer itself, or the reseller.) Refurbished laptops are sold and rated with grades of A, B+, B, C, and so on, to reflect the relative amount of wear and tear on the machine. No universal grading system for refurbished PCs exists, however. It’s generally up to the reseller what the grade means, and thus it can vary from seller to seller. We’re wary of machines graded this way and strongly recommend insisting on an ironclad return policy in the case of purchases like these if you decide to roll the dice. You could end up pleasantly surprised, but usually, a refurbished-laptop deal that looks too good to be true…is. What is almost universally true is that with a bit of tech know-how, you can use your pre-owned laptops to your advantage. If you’re in the market for new laptops for both yourself and your kids, you might consider tuning up your current PC to give to your children and buying a new one for yourself.Should You Get a Longer Laptop Warranty?Most laptop makers offer one-year warranties on parts and labor. These standard plans are limited, so they won’t cover accidents that stem from spilling a drink on the keyboard or dropping the system on the sidewalk. Fortunately, your credit card issuer likely covers such mishaps for a short period after you buy a new product, and it also may extend the manufacturer’s warranty. (Many Mastercard accounts include a doubling of the standard warranty period up to one year, for example.) Check your account benefits guide for details.If your credit card issuer doesn’t cover you, some laptop makers will happily sell you extended warranties. Apple, Dell, HP, and Lenovo all offer wide ranges of extended warranties and coverage for accidental damage. Expect to spend $100 to $300 for these options. Our rule of thumb is that if a warranty costs more than 15% of the laptop’s purchase price, you’re better off spending the money on backup drives or services that minimize downtime.Of course, you can’t put a price tag on peace of mind. You’ll encounter instances when the logic board or the display—the most expensive parts of a laptop—fail, and while rare, such a catastrophe can cost you half of what the laptop is worth in repair costs.So, What Is the Best Laptop to Buy…for You?Shopping for a laptop is an exercise in patience. An ultra-competitive market means that even if you’ve got specific requirements, you can almost certainly find a handful of excellent models that will meet them, and another handful of perfectly serviceable but ho-hum models that will, too. Now that you know which specifications to look for, we hope that parsing the good from the bad will be much easier. We update our top picks frequently, and you can find our current favorite laptops below.
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