Any new laptop you buy is sure to get a lot of usage, so look for one that’s long-lasting and capable of handling your lifestyle, whether you’re an avid gamer or a new student. However, navigating the oversaturated laptop market can take time and effort.
The Home Accessories Institute’s tech experts have tested and reviewed hundreds of laptops in recent years to help you select the best laptop for your needs, from the finest laptops for youngsters as young as 6 to the best MacBooks, Windows, and Chromebooks for expert use.
Our top picks:
Our most recent laptop tests focused on lightweight laptops weighing less than three pounds, with screen sizes ranging from 10 to 13 inches, Wi-Fi connectivity, and built-in webcams. Our list includes the best laptops for slipping into a laptop bag or upgrading your work-from-home experience and laptops that can transform into a great tablet for you or your kids.
Continue reading to learn more about what to look for when selecting the finest laptop for you and your family. In addition, if you’re looking to improve your entire system, check out our recommended mesh Wi-Fi systems and Wi-Fi routers.
1
PROS
- Rugged and durable
- Loaded with content that does not require Internet access
CONS
- A bit heavier than similar computers
Processor: MediaTek.
RAM: 2GB.
Storage: 32GB.
The 10.1-inch Android 10 tablet is a 2-in-1 gadget with a removable ergonomic keyboard that makes an excellent first laptop. It’s long-lasting, inexpensive, and compatible with all essential kid-friendly programs for early education, such as Zoom, Google Docs and Sheets, Gmail, and others.
We like how it comes pre-loaded with a lot of educational information and apps for kids aged 6 to 12 — no internet necessary, so you don’t have to worry if you step out of a Wi-Fi zone. It’s drop and splash-resistant and comes with a built-in Webcam privacy cover that you can use to block the camera physically. It has 32 GB of storage and a screen resolution of 1280 x 800.
We found it a little heavy, especially for a 2-in-1 tablet, but durable enough to justify the extra ounces.
2
PROS
- Long battery life
- Secure Chrome operating system
CONS
- Limited to Chrome-friendly software
Processor: Intel Core m3, i5, or i7 (configurable).
RAM: 8 – 16 GB (configurable).
Storage: 64 – 256 GB SSD (configurable).
Traveling for business will appreciate this compact option with a long battery life. Because of the up to 12 hours of battery life and the ability to get two hours of life from only 20 minutes of charging, this was our experts’ recommendation for travelers.
Furthermore, the ridges on the textured bottom make it simple to grab and run. The 8th Generation Intel Core processor makes it speedy and responsive, and the 13.3-inch full HD screen is ideal for working, streaming, and video conferences. It includes two USB-C ports and runs ChromeOS, which is supposed to be safe – ideal for traveling. It’s ideal for packing in your carry-on and taking everywhere you go.
Aside from the quick charging time and long battery life, we like that this laptop has a touch screen and a 1080p camera. However, because it is Google, it is limited to Chrome-friendly apps.
3
PROS
- Top of the line graphics
- Powerful processing and cooling
CONS
- Short battery life
Processor: Apple M2 Chip.
RAM: 8 – 16 GB (configurable).
Storage: 256 GB – 1 TB SSD (configurable).
With this excellent HP laptop, customers will forget they aren’t actually within the games they are playing. Alienware has become synonymous with performance for many gamers, and the X17 undoubtedly deserves that label.
The 17-inch screen works with the specialized NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti coprocessor to render even the most graphically intensive games beautifully. The laptop’s 12th generation Intel Core i9 processor and massive 32GB of RAM allow flawless multitasking (such as streaming while playing the current gaming fad). The laptop also has many connections on the back rim, ranging from USB-A to USB-C to microSD to ethernet, so you won’t have to go insane looking for that one connector dongle.
The one disadvantage of this powerhouse is one that many gaming laptops share: battery life. Although the manufacturer hasn’t said how long it will last, based on prior versions, it’s safe to believe it will last between two and four hours.
4
PROS
- Long battery life
- Compact but with a touchscreen and full keyboard
CONS
- Screen resolution is not super crisp
Processor: 8th Gen Intel Core m3.
RAM: 4 – 8 GB (configurable).
Storage: 64 GB eMMC Drive and 128 GB SSD.
Students will appreciate that this laptop can last a full school day on a single charge – our specialists measured more than 10 hours of battery life in lab tests. It weighs less than 2.5 pounds and has a full-size keyboard and a 12.4-inch interactive touchscreen with a 3:2 aspect ratio (which means it has a bigger screen for more rows of text or more cells in a spreadsheet). It contains a 720 HD camera that may be used for video chats or Zoom courses. All variants include an Intel Core i5 processor and Intel UHD graphics, with storage options ranging from 64GB to 256GB.
5
PROS
- Blazing-fast performance
- Touch bar adds functionality based on which program you're using
CONS
- Needs adapters for non-thunderbolt externals
Processor: Apple M2 Chip
RAM: 8 – 16 GB (configurable)
Storage: 256 GB – 1 TB SSD (configurable)
MacBook Pros are an excellent choice for older students and diligent professionals searching for a stylish, powerful laptop for everyday use. The previous model of the Macbook Pro was among the top performers in terms of GPU and CPU capabilities, as well as overall performance, and the 2022 edition ups the ante even further.
The new model includes Apple’s new M2 chip, which is 1.4x quicker than the M1 chip in the 2020 Macbook Pro. Professionals across industries will covet this power because it drastically reduces rendering and processing times.
The much-loved touch bar returns on the new model, adjusting to the software and enabling rapid, powerful interactions such as scrubbing through movies and songs or playing a virtual piano. Like prior ones, this model has only two Thunderbolt ports and a 3.5mm headphone jack, so you may need to use some extra dongles to connect any externals to the machine.
6
PROS
- Very lightweight and portable
- Cover can be used as a stand
CONS
- Only a single USB-C port
Processor: MediaTek Helio P60T.
RAM: 4 GB.
Storage: 64 GB eMMC.
Use this 2-in-1 Chromebook as a solo 10-inch tablet or a laptop with the keyboard. It weighs less than a pound without the cover or keyboard and slightly more than two pounds with both, making it highly portable.
Chrome OS includes Google Docs, Drive, Keep, Google Play Movies, Music, and Store, and productivity apps like Microsoft Word and Excel. It boots swiftly and includes 4GB of memory and up to 128GB of eMMC storage. The cover can be adjusted to 135o, allowing you to use it as a screen stand whether working on the keyboard or watching video, and work and browse in handheld tablet mode.
7
PROS
- 14-inch full HD touchscreen
- Video feed is shut off with privacy shutter when not in use
CONS
- Limited to Chrome-friendly software
Processor: 2.4 GHz athlon.
RAM: 4 GB.
Storage: 64 GB.
This HP laptop boasts a 14-inch anti-glare 1920 x 1080 touchscreen to interact with all Android apps available through the Google Chrome OS in full HD.
Google’s operating system offers regular upgrades to keep malware at bay, and this device has a privacy shutter that conceals your camera when it’s not in use for further security. However, because you are using Chrome, users on this laptop can only access Chrome-friendly apps.
HP promises a battery life of up to 10 hours and 45 minutes between charges, so you won’t have to carry your charger to every coffee shop, school, or other location you visit. The machine also has many connectors for connecting devices and drives as needed, including two USB-A and two USB-C ports, an HDMI input, a MicroSD reader, and a headphone jack.
8
PROS
- 17-inch screen
- Slim and lightweight
CONS
- Pricey
Processor: 12th Generation Intel Core i7.
RAM: 16 GB.
Storage: 1 TB.
The 2022 Gram builds on what we liked best about its predecessor, a big, high-resolution 17-inch screen in a lightweight design, and adds even more computer power. This laptop is ideal for college students due to its large, bright display and easy-to-carry design. During testing, our experts praised the appearance and feel of this laptop, as well as how lightweight and comfy it was.
It will stay running even the most processor-intensive software (think: photo and movie editing, music production, intricate coding) thanks to an upgrade to a 12th generation Intel i7 processor and an Intel Iris Plus graphics coprocessor. With two USB-C connections, two USB-A 3.2 ports, an HDMI port, and a 3.5mm audio jack, packing the proper adaptor cable is one less thing to worry about.
Another reason we like it for college students is its durability. This laptop will pass even the most difficult military-standard tests (MIL-STD-810), from temperature to dust to transportation shock.
9
PROS
- Very thin and lightweight
- Includes multiple ports
CONS
- Fan can get loud
Processor: 10th Generation Intel Core i7.
RAM: 8 GB.
Storage: 512 GB.
This thin, lightweight, and powerful computer costs less than $1,000. It packs a punch without breaking the bank. It is only 0.5 inch (13.9 mm) thick and weighs 2.45 pounds.
However, Asus has included the following ports to provide flexibility: It features two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, a complete HDMI port, and a microSD card reader. It runs Windows 10 Pro and is powered by an Intel Core i7 processor for quick multitasking. Asus promises up to 16 hours of battery life, which allows you to be productive or enjoy streaming.
While testing similar models from the brand, our experts noticed that the ASUS ZenBooks had an excellent battery life that lasted unusually long. They also liked the distinctive extra features that made it easier to operate, such as the touchpad incorporated with a numeric keypad and the elevated typing position, which made working long hours more pleasant.
10
PROS
- Quad Bang & Olufsen speakers
- Full HD touch screen
CONS
- Stylus does not attach to laptop
Processor: Intel Core i7.
RAM: 16 GB.
Storage: 512 GB SSD.
Whatever you need to do on your laptop, this HP has the tools to help you. From the webcam kill switch and a mic mute key (excellent features for the Zoom era) to the HP Active Stylus Pen, which allows you to note, mark, and draw in laptop mode or with the top flipped around for tent mode, it will feel like this computer has thought of everything to keep your workday moving as smoothly as possible.
If you’re a video editor or music producer, you’ll appreciate the HP Spectre x360’s sound quality, whether editing your tunes or watching an epic movie in your spare time. According to HP, the quad speakers on this tiny laptop were tuned by sound experts at Bang & Olufsen. A 13.3-inch full HD touchscreen is also included.
The Intel Core i7 processor speeds up file access, and the Windows 10 Pro operating system is designed for productivity. We only wish the stylus was permanently attached to the laptop so you wouldn’t have to worry about losing it while it’s not in use.
11
PROS
- Lightweight
- Excellent battery life
CONS
- Limited ports
Processor: 11th Generation Intel Core i7.
RAM: 8 – 16 GB (configurable).
Storage: 512 GB – 1 TB SSD (configurable).
Our GH specialists adored the display on this Dell laptop’s 13.4-inch screen: it makes excellent use of the available space. Because of the 11th Generation Intel Core i5 processor, our experts discovered that even the base model functioned well.
The Windows 11 Home OS meets most Windows suite requirements, but individuals with specific needs can choose Windows 11 Pro, which Dell recommends specifically for business workers. According to the manufacturer, it has more than enough battery life to last the entire day on a single charge, and at 55 inches thick and 2.59 pounds, it’s small enough to put into any sized backpack and carry to work or school.
The computer has two Thunderbolt 4 connections, a microSD card slot, and a headset port, less than other options on our list.
12
PROS
- Ample ports and a microSD to expand storage
- Affordable
- Long-lasting battery
CONS
- Less capability to work offline
Processor: 2.6 GHz celeron_n.
RAM: 4 GB.
Storage: 32 GB Embedded MultiMediaCard.
This economical laptop starts quickly and is simple to use, making it ideal for consumers who value low-cost products and high-quality technology.
It’s small and light — 0.71 inches and 2.35 pounds — but it has two USB-C ports for fast data transfer, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 connectors, and a microSD card for additional storage. The Chrome OS runs all Google programs, such as Docs and Drive, and makes it simple to access your Google photographs, making it ideal for those who work or study in environments that use Google accounts and want quick and easy access to their Drive.
However, because of its dependency on technology, you won’t be able to operate as freely when offline as some of the other choices on our list. It comes with an HDR camera, and our experts praised the long-lasting battery, which can power you through hours of work or play.
13
PROS
- Fast processing and operating system
- Thin and lightweight
CONS
- Fanless configuration can get hotter than other picks with fans
Processor: Apple M1 or M2 chip (configurable).
RAM: 8 GB.
Storage: 256 – 512 GB (configurable).
Something about the MacBook Air M2 piques everyone’s interest. With a mighty M2 chip and a tiny, lightweight design, this laptop is easy to throw into your bag on the way to work or school while still being a powerhouse of a machine capable of completing practically any task. Furthermore, for various reasons, it is our favorite MacBook overall.
Apple’s small, lightweight Air is a fantastic machine because of its M2 chip (with 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU, 8GB RAM, and 256GB SSD) and speedy Ventura MacOS (the most feature-rich macOS operating system available). We enjoy this laptop for work and play because it has Apple’s iWork productivity suite, creative apps like iMovie and Garage Band, and entertainment apps like Apple Music and Apple TV.
Because of the fanless design, it operates quietly, but it can become a little hotter than other laptops with fans. It also has a retina display and an excellent keyboard. Touch ID makes it simple to unlock the computer, the battery life is excellent for working or streaming, and the Magsafe charger prevents you from knocking the entire laptop to the ground when someone trips over the wire. It’s also available in a 15-inch model, or you can get the MacBook Air M1 for less than $1000.
How we test the best laptops
Our selections include top-performing models from prior testing, road tests of upgraded versions, and new-to-market items from trusted manufacturers. Our experts have personally examined approximately 15 laptops over the last six months.
When our experts evaluate machines, we test the CPU and GPU capabilities, file transfer speeds, operating temperature, start-up, program start, and switch-off timings. We evaluate audio quality, volume-to-screen, weight-to-screen, and viewing angles. Our experts also analyze battery life (most of our recommendations have at least 10 hours of battery life according to our tests) and customer support options.
What to look for when shopping for a laptop
✔️ Operating system (OS) Consider the programs and software you’ll require, as well as what operating system your existing devices are running, to determine which operating system is best for you:
Apple’s iOS is ideal for people who have already invested in the Apple ecosystem (iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and so on).
Professionals who routinely use the Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, and so on) will find Windows beneficial.
Chromebooks are a good choice if you mainly conduct web-based work (streaming, using Google Docs, etc.). They can’t usually run complex software, but they’re cheap.
This refers to the processor’s Speed. Intel and AMD are the two most common CPU (central processing unit) brands. For your machine to perform smoothly and rapidly, we recommend at least two core processors; four or more is much better if you can afford it. Generally, faster and more powerful processors have more significant numbers and are typically more expensive. For example, the Intel Core i3 processor is the least powerful in the range, followed by the Core i5 and Core i7 processors, and finally the more powerful Core i9. A Core i3 is likely found only in low-cost devices for children or families; a Core i5 or i7 will suffice for most users.
✔️Storage space: A minimum of 64 GB SSD is recommended. SSD stands for solid-state drive. (Previous hard drives employed rotating plates susceptible to damage over time or from dropping or jarring the machine. Because solid state drives are, well, solid, they are more secure.) They’re also lighter and speedier, which allows you to access your info more rapidly.
✔️Webcam: This feature may have been an afterthought in the past, but with Zoom meetings and online classes, an excellent built-in webcam has become necessary. Look for a camera with at least 720p video capture. However, 1080p is desirable — and a 4k webcam is even better. Aside from superior quality, the higher the resolution, the more you can crop into a frame while still keeping it sharp.
✔️Screen resolution: Today’s laptop displays are pretty stunning. If your budget allows, choose full HD (1920 x 1080), ideal for streaming video, gaming, and workplace collaboration applications. Unless you’re buying a tiny screen (such as for a young child), you’ll love full HD.
✔️Battery life: Because manufacturers calculate battery life differently, comparing apples to apples is only sometimes possible when buying. You can reference the company’s claims but check the conditions under which the battery life was tested. And don’t be surprised if you get less longevity, mainly if you utilize a lot of solid apps or run several programs simultaneously. A battery that can handle more than 10 hours of multitasking before being charged is ideal.
✔️Screen size: Screen sizes typically range from 11 to 17 inches. More minor 11- to 12-inch monitors are typically preferable for younger children. Laptops with screen sizes smaller than 14 inches are considered more portable (and are often lighter and more compact in general). However, if you want to use the laptop primarily on your desk or for video editing, a 15-inch screen or larger is recommended.
✔️Connectivity: Check that the computer has Wi-Fi, at least one USB-C connector, and a 3.5 mm jack for headphones.
✔️ Customer support: Consider your options if you require computer assistance. Is there a phone number or live chat available from the manufacturer? Are you close to an Apple store? Are the repair businesses in your area familiar with your model?
Why trust Home Accessories?
Nikola Wald has a diverse computing background. He was designated an Intel Science Talent Search Semifinalist in 2016 for his work in computer engineering, and he has continued to tackle complex problems using computing and scientific techniques. Alec Scherma’s work as a test engineer requires him to rigorously use all of his mechanical engineering knowledge to test new items, such as laptops.
Rachel Roman is the HomeAccessoris Institute’s chief technologist and head engineer, where she has worked for 14 years. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a B.S.E. in mechanical engineering and applied mechanics and a minor in mathematics. She oversees the continuous expansion of HA’s technical and testing processes and has tested nearly every technological device, including laptops.
HA Institute analyst Jamie Spain collaborated with Nikolas, Alec, and Rachel to study and test the finest laptops on the market for this report.
