The best laptops are powerful enough to handle both work and play, comfy enough to carry all day and power-efficient enough that you won’t run out of juice when you’re in the lurch.
These days there are dozens of options on the market, which is what makes finding the best laptop for you so darn tricky. That’s why I maintain this list of the best laptops we’ve reviewed: you can count on the fact that I or one of my teammates has tested and reviewed every laptop on this list, so you know a real person has used it in real life and really likes it.
I generally recommend the MacBook Air M3 as the best laptop for most folks thanks to its compelling combo of price, performance and portability, but the Dell XPS 13 is a great alternative for those who prefer Windows 11.
If you just need a good laptop for not much money, I recommend the Acer Aspire Go 15 because it delivers better value than most laptops my team and I review – and we review dozens of laptops from the top manufacturers every year.
Best Laptops of 2024: Top Picks Tested and Reviewed
Finding the perfect laptop in 2024 can be a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it’s challenging to determine which device offers the ideal balance of performance, portability, and price for your needs. That’s why we’ve curated a list of the best laptops, all thoroughly tested and reviewed by our team. Whether you’re looking for a powerhouse for work, a lightweight machine for travel, or a budget-friendly option, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Best Overall: MacBook Air M3
- Price: Starting at $1,199
- Operating System: macOS Ventura
- Key Features: M3 chip, 15-hour battery life, ultralight design
The MacBook Air M3 is our top pick for 2024. Its compelling mix of performance, portability, and price makes it the perfect choice for most users. Powered by Apple’s latest M3 chip, this laptop handles everything from multitasking to creative projects with ease. Plus, with its stunning Liquid Retina display and lightweight build, the MacBook Air M3 is both functional and stylish.
Why We Love It:
- Outstanding battery life of up to 15 hours.
- Silent, fanless design.
- Seamless integration with other Apple devices.
2. Best Windows Laptop: Dell XPS 13
- Price: Starting at $999
- Operating System: Windows 11
- Key Features: InfinityEdge display, 13th Gen Intel processors, compact design
For Windows enthusiasts, the Dell XPS 13 remains a top-tier choice. Known for its stunning InfinityEdge display with nearly borderless bezels, this laptop offers a premium experience in a sleek package. Equipped with the latest Intel processors, it delivers excellent performance for both work and entertainment.
Why We Love It:
- Exceptional build quality and lightweight design.
- Gorgeous display with vibrant colors.
- Versatile performance suitable for various tasks.
3. Best Budget Option: Acer Aspire Go 15
- Price: Starting at $499
- Operating System: Windows 11
- Key Features: 15.6-inch display, 11th Gen Intel processors, affordable pricing
If you’re on a budget but still want a reliable laptop, the Acer Aspire Go 15 is the way to go. It’s perfect for students and casual users who need a dependable device without breaking the bank. Despite its lower price point, this laptop offers solid performance and a large display for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and word processing.
Why We Love It:
- Incredible value for the price.
- Generous screen size for the cost.
- Decent battery life and lightweight for its category.
4. Best for Professionals: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11
- Price: Starting at $1,499
- Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
- Key Features: Intel Evo certification, robust security features, premium keyboard
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 is a favorite among professionals. Designed with productivity in mind, this laptop features a comfortable keyboard, excellent performance, and a durable build. It also includes enterprise-level security features, making it a go-to for business users.
Why We Love It:
- Ultra-portable and durable design.
- Exceptional typing experience.
- Robust security and privacy options.
5. Best for Gamers: ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16
- Price: Starting at $1,899
- Operating System: Windows 11
- Key Features: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060, 240Hz display, AMD Ryzen 9 processor
Gamers seeking a high-performance laptop should consider the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16. This machine offers incredible gaming performance with its powerful GPU and high-refresh-rate display. The Zephyrus G16 also doubles as a capable workstation for creators, thanks to its powerhouse specs and vibrant screen.
Why We Love It:
- Stellar gaming performance with smooth visuals.
- Sleek, portable design for a gaming laptop.
- Advanced cooling system to prevent overheating.
Whether you’re a student, professional, or gamer, 2024 offers an array of laptops that cater to diverse needs and budgets. The MacBook Air M3 is our top recommendation for most users, but the Dell XPS 13, Acer Aspire Go 15, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, and ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 are all excellent choices depending on your priorities. With thorough testing behind each pick, you can trust these laptops to deliver exceptional performance and value.
