This article was first published on Mashable targeting a US readership and has been modified for audiences in the UK.
Selecting a new laptop goes beyond just choosing a stylish model. A laptop plays a vital role in your everyday life, making it essential to find one that suits both your professional and recreational needs — whether it’s managing spreadsheets or watching your preferred series on Netflix. An efficient, dependable, and aesthetically pleasing laptop can significantly enhance your daily experience.
That said, making a choice based solely on appearance or price is not advisable. As with many aspects of life, the inner workings are what truly count.
For novices, an easy-to-use and uncomplicated laptop is likely the best option. People who travel frequently should look for something lightweight with an extended battery life. Meanwhile, designers and gamers will require robust processors and exceptional 4K graphics. And naturally, everyone desires a laptop that is sturdy and designed for longevity. If you’re feeling lost on where to begin, there’s no need to worry — we’ve done the legwork for you. Below, we present some of the top laptops available today, along with crucial information to assist you in your choice.
Which brands are leading in the laptop market?
Apple remains a frontrunner as one of the leading laptop brands, with flagship devices such as the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air consistently featured among the best laptops one can purchase. However, Apple is not your sole choice.
Microsoft has garnered attention with its Surface line since its introduction in 2012, particularly with the Surface Laptop 4, though newer models are also on the market. HP provides a diverse range of laptops to suit various budgets and requirements, while Dell is noted for its adaptable collection, which includes 2-in-1 systems and specialized gaming laptops. Lenovo is another noteworthy brand, known for its dependable and innovative offerings.
Which laptops are ideal for gaming?
For dedicated gamers, a conventional laptop simply won’t suffice. Brands such as Asus, Gigabyte, Razer, and Acer focus on gaming laptops designed to efficiently manage the latest software. These devices combine powerful processors, graphic cards, and ample RAM to ensure smooth and seamless gameplay. Even mainstream brands like HP and Dell have models specifically tailored for gaming that provide impressive performance.
What important features should you consider when buying a laptop?
Not all laptops will cater to everyone’s requirements, but there are some key elements you should be aware of before making a decision:
CPU (Processor) — The CPU serves as the brain of your laptop, managing and interacting with all other components. For simple tasks such as web browsing, checking emails, or writing papers, you don’t necessarily need the latest processor. However, gamers, video editors, and graphic designers should consider a laptop with a modern, powerful CPU.
Display — A high-definition display is essential for gamers and designers. We suggest a minimum of 1080p HD resolution. Some laptops come equipped with touchscreen functionality, allowing them to function as tablet-laptop hybrids. The size of the display is also important: laptops aimed at gaming and creative professions often feature 15-inch screens, while options intended for portability may be 13 inches or smaller.
GPU (Graphics Card) — The GPU