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Best Laptops to Buy in 2026: Expert Tested & Reviewed

January 29, 2026 , ,

📝 Executive Summary (In a Nutshell)

Choosing the ideal laptop in 2026 requires understanding the latest advancements in AI, processing power, and display technology. Key factors include selecting between macOS, Windows, and Chrome OS, assessing new AI-accelerated NPUs, and balancing price with future-proof specifications like 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD storage. The market offers diverse options, from the powerful Apple MacBook Air M4 to versatile Windows machines and budget-friendly Chromebooks, ensuring a fit for every user's specific demands.

⏱️ Reading Time: 10 min 🎯 Focus: Best laptops to buy in 2026

Choosing the best laptop in 2026 is more intricate than ever, with the market flooded with innovative machines designed for every conceivable user, from budget-conscious students to high-demand creative professionals. The "good enough" category now spans a vast spectrum, encompassing everything from basic Chromebooks perfectly suited for online tasks to premium workstations engineered for intensive multitasking and sophisticated creative projects. As technology evolves at a rapid pace, specifications can quickly become a blur, yet fundamental elements like processing power, exceptional battery life, and ample storage remain paramount for a satisfying user experience. For many, the sweet spot in 2026 involves a laptop equipped with modern, versatile ports, a vibrant and responsive display, and at least a 512GB SSD to eliminate the constant need for external storage solutions.

Our rigorous testing and comprehensive reviews have consistently shown that Apple's 13-inch MacBook Air M4 remains the reigning champion for the majority of users as we kick off 2026. Its M4 chip delivers ample power for most daily tasks, including moderate video editing, while its stunning display and integrated speakers enhance the multimedia experience. Crucially, its battery consistently provides over 18 hours of usage, adapting to various workloads. The MacBook Air M4 also stands out as one of the lightest and thinnest systems we've evaluated, operating in complete silence thanks to its innovative fanless design.

However, the laptop landscape is far from monochromatic. Not everyone requires or desires a MacBook, and the market for Windows laptops and Chromebooks continues to flourish with exceptional options. Windows systems offer unparalleled versatility, ranging from budget-friendly models to high-end machines boasting breathtaking UHD screens with vibrant IPS panels and impressive brightness levels (nits). Chromebooks, conversely, typically present a more affordable entry point, making them ideal for users whose primary workflow revolves around web-based applications. Whether your needs demand a processing powerhouse for creative endeavors, a compact and lightweight system for note-taking on the go, or a reliable device for family movie nights, 2026's laptop market truly offers something for everyone.

Table of Contents

Best Laptops of 2026

Here’s a curated list of the top laptops that truly stand out in 2026, offering a blend of performance, design, and value:

Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4: Still our top pick for most users. Its M4 chip delivers exceptional performance for daily tasks and even light creative work, all while maintaining an incredible 18+ hour battery life. Its fanless design ensures silent operation, and the build quality is second to none. The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display offers vibrant colors and ample brightness, making it a joy to use for both work and entertainment.

Dell 14 Premium: A strong contender for Windows users seeking a balance of power and portability. The Dell 14 Premium offers robust performance with the latest Intel Core Ultra or AMD Ryzen 9000 series processors, coupled with a stunning 120Hz display that enhances both productivity and casual media consumption. Its solid build and thoughtful design make it an excellent choice for professionals.

HP Spectre x360 14: For those who appreciate versatility, the Spectre x360 14 excels as a 2-in-1 convertible. Its premium design, brilliant OLED display, and excellent keyboard make it a joy to use in laptop, tent, or tablet mode. Powered by Intel's Core Ultra chips, it's also ready for the latest AI features, making it a stylish and functional choice for dynamic users.

Lenovo Chromebook Plus: Representing the best of the Chromebook world, the Lenovo Chromebook Plus offers a significant upgrade in performance and features. With an Intel Core i processor and 8GB of RAM, it handles web browsing, video calls, and cloud-based tasks with ease. Its extended battery life and integration with Google's AI features make it an outstanding value for students and light users.

HP Pavilion Aero: An excellent option for those seeking a lightweight Windows laptop without compromising on performance. The Pavilion Aero offers a vibrant display and a comfortable typing experience, making it perfect for students or remote workers. Its AMD Ryzen processor ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks, all wrapped in a sleek and highly portable design.

Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro M5: For the ultimate performance in a portable package, the MacBook Pro M5 is unrivaled. Featuring the next-generation M5 chip, it delivers desktop-class performance for demanding tasks like 4K video editing, 3D rendering, and professional software development. Its stunning mini-LED display, pro-grade port selection, and exceptional battery life make it the go-to choice for creative professionals and power users.

HP Spectre x360 16: If you need a larger canvas for creative work or presentations, the 16-inch Spectre x360 delivers with its expansive OLED screen and powerful internals. It combines the flexibility of a 2-in-1 with the performance of a traditional clamshell, making it a versatile powerhouse for designers, artists, and business users who need more screen real estate.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition: A sleek and refined laptop experience that embodies the best of Windows. With a focus on premium build quality, a comfortable Alcantara-covered keyboard (on some models), and excellent integration with Microsoft services, the Surface Laptop 7th Edition offers a pure, unadulterated Windows experience. It's especially appealing for those already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.

ASUS Zephyrus G14: The quintessential 14-inch gaming laptop, offering an incredible blend of performance and portability. Powered by the latest AMD Ryzen 9000 series processors and NVIDIA's RTX 40-series GPUs, it delivers desktop-class gaming in a compact chassis. Its high refresh rate display and excellent cooling make it a top choice for gamers on the go, without the bulk often associated with gaming machines.

Specs to Look For in a New Laptop

In 2026, getting a laptop that’s future-proof for at least the next few years means paying close attention to these crucial specifications:

MacBooks

  • Processor: At least M2 processor, with M4 or M5 highly recommended for optimal performance and AI capabilities.
  • RAM: At least 16GB of unified memory is essential for smooth multitasking and running modern applications.
  • SSD Storage: A minimum of 512GB SSD storage is advisable to ensure ample space for macOS, applications, and your growing collection of files.

Windows Laptops

  • Processor: The most recent generation processor available from Intel (Core Ultra for thin-and-lights, 14th Gen HX for performance, or newer) or AMD (Ryzen 8000/9000 series). Look for NPUs with at least 40 TOPS for full Copilot+ features.
  • RAM: At least 16GB of RAM is the new baseline for comfortable Windows 11 usage, especially with AI features.
  • SSD Storage: While 256GB SSD storage is the bare minimum, a 512GB SSD is strongly recommended as a safer baseline for longevity and local file storage. 1TB is ideal for power users.

Chromebooks

  • Processor: Intel Core i processor (i3 or higher) or a powerful AMD Ryzen C-series chip.
  • RAM: At least 8GB of RAM for a smooth experience; 4GB is the absolute minimum for basic web browsing.
  • Storage: At least 128GB of storage, preferably an SSD, especially for Chromebook Plus models that support more local applications and larger files.

Gaming Laptops

  • CPU: At least AMD Ryzen 9000 series or Intel 14th Gen Core HX CPU for top-tier gaming performance.
  • RAM: At least 16GB of RAM, but 32GB is strongly recommended for demanding modern games and multitasking.
  • SSD Storage: At least 1TB of NVMe SSD storage to accommodate large game installations and fast load times.
  • GPU: For GPU recommendations, check out our guide to buying the best GPU for your needs. NVIDIA RTX 40-series or AMD Radeon RX 7000-series are the current benchmarks.

Budget Laptops

  • Processor: The most recent generation processor available from Intel or AMD (e.g., Core i3/i5, Ryzen 3/5).
  • RAM: At least 8GB of RAM for reasonable performance in daily tasks.
  • SSD Storage: At least 256GB of SSD storage. If your budget allows, a 512GB SSD is a worthwhile upgrade for a much better experience.

How We Test Laptops

Engadget has a rich history of reviewing laptops for two decades, and while the very definition of a portable PC has evolved dramatically over that time, our unwavering dedication to meticulously testing their capabilities and providing insightful buying advice remains constant. Regardless of whether it’s an innovative hybrid tablet like Microsoft's Surface line, a flexible rotating 2-in-1 convertible akin to HP's Spectre x360s, or a traditional clamshell notebook, our review process adheres to a consistent and rigorous methodology. We scrutinize every aspect: aesthetics and tactile feel, raw performance metrics, and real-world usability. Whether it's a Windows device powered by an Intel Core i5 or higher, a sleek MacBook, or a practical Chromebook, our ultimate goal is to answer the most critical question for consumers: Is it truly worth your hard-earned money? Furthermore, we pay meticulous attention to portability, webcam quality (a growing concern in the era of hybrid work), and display features, including the type of IPS panels and brightness levels measured in nits, as these elements can profoundly impact the daily user experience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Laptop

Operating system: Apple, Windows or Chrome OS

In 2026, the choice of operating system remains a foundational decision, though the lines between them continue to blur. While many users already have a preference, our advice is to maintain as much flexibility as possible. The good news is that most major software applications now offer cross-platform compatibility for both Macs and PCs. If your workflow heavily relies on an Apple-exclusive application like Final Cut Pro, a Mac remains essential. For web-based applications, the platform becomes largely irrelevant, as they function seamlessly across any system with a modern internet browser.

For dedicated Apple enthusiasts, there are few compelling reasons to consider Windows laptops, unless a secondary machine for specific gaming or software needs is desired. However, for long-time Windows users, macOS has become increasingly tempting. Apple’s MacBooks, powered by their advanced M-series Silicon chips, are among the fastest and most power-efficient laptops available today. They boast exceptional build quality and phenomenal battery life. MacOS itself is also a remarkably intuitive platform, especially for users familiar with iOS and iPadOS.

A significant advantage for iPhone users is the seamless integration within Apple's ecosystem. Features like responding to iMessage conversations or joining FaceTime chats are effortlessly integrated on Macs. While Microsoft's Phone Link app has improved for iOS, allowing individual texts, it still lacks the comprehensive media and group chat capabilities found in the Apple ecosystem. Android users, conversely, might find Windows a more harmonious choice, as Phone Link offers robust integration for calls, text synchronization, and access to phone photos. Consider how integrating your mobile device will play into your daily workflow when making this choice.

For cloud gaming enthusiasts, Windows laptops with NVIDIA’s GeForce Now or Xbox Cloud Gaming compatibility typically offer greater flexibility and solid performance, especially when paired with a fast internet connection. Chromebooks also present a compelling, affordable, and lightweight solution for casual cloud gaming sessions. In 2026, the discussion around Windows also includes the impact of AI-powered productivity tools like a dedicated Copilot AI button on the keyboard. Its utility depends on your reliance on Microsoft’s generative AI tools; given these are early days for AI PCs, a cautious approach to waiting for further refinements might be wise.

And then there's ChromeOS. Chromebooks are an intelligent and generally inexpensive solution for tasks such as web browsing and video conferencing. However, for most users, they aren’t the ideal primary computer due to limited offline app functionality and incompatibility with powerful software suites like Adobe’s full Creative Cloud (though Adobe Express and Photoshop online tools are available). They shine as secondary machines or for educational settings where their affordability and ease of management are key. For basic web access or a child's first laptop, a Chromebook is often sufficient.

For those needing a more powerful ChromeOS experience, Chromebook Plus models are an excellent option. These machines feature faster processors and more RAM than standard Chromebooks, and they can leverage some of Google’s online AI features, including image generation and advanced photo processing, offering a more robust cloud-centric workflow.

Price

In 2026, you can generally expect to budget between $1,000 and $1,800 for a new, capable laptop, though configurations vary widely. A workhorse machine designed for professional tasks or gaming can easily exceed $2,000, particularly if you opt for additional RAM, larger SSD storage, a beefier graphics card, and a top-tier CPU. However, value still exists below the $1,000 mark, especially if you're open to refurbished models, previous-generation systems, or prioritizing internal components over premium build quality. Entry-level systems often require a trade-off between processing power and storage; a 512GB SSD upgrade, while desirable, can push the price higher. Systems featuring AMD chips often present a more cost-effective alternative to their Intel counterparts, though the primary cost drivers remain RAM and storage.

We’ve highlighted our favorite affordable models in this guide, but for an even broader selection, you can explore our dedicated list of the best budget laptops. These often provide excellent bang for your buck without sacrificing essential functionality for everyday use.

Laptop size and weight

The question of portability is central to selecting a laptop. In 2026, 13-inch machines have solidified their position as an excellent starting point for most users. This screen size offers sufficient real estate for tasks like email, document creation, and web browsing, while keeping the laptop relatively light, typically between two to three pounds. Advances in manufacturing mean that these compact devices can sometimes feature larger actual screen sizes, like the MacBook Air's 13.6-inch display, maximizing the viewing area within a small footprint.

For users who find fine text challenging or require more screen space for productivity, stepping up to a display larger than 13 inches is advisable. The ASUS Zephyrus G14 offers a formidable 14-inch option for gamers, and this size is increasingly popular for productivity-focused machines such as the Dell 14 Premium and the MacBook Pro. While 14-inch notebooks are slightly heavier, typically ranging from three to four pounds, the added screen real estate for wider video editing timelines or larger Photoshop windows is often a worthwhile trade-off.

Artists and professionals requiring a larger canvas will find 15-inch laptops most suitable. These generally weigh between 3.5 and 4.5 pounds, but the extra heft facilitates more expansive work environments. Expect a slight price increase for 15-inch models; for instance, the 15-inch MacBook Air starts higher than its smaller sibling. Many PC manufacturers are also transitioning from 15-inch to 16-inch versions, providing even more workspace. If you're a business traveler, a lightweight yet powerful system with extended battery life can significantly enhance your mobile productivity.

While 17-inch or 18-inch screen laptops are still available, they are typically reserved for high-performance gaming systems or specialized workstations and are generally not designed for mainstream computing.

Ports and connectivity

In 2026, the majority of new laptops come equipped primarily with USB-C ports, which are highly versatile, supporting both fast charging and high-speed data transfers. Apple's MacBooks also feature a dedicated MagSafe connection for power, while some PCs, like Microsoft's Surface devices, incorporate custom power connectors. Older USB Type-A connections are less common but still appear on select systems, such as HP's Spectre x360 14 and many ASUS models.

For gamers or creative professionals relying on discrete graphics, ensuring your laptop has the necessary ports for external monitors or GPUs is critical. DisplayPort or HDMI connections are essential for dual- or multi-screen setups, enhancing immersion and productivity. Similarly, for storing high-resolution files or installing numerous games, you might need additional hard drive space; external hard drives remain an affordable solution, provided you have a compatible port to connect them. Check out this guide on optimizing your digital workspace for more tips on storage and connectivity.

The absence of a headphone jack is a growing trend, and while most devices include a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter, this can be cumbersome and occupies a valuable USB port. While wireless earbuds and headphones are prevalent, having a wired option is still beneficial for instances when wireless devices run out of battery.

Most 2026 laptops feature Wi-Fi 6 or 6E and Bluetooth 5.0 or later, promising faster and more stable connections with compatible routers and devices. While Wi-Fi 7 routers are emerging, the standard is yet to be widely integrated into laptops. For cellular connectivity, some notebooks like the Surface Pro 9 and Samsung Galaxy Book models offer integrated 5G. However, our testing indicates that this feature may not always justify the cost of a separate data plan, with tethering to a smartphone or using a dedicated wireless hotspot often proving to be more practical and cost-effective alternatives.

Battery life

A laptop's battery life is a complex metric influenced by screen power consumption, hardware efficiency, software optimizations, and the battery's physical capacity. Our previous favorite, the Dell XPS 13, delivered an impressive 13 hours and 15 minutes in the PCMark 10 battery benchmark, translating to about a day and a half of real-world use. The 13-inch MacBook Air, however, consistently surpasses 18 hours in benchmarks and provides over two full workdays of typical usage. As a general guideline, a modern laptop in 2026 should offer at least eight hours of practical battery life.

If battery life is your top priority, Apple's Macs, particularly those with M-series chips, remain superior. Their chip architecture, derived from mobile hardware, delivers unparalleled power efficiency. While Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon chips promise to bring Windows PCs closer to Apple’s astonishing battery life figures, real-world testing of these next-generation Windows machines is still ongoing. Chromebooks also typically offer decent battery performance, provided you manage your tab count and avoid excessively power-hungry applications.

Refresh rate

The refresh rate of a laptop's display indicates how many times the screen image is updated per second. In 2026, modern displays, including IPS LCDs and OLEDs, support a minimum of 60Hz. However, a growing number of devices now offer 120Hz, 240Hz, and even higher refresh rates. A higher refresh rate translates to a smoother visual experience, particularly noticeable when scrolling through web pages, navigating the operating system, or engaging in fast-paced content. The difference is akin to the fluidity of a high-end smartphone display compared to a basic e-reader.

Historically, high refresh rates were exclusive to gaming laptops. However, in 2026, we are seeing more mainstream machines, such as the Dell 14 Premium, incorporate 120Hz displays or variable refresh rate (VRR) technology that dynamically adjusts between 60Hz and 120Hz. This enhancement significantly improves the user experience, even for non-gaming activities, making the screen feel more responsive and pleasant to interact with.

CPU and GPU

In 2026, selecting a new laptop means ensuring it's equipped with the latest CPUs to guarantee ample processing power for years to come. For Windows PCs, this includes Intel’s Core Ultra chips for thin-and-light devices, which feature integrated NPUs for AI tasks, or the 14th-gen HX chips for more powerful, desktop-replacement systems, which are based on older architectures but prioritize raw performance. Intel's older 13th-gen and 12th-gen laptop chips notably lack NPUs, a crucial detail if you're considering used or older inventory.

AMD's Ryzen 8000 and 9000 chips are prevalent in many new systems, including gaming powerhouses like the ASUS Zephyrus G14 and Razer Blade 14. These CPUs are primarily aimed at high-performance and gaming laptops, while AMD’s older Ryzen 7000 chips continue to power ultraportables. A key advantage of AMD's chips is their integrated Radeon graphics, which consistently outperform Intel's Arc hardware, though Intel's integrated graphics are steadily improving. Learn more about optimizing your system for demanding tasks on this high-performance computing blog.

Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus processors are also a significant option in the burgeoning category of Copilot+ PCs. These chips, based on mobile designs, promise superior power efficiency compared to their AMD and Intel counterparts. Historically, Snapdragon chips in Windows machines led to a suboptimal experience. However, Microsoft asserts it has rebuilt Windows 11 around Snapdragon’s Arm-based architecture, which should translate to significantly faster performance and enhanced app compatibility.

For Apple’s laptops, the choice narrows down to the M4 Pro, M4 Max, and the highly anticipated M5 chips, each offering progressively greater performance capabilities for various professional workflows.

Regarding graphics, the GPU (graphics processing unit) is responsible for communicating directly with the laptop's display. All laptop CPUs feature some form of integrated GPU: Intel offers standard graphics or its more capable Arc hardware, while AMD's chips include fast Radeon mobile graphics. For demanding games, high frame rates (fps), or intensive tasks like video rendering and 3D modeling, a dedicated GPU is essential. Options include NVIDIA's RTX 40-series hardware or AMD's Radeon RX 7000 series. Be prepared for a substantial budget increase, as powerful dedicated GPUs typically add $300 or more to the laptop's cost.

Apple's M-series chips integrate GPU cores that can rival the performance of NVIDIA’s and AMD's lower-end dedicated GPUs. This is a remarkable achievement for systems like the MacBook Air and 14-inch MacBook Pro, contributing significantly to our high recommendation for Apple’s notebooks.

AI PCs, NPUs and Copilot+

The concept of an "AI PC" has taken center stage in 2026, defining a new era of personal computing. At its core, an AI PC is equipped with a neural processing unit (NPU), a specialized component engineered to accelerate AI-related tasks. Much like how GPUs handle graphics-intensive workloads, NPUs are designed to manage the complex mathematical operations inherent in AI algorithms, but with significantly greater power efficiency than traditional CPUs or GPUs. This efficiency can lead to considerable improvements in laptop battery performance. While NPU performance is multifaceted, its potential speed is often quantified in TOPS (tera operations per second).

The groundwork for AI PCs was laid with the chip announcements from Intel and AMD in 2023. Intel introduced its "Core Ultra" CPUs, marking their first chips with integrated NPUs. AMD followed with its Ryzen 8040 AI mobile chips, emphasizing their competitive AI performance. However, a watershed moment arrived in May with Microsoft's announcement of its Copilot+ initiative. This program mandates specific hardware requirements for "premium AI PCs," including a minimum of 16GB of RAM, a 256GB SSD, and an NPU capable of at least 40 TOPS of AI performance.

Copilot+ is more than just a marketing designation; it signifies a deeper integration of AI-powered features within Windows 11 that leverage these powerful NPUs. This includes groundbreaking features like Recall, an ambitious tool designed to help users locate virtually anything they’ve done on their PC (though its rollout has faced delays), and Cocreator in Paint, which enables AI image generation from text prompts and doodles. These features represent a paradigm shift in how users interact with their operating system, moving towards more intelligent and context-aware computing.

Even if you purchase an AI PC that isn’t Copilot+ certified, you will still benefit from certain AI-enhanced features. These include Windows Studio Effects, which can dynamically blur backgrounds during video calls or keep you perfectly framed. Furthermore, leading software developers like Adobe and Audacity are actively integrating NPU-accelerated features into their applications, enhancing performance for tasks ranging from content creation to audio processing. For Chromebook users, Chromebook Plus notebooks can also tap into a selection of Google’s online AI features, such as image generation and advanced photo processing, showcasing the widespread adoption of AI across various platforms.

Other laptops we tested

While the following models didn't make our top recommendations, they represent strong efforts in their respective categories and might appeal to specific users:

Lenovo ThinkPad X9-14 Aura Edition

The ThinkPad X9-14 Aura Edition is a compelling successor to the ThinkPad X1 Carbon, delivering a premium business laptop experience with long battery life in a thin and light chassis, making it an optimal ultraportable for professionals. Despite a potentially high price tag, even the lowest configuration offers excellent performance for casual business users. The main drawback is a somewhat mushy keyboard, which might be a concern for heavy typists, and the continued absence of a USB Type-A port necessitating a Type-C hub. Its bold OLED screen and well-rounded audio, however, make it an outstanding multimedia device.

ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED

Beyond its beautiful OLED screen, the ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED, while competent, struggles to stand out in a crowded market. Its design is rather understated compared to the striking ASUS Zephyrus G14. While it might be found at a decent price, we recommend seeking a laptop with more personality and a sturdier screen hinge for a more satisfying long-term experience.

Razer Blade 14

The Razer Blade 14 offers nearly everything desired in a 14-inch gaming notebook, but its significantly higher price point compared to the Zephyrus G14 on our top list, coupled with the lack of an SD card reader, limits its broader appeal. It remains a strong option for those who prioritize its iconic jet-black aesthetic and premium build.

Framework Laptop 16

Framework extended its commitment to modularity to the Laptop 16, creating a gaming notebook where almost every component is user-replaceable. However, achieving upgraded hardware comes at a premium cost, and its optional Radeon 7700S GPU delivered surprisingly mediocre performance, making it a niche choice for dedicated DIY enthusiasts.

Alienware m16 R2

The Alienware m16 r2 received a slimmer redesign but otherwise remains a fairly conventional gaming laptop. While a solid option for loyal Alienware fans, superior hardware and better deals can often be found elsewhere in the competitive gaming laptop market.

ASUS Zenbook Duo (2024)

The Zenbook Duo, with its captivating dual-screen design, is arguably the first of its kind truly worth considering. However, its unique hardware caters to a niche audience, and Windows 11’s multi-screen support is still evolving, preventing users from fully leveraging the Zenbook Duo’s expansive canvas in all scenarios.

Dell XPS 16

Dell’s XPS 16 is aesthetically stunning and powerful, but its high price point makes it less competitive. Furthermore, its capacitive function key row is difficult to see in bright light, and the machine offers surprisingly few ports for its size, limiting its practicality for many users.

See Also:

Recent updates

  • October 2025: Updated to add the latest MacBook Pro M5, reflecting Apple's newest silicon advancements.
  • September 2025: Added a new, expanded "Specs to Look For" section, detailing crucial hardware considerations for 2026.
  • August 2025: Updated our top picks to include the Dell 14 Premium, recognizing its excellent balance of features and performance.
  • May 2025: Conducted a thorough review to ensure all top picks and technical details remain accurate and relevant for the current market.
  • March 2025: Updated to include the M4-powered MacBook Air, highlighting its significant performance and efficiency gains.
  • November 2024: Updated to include the M4-powered MacBook Pros, acknowledging their introduction and impact on the high-performance segment.
  • August 2024: Updated to include the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12, recognizing its continued relevance in the business laptop sector.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/best-laptops-120008636.html?src=rss

💡 Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average battery life of a laptop per charge in 2026?


In 2026, average battery life varies significantly based on usage. Ultraportables like the MacBook Air M4 can achieve around 20 hours in benchmarks and two full workdays of real-world use. Gaming laptops, however, may only last a few hours under active gameplay. Generally, expect a modern laptop to offer at least 8 hours for general tasks. Macs currently lead in battery longevity, though Microsoft claims new Copilot+ systems with Qualcomm chips will also exceed 20 hours.



How much RAM do I really need in 2026?


For most users in 2026, we recommend at least 16GB of RAM for PCs and Macs. This allows for smooth multitasking, running multiple applications, and managing numerous browser tabs without slowdowns. For hardcore gamers, programmers, or those doing video editing/3D rendering, 32GB of RAM or more is advisable. While 8GB can suffice for very basic tasks, it’s prone to performance bottlenecks, and many ultraportables don't allow RAM upgrades, making initial selection critical.



What is the best storage capacity for a laptop in 2026?


In 2026, configurations typically range from 256GB to 1TB SSDs. For most people, a 512GB SSD is recommended as a comfortable minimum, offering ample space for the OS, large applications, and media. Media hoarders or serious gamers should opt for a 1TB SSD. While 256GB can be serviceable for streaming-heavy users, it fills up quickly. Avoid 128GB storage as the operating system consumes a significant portion. Chromebooks, designed for cloud storage, usually come with less built-in storage (32GB-128GB), which is sufficient for their use case.



What's a good price range for a decent laptop in 2026?


In 2026, a decent 13-inch laptop typically falls between $1,000 and $1,800. Prices can exceed $2,000 for high-end configurations with more RAM, better GPUs, or larger storage. However, good deals can still be found below $1,000, particularly for refurbished or previous-generation models. The cost primarily depends on the balance between processing power, display quality, and specialized features like AI capabilities or gaming-grade components.



What’s the difference between macOS and Windows? Which is better?


macOS powers Apple's computers, while Windows runs on the majority of PCs. Chromebooks use Google's ChromeOS (a Linux-based web browser). There's no single "better" OS; it depends on your needs. For gaming, Windows generally offers broader compatibility and more hardware options. For creative apps like Final Cut Pro or seamless integration with an iPhone, macOS is often preferred. Both platforms have robust security, and most minor distinctions (like Command vs. Control key) are easily adapted to. Windows offers more hardware variety and budget options, while Macs often provide superior build quality and power efficiency.

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