Best Laptop of 2024

Best Laptop of 2024

introduction:

“Among the vast array of computing options available, we’ve meticulously selected our top recommendations for MacBooks, Windows laptops, and Chromebooks. Our choices encompass the pinnacle of performance, reliability, and innovation, rigorously evaluated and scrutinized by the discerning eyes of CNET’s expert editors.”

What is the best laptop overall?

The Apple MacBook Air M2 maintains its coveted position at the forefront of our 2024 laptop rankings. It stands as a formidable choice for the majority, boasting an impressive blend of qualities we prioritize during our rigorous evaluations: Dependable day-to-day performance, extended battery longevity, and a design catering to a diverse spectrum of users. Notably, it now offers a larger 15-inch variant, delivering identical stellar performance and features. However, with a starting price of $1,199, the latest MacBook Air may not suit every budget. Hence, we continue to advocate for the MacBook Air M1 as a more economical alternative, retaining its status as an exceptional all-around laptop choice. Conversely, for those seeking a Windows-based counterpart to the Air, the HP Pavilion Aero 13 emerges as a compelling option. This 13-inch, 2.2-pound marvel, starting at $880 but often obtainable for under $600, consistently surpasses expectations in performance based on our extensive testing.”

“The leading PC manufacturers are gearing up to unveil a slew of fresh or enhanced models in the upcoming months, generating considerable anticipation among consumers and tech enthusiasts alike. While we eagerly await the arrival of these highly anticipated laptops, it’s worth noting that some are already on the market. Among them are our standout selections: the 2024 HP Spectre x360 14, acclaimed as the finest two-in-one device, and the reigning champion in the creator laptop category, the 2024 Asus ROG Zephyrus 14.”

“CNET’s comprehensive laptop testing spans the entire spectrum, encompassing budget-friendly models tailored for daily tasks, as well as high-performance counterparts optimized for gaming and content creation, along with everything in between. With each team member boasting decades of expertise in laptop evaluation, we meticulously scrutinize every aspect. Our rigorous process includes performance assessments conducted under controlled conditions within the state-of-the-art CNET Labs, complemented by extensive hands-on usage. This diligent approach enables us to pinpoint not just the ultimate all-around laptop but also the ideal choice tailored to your specific requirements and budget constraints.”

Best laptop overall

Apple MacBook Air M2

With a fresh design overhaul, an expanded screen size (now 13.6 inches compared to the previous 13.3 inches), a swifter M2 chip, and the much-anticipated enhancement to a higher-resolution webcam, the 2022 iteration of the MacBook Air continues to reign as our preferred option for the most versatile laptop within Apple’s portfolio, albeit with a minor caveat. Priced at $1,199, the $200 hike from the conventional $999 starting point for the MacBook Air is somewhat disheartening. Consequently, while the M1 variant of the Air still secures its place on our esteemed best laptop roster, we can’t help but commend everything else about the latest version. For those contemplating an Air and are willing to splurge a little extra, it remains our top recommendation.”

Best Windows laptop
HP Pavilion Plus 14 (2023)

The vast array of Windows laptops available in the market can make the task of singling out just one quite challenging. Nevertheless, the HP Pavilion Plus stands out as an exceptional choice, capable of catering to a diverse range of users without breaking the bank. Available in both 14- and 16-inch variants, we specifically assessed the 14-inch model, striking a balance between portability for travel and sufficient screen real estate for comfortable work sessions. HP provides options with AMD and Intel processors, and for added performance, it can even be equipped with entry-level discrete graphics. Furthermore, there are various display configurations to suit different budget constraints, including the option of an exquisite OLED panel.

Commencing at $850, opting for the OLED screen upgrade is highly advisable if within your budgetary means. While it does entail an additional $100 investment, the enhanced visual experience it offers is undoubtedly worthwhile. Fortunately, HP frequently offers substantial discounts, enabling you to procure the OLED display alongside upgrades such as a faster processor or increased storage capacity, all while remaining within the vicinity of $1,000.”

Best MacBook for students

Apple MacBook Air M1

Even with the introduction of the improved M2 MacBook Air, the M1 variant, which marked the transition from Intel to Apple silicon, remains steadfastly in the lineup, and for good reason. Serving as Apple’s entry-level laptop, it continues to be our preferred pick for MacOS-based laptops tailored for everyday tasks among students. With commendable performance and an impressive battery life of up to 18 hours, it stands as a reliable companion for both academic pursuits and professional endeavors.

Best Windows laptop for students
HP Pavilion Aero 13 (2023)

HP has skillfully integrated an abundance of features into the Aero 13, boasting an aesthetically pleasing magnesium-aluminum chassis, robust processing capabilities, extended battery longevity, a vibrant display, and a remarkably lightweight design tipping the scales at just 2 pounds (0.94 kilograms). Remarkably, despite its impressive array of offerings, the price remains budget-friendly, typically hovering around $800 for a well-configured model. Furthermore, frequent discounts often slash hundreds off the retail price, making it an even more enticing proposition.

Best cheap laptop
Acer Aspire 5

The Acer Aspire 5 remains a standout contender among the plethora of Windows laptop options available, offering exceptional value for money. Available in 14-, 15.6-, and 17.3-inch sizes, the 15.6-inch variant stands out for its balance of compactness and feature-rich design. Acer presents a diverse range of configurations, with starting prices below $500, catering to various budget constraints. Despite its budget-friendly nature, this laptop boasts a USB-C Thunderbolt 4 port, two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, Ethernet connectivity, and an HDMI port, ensuring versatility in connectivity options. While the external design has seen little change since its initial review in 2020, the internal components continue to evolve, delivering consistently impressive performance and features relative to its price point.

Best Chromebook
HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook

While many Chromebooks typically come in under the $500 mark and serve the general user’s needs adeptly, the capabilities of Google’s ChromeOS have significantly expanded since its inception over a decade ago. Enter this HP model, often likened to the MacBook Pro of Chromebooks. Boasting an exquisite design, stellar display, responsive keyboard and touchpad, and ample processing power to leverage the latest ChromeOS functionalities, it stands as a formidable option. Moreover, for Android phone users, it seamlessly integrates as the ideal companion. However, priced at $1,000, it may exceed the requirements of some users. For those seeking a more tailored option, we recommend exploring our comprehensive list of top-reviewed Chromebooks.”

Best Microsoft Surface laptop
Microsoft Surface Pro 8

While this iteration of the Microsoft Surface may not be the Surface Laptop, the Surface Pro continues to impress as a versatile Windows tablet that seamlessly transitions into a fully functional Windows laptop. Microsoft recently introduced the Surface Pro 9, with minor updates primarily revolving around a processor upgrade from 11th-gen Intel Core processors to 12th-gen chips. Additionally, there’s now an option for a Microsoft SQ 3 processor with 5G wireless connectivity. For those considering the Pro 8, it remains available at a reduced price and remains our preferred choice. Nevertheless, we’ve provided a detailed review of the Surface Pro 9 to aid in your comparison between the two models.

Best convertible 2-in-1
HP Spectre x360 14 (2024)

We typically refrain from endorsing laptops approaching the $2,000 mark that solely rely on integrated graphics. At such a price point, consumers often anticipate a dedicated GPU for enhanced gaming or content creation capabilities. However, the Spectre x360 14 defies this norm as a notable exception. This versatile two-in-one device stands out as one of the pioneering laptops to incorporate Intel’s latest Core Ultra CPU, providing commendable performance for current tasks while also being primed for future AI workloads. Furthermore, the integrated graphics paired with the Core Ultra processor represent a noteworthy improvement over Intel’s previous-generation iGPU offerings.

The sleek all-metal matte-black chassis complements the striking high-resolution OLED display flawlessly. Furthermore, the inclusion of a 9-megapixel webcam is truly impressive, particularly when paired with the advanced Windows Studio Effects and noise reduction features powered by AI technology.

Boasting a cutting-edge Intel Core Ultra CPU, an exquisite OLED display, and top-tier build materials, the Spectre x360 14 sets the stage for enduring performance and utility. Despite its higher price point, it offers exceptional value thanks to its superior specifications and craftsmanship, ensuring a worthwhile investment for long-term usage.

Best laptop for gaming
Alienware m18

Offering an expansive screen matched with formidable performance capabilities, the m18 laptop stands out. However, achieving a high configuration can lead to a steep price tag, especially with options like the RTX 4090 and Core i9-13900HX pushing the price up to $3,300, even before investing in ample memory or storage. For those prioritizing the sizable display, a starting price of $2,000 is available, featuring a respectable i7-13650HX and RTX 4050. It’s important to note that battery life may not be stellar, and the fans can become quite noisy under heavy usage. Additionally, for those eagerly awaiting the latest Intel processors, they are now available in the m18 r2 model.

Best budget gaming laptop
Acer Predator Helios Neo 16 (2023)

Acer, like many other gaming laptop manufacturers, divides its offerings into two distinct lines: the budget-conscious Nitro series, and the midrange to premium models bearing the Predator label. Interestingly, our budget gaming recommendation, the Helios Neo 16, falls under the latter category. While resembling the Acer Nitro 16 in many aspects, it distinguishes itself with marginally superior build quality and graphics performance. Its sole drawback lies in its speakers, which deliver underwhelming audio quality, lacking depth and bass.

The current price tag for the Predator Helios Neo 16 stands at $1,200, which may seem steep for a budget gaming laptop. However, savvy shoppers can take advantage of frequent sales where the price typically drops to a more affordable $850. It’s advisable to exercise patience and keep an eye out for these discounted opportunities to score a great deal.

Best laptop for creators
M3 Pro MacBook Pro (16-inch, late 2023)

The recent update to Apple’s 16-inch MacBook Pro introduces the latest M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max processors, accompanied by a sleek new space black color variant. Notable enhancements include a slight increase in screen brightness, up from a rated 500 nits to 600 nits compared to the previous M2 iteration. While the design remains largely consistent with its predecessor, the new M3 Pro chip delivers superior overall performance, notably excelling in multicore processing and rendering tasks. Additionally, the device maintains robust battery life, ensuring a seamless user experience.

Similar to its predecessor, the 16-inch MacBook Pro equipped with the M3 Pro processor maintains a starting price of $2,499, while the M3 Max model begins at $3,499. We’ve designated it as our Editors’ Choice for graphics professionals and creators due to its remarkable blend of design excellence, exceptional performance, and impressive battery longevity.

Best Windows laptop for creators
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024)

While part of Asus’ gaming-oriented ROG laptop lineup, the G14 veers towards a more creative focus. It’s categorized as an Nvidia Studio model and comes pre-installed with Nvidia’s Studio driver, rather than the typical Game Ready version (although you can switch between them if desired). This compact 14-inch laptop boasts the performance and display quality necessary for creative endeavors, along with a high-quality 1080p webcam suitable for business use. Additionally, it offers a comprehensive array of ports and connections, albeit with a USB-C port limited to USB4 due to its AMD processor, instead of Thunderbolt 4.