Selecting the ideal laptop can feel overwhelming, whether it's for academic tasks, immersive gaming sessions, or streaming content into the evening. Key decisions involve screen size preferences and the value of integrated graphics processing.
Our recommendations stem from direct testing of each featured device, ensuring reliable insights from practical use.
PCWorld earns confidence in laptop evaluations and purchase guidance through decades of focus on personal computing. Established in 1983, the publication assesses over 70 models annually, applying both benchmark tests and thorough usability checks across various price ranges to suit diverse budgets.
This guide highlights standout choices in multiple segments, ranging from economical Chrome OS devices to robust gaming systems.
The Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 stands out among current Windows machines due to its appealing design, exceptional endurance, and vivid display. It features a 14-inch 2880×1800 OLED panel supporting HDR and up to 120Hz refresh rates. Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, and Intel Arc 140V graphics, it excels in productivity, media playback, and routine operations. Weighing less than three pounds, it offers up to 23 hours of battery runtime.
Its convertible design enhances versatility, allowing full rotation for tablet or tent modes. The keyboard provides comfortable extended typing, the trackpad offers responsive navigation, and the included stylus attaches magnetically to the chassis. Connectivity includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports, one USB-C, one USB-A, and a headphone jack, though it lacks HDMI or microSD support.
For detailed analysis, refer to the complete Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 review.
The Acer Aspire Go 15 delivers strong value with 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and a 15.6-inch 1080p screen, managing web navigation and video streaming efficiently. Ports encompass USB-C for charging, two USB-A, HDMI, a headphone jack, and a security lock slot.
Priced below $500, it combines a large display, ample memory, and generous storage uncommon at this level, making it suitable for professional or casual needs.
It relies on an Intel N-series processor, limiting it for intensive gaming or 3D rendering, with battery life reaching six to seven hours—adequate for a standard workday. The IPS panel provides clear 1080p visuals but lacks the vibrancy of OLED technology.
Overall, it serves as a reliable option for routine activities with sufficient capacity for files and applications.
For in-depth coverage, see the full Acer Aspire Go 15 (2025) review.
Equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and RTX 5070 graphics, the Alienware 16X Aurora offers impressive performance for contemporary games at $1,649.99 from Dell. Its 16-inch 2560×1600 screen with 240Hz refresh rate ensures fluid visuals, complemented by a refined Interstellar Indigo exterior suitable for academic or professional environments.
Additional features include a 1080p webcam with facial recognition, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, and varied ports. The keyboard incorporates a numeric keypad and adjustable lighting. Battery endurance approaches seven hours, a notable advantage in the gaming category.
Explore the complete Alienware 16X Aurora review for more.
At around $800, the Lenovo LOQ 15 provides accessible entry into PC gaming with an RTX 5060 GPU, Ryzen 7 250 processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD, supporting smooth 1080p play. Ports include HDMI 2.1, USB-C with charging, Ethernet, and USB-A options.
The 15.6-inch 1080p display at 144Hz performs adequately for most titles but may show motion blur in rapid-action games. External monitors can address resolution and speed limitations if needed.
Check the full Lenovo LOQ 15 review.
The Asus ProArt P16 excels in delivering crisp imagery and robust capabilities for demanding professional tasks. Its 16-inch 3840×2400 display enhances photo editing and video viewing. An Intel Core i9 processor and RTX 4070 GPU manage intensive workloads like video production effectively. Battery life extends to about nine hours, supported by USB 4.0 for swift file transfers.
While performance and screen excellence lead, the subdued black exterior appeals to some as sophisticated, though others may view it as unremarkable. It tends to warm under prolonged heavy use.
Read the entire Asus ProArt P16 review.
For university students seeking portability without sacrificing style, the Acer Swift 16 AI weighs just 3.37 pounds with a striking 16-inch OLED screen. It includes an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, Intel Arc graphics, 16GB RAM, and 1TB SSD, handling assignments and large datasets capably.
The 70Wh battery sustains a full day of lectures, tested at 17.5 hours, with charging via Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports. Additional connectivity covers two USB-A, HDMI 2.1, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4.
The OLED panel impresses with brightness, color accuracy, and clarity. Typing on the keyboard suits extended sessions, while the compact trackpad functions well for general purposes despite its size.
For more, consult the Acer Swift 16 AI review.
Designed for mobile lifestyles—such as commuting by rail, working in cafes, or moving around home—the Microsoft Surface Pro 2025 weighs under two pounds yet manages emails and video conferences effectively.
Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus CPU, it blends laptop functionality with tablet convenience, ideal for sketching or productivity without bulk.
The compact screen may challenge multitasking, and only two USB-C ports necessitate docking solutions. Battery performance varies, from two hours at peak brightness during intensive tasks to 19 hours for lighter duties.
It suits cloud-based workflows prioritizing mobility over maximum power, positioning it as the premier lightweight Windows tablet hybrid available.
See the full Microsoft Surface Pro 2025 review.
The HP OmniBook 5 14 impresses with extraordinary battery endurance, achieving 25 hours in video playback assessments. Featuring a Snapdragon X Plus X1P-42-100 chip, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, and a 14-inch 1920×1200 OLED touchscreen for vivid colors and contrast, it handles streaming and routine operations smoothly.
Not suited for gaming or 3D modeling, it provides a pleasant keyboard, engaging display, and essential ports: two USB-C, one USB-A, and a headphone jack.
Priced under $900, its primary attractions are the extended runtime and quality screen.
Review the complete HP OmniBook 5 14 analysis.
The Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 offers dependable performance for daily routines with an Intel i5 processor and 8GB RAM. Its 14-inch 1080p screen delivers clear visuals, paired with a 1080p webcam for effective video meetings.
Though it provides fluid operation and attractive styling, compromises include average 13-hour battery life, absence of touch capability, and reliance on Chrome OS—unsuitable for Windows or macOS enthusiasts.
For details, read the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 review.
The Apple MacBook Air M4 combines portability with solid power via a 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine, making everyday tasks seamless and more intensive work feasible beyond typical expectations for this form factor.
It now supports two external 6K displays with the lid open, benefiting multi-monitor users. The 12MP webcam enhances call quality, and battery tests show approximately 18 hours of use, often eliminating the need for a charger.
Weighing slightly over three pounds and measuring less than half an inch thick, it fits effortlessly into bags, with a fresh Sky Blue option. Starting at $999 for the 13-inch and $1,199 for the 15-inch models, base configurations include 16GB RAM.
Compared to the M3 version, video loop battery drops by about one hour, but 18 hours remains ample for extended sessions.
The Framework Laptop 13 (2025) appeals to those valuing upgradability and durability, allowing replacements for RAM, storage, or even the motherboard. It uses an AMD Ryzen AI 300 processor in a compact chassis suitable for travel.
Initial costs may deter, and integrated graphics suffice for basic functions but falter in gaming. Battery performance is satisfactory without notable innovation.
Access the full Framework Laptop 13 (2025) review.
Among other noteworthy selections, the Dell 14 Premium features a refined build, 3200×2000 OLED screen, capable processing, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. The HP EliteBook 8 G1a serves as a 16-inch business tool with nearly 16-hour battery, AMD Ryzen AI 7 PRO 350 CPU for multitasking, though graphics are modest. The HP OmniBook 7 Aero impresses with its 13.3-inch lightweight frame and white aesthetic, but its compact battery limits untethered use.
For expanded displays, the Dell 16 Plus provides a 16-inch 2560×1600 panel for indoor clarity, Copilot+ features, and balanced daily performance in a streamlined body. However, it weighs more than typical ultrabooks and handles multithreaded tasks averagely.
PCWorld evaluates Windows laptops via comprehensive benchmarks assessing graphics, processing, battery, and similar metrics, stressing devices to compare against peers. Chromebooks undergo web-centric evaluations.
For comprehensive insights into testing processes, visit PCWorld's laptop evaluation methodology.
Ashley Biancuzzo leads PCWorld's laptop and Chromebook reporting. Primarily focused on consumer technology, she explores laptop evolution, including AI integration, eco-friendly builds, and enduring patterns. Outside work, she engages in gaming, literature, and time with her adopted greyhound.
Standard laptops suit routine activities. Convertible models rotate screens for added flexibility. Chromebooks provide cost-effective solutions for online tasks.
Processor needs vary by use: Intel Core i3 or Ryzen 3 for simple browsing and correspondence; i7/i9 or Ryzen 7/9 for media production; Ryzen 9 for 4K editing or multiple applications.
Dedicated Nvidia or AMD graphics benefit gamers and editors, while integrated options handle streaming, email, and video sufficiently.
8GB RAM meets most requirements; 16GB aids gaming, 32GB ensures longevity; creators benefit from maximum allocations.
Larger 15- or 17-inch screens aid editing; 13- or 14-inch sizes balance portability and usability for general purposes.
Aim for 10-12 hours of battery for mobility, sufficient for travel or full schedules. Emerging Snapdragon models exceed this, with one reaching 25 hours via efficient architecture, though larger batteries add weight.
Entry-level laptops cost $500-$750; sub-$500 Chromebooks or basics work for essentials; nearing $1,000 unlocks superior displays and speed, tailored to requirements.
Prefer devices with diverse ports avoiding adapters: USB-C and USB-A combinations, plus HDMI for external displays when internal screens fall short.
PCWorld designates the Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition as the top overall Windows laptop at $1,499.99 from Lenovo, managing daily loads efficiently with up to 23-hour battery and a luminous 14-inch 2880×1800 OLED HDR display at 120Hz.
The Acer Aspire Go 15 earns budget acclaim with Intel Core i3-N355, 1080p screen, and comprehensive ports.
The Alienware 16X Aurora excels in gaming, rendering titles impressively with Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX and RTX 5070 at accessible pricing.
Optimal purchase timing aligns with major promotions like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or back-to-school periods.
Convertible laptops fold and rotate for hybrid use: tent mode for media, touchscreen for notes—ideal for students and professionals needing versatility.
Copilot+ PCs integrate AI for tasks like email composition and image creation, with local processing for efficiency. They require a 40 TOPS NPU, functioning as enhanced standard laptops.
Ashley Biancuzzo oversees PCWorld's laptop and Chromebook content, with tech coverage since 2016 featured in USA Today, Reviewed, Polygon, Kotaku, StarWars.com, and Nerdist. Leisure pursuits include video games, sci-fi reading, and companionship with her rescue greyhound.