Top Laptops to Buy in 2024: Best Laptops Reviewed

In today’s fast-paced tech world, everyone’s on the hunt for the best laptops to buy in 2024. We’re here to help you navigate all the options. Choosing the right laptop is crucial for work, school, or just kicking back. As tech keeps moving forward, laptops are packing in more features and better performance. Staying updated on the latest models is the first step in finding the one that fit for you.

We’ve gone through a bunch of laptops in different categories to give you a super comprehensive review of the best laptops for 2024. We’ve got you covered whether you’re looking for a good deal, specific features like long battery life or upgradability, or just want to know about the newest dual-screen laptops. We’ll break down each category to make sure you find the perfect laptop that’s ready to take on whatever comes your way in the year ahead.

1. Best Overall Laptop – Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3)

Overview

The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) is the top pick for laptops to buy in 2024. It keeps its sleek and stylish design but now comes with the powerful new M3 chip, making it great for everyday tasks and even heavier stuff like video editing and AI. Plus, with a more affordable starting price, it’s a fine choice for anyone looking for a high-quality laptop.

Key Features

• Performance: The MacBook Air with the M3 chip offers significant improvements in both efficiency and power over its predecessor, making it adept at handling everything from basic tasks to more intensive processing needs.
• Design: No major design overhaul for 2024, but the MacBook Air maintains its position as one of the sleekest laptops on the market. It’s thin enough to be mistaken for a tablet when closed and features a minimalistic, durable finish that’s less prone to fingerprints.
• Display: The 13.6-inch screen offers a resolution of 2560 x 1664 pixels, providing exceptional brightness and clarity, with True Tone technology for accurate color reproduction.
• Battery Life: It excels in battery performance, capable of running for up to 15 hours on a single charge, making it ideal for those who need a reliable laptop for all-day use.
• Portability: Weighing just 2.7 pounds, it’s incredibly light and easy to carry around, it’s just perfect for on-the-go use without compromising the screen size or capabilities.

Price and Availability

The MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) starts at a more affordable $1,099, reflecting Apple’s strategy to offer greater value at a lower entry price point. For those who need more power, upgrading to a model with 16GB of RAM is advisable, though it will cost an additional $200. While not the cheapest in the market, its price-to-performance ratio makes it a compelling purchase. Additionally, keep an eye on discounts for the previous MacBook Air M2 model, which remains available starting at $999, with potential reductions bringing it down to $899 or less.

2. Best Value Laptop – Acer Aspire 5

Overview

If you’re seeking a laptop that offers both affordability and performance, the Acer Aspire 5 is an excellent choice for a laptop to buy in 2024. Known for its solid build and efficient operation under Windows 11, this laptop stands out in the budget category. It’s ideal for users who need a reliable laptop for everyday tasks like video editing, thanks to optional configurations that include a graphics card.

Key Features

• Performance: The Acer Aspire 5 delivers robust performance for its price point. Configurable with a graphics card, it handles video editing and other demanding applications smoothly.
• Design and Portability: This laptop is not only sturdy but also light enough to carry around comfortably, making it perfect for students and professionals alike.
• Display: It boasts a 1080p screen that provides clear and vibrant visuals, enhancing your viewing experience whether you’re working or streaming media.
• Connectivity: Equipped with a USB-C Thunderbolt 4 port, two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, Ethernet, and an HDMI port, it offers ample connectivity options for various peripherals.

Price and Availability

The Acer Aspire 5 is remarkably affordable, priced around $600 in the US and £500 in the UK. This price includes good performance and a high-quality design, making it a top contender for the best laptops to buy in 2024. Its availability in various configurations starting at less than $400 allows for further customization based on your specific needs and budget.

3. Best Windows Laptop – Dell XPS 15

Overview

The Dell XPS 15 is an exceptional choice for anyone seeking a Windows laptop that balances price, performance, and portability. Its sleek design and powerful gear make it a top contender for both everyday tasks and more demanding applications. With the latest 13th Gen Intel Core CPUs and Nvidia GeForce RTX 40-series laptop GPUs, this model offers a premium experience in a beautifully crafted package.

Key Features

• Performance: Equipped with the latest 13th Gen Intel processors and options for Nvidia GeForce RTX or Intel Arc graphics, the Dell XPS 15 delivers performance that suits for a wide range of tasks from professional creative work to casual gaming.
• Display: The optional 3.5K OLED touchscreen provides vibrant colors and deep blacks, making it perfect for both productivity and entertainment.
• Design and Portability: Maintaining its iconic slim profile, the XPS 15 is not only stylish but also easy to carry around, making it ideal for professionals on the move.
• Battery Life: While the high-end configurations can be power-hungry, the battery life remains competitive, with the laptop lasting about 9 to 12 hours depending on the tasks, which is sufficient for a full day’s work.

Price and Availability

The Dell XPS 15 is available in various configurations, allowing potential buyers to tailor the laptop to their specific needs and budget. Prices start at a premium, reflecting the high-quality components and build. For those looking to maximize their investment, watching for discounts on previous models can also provide additional value.

4. Best Chromebook – Acer Chromebook Spin 714

Overview

Chromebooks have carved a niche in the market as straightforward, family-friendly, and often more affordable alternatives to traditional laptops. They excel at everyday tasks, thanks to their lightweight ChromeOS, which doesn’t require high-end internal components to run smoothly. The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2023) stands out as the best overall Chromebook, offering an impressive blend of simplicity, portability, and speed. It’s not the cheapest on the market, but its performance justifies the investment.

Key Features

• Performance: The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 runs on a 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U CPU with 8GB of RAM, so it can take up the lots work load. You can have tons of Chrome tabs open and use demanding applications without any problems.
• Display: Although it sports only a Full HD panel, the 14-inch display is surrounded by ultra-thin bezels, enhancing visual engagement and providing a modern aesthetic. The screen offers vibrant colors, making it a joy to use for both work and entertainment.
• Design and Portability: The Chromebook Spin 714 boasts a sleek and lightweight design, making it easily portable. Its sturdy build ensures it can withstand daily use without compromising style..
• Keyboard and Usability: The keyboard offers excellent tactility with good travel, making typing an enjoyable experience. This model also supports a variety of input/output options, catering to different user needs.

Price and Availability

The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 is priced to reflect its high-end specifications and premium design. While it may be a bit pricier compared to other models, it remains competitive given its features and performance capabilities. For those interested in purchasing, it’s advisable to check the latest prices and availability online, as they can vary based on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.

5. Best Upgradable Laptop – Framework Laptop

Overview

When it comes to upgradability, the Framework Laptop stands out as a paragon of flexibility in the tech market. Dubbed the anti-MacBook, this laptop is meticulously designed to be effortlessly customizable, repairable, and upgradable. Its sleek, silver aluminum chassis may blend in at first glance, but its unique Framework gear logo and modular design set it apart, offering a practical solution for those who prioritize longevity and performance adaptability in their tech investments.

Key Features

• Modular Design: The Framework Laptop is celebrated for its modular design, allowing for easy access to most of its components. Unlike many modern laptops where parts are soldered, making upgrades and repairs nearly impossible, the Framework enables you to swap out components such as the mainboard, storage, RAM, and even the ports.
• Performance and Customization: Available with the latest 13th Gen Intel Core or AMD Ryzen 7040 mobile CPUs, it offers a range of configurations to suit varying needs. This flexibility extends to its RAM and storage, ensuring that the laptop can evolve with technological advancements or changing user requirements.
• Display and Build: It features a 13.5-inch display with a 3:2 aspect ratio,  resolution of 2256×1504 (2.2K), 100% sRGB color reproduction, and approximately 400 nits brightness. The build is lightweight yet robust, weighing just about 2.8 pounds and measuring a mere 0.6 inches in thickness.
• Battery Life: The Framework’s battery life is commendable, lasting up to 11 hours and 38 minutes on a single charge, which is competitive with other leading laptops in the market, making it an excellent choice for day-long productivity without the need for constant recharging.

Price and Availability

The Framework Laptop 13 is accessible in various purchasing options, starting at approximately $849 for the DIY versions that come with either Intel or AMD configurations. For those less inclined towards assembling their own device, pre-assembled versions are available starting at around $1,049. This pricing strategy not only makes it an affordable entry into the premium laptop market but also ensures that users can upgrade their systems without needing to purchase a new unit entirely, thereby offering a better long-term value.

6. Best for Battery Life – IdeaPad Slim 3i

Overview

In the quest for laptops that don’t tether you to the nearest power outlet, our selection shines with models capable of enduring long hours of use without recharging. Advances in processor efficiency, particularly with Intel’s 13th Generation Core and AMD’s Ryzen 7000 series, along with innovative designs in battery technology, have significantly extended the operational life of these devices. Whether for professional use or personal convenience, these laptops ensure that your productivity remains unhindered from morning to evening.

Key Features

• Extended Battery Performance: Most laptops on our list surpass the 15-hour mark on rigorous battery tests, with some models, like the Apple MacBook Air with the M3 chip, reaching up to 30 hours. This stamina is ideal for users who need dependable performance through long workdays and even during commutes or travel.
• Power Efficiency: The integration of power-efficient CPUs like Intel’s Meteor Lake and AMD’s Ryzen 7000, along with Apple’s M series chips, plays a pivotal role in enhancing battery longevity. These processors are not only robust in handling tasks but also meticulously designed to consume less power.
• Usage Versatility: Battery longevity varies with usage; our testing includes scenarios like continuous movie playback at moderate brightness to simulate day-to-day usage. For power-intensive tasks, adjustments in expected battery life should be considered.
• Design and Portability: Advances in design and technology have enabled even high-performance laptops with larger screens to maintain impressive battery life without adding bulk, making them perfect for on-the-go usage.

Price and Availability

The pricing of these long-lasting laptops varies, reflecting their advanced features and capabilities. For instance, the Apple MacBook Pro with the M3 Pro chip, known for over 30 hours of battery life, is positioned at a premium price point due to its high-end specifications. On the other hand, models like the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i Chromebook offer substantial battery life at a more budget-friendly cost, making it accessible to a broader audience. Availability might fluctuate based on demand and supply, and potential buyers are advised to check for updates and possible discounts from various retailers. We’ve made a detailed review about the Lenovo Ideapad, come check it out.

7. Best MacBook Air Alternative – HP Pavilion Plus 14

Overview

The HP Pavilion Plus 14 is heralded as the top MacBook Air alternative, striking an impressive balance between style, performance, and affordability. Nestled between the basic Pavilion and the more upscale Envy lines, the Pavilion Plus series offers a compelling mix of features at a price that’s hard to overlook. Its robust, all-metal enclosure and extended battery life make it a versatile choice for various settings including home, work, or educational environments.

Key Features

• Build and Design: Sporting a sleek, aluminum chassis, the Pavilion Plus 14 mirrors the MacBook Air’s aesthetic but stands out with its own unique appeal. This design not only looks good but also provides a sturdy frame that enhances the device’s durability.
• Performance: Users will find that the Pavilion Plus 14 does not skimp on performance. It allows a range of customization options, from Intel and AMD processors to discrete graphics and even an OLED display option, catering to both general and power-intensive applications.
• Battery Life: While it may not match the MacBook Air’s battery duration, the Pavilion Plus 14 still boasts a respectable 8-hour battery life, sufficient for most day-to-day activities without constant recharging.
• Display: The optional OLED screen is a recommended upgrade if budget permits, enhancing the visual experience with vibrant colors and deeper blacks, making it ideal for both productivity tasks and multimedia consumption.

Price and Availability

Starting at $850, the HP Pavilion Plus 14 is an affordable alternative to the MacBook Air. Opting for the OLED display increases the cost by approximately $100, but it’s a worthwhile investment for the quality it offers. HP frequently runs promotions, allowing for significant savings on upgraded configurations, potentially keeping the final price around the $1,000 mark. This pricing strategy makes the Pavilion Plus 14 a great option for those seeking a high-quality laptop without breaking the bank.

8. Best Dual-Screen Laptop – Asus Zenbook Duo

Overview

In the innovative realm of dual-screen laptops, the Asus Zenbook Duo stands out as a premier choice, especially for those who thrive on multitasking and require expansive screen real estate. This model is not just about doubling the display but enhancing productivity and user experience with its robust Intel Core Ultra performance and seamless integration of dual 14-inch 3K OLED screens.

Key Features

• Dual 14-inch 3K OLED Displays: The Asus Zenbook Duo features two vibrant OLED screens, making it an excellent device for professionals and creatives who need more visual workspace.
• Intel Core Ultra Processor: Equipped with a powerful Intel Core Ultra processor, this laptop handles all tasks swiftly, ensuring that both screens operate smoothly without any lag.
• Versatile Screen Usage: The dual-screen setup offers various modes such as the extended desktop mode, which allows you to manage multiple applications or windows simultaneously across the two screens.
• Portability and Design: Despite its dual-screen setup, the Zenbook Duo maintains a sleek and portable design, making it easy to carry without sacrificing screen size or quality.
• Enhanced Productivity Features: With tools like intuitive gesture controls and touch capabilities, the Zenbook Duo transforms the way users interact with their laptops, promoting efficiency and ease of use.

Price and Availability

The Asus Zenbook Duo is priced at $1,499, which is a competitive rate considering its advanced features and dual-screen functionality. It’s an investment for those who value productivity and technological innovation in a portable form. This model is available through various retailers, and potential buyers should look for the best deals or promotions that may arise.

Wrapping Up: Top Laptops to Buy in 2024

These recommendations go beyond just hardware specs. They touch on broader trends like increased mobility, the need for adaptable tech, and the enduring importance of value for money. As tech keeps advancing, it’s crucial to stay informed and critically evaluate how these developments affect personal or professional use. Whether you’re into the long battery life of the MacBook Air, the customizable nature of the Framework Laptop, or the productivity-boosting features of the Asus Zenbook Duo, our analysis is meant to help you make a purchase that not only meets your current needs but also meets with future demands.