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It's likely that any new laptop you purchase will get a lot of use — so you're going to want to find one that's long-lasting and equipped to handle your lifestyle, whether that be of a heavy gamer or a new student. But navigating the oversaturated laptop market can be tough.
To help you find the best laptop for your needs, the Good Housekeeping Institute's tech experts have tested and reviewed dozens of laptops in recent years, from the best laptops for kids as young as 6 to the best MacBooks, Windows and ChromeBooks for expert use.
Our top picks:
Our recent laptop tests have focused on portable laptops with a weight of less than three pounds, screen size from 10 to 13 inches, Wi-Fi connectivity and built-in webcams. From lightweight, durable picks that are great for commuting to ones powerful enough to serve as an alternative to a dedicated gaming console for anyone serious about video games, our list includes the best options for slipping into a laptop bag or upgrading your work-from-home experience, as well as laptops with the versatility to morph into a great tablet for you or your kids.
Head to the end of this guide to learn more about what to look for when picking out the best laptop for you and your family. Plus, check out our favorite mesh Wi-Fi systems and Wi-Fi routers if you're looking to upgrade your whole system.
Pros
- Fast processing and operating system
- Thin and lightweight
Cons
- Fanless configuration can get hotter than other picks with fans
There's something about the MacBook Air M2 that has everyone interested. With a super powerful M2 chip and thin, lightweight design, this laptop is easy to slip in your bag while on your way to work or school yet still is a powerhouse of a machine strong enough to get almost any task done. Plus, it's our favorite MacBook overall for a variety of reasons.
Apple's slim, lightweight Air is an impressive machine thanks to its M2 chip (with 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU, 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD) and superfast Ventura MacOS (which is the latest macOS operating system on the market offering the most features). We love this laptop for work and play, since it runs Apple's iWork productivity suite as well as creative apps like iMovie and Garage Band and entertainment apps like Apple Music and Apple TV.
The fanless design means it's quiet when operating, but can get a bit hotter than other laptops with fans. It also offers retina display and a great keyboard. The touch ID makes it easy to unlock the computer, and the battery life is impressive for working or streaming and the Magsafe charger keeps you from knocking the whole laptop to the ground when someone inevitably trips over the cord. It's also available in a 15-inch version, or you could snag the MacBook Air M1 for just under $1000.
Processor | Apple M1 or M2 chip (configurable) |
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RAM | 8 GB |
Storage | 256 - 512 GB (configurable) |
Pros
- Ample ports and a microSD to expand storage
- Affordable
- Long-lasting battery
Cons
- Less capability to work offline
For those who value both budget-friendly products and tech that can get the job done, this affordable laptop boots up quickly and is easy to use.
It's thin and lightweight — just 0.71 inches and 2.35 pounds — but packs in two USB-C ports for ultra-quick data transfer, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports and a microSD slot for extra storage. The Chrome OS runs all the Google apps, like Docs and Drive, and makes it simple to access your Google photos, so it is especially good for those that work or study in environments that use Google accounts and need quick and easy access to their Drive.
However, its reliance on this does mean that you won't be able to work as freely when offline as some of the other picks on this list. It includes an HDR camera, and our experts loved the long-lasting battery that can keep you going through hours of work or play.
Processor | 2.6 GHz celeron_n |
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RAM | 4 GB |
Storage | 32 GB Embedded MultiMediaCard |
Pros
- Lightweight
- Excellent battery life
Cons
- Limited ports
Our GH experts loved the display on the 13.4-inch screen of this Dell laptop: It makes great use of the available space. Our pros found that even the base model performed well, thanks to the 11th Generation Intel Core i5 processor.
The Windows 11 Home OS covers most Windows suite needs, but those with specific requirements can opt for Windows 11 Pro which Dell specifically recommends for business professionals. According to the brand, it offers more than enough battery life to get through the whole day on a single charge, and at .55 inches thick and 2.59 pounds, it's portable enough to slip into any sized bag and tote around to the office or school.
The computer includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a micro-SD card slot and a headset port which is a bit more limited than some other options on this list.
Processor | 11th Generation Intel Core i7 |
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RAM | 8 - 16 GB (configurable) |
Storage | 512 GB - 1 TB SSD (configurable) |
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Pros
- 14-inch full HD touchscreen
- Video feed is shut off with privacy shutter when not in use
Cons
- Limited to Chrome-friendly software
This HP laptop has a 14-inch anti-glare 1920 x 1080 touchscreen, which means you can interact in full HD with all the Android apps that you can access through the Google Chrome OS.
Google's operating system provides consistent updates to protect from malware, and this device includes a privacy shutter that covers your camera when it's not in use for added protection. However, since you are using Chrome, users are limited to only accessing Chrome-friendly software on this laptop.
HP claims up to 10 hours and 45 minutes of battery life between charges so you won't have to tote around your charger to every coffee shop, classroom or other destination you go to. The machine also includes an impressive number of ports so you can connect devices and drives as needed: two USB-A and two USB-C ports, a HDMI input, a MicroSD reader and a headphone jack.
Processor | 2.4 GHz athlon |
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RAM | 4 GB |
Storage | 64 GB |
Pros
- Quad Bang & Olufsen speakers
- Full HD touch screen
Cons
- Stylus does not attach to laptop
No matter what you need to get done on your laptop, this HP has the tools to help you do it. From an HP Active Stylus Pen that lets you note, mark and draw in laptop mode or with the top flipped around for tent mode, to the web cam kill switch and a mic mute key (nice features for the Zoom era), it will feel like this computer has thought of everything to keep your work day moving as smoothly as possible.
If you are a video editor or music producer, you'll also seriously appreciate the sound quality of the HP Spectre x360 whether you're editing your songs or streaming an epic movie in your free time. HP reports that it had the sound experts at Bang & Olufsen tune the quad speakers on this slim laptop. It also features a 13.3-inch full HD touch screen.
The Intel Core i7 processor helps you access files quickly, and the Windows 10 Pro OS is well suited for productivity. We only wish the stylus was attached to the laptop so you wouldn't have to worry about losing it when not in use.
Processor | Intel Core i7 |
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RAM | 16 GB |
Storage | 512 GB SSD |
Pros
- Very thin and lightweight
- Includes multiple ports
Cons
- Fan can get loud
Thin, lightweight and powerful, and with a price tag under $1,000, this computer packs a punch without putting a strain on your wallet. It's a mere 0.5 inches (13.9 mm) thick and weighs just 2.45 pounds.
But Asus has still packed in the ports to give you flexibility: It has USB-A, two USB-C ports, a full HDMI port and a microSD card reader. It runs Windows 10 Pro and has an Intel Core i7 processor for fast multitasking work. Asus claims up to 16 hours of battery life, which keeps you productive or lets you enjoy streaming.
While testing similar models by the brand, our experts liked that the ZenBooks by ASUS had a wonderful battery life that lasted particularly long. They also appreciated the unique additional features that made it that much better to use, like the touchpad integrated with a number keypad and elevated typing position to make working long hours more comfortable.
Processor | 10th Generation Intel Core i7 |
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RAM | 8 GB |
Storage | 512 GB |
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Pros
- Blazing-fast performance
- Touch bar adds functionality based on which program you're using
Cons
- Needs adapters for non-thunderbolt externals
MacBook pros are a great option for both older students and hardworking professionals looking to get a sleek, powerful laptop for their everyday needs. The previous model of the Macbook Pro was among the top performers on GPU and CPU capabilities and scored among the best on overall performance, and the 2022 edition ups the ante even further.
The new model features Apple's new M2 chip, which is claimed to be 1.4x faster than the M1 in the 2020 Macbook Pro. This kind of power will be much-loved by professionals across industries as it cuts render and processing times significantly.
The much beloved touch bar makes a return on the new model, adapting to the program you're running and allowing for quick, powerful interactions, like scrubbing through movies and songs or playing a virtual piano. Just like older models, this one features only two thunderbolt ports and a 3.5mm headphone jack, so you may find yourself needing some extra dongles to connect any externals to the machine.
Processor | Apple M2 Chip |
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RAM | 8 - 16 GB (configurable) |
Storage | 256 GB - 1 TB SSD (configurable) |
Pros
- Very lightweight and portable
- Cover can be used as a stand
Cons
- Only a single USB-C port
Use this lightweight, 2-in-1 Chromebook as a standalone 10-inch tablet or with the keyboard as a laptop. It weighs less than a pound without the cover or keyboard and just over two pounds with both, so it’s super portable.
The Chrome OS runs all the Google standards — Google Docs, Drive and Keep, plus Google Play Movies, Music and Store — as well as productivity apps like Microsoft Word and Excel. It starts quickly and has 4GB of memory and up to 128 GB eMMC. The cover can adjust to 135º, so you can use it as a stand for the screen when typing on the keyboard or watching video, and you can also work and browse in handheld tablet mode.
Processor | MediaTek Helio P60T |
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RAM | 4 GB |
Storage | 64 GB eMMC |
Pros
- 17-inch screen
- Slim and lightweight
Cons
- Pricey
The 2022 Gram takes what we loved most about its predecessor — a massive high-res 17-inch screen in a lightweight package — and packs in even more computing power. The large, vibrant display and easy-to-carry chassis makes this laptop perfect for college students. Our experts particularly liked the style and feel of this laptop while testing, and appreciated how lightweight and comfortable it was.
Upgraded with a 12th generation Intel i7 processor and an Intel Iris Plus graphics coprocessor, it won't get bogged down running even the most processor-intensive software (think: photo and movie editing, music creation, complex coding). Fixed with two USB-C ports, two USB-A 3.2 ports, an HDMI port and a 3.5mm audio jack, stuffing the right adapter cable in your bag is one less thing you'll have to worry about.
Durability is another reason we love it for college students. Passing several military-standard tests (MIL-STD-810) from temperature to dust to transportation shock, this laptop won't fail even the most clumsy.
Processor | 12th Generation Intel Core i7 |
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RAM | 16 GB |
Storage | 1 TB |
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Pros
- Long battery life
- Compact but with a touchscreen and full keyboard
Cons
- Screen resolution is not super crisp
Students will appreciate that this laptop can get through an entire day of school with a single battery charge — our experts got more than 10 hours of battery life in Lab tests. At under 2.5 pounds, it's totable while still offering a full-size keyboard and a 12.4-inch interactive touchscreen with a 3:2 aspect ratio (which means it's a taller screen for more rows of text or more cells in spreadsheet). It has a 720 HD camera for video chats or Zoom classes. All models feature an Intel Core i5 processor and Intel UHD graphics; choices range from 64GB to 256GB of storage.
Processor | 8th Gen Intel Core m3 |
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RAM | 4 - 8 GB (configurable) |
Storage | 64 GB eMMC Drive and 128 GB SSD |
Pros
- Top of the line graphics
- Powerful processing and cooling
Cons
- Short battery life
Dive into an otherworldly experience with this impressive HP laptop that will have users forgetting they aren't actually inside the games they play. Alienware has come to be synonymous with performance for many gamers, and their X17 is definitely worthy of that designation.
The 17-inch screen pairs perfectly with the dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti coprocessor to render even the most graphics-heavy games beautifully. The laptop's 12th generation Intel Core i9 processor and whopping 32GB of RAM makes for running multiple programs (like streaming while playing the latest gaming craze) seamless. The laptop also features a myriad of ports on the back rim, from USB-A to USB-C to microSD to ethernet so you won't have to drive yourself crazy looking for that one connector dongle.
The only drawback to this powerhouse is one shared by many gaming laptops: battery life. Although there's no specification from the manufacturer about exactly how long it is, it's a safe bet to assume you'll likely get around two to four hours based on previous models.
Processor | 12th Gen Intel Core i7 |
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RAM | 32 GB (16 GB, 2 x 8 GB) |
Storage | 512 GB SSD |
Pros
- Long battery life
- Secure Chrome operating system
Cons
- Limited to Chrome-friendly software
Those that travel for business will appreciate this lightweight pick with a powerful battery life. This was our experts' pick for travelers thanks to up to 12 hours of battery life and the ability to get two hours of life from just 20 minutes of charging.
In addition, the ridges on the textured bottom make it easy to grab and go. The 8th Gen Intel Core processor makes it quick and responsive, and the 13.3-inch screen with full HD resolution is good for working, streaming and video calls. It has two USB-C port, and runs ChromeOS, which is designed to be secure — handy when on the road. It's great for slipping in your carry-on bag and bringing with you wherever you go.
Aside from the speedy charge time and hefty battery life, we appreciate that this laptop features a touch screen and 1080p camera. Since it's Google, it is however limited to Chrome-friendly software.
Processor | Intel Core m3, i5, or i7 (configurable) |
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RAM | 8 - 16 GB (configurable |
Storage | 64 - 256 GB SSD (configurable) |
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Pros
- Rugged and durable
- Loaded with content that does not require Internet access
Cons
- A bit heavier than similar computers
A great first laptop, the 10.1-inch Android 10 tablet is a 2-in-1 device with a detachable ergonomic keyboard. It's durable, budget-friendly and compatible with all the necessary kid-friendly apps for early schooling like Zoom, Google Docs and Sheets, Gmail and more.
We appreciate that it also comes pre-loaded with a lot of educational content and apps designed for kids ages 6 through 12 — no internet required so you don't fret if you step out of a Wi-Fi zone. It's drop- and splash-proof, and it has a built-in Webcam privacy cover that you can use to physically block the camera. It has 32 GB of storage and 1280 x 800 screen resolution.
We did find it to be a bit on the heavier side, especially for a 2-in-1 tablet, but rugged enough to be worth the extra ounces.
Processor | MediaTek |
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RAM | 2 GB |
Storage | 32 GB |
How we test the best laptops
Our picks are a combination of top-performing models from previous tests, road tests of the updated versions and new-to-market products from reliable brands we love. In the last six months, our experts have personally tested about 15 different laptops.
When our experts assess machines, we test the CPU and GPU capabilities, file transfer speeds and running temperature, as well as start-up, program start and turn off times. We assess audio quality and volume-to-screen and weight-to-screen ratios, plus viewing angles. Our analysts also evaluate battery life (most of our picks provide at least 10 hours of battery life based on our tests) and consider customer support options.
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What to look for when shopping for a laptop
✔️ Operating system (OS): To gauge what operating system is right for you, consider which applications and software you'll need as well as what OS your existing devices are on:
- Apple's iOS is great for those invested in the Apple ecosystem (iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, etc.).
- Windows is useful for professionals who frequently need the Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
- Chromebooks can be a smart choice if you’re predominantly doing web-based tasks (streaming, using Google Docs, etc.). They generally can't run advanced apps, but tend to be affordable.
✔️ Speed: This refers to processor speed. Intel and AMD are the two most common brands for CPUs (central processing unit). We recommend at least two core processors for your machine to run efficiently and quickly; four or more is even better if you can afford it. As a handy guide: The speedier and more powerful processors have higher numbers and are generally more expensive. For example, the Intel Core i3 is the least powerful in the lineup, followed by Core i5 and Core i7 and then the more robust Core i9. A Core i3 will likely only be found in budget-minded devices for kids or families; a Core i5 or i7 will be adequate for most users.
✔️ Storage space: Aim for a minimum of 64 GB SSD. SSD is the acronym for solid state drive. (Previous hard drives used spinning plates, which were prone to damage over time or from dropping or jostling the computer. Solid state drives are, as expected, solid, so they're more secure.) They're also smaller, which helps with weight, and faster, so you can access your data more quickly.
✔️ Webcam: This feature might have been an afterthought in the past, but a quality built-in webcam has gained importance with Zoom meetings and online classes. Look for a camera that features at least 720p video capture, though 1080p is preferable — and a 4k webcam offers even better resolution. Beyond better quality in general, the higher the resolution, the more you'll be able to crop into a frame and still keep it sharp.
✔️ Screen resolution: Today's laptop screens are very impressive. If your budget will allow it, opt for full HD (1920 x 1080), which is helpful for streaming media, gaming and business collaboration tools. Unless you're getting a super small screen (like for a young child), you will really appreciate full HD.
✔️ Battery life: Manufacturers can measure battery life differently, so the comparison is not always apples to apples when shopping. You can use the company's claims as a guide, but check to see what conditions it states the battery life was tested under. And don't be shocked if you don't get quite as much longevity, particularly if you use a lot of powerful programs or run a lot of programs at once. Ideally you want a battery that can handle more than 10 hours of multitasking use before needing to be plugged in.
✔️ Screen size: Screen size generally ranges from 11 inches to 17 inches. Younger kids are probably better off with the smaller 11- to 12-inch displays. Laptops under 14 inches are considered more portable (and are often lighter and more compact in general). But if the laptop will mostly live on your desk or you're doing, say, video editing, 15 inches or larger is recommended.
✔️ Connectivity: Make sure the computer can connect over Wi-Fi and has at least one USB-C port and a 3.5 mm jack for headphones.
✔️ Customer support: Consider what options you'll have when you need help with your computer. Does the manufacturer offer a hotline or chat? Are you near an Apple store? Do the repair shops in your area have expertise with your model?
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Nikolas Greenwald has a vast and varied background in computing. In 2016 he was named an Intel Science Talent Search Semifinalist for his work in the computer engineering domain, and has continued to tackle tough problems with computing and scientific methodology. In his role as test engineer, Alec Scherma brings all his mechanical engineering knowledge to help rigorously test new products like laptops.
Rachel Rothman is the chief technologist and head engineer at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she has worked for 14 years. She has a B.S.E. in mechanical engineering and applied mechanics with a mathematics minor from the University of Pennsylvania. She leads efforts for the constant evolution of GH’s technical and testing protocols and has tested just about every tech item out there, including laptops.
To write this guide, GH Institute analyst Jamie Spain worked with Nikolas, Alec and Rachel to research and vet the the best laptops on the market.
Rachel Rothman
Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years, overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems.
Jamie Spain
Parenting & Pets Reviews Analyst
Jamie (she/her) is a parenting and pets reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she spends her time testing, researching and writing about pet and family products. Prior to starting at GH in 2021, she worked at BuzzFeed and People, covering a combination of product reviews and lifestyle content. She's a graduate of Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and psychology and a master’s degree in journalism.
Tested byAlec Scherma
Test Engineer
Alec Scherma (he/him) is the Good Housekeeping Institute’s test engineer, where he helps to create and implement new product testing methodology across home, cooking and cleaning appliances, wellness, tech products and more. He graduated from Drexel University’s College of Engineering with a B.A. in mechanical engineering.
Tested byNikolas Greenwald
Data Engineer
As a data engineer in the Good Housekeeping Institute, Nik (he/him) works with all of our Labs to develop testing protocols and manage data collection and analysis. Before joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Nik worked in the labs of MIT and Regeneron, working on projects ranging from chemical inventory and reporting to the development of bioassays. He holds a degree in chemical engineering from Northeastern University.