Best laptops 2023
Best laptops 2023
The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Laptop: Choosing the Perfect Device for Your Needs
Are you in the market for a new laptop? With so many brands and configurations available, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. And let’s not forget about the rising prices due to inflation. But fear not, because there’s good news – companies are constantly releasing new laptops, offering a wide range of models to suit every budget and requirement. We’ve made it easier for you to find the best laptop for your needs.
What to Consider Before Buying a Laptop
Price
Before diving into the details, it’s important to consider your budget. While top-of-the-line laptops can cost around $1,800 to $2,000, you can still find a good system under $1,000. The $600 to $800 range offers respectable options, although they may come with older processors and dimmer screens. We’ve included our favorite budget-friendly model in this roundup, but also have a list of more affordable laptop picks for you to explore.
Operating System: Apple, Windows, or Chrome OS
Once you’ve determined your budget, the next step is to decide on the operating system. If you’re an Apple fan, the decision is slightly easier now that the company has introduced its M-series chips across its entire lineup. For Windows users, the shift to ARM-based chips has had some challenges, so it’s safer to stick with an Intel or AMD processor for now. Chrome OS is another popular option, especially if you primarily work in a browser.
Connectivity
While shopping for laptops, it’s worth considering the connectivity options. Some models have done away with headphone jacks, so be sure to check for all the connectors you need. Most laptops now offer WiFi 6 or 6E and Bluetooth 5.0 or later, providing faster and more stable connections. Additionally, as 5G coverage improves, consider if you need support for it based on your travel needs.
Display Size
Think about where you’ll be taking your laptop to help determine the screen size. If portability is a priority, a 12- or 13-inch model will be more suitable. For those seeking more powerful processors and larger displays, 15- or 16-inch versions are ideal. Many companies now offer 14-inch machines, striking a balance between ultraportability and larger screens.
Best Laptop Overall: MacBook Air M2
As a Windows user, it’s not easy for me to name an Apple MacBook as the best overall laptop. However, I can’t deny the significant improvements Apple has made with its own Silicon. The latest MacBook Air M2 is a worthy successor to the M1, bringing a fresh design and improved performance.
The M1 was already impressive in terms of speed, and the M2 takes it a step further. It may be more than what a MacBook Air needs, but that means it can handle most tasks with ease. Additionally, its impressive 16.5-hour battery life ensures you can work all day and more on a single charge.
Apple has also refined the design of the MacBook Air M2, opting for a uniformly thin approach and a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display. The quad-speaker setup and other hardware changes make this machine look and feel different from its predecessor. If you prefer a larger screen, consider the 15-inch MacBook Air M2, which offers the same features but with extra screen real estate.
Best Windows Laptop: Dell XPS 13 Plus
For those who prefer a Windows laptop, the Dell XPS 13 Plus is the top pick. Renowned for its well-rounded performance, the XPS 13 offers a stunning OLED display with thin bezels, a comfortable keyboard, and a minimalist design.
The XPS 13 Plus boasts the 12th-gen Intel Core processors, ensuring a significant performance boost compared to its predecessor. If you’re unsure about the changes in the latest model or if you require a headphone jack, the older generations of the XPS 13, Samsung Galaxy Book 2 Pro series, or Microsoft’s Surface Laptops are solid options.
Best Gaming Laptop: Razer Blade 15
For gamers, a high-quality build, responsive screen, and ample port options are essential. The Razer Blade 15 ticks all those boxes and more. Featuring a quad HD screen with a 240Hz refresh rate, 13th-gen Intel processors, and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40-series graphics, it offers an exceptional gaming experience.
If you’re on a budget, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 is worth considering. While the 2022 refresh is slightly more expensive, it still delivers solid gaming performance with an excellent display and plenty of ports.
Best Chromebook: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook
Our favorite Chromebook is the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook. Priced at around $400, this laptop offers great value for money. It comes with a 13-inch Full HD touchscreen, a comfortable keyboard, an Intel Core i3 processor, and 4GB of RAM. With its versatility and support for Android apps, it serves as an excellent browser-based machine for those on a tight budget.
Best Budget Laptop: HP Pavilion Aero 13
If you’re looking for an affordable laptop under $800, the HP Pavilion Aero 13 is your best bet. Offering a Full HD screen with thin bezels, a comfortable keyboard, and powerful AMD Ryzen 5000 series processors, it outperforms others in its price range. With a generous array of ports and all-day battery life, it provides excellent value for money.
Best Convertible Laptop: Microsoft Surface Pro 9
For those seeking a laptop that can also function as a tablet, the Microsoft Surface Pro series is the ultimate choice. The latest model, Surface Pro 9, offers impressive versatility and performance. However, it’s crucial to opt for the Intel version rather than the ARM model for the best experience. With its slim design, gorgeous display, and a range of accessories like the Type Cover and Slim Pen 2, the Surface Pro 9 is a top contender in the 2-in-1 laptop category.
Choosing the perfect laptop can be daunting, but with our comprehensive guide, you’ll have a clearer picture of what to consider and which models are worth exploring. Whether you’re a Mac enthusiast, a Windows user, or a Chrome OS lover, there’s a laptop out there that will meet your needs and budget.
