In today's fast-paced world, having a reliable and efficient laptop is essential for maximizing productivity. Whether you're a student, a content creator, or a hardcore gamer, finding the perfect laptop that suits your needs can greatly impact your daily tasks. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why we have compiled a comprehensive list of the best laptops for every category, including productivity, budget, gaming, and more. From the sleek and powerful MacBook Pro to the versatile and affordable Acer Aspire 5, we have narrowed down the top contenders that will surely elevate your computing experience. Read on to discover the best laptops of the year that will meet your specific requirements and take your digital journey to new heights.
MacBook Pro (14-inch and 16-inch)
The top choice for creatorsProcessor: M1 Pro, M1 Max / Graphics: M1 Pro, M1 Max / Memory: 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 96GB / Storage: 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, 8TB / Display: 14.2/16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR, 3024 x 1964/3456 x 2234, adaptable refresh rate up to 120Hz, no touch option / Dimensions: 12.31 x 8.71 x 0.61/14.01 x 9.77 x 0.66 inches / Weight: 3.5/4.7 pounds (M2 Pro), 3.6/4.8 pounds (M2 Max)Featuring both the 2021 MacBook Pro models (with the M1 Pro and M1 Max chips) and the 2023 MacBook Pro models (with the M2 Pro and M2 Max chips) on this list can be a bit confusing. The 2023 models are more powerful devices — but because of their high price, they’re also more niche devices, and we primarily recommend them to professionals who require maximum power. We believe the 2021 models, which now have lower prices, are better choices for a wider audience. That’s why they are ranked higher on this list.
In our performance tests, which cover various creative tasks such as encoding, playback, and export speed, the MacBook Pro 16 outperformed any laptop we have ever used — only high-end desktop PCs have come close to matching its performance in some of our tests. The battery life is also outstanding. The 16-inch configuration with the M1 Pro processor lasted 16 hours in our testing — making it the longest-lasting laptop we have ever reviewed. (The M1 Max configuration doesn’t last quite as long, but still provides a full day of work.)
Elsewhere, we have no significant complaints about the 2021 MacBook Pro. It boasts a stunning display that reaches 1,000 nits of brightness when playing HDR content. It is also equipped with the best laptop speakers we have ever heard. Additionally, these Pro models can connect to multiple external displays, while the Air is limited to just one.
If you need a machine that can handle demanding workloads while providing excellent multimedia capabilities during your free time, you will likely be satisfied with the performance of the M1 Pro and M1 Max chips.
If you are a creative professional who does not want to pay the price of the MacBook Pro 16, or if you are looking for a more compact option, the 14-inch MacBook Pro is a better choice. It is smaller, lighter, and more affordable than its 16-inch counterpart, but it offers the same powerful processor options and exceptional screen quality.
We did not observe significant differences in benchmark scores between the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBooks with the same processors — in fact, the 14-inch model even outperformed the 16-inch model in some tests. The primary difference to consider, besides the size, is battery life. The 16-inch model accommodates a significantly larger battery, resulting in several additional hours of usage compared to the 14-inch model with the same processor.
HP Spectre x360 14
The top Windows laptopProcessor: Intel Core i5 1235U, Core i7 1255U, Core i7-1355U / Graphics: Intel UHD, Iris Xe / Memory: 8GB, 16GB / Storage: 512GB, 1TB / Display: 13.5-inch IPS, 60Hz, 1920 x 1280/OLED, 3000 x 2000, touch option / Dimensions: 11.75 x 8.67 x 0.67 inches / Weight: 3.01 poundsIt is challenging to find any faults with the Spectre x360 14. It is an incredibly attractive machine with a durable build and a premium appearance.
However, the Spectre x360 14 is not just visually appealing; it is also a joy to use as a daily work device. Intel's latest 11th Gen processors and Iris Xe integrated graphics deliver fast performance without any noticeable slowdowns or freezes. Furthermore, the device provides an average of 10 hours of battery life, which is one of the best results we have ever seen.
The HP Spectre x360 14 is one of the best convertible laptops available.Photo by Monica Chin / The Verge
On the outside, the Spectre x360 features a spacious 3:2 display, and if the FHD resolution is not to your liking, there are also OLED and 1,000-nit options available. Additionally, a stylus is included, and it can be conveniently attached to the side of the Spectre thanks to its magnetic design. From its comfortable keyboard and smooth touchpad to its bass-rich audio and practical selection of ports, this laptop excels in almost every aspect, surpassing many other top convertibles on the market.
While this laptop offers an exceptional range of features, it may be more than some customers require. However, if you are willing to invest in a high-quality device, the Spectre x360 14 is the benchmark for Windows convertibles. Overall, it is the finest Windows laptop available.
Asus Zenbook Pro Duo 14
The top dual-screen laptopProcessor: Intel Core i9-13900H / Graphics: Nvidia Geforce RTX 4050, RTX 4060 / Memory: 32GB / Storage: 512GB, 1TB, 2TB / Display: 14.5-inch OLED, 2880 x 1800, 120Hz 12.7-inch IPS, 2880 x 864, 60Hz, touch option / Dimensions: 12.74 x 8.85 x 0.7 inches/ Weight: 3.86 poundsFinally, we have a dual-screen laptop that we can genuinely recommend. In the past, the dual-screen form factor has often felt gimmicky, difficult to see, and challenging to use. However, Asus has significantly improved the concept with the Zenbook Duo 14. The screen has been raised, offering a higher resolution, and features an anti-glare etching that greatly enhances its usability.
The Asus Zenbook Pro Duo 14 OLED boasts not one, but two high-resolution screens.Photo by Monica Chin / The Verge
By utilizing Asus's ScreenXpert software, Zenbook Pro Duo users essentially have a small, sharp secondary OLED monitor integrated into their keyboard deck. This second screen can also be used as a massive touchpad, which is particularly useful since the laptop's actual touchpad is relatively small. In addition to its impressive screen setup, the device is equipped with high-performance chips from both Intel and Nvidia, as well as a spacious 16:10 primary display. While the keyboard-in-the-front layout may not appeal to everyone, this innovative device is the ideal choice for consumers seeking a multi-screen experience in one device.
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
The top gaming laptopAsus Chromebook Flip CX5
The top 15-inch ChromebookProcessor: Intel Core i5-1135G7 / Graphics: Intel Iris Xe / Memory: 16GB / Storage: 128GB / Display: 15.6-inch IPS, 1920 x 1080, 60Hz / Dimensions: 14.08 x 9.48 x 0.73/ Weight: 4.3 poundsAsus has pleasantly surprised us with the Chromebook Flip CX5, an exquisite 0 laptop running on Chrome OS. It provides the same level of sturdiness and build quality as many higher-priced Windows laptops, and features a unique smooth texture. It delivers outstanding performance thanks to its fully-fledged laptop specifications, including a 57Wh battery, which ensures speedy performance, long battery life, and quick charging.
The Acer Chromebook Flip CX5 is a large, powerful Chromebook.Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales
With a variety of ports at your disposal, including HDMI and a microSD slot, excellent audio quality from the speakers, and a comfortable keyboard, this device checks off all the essential features. It embodies a robust chassis and offers impressive performance — making it an excellent choice for users in need of a Chromebook with a larger screen.
Dell XPS 13
The top laptop for college studentsAsus Zenbook S 13 OLED
The top OLED laptopProcessor: Intel Core i7-1355U / Graphics: Intel Iris Xe / Memory: 32GB / Storage: 1TB / Display: 13.3-inch OLED, 2880 x 1800, 60Hz, no touch option / Dimensions: 11.66 x 8.52 x 0.43 inches / Weight: 2.2 poundsIf your primary concern is a lightweight laptop with an exceptional screen, the Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED is the perfect choice. Powered by Intel's latest 13th-Gen processors, this astonishingly lightweight device features a sleek and unique design. The lid is resistant to fingerprints, which is a rare feature for dark laptops.
In addition to its compact form, the Zenbook S 13 offers a solid selection of ports, including HDMI 2.1, USB-A, and multiple Thunderbolt ports. The OLED display is both sharp and spacious, providing an impressive visual experience.
The Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED is the finest laptop featuring a 13-inch OLED screen.Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge
Based on our testing, the Intel processor in this model handled multitasking with ease. It can get a bit loud during more demanding tasks like gaming, but its built-in Whisper Mode keeps it quiet during everyday productivity work (which is the type of workload this device is best suited for).
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3
The top laptop under $400Processor: Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 / Graphics: Qualcomm Adreno graphics/ Memory: 4GB, 8GB / Storage: 128GB / Display: 10.95-inch IPS, 2000 x 1200, 60Hz, touch option / Dimensions: 10.16 x 6.48 x 0.31 inches / Weight: 1.14 poundsThe Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 is an excellent option for budget-conscious shoppers. It includes a detachable magnetic keyboard that is easy to attach and remove. The screen also supports USI styluses (although a stylus is not included with the laptop). Ultimately, the keyboard is included in the price, as is the magnetic back cover and kickstand.
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 is a great option for anyone on a tight budget.Photo by Monica Chin / The Verge
For day-to-day tasks, this laptop is quite capable and user-friendly. It features a sharp and vibrant 11-inch screen, a surprisingly comfortable keyboard, and touchpad, as well as close to all-day battery life. The real advantage of this device is its portability — when the keyboard is attached, it weighs just 2.09 pounds, making it extremely convenient for on-the-go use.
Razer Blade 16
The top laptop for AAA gamingAsus ROG Flow Z13
The top laptop for gaming on the goProcessor: Intel Core i9-13900H / Graphics: Nvidia Geforce RTX 4050, RTX 4060 / Memory: 8GB / Storage: 1TB / Display: 13.4-inch IPS, 2560 x 1600, 165Hz, touch option / Dimensions: 11.89 x 8.11 x 0.51 inches / Weight: 2.6 poundsThe ROG Flow Z13 is a gaming laptop like no other. It defies the typical laptop design by functioning as both a tablet and a laptop with its detachable keyboard and built-in kickstand. However, it still possesses the power necessary to handle demanding titles at its native QHD resolution. Additionally, it is compatible with Asus's XG Mobile external GPU, which allows for even higher performance when connected at home or in the office.
The Asus ROG Flow Z13 is a lightweight laptop ideal for portable gaming.Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge
We also reviewed the Flow Z13 ACRNM variant, which features a distinctive and innovative design created in collaboration with the apparel brand Acronym. While this specific model does not have to be purchased (and the standard version is more affordable), it stands out with its logos and typography, and its colorful keyboard is reminiscent of a fashion show. If you desire a laptop that will catch everyone's attention, this is the one for you.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 - Best productivity laptop
ThinkPads are widely recognized as exceptional business laptops due to their comfortable keyboards and silent operation. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 embodies these qualities, featuring a quiet keyboard, advanced security features, and impressive audio capabilities. It is equipped with a quad-core Core i7-1185G7, 16GB of RAM, and integrated Iris Xe graphics, making it capable of handling a variety of multitasking scenarios and productivity applications. However, the highlight of this laptop is its 16:10 display, which provides ample workspace. If you consider yourself a business professional, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 is a must-buy. Read our comprehensive Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 review
Acer Aspire 5 - Best budget laptop
The Acer Aspire 5 is an excellent budget option for most people, offering an affordable price, decent performance, and a sturdy build. Although its color scheme may not be the most exciting, the laptop's construction feels solid and durable. The keyboard layout is comfortable and spacious, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. While its performance is suitable for general tasks like writing emails and browsing the web, it may struggle with more demanding applications. If you are searching for a dependable everyday laptop that offers excellent value for money, the Aspire 5 is worth considering.Alternatively, you can check out our review of the Acer Aspire 5 (2022 edition) for the latest updated version of this laptop. However, we did not find the upgrades, as well as the price increase, to justify replacing our original best budget pick.
Read our complete Acer Aspire 5 review
Dell XPS 13 Plus - Best ultraportable
The Dell XPS 13 is not only an exceptional ultraportable, but it also offers top-notch performance and a stunning OLED panel. With its 14-core Intel Core i7-1280P CPU, it delivers impressive processing power. It is perfectly capable of handling general tasks as well as photo editing. The device is also equipped with Intel Xe graphics, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. Although it boasts a 13.4-inch display, the OLED touchscreen is simply breathtaking. With a resolution of 3456×2160, it offers a sharp and vibrant picture. Unfortunately, due to its compact design, it lacks some connectivity options, and the battery life is only average. However, if you can overlook these limitations, the Dell XPS 13 Plus is a solid choice for those in need of a portable laptop.
Read our extensive Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320 review
Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 8 - Best 2-in-1
Lenovo has consistently produced exceptional 2-in-1 laptops, and the latest Gen 8 version of the Yoga 9i is no exception. In addition to being one of our favorite convertibles, the Yoga 9i surpasses the high bar set by previous models. It is equipped with a 13th-gen Intel Core i7 processor, Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics, 16GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 512GB SSD, providing robust performance. Furthermore, the laptop features a sleek design, measuring just over half an inch thick and weighing approximately 3 pounds. To top it off, it boasts a 1080p webcam and a superb 2880x1880p OLED touchscreen display.While it may be slightly more expensive than previous Yoga models, the Yoga 9i offers exceptional performance and features that make it a great investment. If you are in the market for a 2-in-1, the Yoga 9i should be at the top of your list.
Read our comprehensive Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 8 review
Razer Blade 17 (2022) - Best gaming laptop
The Razer Blade 17 (2022) is a dream come true for avid gamers. This powerful laptop features a stunning 240Hz display and an extensive selection of ports, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports. Thanks to its Intel 12th-gen i7 CPU and GeForce RTX 3080 Ti GPU, it delivers excellent gaming performance. However, be prepared to pay a premium, as it comes with a hefty price tag. If you are willing to invest, the Blade 17 is an outstanding choice. For those on a tighter budget, consider taking a look at the ASUS VivoBook Pro 15 OLED, which is our top pick for the best budget gaming laptop. Read our detailed Razer Blade 17 (2022) review
MSI Titan GT77 HX 13V - Best premium gaming laptop
The MSI Titan GT77 HX 13V is the ultimate gaming laptop in terms of sheer performance. It offers everything you could possibly want in a gaming rig, including the latest gen Core i9 processor, a powerful RTX 4090 graphics card, 64GB of DDR5 RAM, and a lightning-fast 2TB PCIe Gen5 M.2 SSD. Moreover, it features a gorgeous 4K IPS Mini-LED display with a 144Hz refresh rate. Additionally, it offers an array of connectivity options and a fantastic Steelseries mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX switches built-in. While the 720p webcam is mediocre and the battery life is short during power-hungry gaming or intense workloads, these downsides are negligible when considering the high-end hardware this laptop boasts. However, such high-performance hardware comes at a premium, making this laptop impractical for most people. If you are willing to spend a significant amount for top-tier performance, there is currently no alternative that can match the MSI Titan.
Read our thorough MSI Titan GT77 HX 13V review
ASUS VivoBook Pro 15 OLED Ultra Slim Laptop - Best budget gaming laptop
If you are in search of an affordable budget gaming laptop, the ASUS VivoBook Pro 15 OLED is an excellent choice. Our testing revealed that this laptop performs well in gaming, streaming, and day-to-day productivity tasks. Thanks to the AMD Ryzen 7 5800H CPU and the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 (4GB GDDR6) GPU, we achieved a consistent 60 frames-per-second at 1080p on high graphics settings during the Shadow of the Tomb Raider benchmark. Plus, the OLED display is absolutely stunning, and the battery life is surprisingly good. Although the overall design is somewhat plain, and the port selection is limited, if you value reliable performance on a gorgeous OLED screen, the VivoBook Pro 15 is the laptop for you. If you are willing to forgo the lush OLED visuals for increased graphics performance, take a look at the Acer Swift X, our second choice for the best budget gaming laptop. Read our detailed ASUS VivoBook Pro 15 OLED Ultra Slim Laptop review
Asus ROG Strix G18 - Best 18-inch gaming laptop
If you desire a laptop with a massive 18-inch screen, the Asus ROG Strix G18 is the perfect choice. It features a QHD display with a refresh rate of 240Hz, which is simply remarkable. Additionally, it is equipped with a Core i9-13980HX processor, an RTX 4090 GPU, 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. However, the best part is the ROG Nebula panel that offers an 18-inch QHD (2560×1600) screen with 100% DCI-P3 and sRGB coverage, along with an astonishing 240Hz refresh rate.Although the price of the Asus ROG Strix G18 may appear steep at first, it is actually much more affordable than the similarly configured models from competitors such as Razer and MSI. The size may be a positive or negative depending on your specific needs, but if you desire a desktop replacement with an exceptional display, the Asus ROG Strix G18 is currently unmatched.
Read our in-depth Asus ROG Strix G18 review
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 - Best Chromebook
If you are in search of a versatile convertible laptop, the Acer Chromebook Spin 713 is an excellent choice. You can use it in tent mode or fold back the screen and utilize it as a tablet. We were impressed by its vibrant display, all-day battery life, and diverse selection of ports. Although the design may appear utilitarian, it prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The build is sturdy, with minimal flex in the keyboard tray. While the fans can be noisy at times and there is no physical privacy shutter for the webcam, these issues are relatively minor. Overall, the Spin 713 is a dependable and capable convertible laptop that performs admirably.Dell XPS 17 (2022) - Best content creation laptop
Dell's updated XPS 17 is notable for its large 17-inch screen, 11th-gen Intel CPU, and GeForce RTX 3060 GPU. By incorporating a 4K, 10-bit color screen into such a compact laptop and including all the features professionals demand (including an SD card reader and ample Thunderbolt 4 ports), the XPS 17 is the epitome of a content creation workhorse laptop. If you are seeking something different, the Asus VivoBook Pro 16X OLED is a compelling alternative due to its stunning OLED display and unique dial controls. It is our runner-up choice for the best content creation laptop. See the entry below for more information. Read our detailed Dell XPS 17 (2022) review
Acer Swift 3 - Best laptop for students
If you are a student in need of a large display on a modest budget, the Acer Swift 3 is an excellent option. It features an attractive 16-inch 1080p display, a sturdy chassis, and a comfortable keyboard and touchpad. However, the battery life is below average, so be prepared to keep the charger handy. Its slim profile makes it ideal for travel, but the battery life suffers as a result. If battery life is not a concern, this laptop is perfect for watching movies and streaming shows.Read our detailed Acer Swift 3 SF316-51 review
In conclusion, the world of laptops offers a wide range of options to suit every need and budget. Whether you're a student, a content creator, a gamer, or someone looking for a versatile and portable device, there is a laptop out there for you. From the sleek and powerful MacBook Pro to the budget-friendly Acer Aspire 5, the market is filled with innovative and high-performance machines. So, take your pick and dive into a world of endless possibilities with the best laptops of 2022.
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