Best Laptops of 2025 – CNET

Choosing the Right Laptop: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Understanding the Price Landscape

When it comes to buying a laptop, price is often the first thing people consider. With so many options available, it’s essential to set a budget that aligns with your needs. The good news is that modern laptops are built to last, with many users keeping theirs for three years or more. If possible, investing a bit more upfront can pay off in the long run, as it ensures better performance, durability, and features. While it’s tempting to opt for a cheaper model with plans to upgrade later, many newer laptops have components soldered onto the motherboard, making upgrades difficult or impossible.

Generally, the more you spend, the better the laptop. For instance, a $500 laptop might suffice for basic tasks like browsing the web or word processing, but if you need something more powerful for gaming, creative work, or heavy multitasking, you’ll likely need to spend at least $1,000. The sweet spot for a reliable, all-around laptop is between $700 and $800. However, it’s always worth keeping an eye out for discounts, as they can help you get more value for your money. Whether you’re shopping for a budget-friendly Chromebook or a high-end MacBook, there’s a laptop out there for every budget.

2. Operating System: Choosing the Right One for You

Selecting an operating system (OS) is a personal decision, but it’s also influenced by your budget and specific needs. The two main players are Microsoft Windows and Apple’s macOS, with ChromeOS being a budget-friendly alternative. Windows laptops dominate the market in terms of variety and price, making them a great choice for gamers and those who need more affordability. Apple’s macOS, on the other hand, is known for its seamless integration with other Apple products like iPhones and iPads, making it a favorite among creative professionals and those invested in the Apple ecosystem.

If you’re considering a Chromebook, keep in mind that ChromeOS is designed for web-based tasks like browsing, streaming, and document editing. It’s a great option if you’re on a tight budget and don’t need heavy-duty software. However, it’s important to ensure that any applications you need are available on ChromeOS, Android, or Linux before making the switch. Testing out different operating systems in person can help you decide which one feels most intuitive and meets your needs.

3. Size and Portability: Finding the Right Fit

When thinking about the size of your laptop, consider how important portability is to you. Smaller laptops are lighter and easier to carry around, but they often sacrifice features like ports and a larger screen. On the other hand, larger laptops may offer more power and better displays but can be cumbersome to transport. The screen size is a key factor, as it directly impacts the laptop’s weight, battery life, and overall design.

If you’re someone who is always on the go, an ultrathin or ultralight laptop might be the way to go. These models are designed to be as portable as possible while still delivering decent performance. However, it’s important to remember that smaller laptops may have fewer ports, which could be a drawback if you rely on external devices like USB drives or monitors. If you don’t mind a bit more bulk, a larger laptop can provide a more comfortable typing experience and better visuals, especially if you’re using it for gaming or creative work.

4. The Screen: More Than Just Size

The screen is one of the most important features of a laptop, and there’s more to consider than just size. Resolution, pixel density, and color accuracy all play a role in determining the quality of your viewing experience. Higher resolution screens generally offer sharper images, but they can also drain the battery faster. For most users, a Full HD (1080p) screen is a good balance between clarity and battery life. If you’re a creative professional or someone who needs precise color accuracy, look for a screen that supports a wide color gamut and higher brightness levels.

Pixel density, measured in pixels per inch (PPI), is another key factor. A higher PPI means a sharper image, making text and images appear smoother. While Windows and macOS allow you to scale the display, it’s generally better to opt for a higher resolution if your budget allows. This way, you can fit more content on the screen without sacrificing readability. If you’re unsure about the screen quality, it’s worth checking out reviews or seeing the laptop in person before making a purchase.

5. Processor and Graphics: The Brain and the Artist

The processor, or CPU, is the brain of your laptop, responsible for handling tasks like running applications and managing multitasking. Intel and AMD are the leading manufacturers for Windows laptops, while Apple uses its own M-series chips in MacBooks. When choosing a processor, look for one that balances speed and efficiency. More cores and higher clock speeds generally mean better performance, but they can also impact battery life. If you’re looking for a laptop that can handle demanding tasks like gaming or video editing, prioritize a more powerful CPU and a discrete graphics card (dGPU).

Integrated graphics (iGPU) are sufficient for basic tasks like web browsing and office work, but they struggle with more graphically intensive activities. If you’re a gamer or a creative professional, a dGPU from brands like Nvidia or AMD is a must-have. Apple’s M-series chips have proven to be particularly efficient, offering excellent performance and battery life. Be sure to research the specific processor and graphics card in any laptop you’re considering to ensure it meets your needs.

6. Memory and Storage: The Keys to Smooth Performance

When it comes to memory and storage, it’s important to future-proof your laptop as much as possible. Aim for at least 16GB of RAM, as this will ensure smooth performance even when juggling multiple tasks. While 8GB is the minimum for most users, it can become a bottleneck if you’re running memory-intensive applications. Many modern laptops have soldered RAM, meaning you won’t be able to upgrade it later, so it’s crucial to choose a model with enough memory to last you a few years.

Storage is another critical factor, with solid-state drives (SSDs) being the clear choice over traditional hard drives (HDDs). SSDs are faster, more durable, and consume less power, making them ideal for laptops. If you’re on a tight budget, consider a smaller SSD for your operating system and essential apps, and use an external drive or cloud storage for larger files. For gamers, a minimum of 512GB of SSD storage is recommended, as modern games can take up a significant amount of space. By prioritizing ample memory and fast storage, you can ensure your laptop runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come.