Choosing the best Windows laptop for most people involves many different factors. A reasonable price, ample performance, suitable display, and comfortable keyboard are just some of the features considered. Manufacturers continuously update their product lineups with new hardware and design, and some generations are better than others. Our current top pick for 2023 is the Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 (Gen 7).
Lenovo's Yoga lineup has come a long way over the last couple of years, and this is the culmination of a bunch of good decisions. It's also priced fairly competitively, pushing it above many other close seconds that might take the top spot. Not quite what you need? There are many other great picks for the best Windows laptop, which we've rounded up here.
The best Windows laptop for most people
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It's a great time to be a fan of Windows laptops, and when shopping around, you might be overwhelmed by all the best Windows laptop choices coming from myriad manufacturers.
For most people, the Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 (Gen 7) will bring a mix of performance, build quality, features, and price that is hard to resist. It's a great laptop for just about anything less than gaming or specialized design and development work.
If you'd rather invest in one of our picks for the best Windows laptop that isn't also of the best 2-in-1 laptops — meaning the lid doesn't rotate around 360 degrees for tent, stand, and tablet modes — you'll no doubt want to check out the Dell XPS 13 Plus, the 13-inch Surface Laptop 5, or the Razer Book 13.
These top options are just the appetizer before we get into the real meat of the best Windows laptop picks, ranging from high-end gaming and design laptops down to budget devices that go a long way for less money.
Processor: Up to Core i7-1280P | RAM: Up to 16GB LPDDR5 | Storage: Up to 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe integrated | Display size: 14 inches | Display resolution: Up to 3840x2400 | Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4, USB-A 3.2 (Gen 2), USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2), 3.5mm audio
Lenovo's Yoga lineup of convertible laptops saw a full refresh this year, with upgrades to the Yoga 6 (Gen 7), Yoga 7i 14 and 16 (Gen 7), and Yoga 9i 14 (Gen 7). I reviewed the previous Yoga 9i 14 generation and came away mostly pleased with what was on offer, noting that it was still using a 16:9 display and that it lacked an IR camera.
The newest version solves those issues, and it does so well enough that Executive Editor Daniel Rubino said "the Yoga 9i is, basically, perfect" in his Yoga 9i 14 (Gen 7) review.
The Yoga 9i 14 (Gen 7) now has three 14-inch touch display options, all with a taller 16:10 aspect ratio. The baseline screen sits at a 1920x1200 (FHD+) resolution with 100% sRGB color, 400 nits brightness, 60Hz refresh rate, and Dolby Vision. Moving up, the 3840x2400 (UHD+) screen is OLED with 400 nits brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color, 60Hz refresh rate, VESA DisplayHDR 500, and Dolby Vision. Finally, the 2880x1800 (2.8K) screen is OLED with 400 nits brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color, 90Hz refresh rate, VESA DisplayHDR 500, and Dolby Vision. Unfortunately, all screens have a glossy finish to go along with the touch function.
The active pen no longer has a silo built into the laptop. Instead, you get a full inking experience with the included Lenovo Precision Pen 2. It has 4,092 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt detection, and it works with WGP, AES 2.0, and MPP 2.0 screens.
The overall design of the laptop has also changed. High-end Yoga laptops have a reputation of being a bit sharp along the edges; the 9i 14 (Gen 7) fixes that with new rounded edges. It's much more comfortable to hold, especially as a tablet. The touchpad has been blown up by 45% to make pointing that much more comfortable, and the edge-to-edge keyboard now includes 1-Click Function keys with extra shortcuts.
The aluminum pieces are joined by a rotating soundbar hinge with quad Bowers & Wilkins speakers for even louder audio than before. Dolby Atmos adds to the immersion. The laptop offers dual Thunderbolt 4, two USB-A 3.2, and a 3.5mm audio jack, but it lacks any sort of SD card reader. Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 round out wireless connectivity. An IR camera and FHD camera sit above the display.
Performance is stellar thanks to a bump up to Intel's 12th Gen Core CPUs, LPDDR5-5200MHz RAM, and PCIe 4.0 storage. Overall, this laptop is a dream for anyone who loves handling productivity during the day and watching movies and TV at night. It has one of the best designs around, and its extra features make it well worth the price.
Bottom line: The Yoga 9i 14 (Gen 7) takes what we loved about this convertible and made it even better. The soundbar hinge is louder, the body now has rounded edges for a more comfortable feel, the touchpad is larger, there are new 16:10 displays with impressive specs, and 12th Gen Intel Core CPUs boost performance.
If you fancy what Lenovo has done with its Yoga PCs but don't want to spend the big bucks, be sure to check out my double Lenovo Yoga 7i 14 and 16 (Gen 7) review for more information on the similar (but more affordable) laptops.
Processor: Up to Core i7-1255U | RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR4x-4266 | Storage: Up to 2TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe integrated | Display size: 13.5 inches | Display resolution: Up to 3000x2000 | Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, microSD card reader, 3.5mm audio
HP announced the new HP Spectre x360 13.5 as a replacement for last year's Spectre x360 14 (which was previously our top pick in this roundup). It's the same laptop in a lot of ways, though it now has softer edges (what HP refers to as a pillow top) and less ornate accents along the edges. This is HP's middle ground between the Spectre x360 13.3 and 14, and it effectively replaces both.
The biggest attraction here is the optional touch OLED display with 3:2 aspect ratio, 3000x2000 (3K2K) resolution, anti-reflective coating, HDR 500, 400 nits brightness, and 100% DCI-P3 color reproduction. You can also get lower-res displays, including FHD+ with HP's Sure View privacy feature. Inking is available with the HP Rechargeable MPP 2.0 Tilt active pen.
These displays are stacked, and thanks to the slim bezel, it has a truly modern look. Because the screen is so much taller, there's also a lot more room below the keyboard deck. HP took advantage, blowing up the touchpad for easier productivity. There's also room for top-firing speakers that pump out quality audio.
It makes the cut for Intel's Evo platform certification thanks to the option of up to a 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1155U CPU. Thermals have been reworked to be quieter and more effective. Faster PCIe 4.0 storage is also available.
The sizable 66Wh battery is rated at about 17 hours of life from a charge, though that differs in real-life testing. We saw about 7 hours with the Spectre x360 14 OLED model, which translates to about 10 hours with the FHD+ model.
The display has tilt pen support for natural inking, Wi-Fi 6 connectivity gives you fast, reliable wireless internet, and Bluetooth 5 for your accessories. The front-facing camera has a privacy shutter, and there's an IR camera for Windows Hello. The keyboard also includes a fingerprint reader for further security.
Have a look at our HP Spectre x360 14 review for a far deeper dive into what we think makes the previous generation convertible laptop so great. The larger 16-inch version is also a great choice. In his HP Spectre x360 16 review, Executive Editor Daniel Rubino called it "one of a kind" that "lets you do everything from gaming, taking notes, drawing, editing photos, or just having fun." If you love the design and want faster CPUs and discrete graphics, it's the way to go.
Bottom line: The HP Spectre x360 13.5 is a high-end convertible laptop that demonstrates just what HP can do. If you need a convertible with high-end specs and display, this is it. Just don't expect performance for gaming or development work.
Processor: Up to Core i7-1280P | RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR5-5200MHz | Storage: Up to 2TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe | Display size: 13.4 inches | Display resolution: Up to UHD+ | Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4
Dell is always busy updating its laptops, and the latest high-profile device refresh to launch is the Dell XPS 13 Plus (9320). This is a new high-end option that sits above the standard XPS 13, which also received a refresh this year to the 9315 designation. You can check out how the devices compare in our XPS 13 Plus vs. XPS 13 (9315) article.
Major changes to the XPS 13 Plus include a keyboard deck that truly covers the laptop from edge to edge. Keycaps are larger, and there's now a capacitive row of function buttons above. Beneath the keyboard are two extra speakers, and below the keyboard is a full glass palmrest with haptic touchpad. The camera is still 720p, but the IR and RGB portions are now separate for better picture quality.
The XPS 13 Plus gets Intel's 12th Gen Mobile CPUs as well as integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, up to 32GB of faster LPDDR5-5200MHz, and up to a 2TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD with speedier transfer rates. The XPS 13 Plus offers the performance to easily cut through a standard day's work — word processing, heavy web browsing, photo editing — yet it keeps its cool and weighs just 2.71 pounds (1.36kg). It's also unbelievably thin and feels very sturdy, thanks to the aluminum chassis.
The display is sized at 13.4 inches with a 16:10 aspect ratio. A non-touch 1920x1200 (FHD+) screen is the cheapest way to go, bringing an anti-glare finish and up to 500 nits brightness. Another FHD+ option adds touch, edge-to-edge glass, and an anti-reflective layer to help reduce glare. It also manages 500 nits of brightness. Fairly new to the lineup (introduced with the 9310) is an OLED option with 3456x2160 (3.5K) resolution, touch function, anti-reflective finish, and beautiful color. Finally, the most expensive option is a 3840x2400 (UHD+) touch option with edge-to-edge glass, 500 nits brightness, and an anti-reflective layer. The high-end displays feature Dolby Vision for better color and contrast in supported content.
The XPS 13 Plus 9320 is easily the best Dell laptop available today, and it's also the best laptop between $1,000 and $1,500. It's the way to go if you don't need a convertible and love the small size.
Bottom line: If you'd rather stick with a traditional form factor that doesn't convert to a tablet, the XPS 13 Plus (9320) takes a nearly perfect Ultrabook and makes it even better. If you don't need all the fancy bells and whistles but still love the XPS 13 look, you can always check out the more affordable XPS 13 (9315).
Processor: Up to Intel Core i7-1255U | RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR4x | Storage: Up to 1TB SSD | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe | Display size: 13.5 or 15 inches | Display resolution: 2256x1504 (13.5) or 2496x1664 (15) | Ports: USB-C, USB-A, 3.5mm audio, Surface Connect
The Surface Laptop 5, available in 13.5- and 15-inch sizes, takes a solid design that we're already familiar with and adds modern hardware. This means that you're still looking at a glossy display with no HDR, and no option for 4G or 5G connectivity. Flaws aside, this is still one hell of a laptop with Microsoft's signature Surface design.
For the first time, the Surface Laptop 5 now supports Thunderbolt 4 connectivity! The smaller version comes in four different colors depending on whether you want Alcantara or all-metal, while the larger model is available in two different colors with metal finish only. No matter which size you choose, you're getting a comfortable keyboard and sizable Precision touchpad.
Both sizes are configurable with up to either an 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U or Intel Core i7-1265U, along with Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics. These chips are both able to deliver stellar performance, especially when paired with up to 32GB of LPDDR4x RAM and a 1TB SSD. The displays are high-res, they have a 3:2 aspect ratio, and they're touch-enabled with Surface Pen support.
You can see how the Surface Laptop 5 compares in our best Microsoft Surface PCs roundup.
Bottom line: The Surface Laptop 5, available in 13.5- and 15-inch configurations, is all about premium design, a high-res touch display with a 3:2 aspect ratio, and modern performance hardware inside.
Processor: Up to Intel Core i7-1255U or Microsoft SQ3 | RAM: Up to 32GB | Storage: Up to 1TB SSD | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe | Display size: 13 inches | Display resolution: 2880x1920 | Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4, 3.5mm audio, Surface Connect
The new Surface Pro 9 represents a maturing of the new design that first debuted with the Surface Pro X, and then refined with the Surface Pro 8. The most notable changes are the different button placement, moving the lock and volume rocker to the top left, as well as combining both the Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro X under one umbrella product known as the Surface Pro 9 and Surface Pro 9 5G.
The Pro 9 and Pro 9 5G look like modern tablets than the older Surface Pro 7 and earlier models, and its Type Cover has been upgraded to match. It's now using the same design as the Pro X's Type Cover (they are interchangeable), with a holding slot for the Surface Slim Pen 2. Typing is comfortable, and the Precision touchpad makes for easy pointing.
The thinner bezels allows for a beautiful13-inch display with excellent color reproduction and up to 441 nits brightness. It supports a dynamic 120Hz refresh rate, which plays well with the Slim Pen 2. The inking experience is smooth, and there's now haptic feedback in select apps. As for performance, the non-5G Surface Pro 9 features 12th Gen Intel Core chips and Iris Xe graphics, and the 5G version features Microsoft's own SQ3 chips with support for special AI camera and microphone effects, something the standard version doesn't have.
If you need a versatile PC that's as comfortable acting as a notebook as it is a tablet, the Surface Pro 9 should wow you.
Bottom line: For those who need a device that can detach from the keyboard and touchpad to become a tablet — and have the power to rival standard laptops — there is the Surface Pro 8.
Processor: Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 | RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR4x-4266 | Storage: Up to 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD | Graphics: Adreno 690 | Display size: 13.3 inches | Display resolution: 1920x1200 (FHD+) | Ports: Two USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2), 3.5mm audio, SIM
Lenovo's first Snapdragon-powered ThinkPad was unveiled at the start of 2022, and it's now widely available either through Lenovo or through Verizon and AT&T. Why are the mobile carriers offering the laptop? It offers 5G connectivity thanks to a built-in Snapdragon X55 Sub6 modem, allowing you to stay connected everywhere you go.
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8xc Gen 3 processor is no slouch, either. Its single-core Geekbench score competes with Intel's 10th Gen Core i5-10210U chip, while its multi-core score rivals the 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7. That's some impressive performance, and the 50Wh battery goes longer thanks to the ARM platform. Lenovo claims up to about 28 hours of life, with real-world life sitting closer to between 15 to 20 hours.
All the usual ThinkPad features are here, including durable chassis (this time made from 90% recycled magnesium), comfortable and spill-resistant keyboard, TrackPoint system, and extra security measures including human presence detection, an IR camera, webcam shutter, TPM 2.0, and Kensington lock slot.
Lenovo understands how important video conferencing is these days. The X13s has up to an FHD webcam with AI-based auto framing, dual speakers with Dolby Audio, and three mics with AI-based noise suppression. The 13.3-inch display is available only in an FHD+ resolution, but the top option has an anti-glare finish, low power, 400 nits brightness, and 100% sRGB color.
Bottom line: Those who need a durable, portable laptop that can remain connected everywhere will want to check this one out.
Processor: Up to Core i7-12700H or Core i7-1255U or Core i5-1240P | RAM: Up to 16GB DDR4-3200 | Storage: Up to 1TB PCIe 3.0 SSD | Graphics: Up to NVIDIA RTX 2050 Laptop or NVIDIA MX550 | Display size: 14 inches | Display resolution: Up to 2880x1800 (2.8K) | Ports: Two USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2), two USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI 2.1, 3.5mm audio, microSD card reader
The HP Pavilion Plus 14 is an interesting device. It starts at just $800, it offers Intel's 12th Gen Core P-series, U-series, and H-series processors, it's built extremely well, and it has up to a 2.8K OLED display. Even if you jump up to the 2.8K OLED screen and H-series CPU, you're still only paying just more than $1,000. For a bit more money, you can add either a discrete NVIDIA MX550 or NVIDIA RTX 2050 Laptop GPU for some extra power.
In his Pavilion Plus 14 review, Executive Editor Daniel Rubino called it "the best $1,000 you can spend on a powerful OLED laptop right now." That's saying something, as many manufacturers have been focusing heavily on improving their mid-range lineups. Port selection lacks Thunderbolt, but you still get dual USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, and a microSD card reader.
The 5MP webcam with True Vision is perfect for video calls, dual speakers pump out decent audio, and the keyboard is comfortable. As for the display, the 14-inch 2.8K OLED version is tops, coming in with a 90Hz refresh rate and 400 nits brightness. It also hits 100% sRGB, 97% AdobeRGB, and 100% DCI-P3 color, making it ideal for photo or video editing.
Bottom line: Need a laptop that represents arguably the best value around right now? The HP Pavilion Plus 14 will deliver thanks to plenty of config options, 90Hz OLED display, and outstanding build.
Processor: Up to Core i7-1265U | RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR5 | Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe | Display size: 13.5 inches | Display resolution: Up to 3000x2000 (3K2K) | Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4, USB-A 3.1, HDMI 2.0, Nano SIM, 3.5mm audio
HP's Elite Dragonfly G3 represents a massive upgrade over the G2 model. The 13.5-inch display now has a 3:2 aspect ratio and up to a 3000x2000 resolution with OLED and touch, the webcam has been upgraded to 5MP FHD, there's a larger 68Wh battery, and there are now Intel's 12th Gen Core U-Series CPUs with Evo certification inside for better performance.
The edges of the laptop are rounded and smooth for extra comfort, the new aspect ratio allows for more palmrest space, and the quad-speaker setup has been rearranged to include four amplifiers. The touchpad is massive, the keyboard feels great, and there's a decent selection of ports including Thunderbolt 4.
This is a business laptop, so it understandably includes optional Sure View privacy for the display, Intel vPro, and HP's full suite of security add-ons. And for those who need to stay connected everywhere, models can be configured with 5G wireless connectivity.
Bottom line: It's on the pricey side, but the Elite Dragonfly G3 is a bonafide premium business laptop with a ton of great features, plenty of performance and battery life, and gorgeous display options.
Processor: Up to Core i9-12900H | RAM: Up to 32GB DDR5-4800 | Storage: Up to 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD | Graphics: Up to NVIDIA RTX 3080 Ti Laptop | Display size: 15.6 inches | Display resolution: Up to 4K | Ports: Two USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2), Three USB-A 3.2 (Gen 2), Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, SD card reader, 3.5mm audio
If you need a powerful gaming laptop, the Razer Blade 15 should be your first choice should you have the budget. It's also our top pick in a roundup of the overall best gaming laptops available today. Some new Blade 15 configurations were announced at CES 2022, and you can now get up to Intel's 12th Gen H-series CPUs, NVIDIA RTX 3080 Ti laptop GPU, DDR5-4800MHz RAM, and PCIe 4.0 storage.
Display options won't leave your performance hardware wanting more, with up to a 4K UHD screen with 144Hz refresh rate and excellent color reproduction. There's also a QHD model with 240Hz refresh rate and an FHD model with a 360Hz refresh rate.
This is all wrapped up in a squared, symmetrical metal chassis that measures just 0.67 inches (16.9mm) thin, which is slimmer than ever. Keyboard travel is a bit short, but it has customizable RGB, and the Precision touchpad is huge for times when you're not using an external gaming mouse plugged into one of three USB-A 3.2 ports. Other connectivity includes two Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and Ethernet. There's also a UHS-II SD card reader.
The Razer Blade 14 is also available for anyone who wants a more compact build with the latest AMD Ryzen hardware mixed with NVIDIA RTX 30-series Laptop GPUs.
Bottom line: With a dedicated GPU, powerful Intel CPU options, and myriad high-end display options, the Razer Blade 15 is the best gaming laptop out there as long as you have the budget.
Processor: Up to Core i7-1280P vPro | RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR5-5200 | Storage: Up to 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe | Display size: 13 inches | Display resolution: 2160x1350 | Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4, 3.5mm audio
We absolutely love the first-gen X1 Nano, with Executive Editor Daniel Rubino saying in his ThinkPad X1 Nano review that it holds all the best features of premium ThinkPad laptops but with a focus on portability. The second generation is now available — though there are still first-gen models for sale — with some notable upgrades.
The new 12th Gen Intel Core P-series 28W processors boost performance significantly, LPDDR5 RAM is faster, and PCIe 4.0 storage makes transfers a breeze. Displays have remained mostly the same, with a 2160x1350 resolution with a 16:10 aspect ratio, as well as Dolby Vision and 100% sRGB color reproduction. There's now an add on touch film (AOTF) available for a better touch experience.
The webcam got a bump up to 1080p, with separate IR and RGB modules for better quality. Human presence detection is still included, and Dolby Voice has been added to help cancel out background noise while you're conferencing.
The laptop makes the list of Intel Evo platform certification, guaranteeing snappy response even on battery power. Thunderbolt 4 ports make it easy to connect your most modern accessories, and there's Wi-Fi 6 and 5G LTE available for staying connected everywhere.
The real beauty is that it weighs in at just 2.13 pounds (970g), making it one of the lightest business laptops out there. If you need a slim, powerful business partner, this should be near the top of your list. Check out our list of the best Lenovo laptops to see where the ThinkPad X1 Nano sits.
Bottom line: ThinkPad laptops come in many shapes and sizes, but the X1 Nano (Gen 2) sits near the top if you want something thin and light with many business features.
Processor: Up to Core i9-12900HK | RAM: Up to 64GB DDR5-4800MHz | Storage: Up to 2TB SSD | Graphics: Up to NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti Laptop | Display size: 15.6 inches | Display resolution: Up to 4K UHD+ | Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4, USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2), SD card reader, 3.5mm audio
Along with the XPS 13 9300, the XPS 15 9500 received a fairly serious overhaul that continues with the latest 9510 and 9520 models. It has a larger 16:10 aspect ratio for the display, which eliminates the chin. The Precision touchpad is way more prominent, and the keycaps are also larger for a better typing experience. Speakers on either side of the keyboard and speakers on the laptop's underside make for quality audio.
You can get the display in either FHD+, UHD+, or 3.5K resolutions. The FHD+ version is non-touch with an anti-glare finish and 500 nits. The UHD+ version is touch with an anti-reflective finish and 500 nits brightness. And the new 3456x2160 (3.5K) OLED option is touch with an anti-reflective finish and 400 nits. There's hardly any bezel, yet there's still an IR camera above the display for Windows Hello.
With the release of the 9520 models, you can now get 12th Gen Intel Core CPUs with up to a Core i9-12900HK for maximum performance. Also updated is the memory, which now comes in DDR5-4800MHz. Storage and graphics remain the same, with up to a 1TB SSD and either integrated graphics or NVIDIA's laptop versions of the RTX 3050 and RTX 3050 Ti discrete GPUs.
As for the remaining 9510 models, you can get up to an 11th Gen Intel Core i9-11900H CPU, 64GB of DDR4 RAM, a 2TB M.2 PCIe SSD, and similar discrete graphics options. The laptops are all powered by a beefy 86Wh battery that can deliver a full day of battery life. Wi-Fi 6 is also included for fast wireless connectivity. This PC also sits atop our list of the very best 15-inch laptops.
Bottom line: The new Dell XPS 15 (9520) brings Intel's 12th Gen Intel Core CPUs and DDR5 RAM to an otherwise similar design. It's the most powerful option out there, but the older 9510 model is still quite attractive and costs less.
Processor: Up to Core i7-11370H | RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR4x | Storage: Up to 2TB SSD | Graphics: Up to NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti Laptop | Display size: 14.4 inches | Display resolution: 2400x1600 | Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4, 3.5mm audio, Surface Connect
Microsoft's Surface Laptop Studio employs a rare design that is essentially the spiritual successor to the Surface Book series. While the display no longer detaches fully from the rest of the chassis, the Laptop Studio's design allows the screen to sort of pull forward. It can either remain vertical for stage mode (with the touchpad still uncovered), or it can lie flat (with the display facing up) for a unique Surface experience that should appeal to creators and designers.
The 14.4-inch touch display has a 2400x1600 resolution, 3:2 aspect ratio, 120Hz refresh rate, and excellent color reproduction and brightness. Dolby Vision is included for better movies and TV. If you're into inking, the Laptop Studio pairs well with the Surface Slim Pen 2. A 120Hz refresh rate makes for seamless writing and drawing, and the new haptic feedback feature is available in select apps.
Intel 11th Gen H-series CPUs power the Laptop Studio, and you can combine them with a NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti laptop GPU. You can game on this laptop to an extent, though it's far more comfortable being used for productivity work in the creative and design sectors.
You can expect the usual Surface premium level of design in all areas here, but the laptop doesn't come cheap. Nevertheless, anyone who needs a versatile mobile platform for heavier work should take notice.
Bottom line: The Surface Laptop Studio represents a new design category for Microsoft's PC lineup. With excellent performance, a high-end display with inking, and a ton of other features, it's a top choice for those who need a mobile workstation.
Processor: Up to 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P | RAM: Up to 32GB LPDDR5-5200MHz | Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD | Graphics: Up to Intel Iris Xe | Display size: 17 inches | Display resolution: 2560x1600 | Ports: Two USB-A 3.2, two Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.0, microSD card reader, 3.5mm audio
A 17-inch laptop is excellent for multitasking thanks to the enormous display, but you often trade portability. However, the LG gram 17 (2022) weighs in at just 2.98 pounds (1.35kg), making it as light as a lot of 13-inch Ultrabooks. The vast display has a 2560x1600 resolution with a 16:10 aspect ratio, and it has a battery that will last for a full day before needing a charge. This is easily one of the best LG laptops.
Thanks to a recent refresh announcement, performance hardware includes up to a 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P CPU, LPDDR5-5200MHz RAM, and two 1TB M.2 PCIe PCIe 4.0 SSDs. There's now also an option for an RTX 2050 discrete GPU if you'd like more than Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics. Ports include Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, USB-A 3.2, a microSD card reader, and 3.5mm audio for generous connectivity. This is also an Intel Evo-certified laptop.
The Precision touchpad seems small compared to all the available space, but it tracks well. Typing for extended periods shouldn't be an issue on the keyboard, and a fingerprint reader built into the power button adds security through Windows Hello. Included is Wi-Fi 6E for speedy connectivity. This worthy PC also made our list of best Windows laptops with full number pads, and it's our pick for the very best 17-inch laptop.
Bottom line: The gram lineup from LG aims to make laptops as thin and light as possible without subtracting essential features, performance, and durability. In that sense, it's a winner.
Processor: Up to Core i9-11900H or Core i9-12900HK | RAM: Up to 64GB DDR5-4800 | Storage: Up to 2TB SSD | Graphics: Up to NVIDIA RTX 3060 Laptop | Display size: 17 inches | Display resolution: Up to UHD+ | Ports: Four Thunderbolt 4, SD card reader, 3.5mm audio
If you love the idea of a 17-inch laptop but don't particularly care whether it's light or not, the XPS 17 is undoubtedly the laptop you should consider. This is a more recent addition to the XPS lineup, and it's an absolute powerhouse to boot. It was recently updated for 2022; the new 9720 model includes 12th Gen Intel Core CPUs up to an i9-12900HK with 14 cores, as well as up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM.
These fresh models are going to cost more, but the older 9710 models are still great. You can configure them with up to an 11th Gen Intel Core i9-11900H CPU, 2TB of speedy M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD storage, up to 32GB of DDR4-3200MHz RAM, and an NVIDIA RTX 3060 Laptop GPU with 6GB of GDDR6 VRAM.
Combined with the massive 17-inch display that goes up to a UHD+ resolution (the + accounts for the extra space thanks to the boxy 16:10 aspect ratio), this is an ideal laptop for content creators. It hits 94% DCI-P3 color reproduction, and it manages up to 500 nits brightness with HDR400 and Dolby Vision.
It's built extremely well like the rest of the XPS lineup, but it is rather heavy. The thin chassis packs in four Thunderbolt 4 ports, an SD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Top-firing audio puts out an excellent sound, and you can get up to a 97Wh battery for long-lasting life. Altogether this is a gorgeous 17-inch laptop that's about the same size as a 15-inch laptop, thanks to a complete lack of bezel and careful engineering. It's expensive, but this is the right laptop for content creators. Who doesn't love a big screen?
Our Dell XPS 17 review goes much deeper, covering what makes this laptop great. Be sure to have a look if you're interested in buying the laptop. And note that the physical design of the laptop hasn't changed between the 9710 and 9720 models. If you do go with the newer version, it's primarily a performance hardware upgrade.
Bottom line: The XPS 17 is a monster of a laptop with parts that outshine every other mobile PC on the market. The biggest (and best) display, superb audio, excellent typing, and enough graphics power to keep anyone happy. It may be heavy, but it's no wimp.
Buying the best laptop in 2023
Buying the best Windows laptop for your needs should involve some careful shopping. You want to be sure that it's perfect for your needs, and you want to be sure that you aren't paying too much. You also want something worth your money that will last for years to come. Setting a price and sticking to it is a good idea when shopping for a laptop. If you can get a device that meets your needs, and you pay what you want to pay, you'll be much happier in the long run.
Many premium devices in this list will run into the multiple thousands of dollars range, but you can also get many of them starting around the $1,000 mark. These laptops are suitable for plenty of tasks, and the more you pay for upgrades, the better performance you'll see.
Mid-range devices usually come in somewhere between $600 and $1,000, and while you can find something built well, the hardware inside may not be able to keep up with intensive tasks, and they likely won't have as many features. This is slowly changing, and we've seen some mighty impressive mid-range devices notably from the likes of Lenovo, HP, and Dell.
There are a few general uses for which most people buy a laptop: gaming, multitasking, and productivity, multimedia editing, or business. Ask yourself what you'll mostly be using the laptop for, and you'll have a much easier time deciding on what type of device you need.
- Heavy usage: Gaming, design, and editing require powerful hardware. You should aim for a high-end CPU and a dedicated GPU. Our best graphics card roundup has some top options you can compare. Pair with a high-resolution display if you have the budget.
- Standard usage: Heavy web browsing, occasional gaming, and productivity require average hardware. A high-end CPU will undoubtedly come in handy, though a dedicated GPU is optional. If working with media, extra RAM is never a bad thing.
- Light usage: Light web browsing, email, and occasional video streaming don't require much power. A low- or mid-range CPU will handle this type of work, allowing you to save a lot of money.
There are more considerations to make, including display type, form factor (notebook, convertible, 2-in-1), storage and RAM, battery life, keyboard and touchpad, and ports, which certainly can make it tough to choose one single best Windows laptop. That's why we've laid everything out here to help you make an informed decision.
What about all the other Windows laptops?
There's one of the best Windows laptops for every kind of user, including the one who wants to save money, spend a lot, or look forward to experimental form factors. Want to have a laptop to use just for work? There's a model for you. Does your work involve intensive tasks like photo or video editing? There's one for you, too. With all this in mind, the new Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 (Gen 7) edges out the HP Spectre x360 13.5, Razer Book 13, Dell XPS 13 Plus 9320, and Surface Laptop 5 due to the design, display, and performance. These are all also some of the best Windows 11-ready laptops, meaning they either ship with or can be upgraded with Windows 11.
And if you're in search of even more amazing laptops, we have a bunch of other roundups. Have a look at our picks for the best Ultrabooks and best upgradeable laptops.
How to choose the right laptop form factor
Modern laptops are available primarily in three different designs.
Notebook: This is your standard clamshell laptop with a lid that opens to a maximum of about 180 degrees. Notebooks sometimes come with touch displays, but you'll mostly see them with non-touch options.
Convertible: If you're looking at a laptop with a screen that rotates all the way around to lie flat again, you're looking at a convertible laptop. The design also allows for tent and stand modes, offering you some variety. Convertible laptops use touch displays.
2-in-1: Laptops with a removable keyboard and touchpad are called 2-in-1. You can use them as a tablet without anything attached, but you can also connect the keyboard for a full laptop experience. 2-in-1 devices use touch displays and often have a compatible active pen.
Convertible and 2-in-1 laptops work fine as standard laptops, but they also have the added benefit of working as a tablet. If you hate the idea of a tablet and think you'll be sticking with a standard laptop design, choosing a notebook can often save money.
