The 10 Best Laptops of 2025, According to CNET Experts

If you're on the hunt for the best laptops of 2025, CNET experts have highlighted ten standout options that cater to various needs and preferences. You'll find the Acer Aspire 3 for budget-friendly performance, while the ASUS Zenbook Duo offers dual touch displays for creative multitasking. For gaming enthusiasts, the Dell G16 and Acer Nitro V deliver powerful graphics. The Apple MacBook Air models impress with their sleek design and long battery life. Each laptop excels in performance, display quality, and portability. Stick around to uncover in-depth insights on what makes these laptops the top picks of the year.

Key Takeaways

• The best laptops of 2025 will feature high-performance multi-core CPUs like AMD Ryzen 7 or Intel Core i9 for demanding tasks.
• Expect 16GB or more RAM in top models to enhance multitasking and gaming experiences, exceeding the basic 8GB standard.
• Dedicated GPUs such as NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 or higher will be essential for superior graphics performance in gaming and creative applications.
• Look for laptops with high-resolution displays (2560 x 1600 or higher) for sharper visuals and excellent color accuracy for design work.
• Portability will be a key factor, with lighter models under 3 pounds and slim designs under 0.8 inches appealing to on-the-go users.

Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P Slim Laptop

The Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P Slim Laptop stands out as an ideal choice for families and casual users seeking a balance of performance and portability. With a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display, it provides vivid visuals and an enhanced workspace thanks to narrow bezels. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core processor and 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM, this laptop efficiently handles multitasking and basic tasks such as web browsing, streaming, and office applications. Its 128GB NVMe SSD guarantees fast boot times, while an impressive battery life of up to 11 hours supports extended usage. The laptop's lightweight design and advanced thermal management further enhance its usability, making it a reliable choice for everyday computing needs.

Best For: Families and casual users looking for a portable laptop that balances performance and affordability.

Pros:

• Excellent Full HD IPS display with narrow bezels for an immersive viewing experience.
• Lightweight design and impressive battery life of up to 11 hours for extended portability.
• Upgradeable RAM and storage options allow for improved performance based on user needs.

Cons:

• Windows S Mode can be restrictive; users may prefer switching to full Windows for more flexibility.
• Limited to basic tasks, which may not satisfy power users or gamers seeking high-end performance.
• Some users report that the initial 128GB SSD may not be sufficient for extensive storage needs without upgrades.

ASUS Zenbook 14 Business Laptop (2024)

Designed for professionals seeking high performance in a portable form factor, the ASUS Zenbook 14 Business Laptop (2024) stands out with its powerful AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processor. This laptop features an impressive 14 WUXGA touchscreen display (1920 x 1200 pixels) with a brightness of 500 nits, ensuring excellent visibility and color accuracy for any task. Weighing just 2.82 lbs and measuring 12.30 x 8.67 x 0.59 inches, it offers exceptional portability. The device is equipped with 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and a 512GB PCI-E NVMe SSD, delivering swift performance. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6E and multiple USB ports, while the 1080p FHD camera and backlit keyboard enhance productivity, making it a standout choice for business professionals.

Best For: Professionals seeking a high-performance, portable laptop for business tasks and enhanced productivity.

Pros:

• Powerful Processor: Equipped with AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS for exceptional performance in multitasking and demanding applications.
• High-Quality Display: 14 WUXGA touchscreen with 500 nits brightness ensures vibrant visuals and excellent color accuracy.
• Lightweight and Portable: Weighs only 2.82 lbs, making it easy to carry for on-the-go professionals.

Cons:

• Limited Upgradeability: The RAM is soldered and cannot be upgraded after purchase.
• Battery Life: While rated for up to 8 hours, actual battery life may vary based on usage.
• Price Point: Being a premium business laptop, it may be considered expensive for budget-conscious buyers.

ASUS Zenbook Duo Laptop (UX8406MA-PS99T)

Ideal for creative professionals and multitaskers, the ASUS Zenbook Duo UX8406MA-PS99T stands out with its innovative dual 14" OLED touch displays. Featuring a powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor and Intel Arc Graphics, this laptop delivers exceptional performance, making it suitable for demanding tasks. With 32GB LPDDR5x RAM and a 1TB SSD, it provides ample memory and storage for various applications. The device supports multiple modes including Dual Screen and Desktop, enhancing usability. Additionally, the battery life lasts up to 13.5 hours, complemented by Fast-Charge technology. Its lightweight design and durable build, meeting US MIL-STD 810H standards, make it an excellent choice for users on the go, despite some mixed reviews on customer support.

Best For: Creative professionals and multitaskers looking for a high-performance laptop with dual screens for enhanced productivity.

Pros:

• Innovative dual 14" OLED touch displays provide exceptional visual quality and multitasking capabilities.
• Powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and 32GB RAM ensure smooth performance for demanding applications.
• Lightweight and portable design with a durable build that meets military standards, ideal for users on the go.

Cons:

• Mixed reviews regarding customer support, particularly with screen durability and repair services.
• Some users experienced software quirks that required updates to resolve.
• Potential shipping issues related to expedited repair processes may cause frustration.

Acer Nitro V Gaming Laptop (ANV15-51-51H9)

With its NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU and 144Hz FHD display, the Acer Nitro V Gaming Laptop (ANV15-51-51H9) stands out as an excellent choice for entry-level gamers and students seeking a versatile machine for both gaming and academic tasks. Powered by an Intel Core i5-13420H processor and equipped with 8GB DDR5 RAM and a 512GB Gen 4 SSD, this laptop delivers impressive graphics performance, achieving up to 128FPS on high settings. Its effective cooling system guarantees peak performance during extended gaming sessions, while the backlit keyboard and responsive touchpad enhance usability. Priced around $1000, it provides significant value, although users may consider upgrading the RAM for more demanding applications.

Best For: Entry-level gamers and students looking for a versatile laptop that excels in both gaming and academic tasks.

Pros:

• Impressive graphics performance with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050, achieving up to 128FPS on high settings.
• Effective cooling system prevents overheating during extended gaming sessions, ensuring consistent performance.
• Great value for the price, offering a 144Hz display and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for around $1000.

Cons:

• Limited RAM at 8GB may be insufficient for demanding applications, necessitating an upgrade.
• Battery life is relatively short, lasting only 1.5 hours during gaming and 3-4 hours on light usage.
• Concerns about warranty voiding when accessing internal components for upgrades.

Dell G16 7630 Gaming Laptop

The Dell G16 7630 Gaming Laptop stands out as an exceptional choice for gamers and professionals seeking high-performance capabilities in a portable format. Featuring a 16-inch QHD+ 240Hz display and powered by an Intel Core i9-13900HX processor, it delivers impressive gaming performance with 16GB DDR5 RAM and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU. Users appreciate its ability to run most games at 120 fps, although some report heating issues under high graphics settings. The sleek design, complemented by vibrant screen colors, enhances the visual experience, despite limitations in RGB keyboard customization. While the battery life averages around five hours and maintenance requires regular cleaning, the G16 7630 remains a robust option for graphic-intensive tasks and multitasking.

Best For: Gamers and professionals seeking high-performance capabilities for graphic-intensive tasks in a portable format.

Pros:

• Excellent gaming performance with high frame rates (up to 120 fps) in most games.
• Sleek design with vibrant screen colors that enhance visual experiences.
• Capable of handling multiple applications and multitasking effectively.

Cons:

• Some users experience heating issues during high-graphics settings, leading to performance throttling.
• Limited RGB keyboard customization options and audio port connectivity problems.
• Battery life averages around five hours under heavy use, which may be insufficient for some users.

ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 Laptop (CX3402CBA-DH386-WH)

Designed for students and professionals seeking portability without sacrificing performance, the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 Laptop (CX3402CBA-DH386-WH) features a 14-inch Full HD NanoEdge anti-glare display that enhances productivity in various lighting conditions. Powered by an Intel® Core™ i3-1215U processor, this Chromebook boasts 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB of UFS storage, delivering double the speed and memory of many competitors. With up to 10 hours of battery life, it supports all-day productivity. The 180° lay-flat hinge enables versatile usage, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 guarantee seamless connectivity. Despite minor concerns regarding fan noise and speaker volume, user feedback highlights its stylish design and excellent display quality, making it a top choice among modern laptops.

Best For: Students and professionals seeking a lightweight laptop that combines portability with robust performance for productivity on the go.

Pros:

• Double the speed and memory compared to many top-selling Chromebooks, enhancing multitasking capabilities.
• 14-inch Full HD display provides vibrant visuals and is ideal for working in various lighting conditions.
• Long battery life of up to 10 hours supports all-day usage without the need for frequent charging.

Cons:

• Constant fan noise can be distracting during use.
• Low sound from internal speakers may impact media playback experience.
• Mixed feedback on Bluetooth functionality, with some users encountering issues.

Alienware M18 R2 Gaming Laptop

Gamers seeking an immersive experience will find the Alienware M18 R2 Gaming Laptop to be an exceptional choice, particularly due to its impressive 18-inch QHD+ display, which offers a 165Hz refresh rate and a rapid 3ms response time. Powered by the Intel Core i9-14900HX and equipped with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics, this laptop excels in delivering stunning visuals and high performance. The 32GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB SSD guarantee smooth multitasking and ample storage, while the advanced cooling technology allows for overclocking without throttling. Despite some user feedback highlighting potential overheating and audio quality issues, the M18 R2 remains a top contender, praised for its build quality and gaming capabilities.

Best For: Gamers and power users seeking high-performance gaming laptops with immersive displays and advanced processing capabilities.

Pros:

• Exceptional Display: 18-inch QHD+ screen with a 165Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time for smooth visuals.
• Powerful Performance: Equipped with Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics for demanding gaming and multitasking.
• Flexible Storage Options: Four M.2 SSD slots, allowing for extensive user-replaceable storage capacity.

Cons:

• Potential Overheating: Some users reported issues with overheating during extended gaming sessions.
• Audio Quality Concerns: Feedback indicated a desire for improved audio quality.
• Customer Service Challenges: Users experienced difficulties with customer support and resolving technical issues.

Apple 2022 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 Chip

For professionals and students seeking a powerful yet portable computing solution, the Apple 2022 MacBook Air with M2 chip stands out as an exceptional choice. Weighing just 2.7 pounds, this laptop features a stunning 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display with a 2560-by-1664 resolution, ensuring vibrant visuals. Powered by the M2 chip, it offers an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU, delivering impressive performance for multitasking and demanding applications like video editing. With up to 18 hours of battery life and a robust 16GB of unified memory (configurable to 24GB), it excels in longevity and efficiency. The device also supports high-resolution external displays and features a backlit Magic Keyboard, making it ideal for both work and leisure.

Best For: Professionals and students looking for a lightweight laptop that combines power, portability, and excellent battery life.

Pros:

• Exceptional performance with the M2 chip, ideal for multitasking and demanding applications.
• Impressive battery life of up to 18 hours, perfect for long work sessions or travel.
• Stunning 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display that supports vibrant colors and high resolutions.

Cons:

• Limited upgrade options for ports, with only two Thunderbolt ports and a headphone jack.
• Higher initial cost compared to some competitors in the same category.
• Integrated graphics performance may not satisfy hardcore gamers or advanced graphics professionals.

Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 Laptop (2024 Model)

The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 Laptop (2024 Model) stands out as an exceptional choice for high-performance computing, particularly suited for those who demand cutting-edge graphics and processing power. Equipped with an Intel i9-14900HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics, it delivers impressive performance for gaming and demanding applications. The 16-inch WQXGA display features a resolution of 2560 x 1600 and a 240Hz refresh rate, ensuring stunning visuals. With 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 2TB SSD, users benefit from ample memory and storage. Its advanced cooling system and AI tuning enhance performance during extended use. Though customer feedback indicates some quality control issues, the Legion Pro 7i remains a formidable contender in the gaming laptop market.

Best For: Gamers and professionals seeking high-performance computing with advanced graphics capabilities.

Pros:

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with Intel i9-14900HX and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080, delivering exceptional gaming and multitasking capabilities.
• High-Quality Display: The 16-inch WQXGA screen with a 240Hz refresh rate offers stunning visuals and smooth gameplay.
• Ample Storage and Memory: Features 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 2TB SSD, providing plenty of space and speed for demanding applications.

Cons:

• Quality Control Issues: Some users have reported problems with quality control, including abrupt shutdowns during gaming.
• Heavy Weight: Weighing 10.44 pounds, it may not be the most portable option for on-the-go use.
• Limited Customer Feedback: With only a few ratings, it may be challenging to gauge overall user satisfaction.

Apple 2024 MacBook Air 15-inch Laptop with M3 chip

Engineered for professionals and creatives alike, the Apple 2024 MacBook Air 15-inch Laptop with M3 chip consistently delivers exceptional performance tailored to demanding workflows. Featuring a stunning 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2880-by-1864 and 500 nits brightness, this laptop supports 1 billion colors for vibrant visuals. The powerful M3 chip boasts an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU, alongside 24GB Unified Memory and a 512GB SSD, ensuring seamless multitasking and efficient application use. With up to 18 hours of battery life, a lightweight design under half an inch thick, and advanced audio-visual capabilities, the MacBook Air excels in tasks ranging from video editing to gaming, making it a worthwhile investment for users seeking performance and portability.

Best For: Professionals and creatives who require a powerful and portable laptop for demanding tasks such as video editing, music production, and multitasking with various applications.

Pros:

• Exceptional Performance: The M3 chip, combined with 24GB of Unified Memory, allows for smooth multitasking and efficient application use.
• Stunning Display: The 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display with 500 nits brightness and support for 1 billion colors provides vibrant visuals for creative work.
• Long Battery Life: With up to 18 hours of battery life, users can work all day without needing to recharge.

Cons:

• Pricey Investment: The laptop is generally considered expensive, which may not suit all budgets.
• Smudging Concerns: Some users have reported concerns about smudging on the exterior, which may affect aesthetics over time.
• Limited Port Selection: While it includes essential ports, the limited number of Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports may require additional adapters for some users.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Laptops Cnet.

When you're choosing a laptop, there are several key factors to keep in mind. You'll want to reflect on performance and specifications, display quality, and how portable the design is. Don't forget to contemplate battery life and whether the laptop can be upgraded or customized to fit your needs.

Performance and Specifications

Choosing a laptop involves balancing various performance factors and specifications that cater to your specific needs. Start with the processor; aim for higher-end models featuring multi-core CPUs like the AMD Ryzen 7 or Intel Core i9. These options enhance multitasking capabilities, making them ideal for power users.

Next, consider RAM. While 8GB usually suffices for basic tasks, 16GB or more is recommended for demanding applications, gaming, or heavy multitasking. Storage is another critical factor—opt for SSDs, especially NVMe types, as they offer notably faster boot and load times compared to traditional HDDs.

If you're into gaming or creative work, don't overlook graphics performance. Dedicated GPUs, such as the NVIDIA GeForce RTX series, vastly outperform integrated graphics solutions. Finally, keep battery life in mind; some laptops can last up to 18 hours on light tasks, but gaming models often require frequent charging due to their higher power consumption. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can choose a laptop that meets your performance needs effectively.

Display Quality and Size

As you evaluate your laptop options, display quality and size play a fundamental role in your overall experience. The resolution directly impacts visual clarity; Full HD (1920 x 1080) is a common standard, but if you crave sharper images, consider higher resolutions like 2560 x 1600 or 2880 x 1800. Brightness levels, measured in nits, are also essential. Displays around 500 nits or higher guarantee visibility in bright environments, enhancing your usability.

Don't overlook the aspect ratio, as it considerably affects your viewing experience. A 16:10 ratio offers more vertical screen space than the traditional 16:9, making it ideal for productivity tasks and web browsing. If you're engaged in creative work, color accuracy becomes crucial. Look for displays that cover 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, which deliver vibrant and true-to-life colors—perfect for graphic design and photo editing.

Lastly, consider touchscreen capabilities, which can enhance interactivity and usability. This feature allows for more intuitive navigation and multitasking options, making your workflow smoother. When weighing your options, prioritize these display factors to guarantee you choose a laptop that meets your needs.

Portability and Design

Portability and design are key factors that can make or break your laptop experience. When choosing a laptop, consider its weight; options range from as light as 2.7 pounds to over 10 pounds. A lighter laptop is generally easier to transport and more comfortable to use for extended periods. The dimensions also play an essential role; slimmer models with thicknesses under 0.8 inches can easily slip into your bag, making them ideal for travel.

Screen size matters too. Models with a 14-inch screen balance portability with sufficient workspace, allowing you to work efficiently on the go. Additionally, pay attention to the materials used in the laptop's construction. Laptops made from aluminum or magnesium alloys tend to be more durable without adding much weight, enhancing overall portability.

Lastly, while not directly tied to design, battery life impacts how portable a laptop feels. If you can get up to 18 hours of usage without frequent recharging, you'll appreciate the freedom to work from anywhere. By focusing on these factors, you can find a laptop that fits your lifestyle and enhances your productivity on the move.

Battery Life Considerations

When it comes to battery life, knowing what to look for can make a significant difference in your laptop experience. First, consider the average usage time under normal conditions. Some laptops boast up to 18 hours of battery life, while others may only last around 5 hours during heavy use.

Next, check for energy-efficient processors like AMD's Ryzen or Apple's M-series chips, as these can greatly enhance battery performance. Battery capacity, measured in watt-hours (Wh), is also vital; higher values generally mean longer usage times, with options ranging from 40Wh to over 75Wh.

Don't forget about display technology. Laptops with high-resolution screens or high refresh rates tend to consume more power than those with standard displays. Finally, be aware of power management features and software optimizations that can stretch your battery life by reducing power consumption during idle times or less intensive tasks.

Upgradeability and Customization Options

Choosing a laptop that fits your needs isn't just about battery life; upgradeability and customization options also play a meaningful role in guaranteeing your device can adapt as your requirements change. When evaluating laptops, consider models that allow you to increase RAM. Upgrading from 4GB to 16GB or more can greatly boost your performance, especially for multitasking and demanding applications.

Look for laptops with expandable storage capabilities, like additional NVMe SSD slots. This feature lets you enhance your storage capacity beyond the initial configuration, giving you room for more files, applications, and media.

Accessibility to internal components is essential for upgrades. Some laptops are designed with easier access, often requiring just a simple removal of screws, which encourages you to make enhancements yourself.

However, not all laptops offer the same level of upgradeability, so it's important to check the specifications beforehand. Confirm the model you choose aligns with your future needs, as the right upgrade options can extend your laptop's lifespan and improve your overall experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Battery Life of These Laptops?

You'll find that the average battery life for laptops typically ranges between 8 to 12 hours. It varies based on usage, so consider your needs when choosing a laptop to guarantee it meets your requirements.

Can These Laptops Handle Heavy Gaming and Graphic Design?

You'll find these laptops pack a punch, ready to tackle heavy gaming and graphic design. With powerful processors and ample graphics capabilities, they've got what it takes to keep up with your creative demands.

Are Any of These Laptops Upgradeable?

When considering upgradeability, check if the laptops' RAM and storage are accessible. Most modern laptops aren't easily upgradeable, but some models do allow you to enhance performance with additional memory or larger storage options.

What Operating Systems Do These Laptops Run?

You might think all laptops run the same operating systems, but that's not true. Depending on the model, you'll find options like Windows, macOS, or Linux, each offering unique features tailored to your needs.

How Do These Laptops Compare in Terms of Price?

When comparing these laptops, you'll notice a range of prices. Some are budget-friendly, while others offer premium features at higher costs. It's important to assess your needs and budget before making a decision.

Conclusion

In the world of laptops, choosing the right one is like picking the perfect tool from a toolbox; each serves a unique purpose. Whether you're gaming, working, or creating, there's a laptop on this list that fits your needs. Keep in mind performance, portability, and price as you make your decision. With the right choice, you'll unleash your potential and turn your ideas into reality. Happy laptop hunting!