Best laptop to Buy in 2024
Lyght Tech
Introduction
The laptop market in 2024 is more dynamic and diverse than ever, offering a range of options tailored to various needs and budgets. The array of choices can be overwhelming, from powerful gaming rigs to ultra-portable ultrabooks. The evolution of technology has led to significant advancements in laptop performance, battery life, and design, making it crucial to select the best laptop to buy that fits your specific requirements.
Choosing the right laptop is essential as it impacts productivity, entertainment, and overall user experience. The perfect laptop can enhance your work and play whether you’re a student, professional, gamer, or creative. This guide aims to simplify the decision-making process by providing a detailed analysis of the top laptops in different categories, ensuring you make an informed purchase that meets your needs.
The criteria for selecting the best laptops in this guide include performance, design, battery life, display quality, and value for money. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you will clearly understand the best laptops available in 2024 and the key features to consider when making your choice.
Section 1: Best Laptop to Buy, Category
1.1 Best Laptops Overall
Selecting the best laptops to buy involves evaluating multiple factors such as performance, battery life, display quality, build quality, and value for money. These laptops should excel in various use cases, providing a balanced mix of power, portability, and reliability.
Top 3 Overall Laptops to buy with Pros and Cons
The Good
- Exceptional performance with M2 Max chip
- High-resolution Liquid Retina XDR display
- Excellent build quality and design
- Long battery life
The Bad
- Little Expensive
- Limited variety of ports
- Overloads on high stress
2. Dell XPS 15 (2024)
The Good
Powerful Intel Core i9 processor
Stunning 4K OLED display option
Sleek and durable design
Good battery life
The Bad
High price
Limited upgradeability
3. HP Spectre x360 14
The Good
- Versatile 2-in-1 design
- High-quality OLED display
- Strong performance with Intel Evo certification
- Longer battery life.
The Bad
Can be expensive at higher configurations
Limited port selection
1.2 Best Budget Laptops
Budget laptops are selected based on affordability, performance, and essential features. These laptops should provide good value for money, offering decent performance and build quality without breaking the bank. You should do a lot of research to choose the best laptop to buy.
Top 3 Best Budget-Friendly Laptops
1. Acer Aspire 5
The Good
Affordable price
Solid performance for everyday tasks
Full HD display
Good selection of ports
The Bad
Mediocre build quality
Average battery life
2. Lenovo IdeaPad 3
The Good
Very budget-friendly
Reliable performance with AMD Ryzen processors
Comfortable keyboard
Decent battery life
The Bad
Basic design and build
Low-resolution display
3. ASUS VivoBook 15 Image by josh brown, trusted reviews
The Good
- Competitive Pricing
- Good performance with Intel Core i5/Ryzen 5
- Sleek design
- Backlit keyboard
The Bad
Average battery life
Display could be brighter
1.3 Best Gaming Laptops to Buy
Gaming laptops are selected based on performance, graphics capabilities, cooling systems, and overall gaming experience. These laptops should offer high frame rates, fast refresh rates, and robust build quality. All gamers nowadays are very sensitive when choosing the best laptop to buy for seamless gaming experience.
Top 3 Gaming Laptops
1. ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15
The Good
Dynamic performance synergy between AMD’s Ryzen 9 processor and the powerful NVIDIA RTX 3080 graphics card
High refresh rate display (165Hz)
Sleek and lightweight design
Remarkable battery endurance for a high-performance gaming laptop
The Bad
- Expensive
- No webcam
2. Alienware m17 R5
The Good
Outstanding performance with Intel Core i9 and RTX 4090
Huge 17-inch QHD show with 240Hz revive rate
Premium build quality
Advanced cooling system
The Bad
Very high price
Heavy and bulky
3. Razer Blade 15
The Good
Sleek and premium design
Exceptional task handling with an Intel Core i7 processor paired with an RTX 3050 Ti graphics card
High refresh rate display options (up to 360Hz)
Impressive battery life.
The Bad
Expensive
Can run hot under load
1.4 Best Laptops to buy for Business
Business laptops are selected based on productivity features, security, durability, and battery life. These laptops should offer reliable performance, robust security features, and a professional design. These laptops should be chosen after a lot of research as it will affect the output of your job. After careful consideration you can choose the best laptop to buy.
Top 3 Business Laptops
1. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (Gen 11)
The Good
Lightweight and durable design
Excellent keyboard
Strong performance with Intel vPro
Long battery life
The Bad
- Expensive
- Limited Ports
2. Dell Latitude 9420
The Good
High-quality build
Excellent security features
Bright and clear display
Good battery life
The Bad
- High price
- Limited upgrade options
3. HP Elite Dragonfly G3
The Good
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Excellent performance
- Robust security features
- Long Battery Life
The Bad
- Expensive
- Limited ports
1.5 Best Laptops to buy for Creatives
Best laptops to buy for creatives are selected based on their performance in handling graphic-intensive tasks, display quality, and support for creative software. These laptops should offer powerful GPUs, high-resolution displays, and ample storage.
Top 3 Laptops for Creative Professionals
1. Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (2024)
The Good
- Powerful M2 Pro/Max chip
- Stunning Liquid Retina XDR display
- Excellent build quality
- Long battery life
The Bad
- Expensive
- Limited port variety
2. Dell XPS 17 (2024)
The Good
- Large 17-inch 4K display
- Exceptional computing power delivered by the Intel Core i9 processor alongside the formidable NVIDIA RTX 3080 graphics card
- Sleek and premium design
- Good battery life
The Bad
- Very high price
- Heavy and bulky
3. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio
The Good
- Versatile 2-in-1 design
- Exceptional computing power delivered by the Intel Core i9 processor alongside the formidable NVIDIA RTX 3080 graphics card
- High-quality 14.4-inch PixelSense display
- Excellent build quality
The Bad
- Expensive
- Limited port selection
1.6 Best Laptops to buy for Students
Laptops for students are selected based on affordability, portability, battery life, and performance. These laptops should be budget-friendly, lightweight, and capable of handling everyday academic tasks. Only the best budget-friendly laptops should be considered without compromising performance. The list below consists of some of the best student-friendly laptops to buy.
Top 3 Best Laptops for Students
1. Google Pixelbook Go
The Good
Lightweight and portable
Excellent keyboard
Smooth performance with Chrome OS
Long battery life
The Bad
- Limited to Chrome OS
- Expensive for a Chromebook
2. Acer Chromebook Spin 713
The Good
- Affordable
- Versatile 2-in-1 design
- High-resolution 13.5-inch display
- Good battery life
The Bad
- Limited storag
- Chrome OS limitations
3. Lenovo Yoga 7i
The Good
- Affordable price
- Strong performance with Intel Core i5
- Versatile 2-in-1 design
- Good battery life
The Bad
- Average build quality
- Limited ports
1.7 Best 2-in-1 Laptops
2-in-1 laptops are selected based on their versatility, performance, and design. These laptops should offer a seamless transition between laptop and tablet modes, with strong performance and high-quality displays. Below are pros and cons of some well known 2 in 1 laptops which will help you decide which is the best laptop to buy.
Top 3 2-in-1 Laptops
1. Microsoft Surface Pro 9
The Good
Excellent performance with Intel Core i7
High-resolution PixelSense display
Lightweight and portable
Versatile design
The Bad
- Expensive
- Keyboard sold separately
2. HP Spectre x360 14
The Good
- High-quality OLED display
- Strong performance with Intel Evo certification
- Sleek and premium design
- Long battery life
The Bad
- Expensive
- Limited port selection
3. Lenovo Yoga C940
The Good
- Versatile 2-in-1 design
Strong performance with Intel Core i7
High-quality display
Good battery life
The Bad
Slightly heavy for a 2-in-1
Expensive
1.8 Best Ultrabooks
Ultrabooks are selected based on their portability, performance, battery life, and design. These laptops should combine featherweight portability, robust performance, and extended battery endurance, catering perfectly to users always on the move.
Top 3 Ultrabooks
1. Dell XPS 13 (2024)
The Good
- Sleek and lightweight design
- Strong performance with Intel Core i7
- High-resolution InfinityEdge display
- Good battery life
The Bad
- Expensive
- Limited ports
2. Apple MacBook Air M2
The Good
- Lightweight and portable
- Powerful M2 chip
- Excellent battery life
- High-quality Retina display
The Bad
- Limited ports
- No fan, may throttle under heavy load.
3. ASUS ZenBook 14
The Good
- Lightweight and sleek design
- Strong performance with AMD Ryzen 7
- Good battery life
- High-resolution display
The Bad
- Limited port selection
- Average audio quality
Section 2: Key Features to Consider
2.1 Processor and Performance
The processor is the heart of any laptop, determining its ability to handle tasks ranging from simple web browsing to complex video editing. As of 2024, the most prevalent processors are from Intel (Core i5, i7, and i9), AMD (Ryzen 5, 7, and 9), and Apple’s M-series chips.
Intel and AMD processors offer a range of options catering to different needs, with Intel’s latest 13th Gen and AMD’s Ryzen 7000 series providing significant performance improvements. Apple’s M2 and M2 Pro/Max chips remain at the forefront, setting new benchmarks in efficiency and power.
Performance in laptops is crucial for productivity, gaming, and creative tasks. High-performance laptops can handle multiple applications simultaneously, ensuring a smooth user experience. The evolving technology will affect the standards for buying the best laptop to buy.
When selecting a laptop, consider the intended use: casual users may find mid-range processors like Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 sufficient, while professionals and gamers may need the higher-end Core i7/i9 or Ryzen 7/9. Apple’s M2 chips are excellent for those in the Apple ecosystem, offering unparalleled performance and battery efficiency.
2.2 Display Quality
The display quality of a laptop significantly impacts the user experience, especially for tasks involving multimedia and content creation. High-resolution screens, such as 4K and QHD, provide sharper and more detailed images essential for designers and photographers. OLED and Retina displays deliver vibrant colors and deeper blacks, enhancing visual clarity while reducing eye strain.
Several display types such as LCD, LED, OLED, and Mini-LED, offer unique advantages. OLED displays, commonly featured in high-end laptops, provide exceptional color accuracy and contrast ratios, making them particularly suitable for creative professionals.
LCD and LED displays are more common in budget and mid-range laptops, providing good performance at a lower cost. When choosing a laptop, consider the display type and resolution based on your needs: gamers may prefer higher refresh rates (120Hz or above), while creatives should prioritize color accuracy and resolution.
2.3 Battery Life
Always consider battery life while choosing the best laptop to buy as it is a critical consideration for users, who rely on their laptops to last through a workday or extended travel. A laptop’s battery life depends on its hardware, power management features, and the efficiency of its components. Propels in battery innovation and power-efficient processors have driven noteworthy advancements in battery life in cutting-edge tablets.
To gauge battery performance, look at both manufacturer claims and independent reviews. Real-world usage often provides a more accurate picture than lab tests. A laptop with at least 8-10 hours of battery life is ideal for business users and students.
Gaming laptops typically offer lower battery life due to their powerful hardware, but recent models with more efficient components can still provide decent longevity. Ultrabooks and MacBooks are known for their exceptional battery life, often lasting over 10 hours on a single charge.
2.4 Build Quality and Design
The craftsmanship and design of a laptop play a crucial role in determining its durability, visual appeal, and overall user experience. Premium materials like aluminum and carbon fiber provide a robust and stylish finish, while plastic builds are budget-friendly. A well-crafted laptop enhances visual appeal and prioritizes user comfort with features such as a high-quality keyboard, responsive trackpad, and ergonomic design.
Durability is crucial for laptops that are on the go. Look for features like reinforced hinges, spill-resistant keyboards, and MIL-STD-810G certification for ruggedness. Design elements like thin bezels, lightweight chassis, and compact form factors enhance portability and usability.
When selecting the best laptop to buy, consider factors such as your operating environment, aesthetic preferences, and the quality of its construction. High-end models from brands like Apple, Dell, and Lenovo typically offer superior design and build quality.
2.5 Storage Options
The two main types of storage you’ll encounter are Hard Disk Drives (HDD) and Solid State Drives (SSD). SSDs are faster, more reliable, and consume less power than HDDs, making them the preferred choice for modern laptops. NVMe SSDs offer even higher speeds, significantly improving boot times and application loading.
For common utilization, 256GB to 512GB SSD is sufficient. Creative professionals and gamers may require 1TB or more to accommodate large files and applications.
Some laptops offer additional storage options through expandable slots or external drives. When selecting, consider your storage needs and opt for SSDs to ensure fast and efficient performance.
2.6 Connectivity and Ports
Connectivity options and port availability are essential for ensuring compatibility with various peripherals and accessories. Typical ports include USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and SD card readers. USB-C is increasingly popular due to its versatility, supporting data transfer, charging, and video output.
Thunderbolt 4, a high-speed connection standard, is also becoming more common in premium laptops, offering faster data transfer and expanded connectivity options.
Wireless connectivity, including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, enhances internet speeds and device pairing. Ensure the laptop you choose has the necessary ports and connectivity options per your requirements.
Business users may require HDMI for presentations, while photographers may need an SD card reader. Consider future-proofing your investment by selecting laptops with versatile connectivity options like USB-C and Thunderbolt 4
Section 3: Future Trends in Laptops
3.1 Advances in Laptop Technology
Emerging technologies are set to revolutionize laptops in 2024, bringing enhancements in performance, efficiency, and user experience. Key advancements include the widespread adoption of AI-powered features, which optimize performance, battery life, and system management. AI can also enhance security through biometric recognition and predictive maintenance.
Another significant trend is the integration of next-gen processors, such as Intel’s 14th Gen and AMD’s Ryzen 8000 series, offering improved speed and energy efficiency. These advancements are crucial for those seeking the best laptop to buy based on cutting-edge technology.
The rise of ARM-based laptops, led by Apple’s M-series chips, continues to challenge traditional x86 architecture, providing powerful performance with exceptional battery life. Expect to see more ARM-based laptops from other manufacturers as they aim to leverage these benefits for the best laptop to buy.
3.2 Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Laptops
Sustainability is becoming a crucial factor in the laptop industry, with manufacturers focusing on eco-friendly practices and materials. Companies like Dell, HP, and Apple are leading the charge by using recycled materials, reducing carbon footprints, and improving the energy efficiency of their products.
Eco-friendly laptop options include those with Energy Star certifications, EPEAT ratings, and the use of sustainable materials. Some manufacturers are also designing laptops that are easier to repair and recycle, extending their lifecycle and reducing electronic waste. Consider these factors when choosing the best laptop to buy for a greener future.
3.3 Innovations in Laptop Design
Innovations in laptop design are enhancing usability and aesthetics. One notable trend is the rise of foldable and dual-screen laptops, offering new form factors and multitasking capabilities. These designs provide greater flexibility, allowing users to switch between different modes and workflows seamlessly, which is essential when buying the best laptop.
Another design innovation is the implementation of edge-to-edge displays, reducing bezels to maximize screen real estate without increasing the overall size of the laptop. This trend is particularly evident in ultrabooks and high-end laptops designed for the best laptop to buy.
Additionally, advancements in cooling technologies, such as vapor chambers and liquid metal thermal compounds, enable thinner and more powerful laptops without compromising performance. These design innovations will redefine the laptop experience, making devices more versatile and visually appealing for those looking for the best laptop to buy.
FAQs
Consider performance (processor, RAM), battery life, display quality, build quality, storage options, and connectivity features.
Apple, Dell, and Lenovo are consistently rated as reliable brands, known for their build quality, performance, and customer support.
Yes, gaming laptops offer powerful performance suitable for everyday tasks, but they are often bulkier and have shorter battery life.
The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (2024) is highly recommended for its powerful performance and stunning display quality.
Prices vary widely; expect to spend between $500 and $1500 for a good laptop, depending on your needs and the category.
It varies by model; some laptops permit upgrades, while others have soldered components. Check specifications before purchasing
A 2-in-1 laptop can function as both a laptop and a tablet, offering greater versatility with a touchscreen and convertible design.
Identify your primary use cases (e.g., gaming, business, creative work) and prioritize features like performance, battery life, and portability.
Laptops with solid performance, long battery life, good webcam quality, and reliable connectivity