If you're in the market for a great laptop, the options can feel overwhelming, but the right one can make all the difference. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a gamer, finding the perfect balance between performance, portability, and price is key. From sleek ultraportables to powerhouse gaming rigs, let’s break down what to look for when shopping for the best laptops of 2025.
A high-quality laptop lets you take your computing on the go, and it’s an appealing idea regardless of your needs. However, with so many models available, it can be challenging to decide which one fits your lifestyle best. For many users, a versatile all-rounder like the MacBook Air (M4) is ideal. Alternatively, if you're a student seeking portability with strong performance and a bit of entertainment, the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 might be your best bet. As someone who reviews laptops for a living, I’m here to guide you through the clutter and help you find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
These are the best laptops we’ve tested, and each caters to different lifestyles and priorities.
TL;DR – The Best Laptops We’ve Tested:
Our Top Pick
Apple MacBook Air (M4, Early 2025)
Asus VivoBook S 15
Razer Blade 16 (2025)
Asus Zenbook S 16
Microsoft Surface Pro 11
MacBook Air (M4, 2025) – Photos
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1. Apple MacBook Air (M4, Early 2025)
The Best Laptop
Our Top Pick
Apple MacBook Air (M4, Early 2025)
This year’s MacBook Air is better than ever, thanks to its powerful M4 chip. It’s a top-tier machine for productivity, including creative work.
See it at Amazon | See it at Apple
Product Specifications:
- Display: 13.6” (2560x1664)
- CPU: Apple M4 (10 cores)
- GPU: Apple M4 (8-10 cores)
- RAM: 16-32GB
- Storage: 256GB - 2TB
- Weight: 2.7 pounds
- Dimensions: 11.97” x 8.46” x 0.44”
PROS:
- Stellar battery life
- Exceptionally thin and light
- Excellent everyday performance
CONS:
- Limited gaming ability
- Upgrades get expensive quickly
Apple’s MacBook Air is iconic for a reason—it consistently delivers top-notch performance, portability, and battery life. This year’s model introduces the latest and most powerful processor, the M4, which ensures users can handle work, school, and creative tasks efficiently while using less battery than competing Windows laptops.
The MacBook Air continues its tradition of sleek design and reliable performance. It’s fanless, relying solely on passive cooling through its metal frame, ensuring silent operation and a clean aesthetic. While it won’t rival the MacBook Pro in raw power, it’s more than capable for everyday use and casual gaming.
With its 2560x1664 resolution display, the MacBook Air offers crisp visuals and vibrant colors. Although the screen hasn’t changed significantly from its predecessor, it remains one of the best in its category. The only downside is its limited connectivity—two USB Type-C ports, a MagSafe connector, and a headphone jack. If you need more ports, a dock is essential.
The MacBook Air is the ultimate daily companion, seamlessly integrating into your life without drawing attention to itself. While it’s not designed for hardcore gaming, it’s perfect for most users looking for a reliable, lightweight laptop.
Asus VivoBook S 15
Best Budget Laptop
Asus VivoBook S 15
This well-priced laptop offers great performance, an OLED display, and exceptional portability—all within a budget-friendly price tag.
See it at Best Buy | See it at Asus
Product Specifications:
- Display: 15” (2880x1620) OLED 120Hz
- CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus X1P
- GPU: Integrated (Qualcomm Adreno)
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5X
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD
- Weight: 3.13 pounds
- Dimensions: 13.88" x 8.93" x 0.58" - 0.63"
PROS:
- Excellent performance for productivity tasks
- Great battery life
- Killer display
CONS:
- App compatibility issues (though minor)
The Asus VivoBook S 15 is an excellent choice for those on a budget. Starting under $1,000, it offers many of the same benefits as pricier models like the ZenBook S 16. Its OLED screen is stunning, and its thin, lightweight design makes it easy to carry around.
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus X1P processor, the S 15 balances power efficiency and performance beautifully. With 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD, it’s more than capable for everyday tasks. The OLED display, running at 120Hz, offers sharp visuals and smooth animations, making it ideal for both productivity and entertainment.
Battery life is another standout feature. During normal use, I’ve achieved over 16 hours of battery life, meaning you can go days without plugging it in. However, the Snapdragon processor uses a different architecture, which may affect app compatibility. While most major apps work fine, it’s worth checking compatibility before purchasing.
Overall, the Asus VivoBook S 15 is a fantastic value for its price and should impress most users.
Razer Blade 16 (2025) – Photos
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3. Razer Blade 16 (2025)
Best Gaming Laptop
Razer Blade 16 (2025)
This year’s Razer Blade 16 sets the bar for gaming laptops, offering incredible performance in a surprisingly
