The best Windows laptops you can buy in 2026: Expert tested
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Over the past year, we've seen no shortage of impressive new Windows laptops, from thin and light Copilot+ PCs likeMicrosoft's Surface Laptop to powerful business devices likeHP's OmniBook X Flip 16. There are also models with fantastic battery lives, likeLenovo's ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition.
Also:The best laptops of 2025: Expert tested and reviewed
We'vegone hands-on with dozens of new Windows laptops, evaluating portability, RAM, and storage, plus assessing the value of a laptop in relation to what it provides. We then took that data and experience to create a list highlighting our favorite Windows laptops in 2026.
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What is the best Windows laptop right now?
We've personally tested all of the best Windows laptops on this list, including the latest models fromLenovo,Asus,Dell, and HP. Our favorite Windows laptop overall is theLenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition It's a bold refresh of the ThinkPad lineup that's versatile, portable, and a great all-around laptop for most users.
There are plenty of other options, so we've included several use cases to round out the list. Our experts took the time totest each device included here to help you find the best of the best. Let's take a look.
For the February 2026 update, we added Lenovo Legion 9i as the new best gaming Windows laptop and added HP's OmniBook 7 Aero as the best lightweight Windows model.
The best Windows laptops of 2026
Why we like it: Lenovo's ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition is a bold departure from the ThinkPad line. There's no TrackPoint, a noticeable lack of I/O, and a minimalist trackpad that looks nothing like theX1 Carbon, its more expensive older sibling. Instead, the X9 tries something new, and it works.
The result is a versatile laptop that's a solid, dependable pick for most people. From the svelte physical form to the brilliant display and fantastic battery, the X9 is an evolution: keeping what we love about the iconic lineup while elaborating on a new vision.
Review:Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition
Who it's for:If you've used ThinkPads for years and are ready for some innovation on the concept, the X9 is a breath of fresh air. From the serrated underside to the tiny charger, this is a modern laptop for the user who commutes and wants an ultraportable but also needs reliable performance, powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 and 32GB of RAM.
That said, it's still a ThinkPad. Its reliable combination of hardware and lightweight, sturdy form makes it as practical as it is premium for productivity, business, and professional workflows. This doesn't mean it's stacked with the most powerful hardware, but that's not the point; it's about its value relative to cost, with a fantastic build and an enjoyable user experience.
Who should look elsewhere: Lenovo's traditional ThinkPads haven't gone anywhere. There are a handful of great options released in 2025 for a variety of price points, including theThinkPad E14, for well under $1,000, and theThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Aura Edition. If you're looking for a tried-and-true ThinkPad, you've got lots of choices.
Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 (Home, Pro) | CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 258V | GPU: Integrated Intel Arc |Display: 16" 4K OLED touchscreen | RAM, Storage: 32GB, up to 2TB SSD | Camera: 1080p FHD | Battery: 55Whr | Dimensions (H, W, D): 0.5 x 12.28 x 8.35 (inches) | Weight: 2.7 pounds.
- Elegant design, solid build
- Excellent keyboard
- Gorgeous OLED display
- Limited array of ports
- Not all the Aura Edition features are useful
Why we like it: Lenovo's ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition is a bold departure from the ThinkPad line. There's no TrackPoint, a noticeable lack of I/O, and a minimalist trackpad that looks nothing like theX1 Carbon, its more expensive older sibling. Instead, the X9 tries something new, and it works.
The result is a versatile laptop that's a solid, dependable pick for most people. From the svelte physical form to the brilliant display and fantastic battery, the X9 is an evolution: keeping what we love about the iconic lineup while elaborating on a new vision.
Review:Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition
Who it's for:If you've used ThinkPads for years and are ready for some innovation on the concept, the X9 is a breath of fresh air. From the serrated underside to the tiny charger, this is a modern laptop for the user who commutes and wants an ultraportable but also needs reliable performance, powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 and 32GB of RAM.
That said, it's still a ThinkPad. Its reliable combination of hardware and lightweight, sturdy form makes it as practical as it is premium for productivity, business, and professional workflows. This doesn't mean it's stacked with the most powerful hardware, but that's not the point; it's about its value relative to cost, with a fantastic build and an enjoyable user experience.
Who should look elsewhere: Lenovo's traditional ThinkPads haven't gone anywhere. There are a handful of great options released in 2025 for a variety of price points, including theThinkPad E14, for well under $1,000, and theThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Aura Edition. If you're looking for a tried-and-true ThinkPad, you've got lots of choices.
Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 (Home, Pro) | CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 258V | GPU: Integrated Intel Arc |Display: 16" 4K OLED touchscreen | RAM, Storage: 32GB, up to 2TB SSD | Camera: 1080p FHD | Battery: 55Whr | Dimensions (H, W, D): 0.5 x 12.28 x 8.35 (inches) | Weight: 2.7 pounds.
Why we like it:The Dell 14 Plus is what a modern work laptop should be. It's lightweight, delivers strong everyday performance, and offers excellent battery life at a relatively reasonable price. I say "relatively" because its cost has risen since my review (likely due to recent economic turmoil), but it remains an easy recommendation for professionals.
Its Intel Core Ultra processor handled heavy multitasking with ease. During testing, I regularly ran dozens of tabs on Google Chrome, a browser known to be a resource hog, alongside demanding productivity apps, and the system never slowed down. It is also quite sturdy, thanks to its aluminum frame, and the anti-fingerprint finish helps keep the device looking clean and professional throughout the day.
Review:Dell 14 Plus
Who it's for:The Dell 14 Plus is an excellent choice for remote workers and students who need a reliable machine for everyday productivity. It strikes that hard-to-beat balance of having good performance, design, and value. Even if you're not a student or don't need a computer for the office, it is still a strong option for anyone looking for a dependable laptop without paying a super high price.
Who should look elsewhere:If display quality is a top priority, you'll want to consider other options. While the 2.5K screen is sharp and perfectly usable, it lacks vibrancy and looks noticeable dull compared to competing models. I wouldn't recommend it to creators or editors who rely on accurate color reproduction.
Dell 14 Plus tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home |CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 256V |GPU: Intel Arc |Display:14" 2.5K IPS, 240 Hz |RAM, Storage: Up to 32GB, 1 TB SSD |Camera: 5MP |Battery: 64Whr |Dimensions (H x W x D): 0.67 x 12.36 x 8.9 inches |Weight: 3.42 pounds.
- Decent performance
- Solid battery life
- Comfortable keyboard
- Dull display
Why we like it:The Dell 14 Plus is what a modern work laptop should be. It's lightweight, delivers strong everyday performance, and offers excellent battery life at a relatively reasonable price. I say "relatively" because its cost has risen since my review (likely due to recent economic turmoil), but it remains an easy recommendation for professionals.
Its Intel Core Ultra processor handled heavy multitasking with ease. During testing, I regularly ran dozens of tabs on Google Chrome, a browser known to be a resource hog, alongside demanding productivity apps, and the system never slowed down. It is also quite sturdy, thanks to its aluminum frame, and the anti-fingerprint finish helps keep the device looking clean and professional throughout the day.
Review:Dell 14 Plus
Who it's for:The Dell 14 Plus is an excellent choice for remote workers and students who need a reliable machine for everyday productivity. It strikes that hard-to-beat balance of having good performance, design, and value. Even if you're not a student or don't need a computer for the office, it is still a strong option for anyone looking for a dependable laptop without paying a super high price.
Who should look elsewhere:If display quality is a top priority, you'll want to consider other options. While the 2.5K screen is sharp and perfectly usable, it lacks vibrancy and looks noticeable dull compared to competing models. I wouldn't recommend it to creators or editors who rely on accurate color reproduction.
Dell 14 Plus tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home |CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 256V |GPU: Intel Arc |Display:14" 2.5K IPS, 240 Hz |RAM, Storage: Up to 32GB, 1 TB SSD |Camera: 5MP |Battery: 64Whr |Dimensions (H x W x D): 0.67 x 12.36 x 8.9 inches |Weight: 3.42 pounds.
Why we like it: Asus' ProArt series nail their intended use case: high-end hardware for pro creatives. The 2025 AMD-powered ProArt P16 exudes power and performance with an all-black form factor, brilliant display, and host of creator-specific features like Asus' DialPad.
The 500-nit, 3840 x 2400 resolution AMOLED touchscreen display is definitely one of the best parts of the laptop, if not the most immediately noticeable. It delivers a crisp, bright picture with a glossy, premium coating. Powered by the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 GPU, it acts as a capable powerhouse for photo/video editing, drafting, or animation.
Review: Asus ProArt P16 (2025)
Who it's for: Pro creators, point blank. The hardware here doesn't mess around, with 32GB of memory and the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, a 12-core, 24-thread chip with a 50 TOP NPU. This strong core powers the device's creative endeavors, whether video editing, using advanced animation or graphic design programs or simply multitasking with a handful of different apps and dozens of browser tabs.
Who should look elsewhere: For me, the ProArt P16 was not a laptop that came ready to go out of the box but rather requires some personalization to get the most out of it. I would argue that this is a good thing, since it encourages users to innovate and break out of cloned UIs and workflows that all look the same. As a result, Asus' ProArt 16 is one of the most powerful laptops out there, as long as you're willing to engage with its complexity.
Asus ProArt P16 tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home |CPU:AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 |GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 |RAM:32GB with 2TB SSD |Camera: 1080p FHD |Battery:10 hours |Dimensions (H, W, D): 0.68 x 13.97 x 9.72 inches |Weight: 4.08 pounds.
- Powerful hardware
- Customizable DialPad
- Brilliant display
- Battery and performance relies on optimization
- Only 60 Hz refresh rate
Asus ProArt P16 (2025)
Best Windows laptop for creators
Why we like it: Asus' ProArt series nail their intended use case: high-end hardware for pro creatives. The 2025 AMD-powered ProArt P16 exudes power and performance with an all-black form factor, brilliant display, and host of creator-specific features like Asus' DialPad.
The 500-nit, 3840 x 2400 resolution AMOLED touchscreen display is definitely one of the best parts of the laptop, if not the most immediately noticeable. It delivers a crisp, bright picture with a glossy, premium coating. Powered by the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 GPU, it acts as a capable powerhouse for photo/video editing, drafting, or animation.
Review: Asus ProArt P16 (2025)
Who it's for: Pro creators, point blank. The hardware here doesn't mess around, with 32GB of memory and the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, a 12-core, 24-thread chip with a 50 TOP NPU. This strong core powers the device's creative endeavors, whether video editing, using advanced animation or graphic design programs or simply multitasking with a handful of different apps and dozens of browser tabs.
Who should look elsewhere: For me, the ProArt P16 was not a laptop that came ready to go out of the box but rather requires some personalization to get the most out of it. I would argue that this is a good thing, since it encourages users to innovate and break out of cloned UIs and workflows that all look the same. As a result, Asus' ProArt 16 is one of the most powerful laptops out there, as long as you're willing to engage with its complexity.
Asus ProArt P16 tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home |CPU:AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 |GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 |RAM:32GB with 2TB SSD |Camera: 1080p FHD |Battery:10 hours |Dimensions (H, W, D): 0.68 x 13.97 x 9.72 inches |Weight: 4.08 pounds.
Why we like it: If you just need a laptop to cover the basics or a backup machine for travel, the Acer Aspire Go 15 is a solid option. This laptop has a15-inch screen and all the hardware you need for web browsing, email, productivity, and media playback, at a low price.
The Aspire Go 15 has an Intel Core i3-N305, a low-end processor with just 8GB of RAM. This hardware combination caps what this machine is capable of. However, in my testing, the laptop mostly kept up with my internet browsing and work-related apps, though it stuttered when the CPU was pushed to its limits.
Review:Acer Aspire Go 15
Who it's for:Anyone looking for an inexpensive laptop that can handle everyday workflows and is comfortable with the trade-offs. For example, the 15-inch screen isn't the brightest on the market, but it's big enough for comfortable web browsing. The keyboard and trackpad are also light, responsive, and quiet, with enough texture and springiness to make a comfortable experience.
The selection of ports here is also just enough. You get two USB-A ports, one USB-C, an HDMI port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a Kensington lock slot. To sum it up, the Acer Aspire Go 15 is a surprisingly well-optimized 15-inch laptop for a price that won't break the bank.
Who should look elsewhere: If you're in the market for a powerful flagship main driver, check out some of the other laptops on this list. The Intel Core i3 CPU and 8GB of RAM are just not a powerful hardware configuration.
Acer Aspire Go 15 tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home in S Mode | CPU: Intel Core i3 | GPU: Intel UHD Graphics | Display: 15.6" 1080p Full HD IPS, 60Hz | RAM, Storage: 8GB, 128GB | Camera:720p HD | Battery: 50Wh | Dimensions (H, W, D):0.74 x 14.29 x 0.74 (inches) | Weight:3.86 pounds.
- Inexpensive
- Multiple configurations
- Lots of bang for your buck
- Good port selection
- Good battery
- Limited performance
- Bulky
Acer Aspire Go 15
Best budget Windows laptop
Why we like it: If you just need a laptop to cover the basics or a backup machine for travel, the Acer Aspire Go 15 is a solid option. This laptop has a15-inch screen and all the hardware you need for web browsing, email, productivity, and media playback, at a low price.
The Aspire Go 15 has an Intel Core i3-N305, a low-end processor with just 8GB of RAM. This hardware combination caps what this machine is capable of. However, in my testing, the laptop mostly kept up with my internet browsing and work-related apps, though it stuttered when the CPU was pushed to its limits.
Review:Acer Aspire Go 15
Who it's for:Anyone looking for an inexpensive laptop that can handle everyday workflows and is comfortable with the trade-offs. For example, the 15-inch screen isn't the brightest on the market, but it's big enough for comfortable web browsing. The keyboard and trackpad are also light, responsive, and quiet, with enough texture and springiness to make a comfortable experience.
The selection of ports here is also just enough. You get two USB-A ports, one USB-C, an HDMI port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a Kensington lock slot. To sum it up, the Acer Aspire Go 15 is a surprisingly well-optimized 15-inch laptop for a price that won't break the bank.
Who should look elsewhere: If you're in the market for a powerful flagship main driver, check out some of the other laptops on this list. The Intel Core i3 CPU and 8GB of RAM are just not a powerful hardware configuration.
Acer Aspire Go 15 tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home in S Mode | CPU: Intel Core i3 | GPU: Intel UHD Graphics | Display: 15.6" 1080p Full HD IPS, 60Hz | RAM, Storage: 8GB, 128GB | Camera:720p HD | Battery: 50Wh | Dimensions (H, W, D):0.74 x 14.29 x 0.74 (inches) | Weight:3.86 pounds.
Why we like it: HP's OmniBook 7 Aero is an impressive little machine. Weighing just 2.2 pounds, it is one of the lightest Windows laptops I've ever used, yet it never once felt underpowered during testing. Powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 7 processor and 16GB of memory, the device powered through productivity tasks like they were nothing. It even handles heavier workloads like photo and light video editing better than most ultraportables.
The OmniBook 7 Aero also boasts a sharp, colorful 2K display, a comfortable keyboard that won't tire your hands even after hours of typing, and a powerful speaker system delivering loud, clear, punchy audio. Combined with its premium magnesium-aluminum finish, the laptop is my go-to machine for working on the road.
Who it's for: Like the Dell 14 Plus, the HP OmniBook 7 Aero is a strong option for professionals who want an ultra-lightweight Windows laptop without skimping out on performance. It's especially well-suited for frequent travelers and commuters who regularly hop between meetings, classrooms, and coffee shops.
Review:HP OmniBook 7 Aero
Who should look elsewhere:While the OmniBook 7 Aero can last a full workday, its battery life isn't world-class. 10 hours is solid, but it falls behind many ARM-based options in its category that can push 20 hours. The display also isn't very bright, which can make it harder to use outdoors.
HP OmniBook 7 Aero tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home |CPU: AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 |GPU: AMD Radeon 860M |Display:13.3" 2K IPS |RAM, Storage: 16GB, 1 TB SSD |Camera: 5MP |Battery: 43 Whr |Dimensions (H W D):0.69 x 8.31 x 11.7 | Weight: 2.2 pounds.
- Powerful AMD CPU
- Sleek design
- 2K display
- Not the best battery life
Why we like it: HP's OmniBook 7 Aero is an impressive little machine. Weighing just 2.2 pounds, it is one of the lightest Windows laptops I've ever used, yet it never once felt underpowered during testing. Powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 7 processor and 16GB of memory, the device powered through productivity tasks like they were nothing. It even handles heavier workloads like photo and light video editing better than most ultraportables.
The OmniBook 7 Aero also boasts a sharp, colorful 2K display, a comfortable keyboard that won't tire your hands even after hours of typing, and a powerful speaker system delivering loud, clear, punchy audio. Combined with its premium magnesium-aluminum finish, the laptop is my go-to machine for working on the road.
Who it's for: Like the Dell 14 Plus, the HP OmniBook 7 Aero is a strong option for professionals who want an ultra-lightweight Windows laptop without skimping out on performance. It's especially well-suited for frequent travelers and commuters who regularly hop between meetings, classrooms, and coffee shops.
Review:HP OmniBook 7 Aero
Who should look elsewhere:While the OmniBook 7 Aero can last a full workday, its battery life isn't world-class. 10 hours is solid, but it falls behind many ARM-based options in its category that can push 20 hours. The display also isn't very bright, which can make it harder to use outdoors.
HP OmniBook 7 Aero tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home |CPU: AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 |GPU: AMD Radeon 860M |Display:13.3" 2K IPS |RAM, Storage: 16GB, 1 TB SSD |Camera: 5MP |Battery: 43 Whr |Dimensions (H W D):0.69 x 8.31 x 11.7 | Weight: 2.2 pounds.
Why we like it:Lenovo's Legion 9i delivers the most uncompromising gaming performance that we've seen from a Windows laptop. This thing is an absolute monster, pairing top-tier hardware with a huge 18-inch 3.8K display. The Legion 9i outperformed every other gaming laptop I used laster year, running maxed-out AAA titles without breaking a sweat.
Games look stunning. The screen's 16:10 aspect ratio enables incredible immersion, and the 240Hz refresh rate gives everything a lifelike fluidity. Lenovo's Coldfront Vapor cooling system also deserves praise, as it kept temperatures in check even during extended gaming sessions. Add an excellent keyboard, powerful speakers, and a wide selection of ports, and the Legion 9i more than earns its place on this list.
Who it's for:The Lenovo Legion 9i is built for gamers and power users who want a true desktop replacement and are willing to pay a premium for performance. It's perfect for anyone who wants to play modern games at the highest possible settings, as well as content creators who need serious horsepower for their projects.
Review: Lenovo Legion 9i
Who should look elsewhere:This isn't a laptop for casual users or frequent travelers. The Legion 9i is large and heavy, and it comes with a bulky power adapter that makes commuting with it difficult -- and that's putting it lightly. Battery life is another major drawback, as it struggles to last even an hour of unplugged gaming.
Lenovo Legion 9i tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home |CPU: Intel Core Ultra 9 275Hx |GPU: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 |Display:18" WQXGA IPS, 240 Hz refresh rate |RAM, Storage: Up to 64GB, up to 2TB SSD |Camera: 5MP |Battery: 99.99 Whr |Dimensions (H, W, D): 0.94 x 1.10 x 15.87 |Weight: 7.72 lbs.
- Fantastic gaming performance
- Robust cooling system
- 3.8K display
- Heavy
- Limited runtime when not plugged in
Why we like it:Lenovo's Legion 9i delivers the most uncompromising gaming performance that we've seen from a Windows laptop. This thing is an absolute monster, pairing top-tier hardware with a huge 18-inch 3.8K display. The Legion 9i outperformed every other gaming laptop I used laster year, running maxed-out AAA titles without breaking a sweat.
Games look stunning. The screen's 16:10 aspect ratio enables incredible immersion, and the 240Hz refresh rate gives everything a lifelike fluidity. Lenovo's Coldfront Vapor cooling system also deserves praise, as it kept temperatures in check even during extended gaming sessions. Add an excellent keyboard, powerful speakers, and a wide selection of ports, and the Legion 9i more than earns its place on this list.
Who it's for:The Lenovo Legion 9i is built for gamers and power users who want a true desktop replacement and are willing to pay a premium for performance. It's perfect for anyone who wants to play modern games at the highest possible settings, as well as content creators who need serious horsepower for their projects.
Review: Lenovo Legion 9i
Who should look elsewhere:This isn't a laptop for casual users or frequent travelers. The Legion 9i is large and heavy, and it comes with a bulky power adapter that makes commuting with it difficult -- and that's putting it lightly. Battery life is another major drawback, as it struggles to last even an hour of unplugged gaming.
Lenovo Legion 9i tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home |CPU: Intel Core Ultra 9 275Hx |GPU: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 |Display:18" WQXGA IPS, 240 Hz refresh rate |RAM, Storage: Up to 64GB, up to 2TB SSD |Camera: 5MP |Battery: 99.99 Whr |Dimensions (H, W, D): 0.94 x 1.10 x 15.87 |Weight: 7.72 lbs.
Why we like it: The Blade 16 has been Razer's flagship gaming laptop for years. The thinner, sleeker design on the 14-inch Blade -- the thinnest Blade model yet -- gives nothing short of a stunning first impression. It weighs just 3.5 pounds and features a slick, matte-black finish that looks and feels premium. This challenges the brand's own aesthetic with a device that looks more like a MacBook Pro than a gaming laptop.
Plus, the display is gorgeous. The 3K, 120Hz OLED display extends right to the edge with ultrathin, mere-millimeter-thick bezels, housed within a substantial frame. There's no screen wobble, and the new Nvidia Blackwell architecture in the GeForce RTX 5070 GPU powers the show.
Review:Razer Blade 14
Who it's for:This is an interesting one. Gamers, certainly, but also creatives, or anyone who does a little bit of everything and wants a premium, well-designed laptop. The Blade 14 is one of the thinnest and lightest gaming laptops on the market, and its design is among the most versatile.
Creators working with 4K video editing and graphic design will appreciate the brilliant OLED display. I'd recommend this laptop to anyone looking for a capable gaming laptop but not interested in a 16- or 18-inch behemoth. In that sense, the Blade 14 speaks to the consumer who is comfortable with its trade-offs and appreciates the lightweight form factor.
Who should look elsewhere:This is a premium laptop that exceeds the $2,000 mark, so I'd only recommend it to people willing to pay the high price tag.
Razer Blade 14 tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home | CPU: AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 | GPU: Up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 | Display: 14" QHD+ OLED, 120 Hz refresh rate | RAM, Storage: Up to 64GB, up to 2TB SSD | Camera: 5MP | Battery: 72 Whr | Dimensions (H, W, D): 0.64 x 12.23 x 8.83 (inches) | Weight: 3.59 lbs.
- Thin, light, and sleek
- Gorgeous OLED display
- Premium build
- Thin form factor puts a limit on hardware
- Expensive
Razer Blade 14
Best OLED Windows laptop
Why we like it: The Blade 16 has been Razer's flagship gaming laptop for years. The thinner, sleeker design on the 14-inch Blade -- the thinnest Blade model yet -- gives nothing short of a stunning first impression. It weighs just 3.5 pounds and features a slick, matte-black finish that looks and feels premium. This challenges the brand's own aesthetic with a device that looks more like a MacBook Pro than a gaming laptop.
Plus, the display is gorgeous. The 3K, 120Hz OLED display extends right to the edge with ultrathin, mere-millimeter-thick bezels, housed within a substantial frame. There's no screen wobble, and the new Nvidia Blackwell architecture in the GeForce RTX 5070 GPU powers the show.
Review:Razer Blade 14
Who it's for:This is an interesting one. Gamers, certainly, but also creatives, or anyone who does a little bit of everything and wants a premium, well-designed laptop. The Blade 14 is one of the thinnest and lightest gaming laptops on the market, and its design is among the most versatile.
Creators working with 4K video editing and graphic design will appreciate the brilliant OLED display. I'd recommend this laptop to anyone looking for a capable gaming laptop but not interested in a 16- or 18-inch behemoth. In that sense, the Blade 14 speaks to the consumer who is comfortable with its trade-offs and appreciates the lightweight form factor.
Who should look elsewhere:This is a premium laptop that exceeds the $2,000 mark, so I'd only recommend it to people willing to pay the high price tag.
Razer Blade 14 tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home | CPU: AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 | GPU: Up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 | Display: 14" QHD+ OLED, 120 Hz refresh rate | RAM, Storage: Up to 64GB, up to 2TB SSD | Camera: 5MP | Battery: 72 Whr | Dimensions (H, W, D): 0.64 x 12.23 x 8.83 (inches) | Weight: 3.59 lbs.
Why we like it:The OmniBook X Flip 16 impresses with a 120Hz, 3K OLED touchscreen, making it equally ideal for content creation and entertainment. Not only will it display video projects accurately, but the large space also lets you run multiple apps on screen for a smooth workflow. Your productivity will increase tenfold thanks to the free Active Rechargeable Tilt Pen included with the laptop.
Inside the OmniBook X Flip is an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, a high-performance chipset that beats the Dell 14 Plus in sheer computing power. Battery life is decent at 10 hours on a single charge. Fortunately, it recharges very quickly. An hour's charge delivers about 70% of the battery's capacity.
Who it's for:Anyone looking for a big-screen 2-in-1, with extra points if you enjoy using a stylus for sketching. The
Review: HP OmniBook X Flip 16
Who should look elsewhere: If you don't think you'll make use of the device's 2-in-1 form factor, there are better options for content creators, like theAsus ProArt P16. Additionally, it's not a very powerful laptop. It's a midrange device.
HP OmniBook X Flip 16 tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home | CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7, 9 | GPU: Intel Arc 140V | Display: 16" 3K, OLED, 400 nits | RAM, Storage: 32GB, 2TB SSD | Camera: 5MP | Battery: 65Whr | Dimensions (H, W, D): 0.61 x 14.02 x 9.67 inches | Weight: 4.1 pounds.
- Brilliant OLED display
- Enjoyable as both a tablet and laptop
- Surprisingly good stylus
- Not exactly thin and light
- Middle of the road battery
Why we like it:The OmniBook X Flip 16 impresses with a 120Hz, 3K OLED touchscreen, making it equally ideal for content creation and entertainment. Not only will it display video projects accurately, but the large space also lets you run multiple apps on screen for a smooth workflow. Your productivity will increase tenfold thanks to the free Active Rechargeable Tilt Pen included with the laptop.
Inside the OmniBook X Flip is an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, a high-performance chipset that beats the Dell 14 Plus in sheer computing power. Battery life is decent at 10 hours on a single charge. Fortunately, it recharges very quickly. An hour's charge delivers about 70% of the battery's capacity.
Who it's for:Anyone looking for a big-screen 2-in-1, with extra points if you enjoy using a stylus for sketching. The
Review: HP OmniBook X Flip 16
Who should look elsewhere: If you don't think you'll make use of the device's 2-in-1 form factor, there are better options for content creators, like theAsus ProArt P16. Additionally, it's not a very powerful laptop. It's a midrange device.
HP OmniBook X Flip 16 tech specs: Operating System: Windows 11 Home | CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7, 9 | GPU: Intel Arc 140V | Display: 16" 3K, OLED, 400 nits | RAM, Storage: 32GB, 2TB SSD | Camera: 5MP | Battery: 65Whr | Dimensions (H, W, D): 0.61 x 14.02 x 9.67 inches | Weight: 4.1 pounds.
What is the best Windows laptop?
The best Windows laptop overall is the Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition, due to its elegant design, decent performance, and stunning OLED screen. That said, it's not perfect for everyone. Below is a list comparing every laptop on this list, highlighting key specifications.
Windows laptop | Price | CPU | Graphics |
Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition | $1,179 | Intel Core Ultra 7 258V | Intel Arc |
Dell 14 Plus | $800 | Intel Core Ultra 7 256V | Intel Arc |
Asus ProArt P16 | $2,200 | AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 |
Acer Aspire Go 15 | $260 | Intel Core i3 | Intel UHD Graphics |
HP OmniBook 7 Aero | $780 | AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 | AMD Radeon 860M |
Lenovo Legion 9i | $3,920 | Intel Ultra 9 275HX | Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 |
Razer Blade 14 | $2,300 | AMD Ryzen AI 9 375 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 |
HP OmniBook X Flip 16 | $1,000 | Intel Core Ultra 7 | Intel Arc |
*MSRP at the time of writing
Which Windows laptop is right for you?
The key to deciding which Windows laptop is best for you starts with evaluating what you'll be using it for.
For example, if you're a hybrid or remote worker, you'll want a lightweight, flexible configuration, a sturdy build, and good battery life. But if you're a largely deskbound graphic designer or creator who occasionally needs to visit a client with a laptop in tow, you're more likely to exchange some portability for power.
The table below provides a quick breakdown to help you further narrow your choices based on your needs.
Choose this Windows laptop... | If you want... |
Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition | A well-rounded 14-inch laptop with a sleek build, impressive performance, and fantastic battery life. |
Dell 14 Plus | The best Windows laptop for work. Its Intel Core Ultra processor handles heavy workloads with ease. |
Asus ProArt P16 | A serious laptop for creators, packed with cutting-edge hardware and tons of customization. |
Acer Aspire Go 15 | An affordable laptop for students, kids, everyday use, or as a secondary machine. |
HP OmniBook 7 Aero | A lightweight laptop with a stunning 2K display and a powerful speaker system. |
Lenovo Legion 9i | A powerful gaming laptop that pulls out all the stops for top-tier performance. |
Razer Blade 14 | A sleek, premium laptop made for a little bit of gaming, a little bit of creative tasks, and a little bit of work. |
OmniBook X Flip 16 | A big-screen laptop with a convertible form factor. |
How we test Windows laptops
We use a combination of methods to test laptops here at ZDNET. First, we acquire data from benchmarking software to analyze a system's metrics under the hood and compare those to advertised numbers. Then, we spend an extended period of time with the laptop (usually a week or two) using it the same way a normal consumer would, to analyze its portability, form factor, and how well the battery actually holds up, among other things. For an extensive breakdown, check out our comprehensive laptop testing methodology.
- Benchmarking: First, we run a series of tests to put the computer's hardware through its paces to see what it's capable of. Cinebench is one of the most commonly used hardware testing suites, which tests the laptop's rendering performance on single and multiple CPU cores. PCMark 10 is another powerful program that covers a wide variety of tasks performed in the workplace, and we use many others in tandem to gather as much data as we can. Some components we run tests on include:
- Processor: The "brain" of the laptop, and one of the most important factors that determines performance. The four biggest manufacturers of the CPUs found in laptops today are Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, and Apple (in its own machines only). This is tested in benchmarking software.
The display: The size of the display (measured diagonally from corner to corner) also dictates the laptop's overall size and plays a big role in its cost. Brightness is measured in "nits," and color spectrums are tested in benchmarking software.
The graphics processor (GPU): Whether it's integrated into the CPU or a dedicated graphics card, how well the machine handles graphics is a key factor for demanding visual tasks like video editing, rendering, and gaming. We test the GPU with a combination of benchmarking software, gaming, and media playback.
Physical form factor: Finally, the laptop's overall appearance and physical form factor encompass its weight and thickness, how the keyboard and trackpad feel, and whether it has a display that can be folded back to form a tablet. We carry the laptop around for at least a week and note how well it commutes.
Battery testing: We test a unit's battery in a few ways. A handful of benchmarking programs have their own battery testing components, but we will also just let the laptop run for as long as it can under a medium load. We ensure screensavers and hibernation mode are turned off, set the display's brightness and audio at 50%, load up a livestream on YouTube in Chrome, and wait 'til the end.
- The human element: As we mentioned earlier, metrics and system data are important, but numbers alone don't give you the full picture. This is where we weave in our personal experience with the device and tap into the practical use cases that consumers actually care about.
Ultimately, our goal is to break down the capabilities of each and every laptop we test into digestible terms that real people can find useful. There is a lot of noise and confusion when it comes to navigating the laptop and computer consumer market, so we hope to bring an intuitive element to the whole process by leveraging our team's decades of experience.
Latest news on Windows PCs
At the time of this writing, CES 2026 concluded last month, and many of the world's top laptop manufacturers showed off their upcoming models. A lot of great devices were shown off at the event. Rather than detail every single laptop, we'll instead focus on the announcements that have us the most excited and link to their respective news stories:
- Dell just made its boldest product decision yet at CES 2026, and XPS fans should rejoice
- Lenovo showed me its new ThinkPad X1 Carbon, and this year's upgrades caught me off guard
- The most ultraportable laptop I tested at CES wasn't made by Dell or Lenovo
FAQs on Windows laptops
Why should you buy a laptop and not a desktop or a tablet?
These days, for most people, a "computer" is a laptop. However, the desktop form factor -- particularly in the form of all-in-one (AIO) devices -- is by no means obsolete, especially for gaming machines. Still, laptops are more diverse than ever, ranging from thin, light, and ultraportable to bulky, powerful, and deskbound.
If working on small screens is not ideal for you, you can always attach an external monitor (or two or three). There are also plenty of hybrid 2-in-1 devices that straddle the divide between laptops and tablets and can act as either, depending on the circumstances.
Which operating system should you choose: Windows, Chrome OS, or Linux?
Every operating system has its committed supporters, but most people end up using a particular one either because of key applications running on it, it was chosen for them by their employer, or their familiarity with the OS.Windows spans the range from budget to premium, while Chrome OS is largely confined to the affordable end of the market.
All of the Windows devices listed here qualify for Windows 11. So, if you buy one with Windows 10 installed, you'll be able to upgrade to the newer version. If you don't, note that Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, after which there will be no more free security patches or feature updates.
Is there a top brand for Windows laptops?
Everything listed in this guide are all the top brands for Windows laptops. If you're looking for a specific brand that rises above the rest, it just comes down to personal preference. Laptops from the major manufacturers have their pros and cons, and brands achieve different levels of success with their product lines.
One of the biggest factors we look at here at ZDNET is bang for your buck. We love to see laptops with surprisingly good hardware or features that don't command a premium price. With that in mind, most of the laptops on this list are firmly in the midrange: enough hardware for solid performance but nothing that will break the bank.
What should a good quality laptop cost?
That's a tough question to answer because it ultimately comes down to what you, the buyer, are looking for. But we can give you an idea. Budget devices, by and large, cost less than $800. Hardware below that range can deliver solid overall performance and, most importantly, a long battery life. $1,500 and above is where you begin to see the elite laptops, the cream of the crop. You're looking at gaming laptops, business computers, and specialty machines such as thePanasonic Toughbook 55.
Between $800 and $1,500, you will find the midrange options. These are your average, everyday laptops that perform well without completely destroying your wallet. Most options fall in this range.
Should you stick to the usual laptop vendors or seek out lesser-known brands?
Generally speaking, the leading PC vendors have the broadest range of offerings and the best-documented track records in terms of product development and customer relations. So, in the absence of certain use cases or budgets, you're usually looking at Lenovo, HP, Dell, Apple, and Acer, all of which currently lead the PC market, plus a handful of other well-known brands.
Latest updates
- February 2026: We replaced the Legion Pro 9i and added the Lenovo Legion 9i as the new best gaming Windows laptop for its stupendous performance. HP's OmniBook 7 Aero made it on the list as the best lightweight Windows model. Finally, we ddded CES news on Windows laptops.
- August 2025: We overhauled our lineup by adding the Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition, HP EliteBook X G1a, Lenovo Legion Pro 7i, Razer Blade 14, and OmniBook X Flip 16.
- September 2025: We added in latest news regarding support for Windows 11.
- January 2026: We added the Dell 14 Plus, HP OmniBook 7 Aero, and the Lenovo Legion 9i to the main list.
Are there other products worth consideration?
We've covered just about every situation where you'd need a Windows laptop, including rugged models for field work, ultra-powerful workstations for developers, and content creation. But if you're still weighing your options, here are two more Windows laptops we consider great choices.
The HP OmniBook X Flip 14 is a well-rounded, affordable 2-in-1 that combines a vibrant OLED with smooth, reliable performance courtesy of its AMD processor.
Review:HP OmniBook X Flip 14
The HP OmniBook X Flip 14 is a well-rounded, affordable 2-in-1 that combines a vibrant OLED with smooth, reliable performance courtesy of its AMD processor.
Review:HP OmniBook X Flip 14
Lenovo's Legion Pro 7i is a slimmer alternative to the bulky Legion 9i. Similar to its counterpart, the Legion Pro 7i features powerful hardware, a vivid OLED screen, and customizable RGB lighting.
Review:Lenovo Legion Pro 7i
Lenovo's Legion Pro 7i is a slimmer alternative to the bulky Legion 9i. Similar to its counterpart, the Legion Pro 7i features powerful hardware, a vivid OLED screen, and customizable RGB lighting.
Review:Lenovo Legion Pro 7i
We're big fans of Windows PCs here at ZDNET and have covered everything from product reviews to the latest updates from Microsoft. For more on how to get the most of out of your Windows PC, check out these time-saving Windows keyboard shortcuts that supercharged my daily routine and the 5 free essential apps on every Windows PC.
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