Navigating the laptop market in 2025 can feel overwhelming. With a constant stream of new releases boasting cutting-edge technology, finding the Best Laptop For The Money requires expert guidance. This year promises to be particularly exciting, with innovations unveiled at CES 2025 now hitting shelves, including gaming laptops powered by Nvidia’s RTX 5000 GPUs. However, amidst the hype and technical jargon, making a smart investment is crucial. We’re here to provide unbiased advice, helping you pinpoint the ideal laptop that balances performance, features, and price.
On this page, you’ll discover a curated list of top-tier laptops, MacBooks, and Chromebooks rigorously tested by our experts at Money-Central.com. We understand that purchasing a laptop is a significant decision, and our recommendations are designed to ensure you get the best laptop for your money, regardless of your specific requirements or budget. Our hands-on testing methodology guarantees reliable and trustworthy advice (you can learn more about how we test laptops).
Currently, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 stands out as our top recommendation for the best overall laptop for the money in 2025. Its exceptional blend of design, performance, and battery life makes it a compelling choice for a wide range of users.
Recent Updates
February 4, 2025: This guide has been refreshed with the latest information and recommendations for February.
The Best Overall Laptop
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1. Microsoft Surface Laptop 7
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 redefines what to expect from the best laptop, offering unmatched value in 2025.
Specifications
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite
- Screen Size: 14-inch / 15-inch
- RAM: Up to 64GB
- Storage: Up to 1TB
- Battery Life (Money-Central.com test): 10 hours and 10 minutes
- Dimensions: 11.85 x 8.67 x 0.69 inches (301mm x 220 x 17.5mm) / 12.96 x 9.42 x 0.72 ins (329 x 239.3 x 18.3mm)
- Weight: 2.7 lbs (1.24kg) / 3.67lbs (1.66kg)
After years of MacBook Air dominance, Microsoft’s Surface Laptop 7 emerges as the best laptop for the money for most users in 2025. This stylish and powerful device delivers exceptional all-around performance and impressive battery life. Microsoft emphasizes this seventh iteration as a significant reinvention, and it’s not just marketing hype. Powered by the groundbreaking Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chip, the Surface Laptop 7 offers a fast and responsive Windows 11 experience. Its energy efficiency translates to remarkable battery life and quiet operation, with fans rarely engaging.
As a flagship “Copilot+ PC,” the Surface Laptop 7 integrates AI features like the Copilot assistant and the Cocreator tool, which transforms sketches into AI-generated art within Paint. These AI capabilities operate on-device, enhancing data security and functionality even without internet access. While still in early stages, these AI features offer substantial future potential. Even without them, the Surface Laptop 7 is a standout device, positioning itself as a true MacBook competitor and the best laptop for the money in the premium category.
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Reasons to Buy
✅ Unmatched Overall Performance: The Surface Laptop 7 stands as the best laptop for the money in terms of overall excellence, surpassing competitors in build quality, performance, and battery efficiency.
✅ Exceptional Portability and Battery Life: Available in 14-inch and 15-inch sizes, even the larger model of the Surface Laptop 7 remains remarkably portable and boasts all-day battery life, freeing you from power outlet dependency. It’s the ideal best laptop for the money if mobility and longevity are key.
✅ Top-Tier Productivity Machine: Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon chip, the Surface Laptop 7 offers exceptional performance for productivity tasks, seamlessly integrating with Windows 11’s AI-driven Copilot features. For professionals seeking the best laptop for the money to boost their workflow, this is it.
Reasons to Avoid
❌ Limited Port Selection: The Surface Laptop 7’s slim design comes at the cost of port availability, offering only two USB-C ports and a single USB-A. The 15-inch model adds a microSD slot, but users needing extensive connectivity might find this restrictive. For those prioritizing ports, this might not be the best laptop for the money.
❌ Not Ideal for Gaming: The integrated GPU in the ARM-based chip is sufficient for general use but lacks the power for demanding games. Gamers seeking the best laptop for the money for gaming should explore dedicated gaming laptops.
❌ Windows 11 Preference Required: The Surface Laptop 7 delivers MacBook-like style and performance but runs Windows 11. Users strongly preferring macOS should consider the MacBook Air (M3) instead, though in terms of value, the Surface Laptop 7 is a strong contender for the best laptop for the money running Windows.
In-depth Analysis
Design: Microsoft’s Surface line is known for stylish design, and the Surface Laptop 7 continues this trend. Its thin and light yet robust chassis echoes MacBook aesthetics, offering premium feel and portability. The comfortable keyboard, responsive trackpad, and stunning 120Hz HDR display enhance user experience. The primary design drawback remains limited port selection.
Performance: The Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chip delivers impressive productivity performance. Windows 11 operates smoothly, and app compatibility issues seen in previous ARM-based Windows laptops are resolved. While not designed for high-end gaming, the Surface Laptop 7 excels in daily tasks and professional applications, making it a strong contender for the best laptop for the money in terms of performance and efficiency.
Battery Life: The ARM chip’s efficiency results in exceptional battery life, reaching up to 15 hours in tests. Real-world usage confirms multi-day battery performance, making it highly convenient for mobile professionals. Both 14-inch and 15-inch models offer comparable battery longevity, solidifying its position as a best laptop for the money for users needing long-lasting power.
Value for Money: Starting at $999.99, the Surface Laptop 7 offers excellent value, especially compared to similarly powerful laptops and the MacBook Air (M3). It’s competitively priced for its features and performance, reinforcing its status as the best laptop for the money in the premium segment.
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Surface Laptop 7 Ratings:
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Excellent value for its features and performance | ★★★★☆ |
| Design | Premium look and feel, mirroring high-end MacBooks | ★★★★★ |
| Performance | Significant performance upgrade thanks to the Qualcomm ARM chip | ★★★★★ |
| Battery Life | Expect 15-20 hours of battery life, ideal for all-day use | ★★★★★ |
Expert Verdict: Allisa James
💻 The Surface Laptop 7 is a truly outstanding portable device, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon chip. Its top-tier performance, battery life, portability, price, and sound quality make it the clear best laptop for the money in 2025. Read the full review: Microsoft Surface Laptop 7
The Best Budget Laptop
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2. Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 OLED Chromebook
The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 OLED Chromebook offers the best balance of features and affordability, making it the best budget laptop for the money.
Specifications
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen2
- Screen Size: 13.3-inch
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 128GB
- Battery Life (Money-Central.com test): 16 hours 20 minutes
- Dimensions: 12.04 x 7.35 x 0.28 inches (305.86 x 186.74 x 7.23mm)
- Weight: 2.24lbs (1.02kg)
The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook is the best budget laptop for the money in 2025, a worthy successor to the original IdeaPad Duet. Chromebooks age gracefully, and the IdeaPad Duet 5 remains a top Chromebook pick. It’s a compelling choice for Chromebook skeptics, functioning as both a laptop and tablet with a detachable keyboard and exceptional battery life. No Windows 11 laptop at this price can match its 16+ hour battery performance. It’s particularly well-suited for students seeking a reliable, flexible, and affordable device, truly making it the best budget laptop for the money.
Reasons to Buy
✅ OLED Display at a Budget Price: An OLED display is rare in Chromebooks, making the IdeaPad Duet 5 unique. For users prioritizing screen quality on a budget, it’s the best laptop for the money with an OLED screen.
✅ Unrivaled Battery Life: Achieving over 16 hours of battery life with optimized settings, the IdeaPad Duet 5 is ideal for users needing extended use without frequent charging. This long battery life significantly enhances its value as the best budget laptop for the money.
✅ More Robust than Android/iOS: Chrome OS offers a less restricted environment compared to mobile operating systems like Android or iOS, providing greater functionality for users needing more than a tablet experience. For those seeking a step up from tablets without breaking the bank, it’s the best laptop for the money.
Reasons to Avoid
❌ Smaller Keyboard May Be Cramped: Some users might find the Duet 5’s smaller keyboard less comfortable for extended typing. Users with larger hands or those needing extensive typing should consider larger laptops for better ergonomics, although for portability and price, it remains a strong contender for the best laptop for the money.
❌ Not the Absolute Cheapest Option: While offering premium features at a budget price, those on the tightest budgets might find even more affordable Chromebook options, though they may sacrifice features like the OLED screen and battery life. However, for its feature set, the Duet 5 is still the best budget laptop for the money.
❌ Chrome OS Limitations: Chrome OS isn’t as versatile as Windows or macOS. Users needing specific Windows or macOS applications should consider traditional laptops. However, for web-centric tasks and Android app compatibility, Chrome OS is efficient and the Duet 5 is the best budget laptop for the money in this category.
In-depth Analysis
Design: The IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook’s detachable keyboard is comfortable and high-quality, rivaling Ultrabooks. The magnetic backplate includes a clip for a stylus (sold separately). The standout design feature is its vibrant 1080p OLED display, exceptional for its price range, enhancing its appeal as the best budget laptop for the money.
Performance: For everyday web browsing, video streaming, and basic productivity, the Duet 5 performs seamlessly. Upgraded with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen2 processor and 8GB RAM, it ensures smooth multitasking and efficient operation, solidifying its position as the best budget laptop for the money for everyday use.
Battery Life: While Chromebooks typically offer around 10 hours of battery life, the Lenovo Duet 5 extends this to over 16 hours. Though slightly less than its predecessor’s 20+ hours, it remains outstanding, providing all-day battery on a budget and making it the best budget laptop for the money for longevity.
Value for Money: The IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook is unmatched in value among Chromebooks and 2-in-1s. Price drops since launch have made it even more affordable. While a stylus isn’t included, the overall package is exceptionally compelling for its price, firmly establishing it as the best budget laptop for the money.
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Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook Ratings:
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Unbeatable budget laptop with premium features | ★★★★★ |
| Design | 2-in-1 design with a stunning OLED screen at this price point | ★★★★☆ |
| Performance | Reliable for everyday tasks, though not for intensive applications | ★★★☆☆ |
| Battery Life | Over 16 hours ensures all-day usage | ★★★★★ |
Expert Verdict: John Loeffler
💻 The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook delivers exceptional value with its long battery life, vibrant display, and improved 2-in-1 form factor. It’s the best budget laptop for the money, especially for those prioritizing portability and battery life over raw power. Read the full review: Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook
The Best MacBook
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3. Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3)
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) is the best MacBook for the money right now, balancing performance and price effectively.
Specifications
- Processor: Apple M3
- Screen Size: 13.6-inch
- RAM: 8GB – 24GB
- Storage: 256GB – 2TB
- Battery Life (Money-Central.com test): 14 hours and 19 minutes
- Dimensions: 11.97 x 8.46 x 0.44 inches (304 x 215 x 11.3mm)
- Weight: 2.7 lbs (1.24kg)
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) is currently the best MacBook you can buy. Its design is thin, light, and stylish, powered by Apple’s M3 chip for excellent performance in everyday tasks and even demanding workloads like video editing. A recent price reduction for the base model makes it an easy recommendation, especially since Apple boosted the base model’s memory to 16GB without increasing the price, enhancing its value as the best MacBook for the money.
Reasons to Buy
✅ Best Value MacBook: The M3 MacBook Air 13-inch is now the recommended MacBook for most users, offering a great design, excellent performance, and a more affordable price point. It’s the best MacBook for the money for general users.
✅ Ideal for Travel: Its thin and light design, coupled with long battery life, makes it an excellent travel companion. For users needing portability and MacBook quality, it’s the best laptop for the money in the travel category.
✅ Balanced Power: The M3 chip provides ample power for daily tasks, video editing, and even AI applications, striking a great balance between performance and efficiency. For users needing power without excessive cost, it’s the best MacBook for the money.
Reasons to Avoid
❌ Cheapest MacBook Alternative Exists: While the M3 MacBook Air 13-inch has a lower price, the M2 model is now even cheaper, making it the most affordable MacBook option. For absolute budget seekers within the Apple ecosystem, the M2 model is the best MacBook for the money if price is the primary concern.
❌ Limited Ports: The MacBook Air (M3) still only includes two Thunderbolt ports. Users needing more ports will require a hub or adapter. For users needing extensive connectivity, it may not be the best MacBook for the money without additional accessories.
❌ Smaller Screen Option: The 13-inch screen enhances portability, but some users may find it too small for extensive work. The 15-inch MacBook Air is available for those needing a larger display, though the 13-inch offers better value as the best MacBook for the money in terms of portability.
In-depth Analysis
Design: The MacBook Air (M3) maintains the M2 model’s design – stylish, modern, and portable. Port selection remains limited, but the overall design is comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. Its enduring design contributes to its value as the best MacBook for the money.
Performance: The M3 chip comes in two versions: 8-core CPU/8-core GPU and a more powerful 8-core CPU/10-core GPU. Apple increased the base model’s memory to 16GB, enhancing performance. The MacBook Air (M3) performs excellently, with fast macOS booting and smooth multitasking. While the M3 is powerful, rumors of an M4-powered MacBook Air are emerging, but currently, the M3 offers the best MacBook for the money in terms of performance for its class.
Battery Life: Apple claims up to 18 hours of Apple TV playback and 15 hours of web browsing. Money-Central.com tests recorded around 14 hours and 19 minutes in looped video playback. This is excellent for a powerful laptop, though slightly less than the M2 model, suggesting a slight trade-off between performance and efficiency. However, it’s still a leader in battery life for its category and the best MacBook for the money in terms of longevity.
Value for Money: The MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) starts at $1,099, lower than the M2 model’s launch price. With the M3 release, the M2 model’s price has also dropped, making the M2 the most budget-friendly MacBook. However, the M3 offers enhanced performance and future-proofing, making it the best MacBook for the money for users seeking the latest technology at a competitive price.
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MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) Ratings:
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Improved value with a lower starting price | ★★★★★ |
| Design | Top-tier design, remains a leader in laptop aesthetics | ★★★★★ |
| Performance | Excellent M3 chip performance, a solid but not huge upgrade over M2 | ★★★★☆ |
| Battery Life | All-day battery life for typical workdays | ★★★★★ |
Expert Verdict: Matt Hanson
💻 The MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) is the best MacBook for the money for most people, and one of the best laptops overall. Upgrading memory and storage is recommended for future-proofing, enhancing its long-term value. Read the full review: Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3)
The Best for Windows 11
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4. Dell XPS 13 (2024)
The Dell XPS 13 (2024) is the best Windows 11 laptop for the money in 2025, offering top-tier performance and design.
Specifications
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite
- Screen Size: 13.4-inch
- RAM: 16GB – 64GB
- Storage: 512GB – 2TB
- Battery Life (Money-Central.com test): 17 hours 24 minutes
- Dimensions: 11.62 x 7.84 x 0.58 ins (295.3 x 199.1 x 14.8 mm)
- Weight: 2.6lbs (1.19kg)
Dell is a leader in Windows laptops, and the Dell XPS 13 (2024) is a prime example, securing its place as the best Windows 11 laptop for the money. Maintaining the XPS line’s sleek and light design, it features the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chip, also found in the Surface Laptop 7. This chip provides excellent performance and exceptional battery life, lasting nearly 17.5 hours in our tests. For users seeking a stylish and powerful Windows 11 laptop with outstanding battery life, the Dell XPS 13 (2024) is the ideal choice, representing the best Windows 11 laptop for the money.
Reasons to Buy
✅ Powerful Windows 11 Performance: The Dell XPS 13 features cutting-edge mobile technology, a stunning screen, and up to 64GB of RAM, delivering top-tier Windows 11 performance. For users prioritizing performance, it’s the best Windows 11 laptop for the money.
✅ Exceptional Battery Life: The Dell XPS 13 (2024) offers remarkable battery life for a Windows 11 laptop, nearly 17.5 hours on a single charge, maximizing productivity on the go. This long battery life makes it the best Windows 11 laptop for the money in terms of endurance.
✅ Best Overall Windows 11 Experience: With its solid, stylish, and lightweight design, combined with excellent performance and a stunning screen, the Dell XPS 13 (2024) provides the best overall Windows 11 laptop experience. It’s the best Windows 11 laptop for the money for a premium experience.
Reasons to Avoid
❌ Limited Peripheral Connectivity: The XPS 13 (2024)’s thin design limits ports to just two USB-C. Users needing extensive peripheral connections may find this restrictive. For users needing more ports, it might not be the best Windows 11 laptop for the money without dongles.
❌ Premium Price Point: Starting at $1,299, the Dell XPS 13 (2024) is a premium laptop. More budget-conscious users might find cheaper alternatives more suitable. While excellent, it’s not the best Windows 11 laptop for the money for budget buyers.
❌ Not for Gaming: The Dell XPS 13 (2024) excels in many areas but is not designed for gaming. Simple games may run, but demanding titles require a dedicated GPU. Gamers should consider gaming laptops instead, as the XPS 13 is not the best Windows 11 laptop for the money for gaming.
In-depth Analysis
Design: The Dell XPS 13 (2024) continues the XPS tradition of well-designed Windows 11 laptops. Its gorgeous, thin, and light design rivals MacBooks, feeling sturdy and premium. Screen options include a standout 3K touchscreen, enhancing its appeal as the best Windows 11 laptop for the money in design and display.
Performance: The Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chip ensures excellent daily performance, rivaling M3 MacBooks. Windows 11 is fast and responsive, with broad app compatibility, although minor VPN issues exist. It excels in productivity but is not suited for gaming. For productivity, it’s the best Windows 11 laptop for the money.
Battery Life: The XPS 13 (2024) achieved over 17.5 hours in battery tests, outperforming most Windows 11 laptops, MacBooks, and even some Chromebooks. This exceptional battery life allows for multi-day use without charging, making it the best Windows 11 laptop for the money in terms of battery performance.
Value for Money: While expensive, the Dell XPS 13 (2024) justifies its price with brilliant design, a stunning screen (especially the 3K model), and cutting-edge components. Despite the high starting price, it offers significant value for its premium features, making it the best Windows 11 laptop for the money in the high-end category.
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Dell XPS 13 (2024) Ratings:
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Premium price, but justified by design and performance | ★★★★☆ |
| Design | Sleek, svelte design, sets a high standard for Windows laptops | ★★★★★ |
| Performance | Excellent all-around performance, handles demanding tasks with ease | ★★★★★ |
| Battery Life | Exceptional battery life, lasting through multiple workdays | ★★★★★ |
Expert Verdict: Allisa James
💻 The Dell XPS 13 (2024), equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chip, is the best Windows 11 laptop for the money due to its outstanding performance and battery life. Improved ventilation, phenomenal display, and superior build quality make it a top choice. Read the full review: Dell XPS 13 (2024)
The Best Value Laptop
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5. Acer Aspire 5
The Acer Aspire 5 remains the best value laptop for the money in 2025, offering essential features at an unbeatable price.
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core i5
- Screen Size: 14-inch
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 512GB
- Battery Life (Money-Central.com test): 6 hours 37 minutes
- Dimensions: 0.71 x 12.9 x 8.8 inches (18 x 327.7 x 223.5mm)
- Weight: 3.75lb (1.7kg)
The Acer Aspire 5 continues to be the best value laptop for the money in 2025, provided expectations are realistic. Its lightweight design doesn’t feel cheap, and the large screen is comfortable for work. Optional Nvidia GPUs enhance video editing capabilities, though it’s not a gaming laptop. For its price, the Aspire 5 offers surprising performance, making it the best value laptop for the money for budget-conscious users.
Reasons to Buy
✅ Affordable Price Point: The Acer Aspire 5 is a no-frills laptop that performs well for its price, significantly less than many Windows 11 laptops. For budget buyers, it’s the best value laptop for the money.
✅ Portable Design: This budget laptop is impressively light without feeling flimsy, making it convenient for daily commutes and mobility. Its portability enhances its value as the best value laptop for the money.
✅ Windows 11 at a Budget: Unlike cheaper Chromebooks with ChromeOS, the Acer Aspire 5 runs Windows 11, offering wider software compatibility at a low price. For users needing Windows on a budget, it’s the best value laptop for the money.
Reasons to Avoid
❌ Not a Gaming Laptop: While configurable with a discrete GPU, this increases the price and still doesn’t make it a dedicated gaming laptop. Gamers should look elsewhere, as the Aspire 5 isn’t the best value laptop for the money for gaming.
❌ Average Battery Life: Around 6.5 hours of battery life is decent but not exceptional. The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet offers much longer battery life. Users needing extended battery life might consider alternatives, though for its price, the Aspire 5 is still the best value laptop for the money.
In-depth Analysis
Design: The Acer Aspire 5 has a familiar, dependable design, not innovative but solid. Weighing 1.7kg and 18mm thick, it’s portable. The L-shaped power connector is a minor design flaw. Overall, it’s a functional design for the best value laptop for the money.
Performance: The Acer Aspire 5 offers solid, dependable performance for daily needs. It’s not exceptional but reliable for everyday tasks. The base model with integrated graphics is not for gaming, but a dedicated GPU option improves graphical performance, though still not for demanding games. For everyday use, it’s the best value laptop for the money.
Battery Life: Money-Central.com testing found around 6.5 hours of battery life. While not poor, Chromebooks offer longer battery life. Users will likely need to carry the charger. However, for its price point, it’s still the best value laptop for the money.
Value for Money: As the best value laptop for the money, the Acer Aspire 5 is priced around $600 in the US and £500 in the UK. For this low price, it offers good performance, a decent design, and a 1080p screen, making it an exceptional value proposition.
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Acer Aspire 5 Ratings:
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Excellent value Windows 11 laptop, often available on sale | ★★★★★ |
| Design | Solid and functional, if not particularly stylish | ★★★☆☆ |
| Performance | Dependable performance, especially for the price | ★★★☆☆ |
| Battery Life | Around 7 hours in tests, reasonable for its class | ★★★★☆ |
Expert Verdict: Cliff Joseph
💻 The Acer Aspire 5 is pitched as a mobile workstation for video editing, but it’s best understood as an affordable entry-level laptop with respectable performance and battery life for the price. It stands as the best value laptop for the money for users needing a functional and affordable Windows machine. Read the full review: Acer Aspire 5 (2022)
The Best Student Laptop
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6. Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M2)
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M2) is the best student laptop for the money in 2025, now more affordable than ever.
Specifications
- Processor: Apple M2
- Screen Size: 13.6-inch
- RAM: 8GB – 24GB
- Storage: 256GB – 2TB
- Battery Life (Money-Central.com test): 16 hours 6 minutes
- Dimensions: 11.97 x 8.46 x 0.44 inches (304.1 x 215 x 11.3mm)
- Weight: 2.7lbs (1.24kg)
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M2) is the best laptop for students for the money currently available. Its stylish, thin, and light design is more modern than previous models, making it highly portable. It offers a 16-hour battery life and a great screen. Initially criticized for its higher base price compared to the M1 model, the M2 MacBook Air has now received a significant price cut, especially for students. This makes it an excellent choice for school and university, easily lasting an entire course and representing the best student laptop for the money.
Reasons to Buy
✅ Ultra-Portable Design: The redesigned MacBook Air 13-inch (M2) is exceptionally thin and light, perfect for students moving between classes and study locations. Its portability makes it the best student laptop for the money for mobile students.
✅ Powerful and Affordable for Students: With the M3 MacBook Air launch, the M2 model has become more affordable, and students get an additional discount, making it a powerful yet cost-effective option for academic use. It’s the best student laptop for the money in terms of performance and student discounts.
✅ Superior to 13-inch MacBook Pro for Students: The MacBook Air (M2, 2022) is thinner, lighter, cheaper, and offers similar performance to the 13-inch MacBook Pro, making it a better choice for students seeking value. It’s the best student laptop for the money compared to the Pro model.
Reasons to Avoid
❌ Budget Constraints: While now Apple’s cheapest MacBook, the MacBook Air (M2) may still be too expensive for some students. Chromebooks offer more affordable alternatives. For absolute budget students, it might not be the best student laptop for the money if price is the ultimate factor.
❌ Limited Ports: The MacBook Air (M2) has only two Thunderbolt ports. Students needing more ports should consider alternatives or a USB-C hub. For port-intensive tasks, it might not be the best student laptop for the money without extra accessories.
❌ Smaller Display Preference: A 13-inch screen might be too small for some. The 15-inch MacBook Air is an option, but the 13-inch model is more portable and affordable, representing the best student laptop for the money in terms of balance.
In-depth Analysis
Design: The MacBook Air (M2) received a significant design overhaul, becoming thinner, lighter, and more portable with slimmer bezels and a larger display. Its bright, vibrant screen and modern aesthetics make it one of the best-looking laptops, even years after launch. The M3 model retains this design, ensuring the M2 remains contemporary and the best student laptop for the money in design.
Performance: The MacBook Air (M2) delivers outstanding performance for students. macOS boots quickly, and apps run smoothly. Multitasking with numerous browser tabs and applications is effortless, though the base 8GB RAM is somewhat limited. The redesigned keyboard enhances typing comfort, making it the best student laptop for the money in performance and usability.
Battery Life: In Money-Central.com battery tests, the MacBook Air 13-inch (M2) lasted 16 hours playing a 1080p video – a significant improvement over previous models. It easily lasts through a full workday or long study sessions, making it the best student laptop for the money in battery longevity.
Value for Money: Initially launched at a higher price, the MacBook Air (M2) is now more affordable, especially for students who receive further discounts. At its current price, it is exceptionally valuable, arguably priced as it should have been at launch. For students, it’s definitively the best student laptop for the money.
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MacBook Air (M2, 2022) Ratings:
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Price reduction enhances its value, especially for students | ★★★★☆ |
| Design | Thinner, lighter, with a larger, more vibrant screen | ★★★★★ |
| Performance | Powerful performance from the M2 chip, ideal for academic tasks | ★★★★☆ |
| Battery Life | 16-hour battery life surpasses many competitors | ★★★★★ |
Expert Verdict: Matt Hanson
💻 The MacBook Air (M2, 2022) is now Apple’s most affordable MacBook, offering fantastic value after a price cut. With a redesigned body, larger screen, and long battery life, it’s a significant upgrade and the best student laptop for the money. Read the full review: MacBook Air 13-inch (M2)
The Best Laptop for Working From Home
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7. Acer Chromebook Plus 515
The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is the best laptop for working from home for the money, offering a large screen and comfortable experience at a great value.
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core i3
- Screen Size: 15.6-inch
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 128GB
- Battery Life (Money-Central.com test): 5 hours and 13 minutes
- Dimensions: 14.2 x 9.39 x 0.79 inches (360.6 x 238.5 x 19.99 mm)
- Weight: 3.7 lbs (1.68 kg)
For those working from home, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is an excellent, affordable option. While MacBooks are powerful, Chromebooks like the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 handle most daily workloads at a fraction of the cost. It offers a large screen, comfortable keyboard, and snappy performance with Chrome OS. It’s the best laptop for working from home for the money, balancing screen size, comfort, and affordability.
Reasons to Buy
✅ Ideal for Home Productivity: This Chromebook is designed for home-based work, featuring a large screen, comfortable keyboard, and efficient performance for productivity tasks. It’s the best laptop for working from home for the money for general office tasks.
✅ Eco-Friendly Choice: Made from recycled materials, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is an environmentally conscious option for users looking for a sustainable laptop. Its eco-friendly design adds to its value as the best laptop for working from home for the money.
✅ Portable 15-inch Laptop: Despite its large screen, it’s impressively thin and portable, with decent battery life for occasional mobility around the house. Its portability enhances its value as the best laptop for working from home for the money.
Reasons to Avoid
❌ Chrome OS App Limitations: As a Chromebook, it uses Chrome OS, which lacks the full range of apps available on Windows or macOS. Users needing specific Windows or macOS applications should consider other options. For users needing specific software, it might not be the best laptop for working from home for the money.
❌ Not High-Performance: While powerful for a Chromebook, its specs are lower than standard laptops or MacBooks. Users needing high performance for demanding tasks should look at more powerful laptops. For demanding tasks, it’s not the best laptop for working from home for the money.
❌ Cheaper Chromebook Options Available: While offering excellent value, cheaper Chromebooks exist, though they might compromise on screen size or performance. For absolute budget seekers, there might be cheaper options, but the 515 offers better features for the price, making it the best laptop for working from home for the money in its category.
In-depth Analysis
Design: The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 has a straightforward design, solid and dependable, if not visually exciting. Its 15-inch screen provides ample workspace, though it makes the laptop larger overall. The design is functional and practical, contributing to its value as the best laptop for working from home for the money.
Performance: As a Chromebook, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 performs excellently, with quick Chrome OS booting and smooth app performance. It feels fast and responsive, suitable for daily tasks like document creation, emails, and video calls. However, Chrome OS app limitations are a factor, but for web-based work, it’s the best laptop for working from home for the money.
Battery Life: Surprisingly, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 only achieved around 5 hours and 13 minutes of battery life in tests, shorter than typical Chromebooks. While not terrible, it’s less impressive for a Chromebook. Battery life is a drawback, but for its price, it remains the best laptop for working from home for the money.
Value for Money: Priced at $399.99, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 offers exceptional value for money. It’s an affordable laptop that performs well above its price point, suitable for home workers, students, or anyone needing a budget laptop without sacrificing performance. It’s the best laptop for working from home for the money.
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Acer Chromebook Plus 515 Ratings:
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Brilliant value as a Chromebook | ★★★★★ |
| Design | Classic Chromebook design, comfortable keyboard | ★★★★☆ |
| Performance | Fast boot times and snappy app performance for Chrome OS | ★★★★☆ |
| Battery Life | Battery life is shorter than expected for a Chromebook, but charges fast | ★★★☆☆ |
Expert Verdict: Allisa James
💻 The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is a solid productivity machine, well-suited for work, and surprisingly capable of light editing and even native gaming. It’s the best laptop for working from home for the money due to its balance of features and affordability. Read the full review: Acer Chromebook Plus 515
The Best Laptop for Creatives
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(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
8. MacBook Pro 16-inch (M4 Pro)
The MacBook Pro 16-inch (M4 Pro) is the best laptop for creatives for the money, offering unparalleled performance for demanding applications.
Specifications
- Processor: Apple M4 Pro – M4 Max
- Screen Size: 16-inch
- RAM: 24GB – 128GB
- Storage: 512GB – 8TB
- Battery Life (Money-Central.com test): 21 hours and 32 minutes
- Dimensions: 14.01 x 9.77 x 0.66 inches (356 x 248 x 17mm)
- Weight: 4.7 lbs (2.2kg)
The new MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro and M4 Max chips is Apple’s most powerful laptop, offering incredible performance for creative tasks like video editing. Testing showed it handles complex tasks with ease and boasts over 20 hours of battery life. For creatives needing power and mobility, it’s the best laptop for creatives for the money.
Reasons to Buy
✅ Most Powerful MacBook Ever: The M4 Pro and M4 Max MacBook Pro models deliver unmatched performance for demanding creative workloads. For professionals needing top power, it’s the best laptop for creatives for the money.
✅ Ideal for Mobile Creative Professionals: For creatives on the go, it combines power, a stunning display, great speakers, and ample ports with exceptional battery life. It’s the best laptop for creatives for the money in terms of portability and performance.
✅ Peak Apple Silicon Performance: The M4 Pro and M4 Max chips represent the pinnacle of Apple’s hardware, revolutionizing laptop performance. For users wanting the best Apple has to offer, it’s the best laptop for creatives for the money.
Reasons to Avoid
❌ Existing 16-inch MacBook Pro Owners: Owners of recent 16-inch MacBook Pros (M3 Pro/Max, M2 Pro/Max) may not see enough improvement to justify upgrading. For recent owners, it might not be the best laptop for creatives for the money to upgrade.
❌ Expensive Workstation Laptop: The 16-inch MacBook Pro is a significant investment, potentially too expensive for some. The 14-inch model is more affordable, and the MacBook Air 15-inch is better for casual users. Budget-conscious creatives should consider alternatives, as it’s not the best laptop for creatives for the money for budget buyers.
❌ Overkill for Casual Users: Unless you’re a creative professional, the MacBook Pro 16-inch’s power, especially with the M4 Max, is likely unnecessary. The MacBook Air 15-inch is better suited for general use. For casual users, it’s not the best laptop for creatives for the money.
In-depth Analysis
Design: The M4 Pro/Max MacBook Pros have no major design changes but remain fantastic. Subtle tweaks include Thunderbolt 5, an improved webcam, and optional nano-texture screen coating. The design is refined and professional, enhancing its value as the best laptop for creatives for the money.
Performance: Benchmark tests show a performance increase over the M3 Pro model, making the new MacBook Pro Apple’s most powerful laptop, outperforming most Windows 11 laptops in its class. It’s the best laptop for creatives for the money in terms of raw processing power.
Battery Life: The 16-inch MacBook Pro continues to offer industry-leading battery life, lasting over 20 hours in tests. This combination of performance and battery life is remarkable, making it the best laptop for creatives for the money in endurance and capability.
Value for Money: The MacBook Pro 16-inch (M4 Pro/M4 Max) is ambitious in hardware and design, aimed at creative professionals needing mobile power. While expensive, it’s worth the investment for professionals who require top-tier performance, making it the best laptop for creatives for the money for those who need its power.
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MacBook Pro 16-inch (M4 Pro, 2024) Ratings:
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | High price, but justifiable for professional use | ★★★☆☆ |
| Design | Refined design, subtle improvements, top-notch build quality | ★★★★☆ |
| Performance | M4 Pro chip delivers exceptional performance for creative tasks | ★★★★★ |
| Battery Life | Multi-day battery life, outstanding for a workstation-class laptop | ★★★★★ |
Expert Verdict: Matt Hanson
💻 The MacBook Pro 16-inch is more powerful than ever with M4 Pro and M4 Max chips, providing the performance creative professionals demand. Minor design tweaks enhance its appeal, making it the best laptop for creatives for the money and the best MacBook Apple has ever made. Read the full review: MacBook Pro 16-inch (M4 Pro, 2024)
The Best Laptop for Gaming
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(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
9. Razer Blade 14 (2024)
The Razer Blade 14 (2024) is the best laptop for gaming for the money, balancing portability and high-end gaming performance.
Specifications
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 9
- Screen Size: 14-inch
- RAM: 16GB – 32GB
- Storage: 1TB
- Battery Life (Money-Central.com test): 6 hours and 40 minutes
- Dimensions: 12.23 x 8.97 x 0.70 ins | 310.7 x 228 x 17.99mm
- Weight: 4.05lbs (1.84kg)
The latest Razer Blade 14 is updated with cutting-edge specs, including the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS, offering a performance boost over the 2023 model. It offers RTX 4060 or 4070 laptop GPUs, capable of handling any PC game. With a 2560 x 1600 screen and thin, light design, the Razer Blade 14 (2024) is the best laptop for gaming for the money for users seeking portability and power.
Reasons to Buy
✅ Lightweight Gaming Powerhouse: The Razer Blade 14 is exceptionally thin and light for a gaming laptop, without compromising performance. Its portability makes it the best laptop for gaming for the money for gamers on the go.
✅ Excellent Gaming Performance: Few 14-inch gaming laptops match the Razer Blade 14 (2024) in raw gaming firepower. It’s the best laptop for gaming for the money in terms of performance in a compact form factor.
✅ Superior Image Quality: The 240Hz QHD+ IPS panel is vibrant and responsive, factory-calibrated for stunning colors, enhancing the gaming experience. For gamers prioritizing visual fidelity, it’s the best laptop for gaming for the money in display quality.
Reasons to Avoid
❌ Premium Price: Razer laptops are expensive, and the Blade 14 is no exception. Budget-conscious gamers should consider the MSI Katana 15 for a more affordable option. For budget gamers, it might not be the best laptop for gaming for the money.
❌ Not Absolute Top Performance: Its slim design limits component performance compared to bulkier gaming laptops with better cooling. Users seeking maximum performance should consider larger laptops. For absolute top-tier performance, it’s not the best laptop for gaming for the money.
❌ Power Brick and Travel Weight: While thin for a gaming laptop, the Razer Blade 14 includes a bulky power brick, reducing overall portability for very light travel. For ultra-light travel, it might not be the best laptop for gaming for the money.
In-depth Analysis
Design: Razer excels in thin and light laptops, and the Blade 14 (2024) is a prime example. It’s impressively thin and light, packing high-end components without sacrificing gaming performance. The screen is vibrant, smooth with a 240Hz refresh rate, and the Mercury silver colorway is striking, adding to its appeal as the best laptop for gaming for the money in design.
Performance: The Razer Blade 14 (2024) performs exceptionally well, thanks to the Ryzen 9 8945HS processor and RTX 4070 GPU. It’s the fastest 14-inch gaming laptop tested, surpassing predecessors in gaming benchmarks, making it the best laptop for gaming for the money in its class.
Battery Life: Razer claims up to 10 hours of battery life, but tests showed less, especially during gaming. Fast charging is a plus, reaching 80% in an hour. For gaming, it’s best used plugged in, but for general use, battery life is reasonable, though not exceptional for the best laptop for gaming for the money.
Value for Money: Razer laptops are premium-priced. The Blade 14, starting at $2,199.99, is expensive. The RTX 4070 model with 32GB RAM is even pricier. While expensive, it offers top-tier performance in a portable package, making it the best laptop for gaming for the money for those who can afford a premium device.
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Razer Blade 14 Ratings:
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Premium price, reflecting its high-end features and performance | ★★★☆☆ |
| Design | Unmatched design in a gaming laptop, stylish and functional | ★★★★★ |
| Performance | Top-tier performance in a portable form factor | ★★★★★ |
| Battery Life | Battery life is decent for a gaming laptop, though not exceptional | ★★★☆☆ |
Expert Verdict: John Loeffler
💻 The Razer Blade 14 (2024) stands out with its stylish design, top-tier specs, and beautiful display. While expensive, it’s the best laptop for gaming for the money for those seeking a premium, portable gaming experience. Read the full review: Razer Blade 14 (2024)
The Best 17-inch Laptop
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(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
10. Dell XPS 17 (9730)
The Dell XPS 17 (9730) is the best 17-inch laptop for the money, offering a large screen without sacrificing portability and performance.
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core i5 – i9
- Screen Size: 17-inch
- RAM: 16GB – 64GB
- Storage: 512GB – 8TB
- Battery Life (Money-Central.com test): 9 hours 5 minutes
- Dimensions: 0.77 x 14.74 x 9.76 inches (19.50 x 374.45 x 248.05mm)
- Weight: 5.37lbs (2.44kg)
The Dell XPS 17 (9730) remains the best large-screen laptop for the money. If smaller screens are uncomfortable, this 17-inch laptop is worth considering. It retains the thin, light, and stylish design of the XPS 13 and 15 while offering a larger display. With powerful components, including Nvidia RTX 4000 series GPUs, it excels as a productivity laptop, especially for digital creatives, making it the best 17-inch laptop for the money.
Reasons to Buy
✅ Attractive and Robust 17-inch Design: The Dell XPS 17 (9730) combines a premium design with a large 17-inch screen, maintaining the XPS lineup’s build quality. For users wanting a large screen without bulk, it’s the best 17-inch laptop for the money.
✅ Excellent Performance: Equipped with powerful components, the XPS 17 delivers brilliant performance for any task, from daily use to demanding creative workloads. For users needing power and screen size, it’s the best 17-inch laptop for the money.
✅ Impressive Battery Life for a Large Laptop: Despite its size and power, the Dell XPS 17 offers nearly 10 hours of battery life, impressive for a 17-inch laptop. Its battery life enhances its value as the best 17-inch laptop for the money.
Reasons to Avoid
❌ Not a Gaming Laptop: While configurable with a dedicated GPU, the Dell XPS 17 is not optimized for gaming. Dedicated gaming laptops offer better gaming performance. Gamers should consider alternatives, as it’s not the best 17-inch laptop for the money for gaming.
❌ Premium Price: As a large, flagship laptop, the Dell XPS 17 is expensive compared to smaller or budget laptops. Price-sensitive users might find it too costly. For budget buyers, it’s not the best 17-inch laptop for the money.
❌ Limited Portability: Unsurprisingly, a 17-inch laptop is less portable than smaller Ultrabooks. However, for its size, the XPS 17 is impressively thin and light. Users prioritizing extreme portability should consider smaller laptops, though for its size, it’s the best 17-inch laptop for the money in portability.
In-depth Analysis
Design: The Dell XPS 17 has a premium machined aluminum body and thin screen bezels, giving it a modern, compact feel for a 17-inch laptop. While not easily carried in small bags, Dell minimized its bulk, making it the best 17-inch laptop for the money in design and build.
Performance: It offers excellent performance with high-end Intel and Nvidia components. Daily tasks are fast, and demanding creative workloads like 3D rendering and 4K video editing are handled well. It’s a powerful workstation alternative to the MacBook Pro 16-inch, making it the best 17-inch laptop for the money in performance.
Battery Life: Despite its large screen and power, the Dell XPS 17 achieves almost 10 hours of battery life for video and web browsing, allowing for a full workday unplugged. Battery life is impressive for a 17-inch laptop, enhancing its value as the best 17-inch laptop for the money.
Value for Money: Starting at $1,599, the Dell XPS 17 (9730) is pricey, but justified by its specs, large screen, and thin design. Configuring higher specs increases the price. For users needing a large screen and performance, it’s the best 17-inch laptop for the money, though not for budget buyers.
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Dell XPS 17 (9730) Ratings:
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Premium price, reflects its high-end features and large screen | ★★★★☆ |
| Design | Thin and light for a 17-inch laptop, premium build quality | ★★★★☆ |
| Performance | Excellent for productivity and creative tasks, not a gaming powerhouse | ★★★★☆ |
| Battery Life | Almost 10 hours is impressive for a powerful 17-inch laptop | ★★★★☆ |
Expert Verdict: James Holland
💻 The Dell XPS 17 delivers everything one could want in a larger laptop. It offers a large, vibrant screen and powerful performance without sacrificing the elegant design of the XPS line. It’s the best 17-inch laptop for the money for users prioritizing screen size and performance. Read the full review: Dell XPS 17 (9730)
The Best OLED Laptop
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(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
(Image credit: Future)
11. Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro
The Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro is the best OLED laptop for the money, combining a stunning display with high-end performance and portability.
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7
- Screen Size: 14-inch / 16-inch
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 512GB
- Battery Life (Money-Central.com test): 13 hours and 54 minutes
- Dimensions: 12.30 x 8.81 x 0.46 inches (312.3 x 223.8 x 11.6 mm)
- Weight: 2.71lbs (1.23kg)
The Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro is an impressive Ultrabook, proving Samsung’s ability to create stylish and desirable laptops. Offering cutting-edge components, a stunning AMOLED screen, and premium design, it’s a joy to use. With over 10 hours of battery life, it’s a highly mobile workstation, making it the best OLED laptop for the money.
Reasons to Buy
✅ High-End Performance: The Galaxy Book4 Pro handles all workloads with ease, thanks to Intel’s latest processor. For users needing performance and display quality, it’s the best OLED laptop for the money.
✅ Exceptional Screen Quality: The AMOLED screen with HDR support is the best display currently available on a Windows 11 laptop, ideal for creative work and media consumption. For visual quality, it’s the best OLED laptop for the money.
✅ Amazing Battery Life: Offering well over 10 hours of battery life, the Galaxy Book4 Pro allows for all-day use without needing to charge. Its battery life enhances its value as the best OLED laptop for the money.
Reasons to Avoid
❌ Inspired Design: The Galaxy Book4 Pro’s design is heavily influenced by the MacBook Air, lacking originality for those seeking unique aesthetics. For users wanting original design, it might not be the best OLED laptop for the money.
❌ Subpar Speakers: While the OLED screen is stunning, the built-in speakers are disappointing. Users prioritizing audio should consider external speakers. For audio enthusiasts, it might not be the best OLED laptop for the money without external audio.
❌ Premium Features May Be Unnecessary: The Galaxy Book4 Pro is packed with high-end tech and an industry-leading screen. Users not needing these premium features may find better value elsewhere. For basic users, it might not be the best OLED laptop for the money.
In-depth Analysis
Design: The Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro’s design is MacBook Air-inspired, appealing to those who like Apple’s aesthetics but prefer Windows 11. The AMOLED screen is a standout feature, delivering bright and vibrant visuals, and it’s a touchscreen, unlike MacBooks, making it the best OLED laptop for the money in display technology.
Performance: The Intel Core Ultra 7 processor provides excellent performance for the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro, handling most tasks smoothly, though gaming is limited by integrated graphics. The screen is the highlight, making work enjoyable. Speaker quality is a downside, detracting from media consumption without external speakers. For productivity and visuals, it’s the best OLED laptop for the money.
Battery Life: A significant improvement over its predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro offers over 10 hours of battery life, resolving a previous weakness and enhancing its status as the best OLED laptop for the money in battery performance.
Value for Money: As a Samsung Galaxy product, it’s premium-priced, but competitively positioned against the MacBook Air 13-inch (M3), offering better specs, a larger SSD, and superior AMOLED display technology. While not cheap, it offers significant value for its features, making it the best OLED laptop for the money in the premium category.
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Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro Ratings:
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Expensive, but justified by build quality and performance | ★★★★☆ |
| Design | MacBook-inspired design, exceptional OLED screen | ★★★★☆ |
| Performance | Intel’s latest processor delivers superb performance | ★★★★☆ |
| Battery Life | Incredible battery life, especially considering its performance | ★★★★★ |
Expert Verdict: Jeremy Laird
💻 The new Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro resembles its predecessor externally, but internally features Intel’s latest Meteor Lake Core Ultra 7 CPU. This means improved performance and battery life, along with the stunning 14-inch OLED screen and build quality rivaling Apple. Despite speaker limitations, it’s the best OLED laptop for the money. Read the full review: Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro
The Best Affordable Gaming Laptop
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(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
12. MSI Katana 15 (2023)
The MSI Katana 15 (2023) is the best affordable gaming laptop for the money, delivering solid 1080p gaming performance at a competitive price.
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core i7 – i9
- Screen Size: 15.6-inch
- RAM: 16GB – 32GB
- Storage: 1TB
- Battery Life (Money-Central.com test): 2 hours 39 minutes
- Dimensions: 14.13 x 10.20 x 0.98 inches (359 x 259 x 25mm)
- Weight: 4.96lbs (2.25kg)
The MSI Katana 15 is the best cheap gaming laptop for the money currently available. While not the absolute cheapest, it offers fantastic value with modern specs like a 13th gen Intel Core i7, 16GB RAM, Nvidia RTX 4050, and 1TB storage. These specs surpass many cheap gaming laptops with older hardware. It excels at 1080p gaming, making it a great entry-level gaming laptop and the best affordable gaming laptop for the money.
Reasons to Buy
✅ Excellent 1080p Gaming: The Katana 15 plays modern games smoothly at Full HD, making it ideal for 1080p gamers on a budget. It’s the best affordable gaming laptop for the money for 1080p gaming.
✅ Affordable Gaming Without Compromise: Despite its lower price, the MSI Katana 15 (2023) offers strong performance and good build quality, avoiding common compromises in budget gaming laptops. It’s the best affordable gaming laptop for the money in terms of balanced features.
✅ Great Entry Point to PC Gaming: Its mix of performance and price makes it an excellent first gaming laptop for those new to PC gaming. It’s the best affordable gaming laptop for the money for beginners.
Reasons to Avoid
❌ Not for Max Settings or 4K Gaming: The MSI Katana 15 (2023) plays games at 1080p with medium settings, but for max settings, 4K gaming, and ray tracing, consider higher-end laptops. For max settings, it’s not the best affordable gaming laptop for the money.
❌ Poor Battery Life: Battery life is very short, around 2 hours 40 minutes in web browsing tests, even by gaming laptop standards. Battery life is a significant drawback, though for its price, it’s still the best affordable gaming laptop for the money.
❌ Bulky and Heavy: The MSI Katana 15 is quite heavy and bulky, not ideal for portability. Users needing a thin and light gaming laptop should consider alternatives. For portability, it’s not the best affordable gaming laptop for the money.
In-depth Analysis
Design: The MSI Katana 15’s design is functional but somewhat dated and bulky, typical for affordable gaming laptops. Build quality is decent, but not premium. The 15.6-inch 1080p screen with a 144Hz refresh rate is adequate for gaming, making it the best affordable gaming laptop for the money in functionality.
Performance: The MSI Katana 15 delivers good 1080p gaming performance with its RTX 4050 GPU. It handles slightly older games like Far Cry 6 at over 80fps on Ultra settings, exceeding expectations for its price. For 1080p gaming on a budget, it’s the best affordable gaming laptop for the money.
Battery Life: Battery life is a major weakness, lasting under 3 hours in web browsing tests. Gaming drains the battery even faster. It’s designed for plugged-in use, and battery life is a significant drawback, even for the best affordable gaming laptop for the money.
Value for Money: The MSI Katana 15 offers excellent value as the best affordable gaming laptop for the money. Its modern components make it more future-proof than cheaper alternatives with older tech. The slightly higher price is justified by its performance and features, making it a worthwhile investment for budget gamers.
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MSI Katana 15 Ratings:
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Great mix of affordability and gaming performance | ★★★★☆ |
| Design | Functional but not stunning, well-built for its price | ★★★★☆ |
| Performance | Good 1080p gaming performance for modern titles | ★★★★☆ |
| Battery Life | Very poor battery life, a significant drawback | ★★★☆☆ |
Expert Verdict: James Holland
💻 The MSI Katana 15 balances design and performance at an affordable price, making it a great entry-level gaming laptop. Solid 1080p performance outweighs its poor battery life and trackpad, making it the best affordable gaming laptop for the money. Read the full review: MSI Katana 15 (2023)
Other Laptops to Consider
The laptops in this guide represent the best of the best, but many other excellent laptops are worth considering. Here are honorable mentions of other tested laptops that offer great value:
- HP Spectre x360 14: A premium 2-in-1 laptop with a stunning OLED display and versatile design.
- Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 9: Another excellent 2-in-1, known for its performance and sleek design.
- Acer Swift X 14: A powerful and portable laptop for creators on a budget.
- Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED: An incredibly thin and light laptop with a beautiful OLED screen.
- Framework Laptop 16: A highly customizable and repairable laptop for tech enthusiasts.
How to Choose the Best Laptop for You
What are the best laptop brands? Top laptop brands include Apple, Dell, Lenovo, and HP, each with strengths. Apple excels in design and user experience, Dell offers high-end Ultrabooks and affordable options, Lenovo is known for business laptops and 2-in-1s, and HP offers stylish and high-performing laptops. For gaming, Alienware, Asus, and Acer are leading brands.
How much RAM does a laptop need? For Windows laptops, 8GB RAM is recommended, with 16GB ideal for future-proofing. Budget Chromebooks can function with less RAM.
Battery life considerations: Battery life is crucial. Chromebooks and modern MacBooks excel in battery life (10-20 hours). Windows laptops typically offer around 10 hours, while gaming laptops prioritize performance over battery life (4-8 hours).
What to Look For
Battery life: Essential for portability. Chromebooks and MacBooks lead in battery life. Gaming laptops often sacrifice battery for performance. Aim for at least 5 hours for a recommended laptop.
Performance: Consider future-proofing. For Windows laptops, look for modern Intel or AMD processors and at least 8GB RAM (16GB recommended). MacBooks should have M-series chips. Chromebooks require less robust specs due to ChromeOS efficiency.
Which Type of Laptop is Best for You?
General laptops: Practical, affordable, focus on functionality over style. Typically under $600 or £400.
Ultrabooks: Thin, light, SSD storage, high-resolution displays, long battery life. Priced from $700/£500 to $2,000/£1,800.
2-in-1 laptops: Versatile, function as tablets, touchscreens, detachable or 360-degree hinges.
Chromebooks: Chrome OS, browser-based, cloud-focused, affordable (under $300/£200).
Gaming laptops: High performance for gaming, dedicated GPUs, higher cost ($800/£600 to $3,000/£2,800).
Laptop-tablet hybrids: Tablet-first design, touchscreens, optional keyboard covers, stylus support.
What I’m Looking For
When curating this best laptops guide for over a decade, I prioritize:
Value for money
This is paramount. Each laptop, whether high-end or budget, must justify its price by excelling in its intended tasks. The best laptop for the money delivers exceptional performance and features relative to its cost.
Battery life
Portability is key for laptops. Good battery life is essential to avoid constant power outlet dependence. The best laptop for the money offers long battery life without compromising performance.
Specifications
Hardware specifications determine performance and longevity. Future-proof laptops have modern processors, adequate RAM, and sufficient storage. The best laptop for the money balances current performance with future usability.
Design
Stylish yet functional design is important. Laptops should be portable and comfortable for extended use, while also being durable. The best laptop for the money combines aesthetic appeal with practical design.
How We Tested These Laptops
15-inch MacBook Air on a wooden table, showing testing environment
(Image credit: Future)
How We Test the Best Laptops
Why Trust money-central.com
- Reviewed over 1,800 laptops, Chromebooks, and MacBooks
- 15 years of product testing experience
- Over 16,000 products reviewed in total
- Nearly 200,000 hours of tech product testing
We understand a laptop is a major investment. Every laptop on this list is rigorously tested by our team (read more on how we test laptops). We integrate laptops into our daily routines, evaluating performance in real-world tasks and running industry benchmarks like GeekBench, PCMark, 3DMark, and gaming benchmarks.
Our assessment includes design (aesthetics, portability, comfort), accessibility and security features (haptic feedback, backlighting, fingerprint scanning, webcam shutters), and performance (real-world tasks and synthetic benchmarks). We use consistent benchmark versions across reviews for fair comparisons.
Battery life is critical. We track real-world usage and perform battery tests, including looped 1080p video playback, web surfing scripts, and PC Mark 10 battery benchmarks.
Finally, we consolidate findings and compare them to the laptop’s price to determine if it offers the best laptop for the money.
