Quick Summary
- 1The Apple MacBook Air M4 remains the top recommendation for most users due to its exceptional battery life and performance.
- 2For Windows users, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition offers a compelling alternative with all-day battery and a premium build.
- 3Specialized needs are covered by dedicated machines like the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 for gaming and the Framework Laptop 13 for repairability.
- 4New models announced at CES 2026 promise to shake up the market in the coming months.
Quick Summary
Navigating the laptop market is a daunting task. With countless models, sizes, and configurations available, choosing the right device for your needs can feel overwhelming, especially given the significant investment involved.
Following the announcements at CES 2026, the landscape is shifting, but several standout models have emerged as clear winners for different user profiles. Whether you prioritize portability, raw power, or the ability to repair your own device, there is a perfect laptop waiting.
This guide cuts through the noise to highlight the best options currently available, from the all-around champion to specialized machines for gaming and creative work.
The All-Around Champion
For the vast majority of users, the Apple MacBook Air (M4) is the unequivocal best choice. It strikes an exceptional balance of performance, portability, and battery life, making it a productivity powerhouse that can handle everyday tasks with ease.
The 13-inch model starts at $999 with 16GB of RAM, while the 15-inch version begins at $1,199. Both feature the same M4 chip, ensuring smooth performance for everything from document editing to light photo work. Its thin-and-light chassis houses a color-rich display, a comfortable keyboard, and a smooth trackpad.
Key upgrades in this generation include a 12-megapixel Center Stage webcam, support for two external monitors with the lid open, and a new sky blue color option. However, the base model's 256GB of storage and limited port selection remain its primary weaknesses.
For those needing more power for intensive tasks like video editing, the 14-inch MacBook Pro M5 offers a significant performance boost, along with additional ports like a full-size SD card slot and a third USB-C port.
- Exceptional battery life for all-day use
- Thin, lightweight design ideal for travel
- Powerful M4 chip handles most productivity tasks
- Base storage starts at 256GB, which may be limiting
"Microsoft was obviously gunning for Apple’s MacBook Air, and the Surface Laptop mostly delivers that level of hardware experience for a Windows machine."— Source Content
Top Windows & Chromebook Picks
For those who prefer the Windows ecosystem or need a versatile, budget-friendly option, several excellent alternatives exist. The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition stands out as a direct competitor to the MacBook Air, offering a premium hardware experience with all-day battery life.
Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon X chip, the Surface Laptop delivers great performance for most applications. However, potential buyers should be aware of compatibility limitations, particularly with certain content creation apps and gaming. While everyday apps run well, some specialized software may not be fully optimized for the ARM architecture.
On the more affordable end, the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 is the best Chromebook available. Priced at $749, it features a stunning 14-inch OLED touchscreen, 16GB of RAM, and a MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 processor that handles multitasking with ease. With guaranteed software updates for 10 years, it's a device built to last.
Microsoft was obviously gunning for Apple’s MacBook Air, and the Surface Laptop mostly delivers that level of hardware experience for a Windows machine.
For users who need more screen real estate, the Asus Zenbook S 16 is the best 16-inch Windows laptop. It's incredibly thin and light for its size, powered by AMD's Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 chip, and features a gorgeous 3K OLED display. Its battery life is shorter than some competitors, but its performance and design are hard to beat.
Machines for Creators & Gamers
Specialized workflows demand specialized hardware. For creative professionals working with high-resolution photos, video, or 3D rendering, the 16-inch MacBook Pro with M4 Pro or M4 Max is the ultimate tool. Its record-shattering battery life and unparalleled performance in creative benchmarks make it a desktop replacement in a portable form factor.
The base M4 Pro model starts at $2,499 and includes 24GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. For those who need even more power, the M4 Max configuration offers up to 128GB of RAM and can support up to four external monitors.
For gamers, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 delivers serious power with its Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 GPU and Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor. It features a brilliant 240Hz Mini LED display and easy, tool-free access to its RAM and SSD slots. While it's hefty and not ideal for battery life, its gaming performance is top-tier.
For a more portable gaming experience, the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 strikes an excellent balance between power and portability. Its 2025 model features an AMD Ryzen 9 processor and Nvidia RTX 50-series graphics, all packed into a slim chassis with a beautiful OLED display.
- MacBook Pro M4 Max: Unmatched creative performance
- ROG Strix Scar 16: High-end gaming with an RTX 5080
- Zephyrus G14: Portable gaming with a premium OLED screen
Unique & Repairable Options
Not every user fits the standard mold. For those seeking innovation or sustainability, unique laptops offer compelling alternatives. The Framework Laptop 13 is the champion of repairability and upgradeability. Its modular design allows users to swap ports, upgrade the mainboard, and replace components with just a screwdriver.
The 2025 model features AMD's latest Ryzen AI chips, offering improved performance and battery life. While it may not have the sleekness of a MacBook, its 3:2 aspect ratio screen is ideal for productivity, and the ability to customize it is a major draw for tech enthusiasts.
For those who want a dual-screen setup, the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i offers a bold design with two 13.3-inch OLED displays. It can be used as a traditional laptop, a tablet, or a multi-screen desktop replacement. While it has some quirks, like an awkward virtual keyboard, its innovative form factor is perfect for artists and multitaskers.
There’s no other laptop offering the kind of nerdy fun today that a Framework can.
As CES 2026 introduced new models from nearly every major manufacturer (except Apple), the laptop market is poised for an exciting year. We will continue to test new devices and update our recommendations as they become available.
Key Takeaways
Choosing the right laptop ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. The MacBook Air M4 is the safe, reliable choice for most, offering a near-perfect blend of features for everyday use.
Windows users have excellent options in the Microsoft Surface Laptop and Asus Zenbook S 16, while gamers and creatives have powerful, dedicated machines to choose from. For the tinkerers and eco-conscious buyers, the Framework Laptop provides a unique, sustainable path.
With new technology emerging at a rapid pace, staying informed is key. This guide provides a snapshot of the best available now, but the coming months will surely bring even more innovation to the forefront.
"There’s no other laptop offering the kind of nerdy fun today that a Framework can."— Source Content
Frequently Asked Questions
The Apple MacBook Air with the M4 chip is the top recommendation for the average user. It excels in portability, battery life, and performance for everyday productivity tasks, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of needs.
Key factors include a powerful GPU like the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080, a high-refresh-rate display for smooth gameplay, and sufficient cooling. Models like the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 offer high-end performance, while the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 provides a balance of power and portability.
Yes, the Framework Laptop 13 is the leading option for repairability and upgradeability. Its modular design allows users to easily replace or upgrade components like the mainboard, RAM, and ports, extending the device's lifespan.
Nearly every major manufacturer, excluding Apple, announced new laptops or processor series at CES 2026. This includes new models from Asus, Lenovo, and others, which are expected to be tested and reviewed in the coming months.
