If you’ve been holding onto an aging Windows laptop for too long, now is the perfect time to upgrade. With the buzz surrounding AI PCs, computer manufacturers are rushing to release new designs featuring efficient new chips from Intel and AMD. Thanks to Microsoft’s Copilot+ initiative, which was launched last year, we are now seeing decent notebooks powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips, leading to better battery life and lighter designs.
Whether you’re in need of a premium ultraportable, a powerful gaming rig, or a versatile mobile workstation, our curated list of the best Windows laptops showcases our top picks that have been thoroughly tested by our team. You might even discover a Windows laptop that suits you better than an Apple MacBook if you’re considering a switch. For those on a budget, explore our list of the best cheap Windows laptops to find affordable options without compromising quality.
What to look for in a Windows laptop
Performance
When choosing a Windows laptop, it’s essential to determine how much power you actually need. It’s easy to overspend on unnecessary features or skimp on essential components. Generally, aim for a laptop with at least 16GB of RAM and a modern Intel Core Ultra or AMD Ryzen processor. Gamers should also ensure they have a decent graphics card for optimal performance.
What are AI PCs, Copilot+, and Arm-based laptops?
Any computer equipped with a neural processing unit (NPU) is considered an "AI PC," as this chip can offload tasks from the CPU and GPU. Most systems released today qualify as AI PCs due to the industry-wide adoption of AI technology. Microsoft’s Copilot+ program identifies premium AI PCs with specific requirements for AI processing power, RAM, and storage. These systems may also include PCs powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Arm-based CPUs.
Display and webcams
Bright displays with accurate colors and wide viewing angles are essential for a superior viewing experience. High refresh rates are beneficial for gamers, while wider color gamuts are crucial for content creators. A quality webcam, preferably 1080p or higher, is important for video calls.
Ports and connectivity
Dedicated ports for data transfer and peripheral connections are crucial for a seamless user experience. Look for laptops with multiple USB-C ports and built-in SD card readers for convenience. Ensure the laptop is equipped with modern Wi-Fi technology, such as Wi-Fi 6 or later, for optimal connectivity.
Battery life
A laptop’s battery life is a critical factor, especially for users on the go. Aim for a laptop with at least ten hours of runtime on a single charge. Longer battery life is always preferred, but gaming laptops or larger machines may have slightly lower battery performance. Consider whether the laptop can charge via USB-C or requires a proprietary power brick.
Best Windows laptops for 2025
Windows laptop FAQs
What’s the difference between a Windows laptop and a Chromebook?
The primary distinction between a Windows laptop and a Chromebook lies in their operating systems. Windows laptops run on Microsoft’s Windows OS, while Chromebooks use Google’s Chrome OS. Windows laptops are more versatile and powerful, suitable for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing, while Chromebooks are designed for simplicity and speed, ideal for basic everyday tasks.
What’s the difference between macOS and Windows?
macOS and Windows offer distinct user experiences. macOS is known for its sleek design and intuitive interface, while Windows provides flexibility and customization options. macOS is optimized to work seamlessly with Apple hardware, whereas Windows is widely used in business settings due to its compatibility with various programs and hardware.
Recent updates
- March 2025: Updated one of our top picks and added new information about AI PCs.
- September 2024: Added an FAQ section.
- July 2024: Updated our top picks to include the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at .
