The range of Windows laptops available today is notable, spanning from durable, Qualcomm-powered machines to those with dual displays and discreet gaming features. These options could even intrigue dedicated Apple MacBook users. For individuals seeking a laptop ideal for daily productivity, creativity, or leisure, the market offers a multitude of choices, which can be seen as both positive and overwhelming.
To assist in navigating the extensive Windows laptop market, Mashable has released a guide to the best Windows devices of 2024. Each laptop included has been thoroughly tested by the Mashable team for factors such as performance, build quality, and battery life, ensuring they offer good value or are worth seeking out on sale.
As of February 2025, Mashable’s top choice for a Windows laptop is the 13-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop 7. Powered by the robust Snapdragon X series processor, this model boasts high-end performance, a sleek design, innovative AI features, and exceptional battery life, making it the longest-lasting laptop tested by Mashable. It even surpasses the new M4 MacBook models in this regard.
For a more budget-friendly option with almost as much Snapdragon power, the HP Omnibook X 14 is recommended as the best mid-range Windows laptop. While its appearance is unassuming, it features excellent power efficiency and a high-quality keyboard, along with the same AI tools found in the Surface Laptop 7.
For those on a tighter budget, the Lenovo Yoga 7 14 (Gen 9) is an excellent choice, offering solid performance, ample ports, and a versatile 2-in-1 design. It has become Mashable’s preferred cheap Windows laptop, surpassing the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3, which is considered outdated for 2025.
In the convertible category, the Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 (Gen 9) stands out with its stunning 2.8K OLED touchscreen, responsive CPU, and clear soundbar. The 2024 Asus Zenbook Duo, with its dual-screen setup, is another highly recommended hybrid laptop.
Additional recommendations include the Alienware m16 R2 as the best gaming laptop tested so far and the Acer Swift X 14 for photo and video editing needs.
Looking ahead, several newer models are being tested, including the Dell XPS 13 with an OLED display and the Framework Laptop 13, which is designed to be upgradable and repairable. Updates to the guide will be made if these models prove to be worthy additions.
Mashable is also anticipating a review of the Asus ZenBook A14, introduced in January at CES 2025 as the “world’s lightest Copilot+ PC,” with a claimed battery life of up to 32 hours.
In recent testing that didn’t make the top picks, the HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 was evaluated. Despite its impressive build quality, battery life, and design, issues with port placement, speakers, webcam, and performance scores prevented it from earning a Mashable Choice Award. The testing unit featured an Intel Core Ultra 258V processor, 32GB of RAM, and 2TB of storage. While it is a decent option, the Yoga 9i 14 or HP Spectre x360 14 are suggested for those seeking better well-rounded models.
Mashable’s methodology for testing included rigorous hands-on evaluations and running industry-standard benchmark software. Performance benchmarks were conducted using Geekbench 6 and 3DMark’s Time Spy, while battery life was tested with UL Solutions’ PCMark 10 and a video rundown. These benchmarks help compare different laptops’ performances effectively.
In conclusion, Mashable makes recommendations based on whether laptops offer good overall value for their price, even considering those that may benefit from being purchased on sale. This guide will continue to evolve as new contenders emerge in the market.
