Finding the perfect laptop is about more than just picking a well-known brand or the newest specs. Your laptop needs to fit your blend of work, play, and everyday life—often for years. Whether you're a remote worker, student, gamer, or creative professional, having the right machine can make a real difference in productivity and stress.

But with so many models and configurations, the choice is overwhelming. Processor upgrades, shifting port options, battery innovations, and new AI-driven features mean there’s a lot to consider. WIRED’s seasoned laptop reviewers have tested countless devices and narrowed down the best Notebook options for 2025.

What Matters Most When Picking a Laptop?

RAM: 16 GB is now the standard, even for budget models. If you need to game, multitask, or handle large files, 32 GB is safer.

CPU: The three big names are Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm. Intel’s Core Ultra line offers great battery and strong onboard graphics for most users. AMD is still strongest in gaming. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X brings spectacular battery life to Windows machines.

Graphics: For demanding games or editing, a discrete GPU (like Nvidia’s RTX 5090 or last-gen 40-series) is vital. Apple’s new M4 integrated graphics are also surprisingly capable.

Display: On 13- or 14-inch models, look for HD+ (1200p) or better. OLED or mini-LED panels create rich colors and contrast for those who want a truly premium screen.

Ports & Connectivity: You’ll want at least two USB-C, a USB-A, and HDMI, plus a headphone jack. Wi-Fi 6E is already standard in high-end models.

Battery Life: Thanks to progress from Apple and Qualcomm, most laptops without discrete GPUs can easily run 10+ hours.

How WIRED Tests Laptops

Every laptop gets benchmarked, checked for durability, and tested in day-to-day use. Reviewers note details like keyboard feel, fan noise, software bloat, value, and upgradeability—with an eye towards which user each laptop best suits.

Decoding Copilot+ PCs

Microsoft’s “Copilot+ PC” program can be confusing in 2025. Most new Windows laptops now feature a Copilot key for Microsoft’s AI assistant, but only Copilot+ models include a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) with at least 40 TOPS of performance for advanced AI tasks and top battery life. These started with Qualcomm, but recent Intel and AMD models now qualify. AI-driven features are still developing, but battery life leaps are significant.

The Top Laptop Brands in 2025

Beyond Apple, four brands lead the market:

  • Lenovo: Known for innovation in the ThinkPad, Yoga, and Legion lines.
  • Asus: Covers everything from budget to premium, with standout gaming models (ROG Zephyrus, Strix, TUF).
  • Dell & HP: Both are simplifying lineups in 2025. HP's “Omnibook” series replaces previous names, while Dell is dropping subbrands.

Microsoft Surface, Samsung, Acer, LG, and MSI also offer excellent laptops but don’t match the global scale or support of the top four.

Which Laptop Is Best For You?

Everyone’s needs are different. Some of WIRED’s top picks for 2025:

  • Ultralights: MacBook Air (M4, or even M1 for great value), Asus Zenbook S series, Dell 14 Plus
  • Gaming: Asus ROG Flow Z13, Razer Blade 16
  • Workhorses: Lenovo Yoga 9i, Framework Laptop 13, HP Omnibook Ultra
  • Chromebooks: Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus
  • Innovators: Asus Zenbook Duo, Acer Nitro 17

WIRED’s full guide contains in-depth reviews, test results, and value ratings for each major use case and budget.

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Source: Wired – Best Laptops 2025 Guide