I recently had to look for new laptops for my business, so I thought I’d share the wealth. In the end, I purchased a desktop. A dell with hard core NPU capabilities for running local LLM’s. That’s another post for another day.
Let me cut to the chase: If you’re trying to choose the best laptop for 2025, you’ve got options—and that’s both the good news and the problem. Tech is evolving fast, and so are the demands on our devices. Whether you’re a business pro, a healthcare provider juggling EMRs and video calls, or a creative fighting deadlines in Adobe, you need performance that matches your pace. Options like the Acer Chromebook offer premium features within the Chromebook category. Additionally, the Acer Swift stands out for its performance and versatility in the ultraportable segment. And yes, performance and battery life are still the non-negotiables.
I’ve put together the top best laptops for 2025 based on hands-on experiences, conversations with professionals, and a rigorous review process. We test laptops for real-world usage—no fluff.
Introduction to Laptops
Laptops have become an essential tool for individuals, professionals, and businesses alike. With the constant evolution of technology, laptops have become more powerful, efficient, and affordable. When it comes to choosing the best laptop, there are several factors to consider, including performance, battery life, display, and budget. In this guide, we will explore the key features to look for in a laptop, provide tips for choosing the best laptop, and discuss the best laptop brands available in the market.
Dell’s Recent Changes
Dell recently streamlined its laptop brand lineup by replacing its traditional sub-brands—XPS, Inspiron, Latitude, and Precision—with simplified categories: Dell, Dell Plus, Dell Premium, Dell Pro, and Dell Pro Max. This rebranding aims to make it easier for consumers to identify the right Windows laptop based on their needs. The new naming convention reflects the target audience and performance tier of each model. For example, Dell Premium caters to high-end users like creatives and professionals, while Dell Pro Max is designed for workstation-level performance for engineers and designers. Similarly, Dell Plus serves mid-range users seeking a balance of affordability and features. This shift aligns Dell’s offerings with modern trends in the best laptop brands marketplace, ensuring clarity and consistency.
Brand Strengths: What Stands Out
Dell:
Dell offers greater configurability, excellent customer service, and a wide range of popular models tailored for gaming (Alienware), business (Latitude and now Dell Pro), and creative tasks (XPS/Dell Premium). Expect solid build quality and options that work well as a desktop replacement.
Apple:
Apple’s Apple MacBook Pro is renowned for its powerful performance and premium features, including an advanced processing chip, superior display quality, and long battery life. Apple’s ecosystem further enhances the user experience with features like Continuity Camera, Airdrop, and Handoff, ensuring seamless integration among devices.
For creative professionals, it’s hard to beat.
Lenovo:
Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Carbon series stands out for its durability, productivity features, and advanced AI capabilities. Its keyboard and solid build quality make it a favorite among business users.
HP:
Diverse Product Range: HP caters to a wide spectrum of users, from budget-conscious buyers (e.g., HP Pavilion series) to professionals (e.g., EliteBook Ultra G1i) and gamers (e.g., Omen Max 16). In the budget gaming laptop market, HP offers affordable yet capable options with impressive specifications and value for price. Premium models like the Spectre x360 offer OLED display options, stylus support, and strong performance, making them ideal for creative professionals.
AI Integration: HP’s latest laptops incorporate AI features such as noise reduction for video conferencing and performance optimization, enhancing productivity.
Affordability: HP provides budget laptops like the HP Stream 14 and mid-range models such as the Envy x360 series, proving that good laptops cost less than you think.
Samsung:
Display Technology: Samsung excels in display quality with AMOLED and QLED screens that offer superior brightness and color accuracy. Models like the Galaxy Book5 Pro and Book5 360 are particularly strong in this area. Additionally, Samsung’s laptops enhance usability with multiple ports, allowing easy connectivity to an external monitor.
Ecosystem Integration: Samsung laptops integrate seamlessly with other Samsung devices, offering features like Quick Share and Second Screen for multitasking and external display setup.
Design Innovation: Sleek designs and lightweight laptops make Samsung’s devices appealing for users prioritizing portability and aesthetics.
Key Features
When shopping for a laptop, there are several key features to consider. These include:
Battery Life
Battery life is a critical factor to consider when choosing a laptop. A good laptop should have a long battery life, allowing you to work or play on the go without worrying about running out of power. Look for laptops with a battery life of at least 8 hours, and consider models with power-saving features such as low-power processors and LED backlights. Whether you’re working on a project, streaming videos, or browsing the web, a laptop with great battery life ensures you stay productive and entertained without frequent recharges.
Display and Graphics
The display and graphics capabilities of a laptop are also essential considerations. Look for laptops with high-resolution displays, such as Full HD or 4K, and consider models with dedicated graphics cards for gaming and video editing. Integrated graphics are suitable for general use, such as web browsing and word processing, but may not be sufficient for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. A vibrant display with accurate colors and sharp details can enhance your viewing experience, whether you’re watching movies, editing photos, or working on detailed spreadsheets.
Best Overall: Dell Pro 14 Premium
The Dell Pro 14 Premium (Model: PA14250) is the Swiss Army knife of best laptop brands this year. It blends processing power, portability, and versatility with an Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 236V vPro® under the hood, which adds a triple threat with an NPU, GPU, and CPU; an FHD+ display; and great battery life that goes the distance (think 14–16 hours on a full charge).
From video conferencing to web browsing, EMRs to light video editing, this powerful laptop checks every box. The spacious keyboard and premium build quality round out the experience.
Why it’s a top pick:
- High-performance Intel Core i7 processor, elegant Zero-Lattice Keyboard
- Excellent battery life
- Copilot+ PC
- very Lightweight with premium build quality
- Best for: Professionals, healthcare providers, creatives, and power users.
Best MacBook: MacBook Air (M4)
Sleek. Silent. Seriously capable. Apple’s 2025 MacBook Air with the new M4 chip is the best Apple MacBook you can buy this year. While the MacBook Air is perfect for everyday use, the MacBook Pro stands out with its powerful capabilities for demanding tasks, making it ideal for users seeking a robust laptop experience. With 18-hour battery life and seamless ecosystem integration, it’s tailor-made for business travelers and mobile professionals.
Why it’s a top pick:
- Blazing-fast M4 chip, fanless design
- Best battery life in its class
- Lightweight and travel-ready
- Best for: Apple users, business travelers, and entrepreneurs.
Best Business Laptop: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition is a lightweight laptop with nearly 24-hour battery life, robust security features, and that iconic backlit keyboard everyone loves.
Why it’s a top pick:
- Unmatched battery life and portability
- Business-grade durability and security
- Best for: Consultants, business users, hospital administrators.
Best Gaming Laptop: ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 16
Meet the powerhouse gaming laptop that doubles as a creative workstation. The ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 16 is perfect for those who want to play games and handle creative tasks. With an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and discrete graphics via NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU, the SCAR 16 delivers smooth gameplay, fast rendering, and strong performance and battery life.
Why it’s a top pick:
- Compact form factor with a PREMIUM Nebula display
- ROG intelligent cooling, integrated graphics support
- Best for: Gamers
Best 2-in-1: HP Spectre x360 14
This premium model brings you the best of both worlds: convertible functionality and high-performance internals. With stylus support and a vibrant OLED display, it’s great for brainstorming or patient consults.
Why it’s a top pick:
- Stylus-ready OLED display
- Durable, elegant build
- Best for: Creative professionals, therapists, educators.
Best Budget Option: Acer Aspire 5
The Acer Aspire 5 proves that budget models can still offer decent performance. Starting around $500, it features entry-level discrete graphics, SSD storage, and runs Windows operating system like a pro. For those looking for a larger screen Chromebook with premium features, the Acer Chromebook Plus offers a 2560×1600 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for tasks like cloud gaming.
Why it’s a top pick:
- Affordable, strong for everyday tasks
- Multiple screen sizes, great for online shopping and schoolwork
- Best for: Students, budget-conscious users.
Best for Creatives: Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 stands out with up to 64GB of RAM, up to 2TB SSD, a touchscreen with stylus support, and a flexible hinge design for content creation. It’s the epitome of a creative professional’s dream machine.
Why it’s a top pick:
- Massive memory and storage
- Gorgeous Vibrant 14.4” PixelSense™ Flow touchscreen
- Best for: Developers, designers, and digital artists.
For Healthcare Environments: Rugged and Reliable
Healthcare workers need rugged tech. Zebra’s Connectivity options, including the inclusion of a USB-C port, enhance usability in healthcare settings. The new Zebra ET65W is the perfect ruggedized unit, perfect for healthcare, construction, trucking, and more.
Why it’s a top pick:
- Disinfectant-ready design
- Hot-swappable batteries
- Built for mobile healthcare work
- Best for: Clinicians, lab techs, EMS teams.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best laptop can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous options available in the market. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
Tips for Choosing the Best Laptop
- Determine your budget: Laptops can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, so it’s essential to set a budget before making a purchase.
- Consider your needs: Think about how you plan to use your laptop. If you’re a gamer, you’ll need a powerful laptop with a dedicated graphics card. If you’re a business user, you may prioritize features like battery life and portability.
- Research different models: Look up reviews and compare features of different laptops to find the best one for your needs.
- Check the specifications: Make sure the laptop has the necessary specifications, such as processor speed, memory, and storage, to handle your tasks.
- Read reviews and ask for recommendations: Check out reviews from other users and ask for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues to get a sense of the laptop’s performance and reliability.
Some of the best laptop brands available in the market include Apple, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Microsoft, and Asus. These brands offer a range of laptops, from budget-friendly options to premium models, and cater to different needs and preferences.
When it comes to gaming laptops, consider models like the Acer Nitro and Asus Zenbook, which offer powerful processors, dedicated graphics cards, and high-resolution displays. For business users, laptops like the Lenovo ThinkPad and Microsoft Surface Laptop are popular choices, offering features like long battery life, portability, and security.
Ultimately, the best laptop for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. By considering the key features and tips outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect laptop for your needs. Whether you’re a gamer, business user, or student, there’s a laptop out there that’s right for you.
Honorable Mentions
- Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 – Stunning 3K AMOLED display, strong performance. My favorite Copilot+PC!
- LG Gram Style – Featherlight, ideal for travel.
- Dell Pro Max 16 – Best battery life among desktop replacements.
- Razer Blade 16 – Strong GPU for creatives and gamers.
- Alienware m18 R2 – Hardcore gaming excellence.
- Google Pixelbook Go (2025) – ChromeOS Copilot+ and Chrome OS simplicity.
- Dell Plus 14/16 – Smart mid-range Windows laptops with QHD+ displays.
🎯 Avoid These Licensing Mistakes When Buying Laptops in 2025
Pro tip from my time at Microsoft: Buying the right laptop is only half the equation—licensing it correctly is just as important, especially for organizations managing dozens or hundreds of devices.
Here are a few common (and costly) mistakes I’ve seen in the field:
- OEM Transfer Fails: OEM Windows licenses typically can’t be transferred when hardware is redeployed. This catches many IT teams off guard during refresh cycles.
- Missing Base Licenses: Many organizations invest in Windows upgrades via volume licensing—without realizing that they’re required to have a qualifying base OS. This results in compliance violations and unexpected fees during audits.
- Inconsistent Licensing Strategy: Mixing OEM, retail, and volume licenses across the org causes management nightmares and audit risks.
- Underestimating VDI Needs: If you’re planning to run virtual desktops or apps, you need the right VDA or Microsoft 365 licensing model to stay compliant.
Critical Windows 11 End-of-Life Timeline: The Upgrade Imperative
The clock is ticking. Multiple Windows 11 versions will lose support between October and November 2025, creating a critical 95-day window for government and enterprise upgrades. This isn’t just about security updates—it’s about compliance, support contracts, and avoiding the costly scramble that comes with unsupported systems.
Key Dates to Remember:
October 14, 2025: Windows 10 and Windows 11 22H2 Enterprise editions end support
November 11, 2025: Windows 11 23H2 Home & Pro editions end support
Impact: Organizations running these versions will lose security updates, technical support, and compliance certifications
For Government Agencies: The timing couldn’t be more challenging. With fiscal year-end on September 30, 2025, agencies have just 8-10 weeks to process, procure, and deploy new systems before both budget expiration and Windows support termination.
Updated Top 5 Business Laptops for Government Procurement
Based on comprehensive testing, government compliance requirements, and current market availability, here are the top 5 models optimized for business and government use:
1. Dell Pro 14 Premium – Best Overall Enterprise Choice
Price Range: $2,139 – $2,719 | TAA Compliant: Yes | Copilot+ PC: Yes
Dell’s rebranded flagship delivers exceptional value for enterprise deployments. The Intel Core Ultra 5 236V vPro processor provides 40 TOPS of AI performance while maintaining impressive 21-hour battery life. The available tandem OLED display option and MIL-STD-810H certification make this ideal for demanding professional environments.
Key Strengths:
Exceptional battery life (21+ hours tested)
Robust build quality with premium materials
Comprehensive port selection including Thunderbolt 4
Enhanced security with TPM 2.0 and IR camera
3-year standard warranty
Government Considerations: Available through GSA Schedule contracts, but price exceeds $10K purchasing card limits for most configurations.
2. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition – Executive Premium
Price Range: $2,519 – $3,200 | TAA Compliant: Yes | Copilot+ PC: Yes
The latest Carbon achieves an impressive 2.2-pound weight while delivering 18-hour battery life—more than double the previous generation. The 2.8K OLED display with 120Hz refresh rate sets the standard for mobile productivity, though the premium pricing limits broad deployment.
Key Strengths:
Lightest 14-inch business laptop available
Iconic ThinkPad keyboard and reliability
Superior 2.8K OLED display
Intel Core Ultra 7 258V performance
Military-grade durability testing
Government Considerations: Premium pricing exceeds purchasing card limits but available through GSA contracts for executive-level deployments.
3. HP Spectre x360 14 – Creative Flexibility Champion
Price Range: $1,899 – $2,400 | TAA Compliant: Yes | Copilot+ PC: Yes
HP’s convertible masterpiece combines 2-in-1 versatility with enterprise-grade security. The 360-degree hinge, stylus support, and OLED touchscreen make this ideal for creative professionals and collaborative environments requiring presentation flexibility.
Key Strengths:
True 2-in-1 convertible design
Premium OLED touchscreen with stylus support
Strong build quality with gem-cut aluminum chassis
Comprehensive security features
Excellent for presentations and creative work
Government Considerations: Pricing approaches but may exceed purchasing card limits depending on configuration.
4. Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 – Collaboration Powerhouse
Price Range: $1,299 – $1,999 | TAA Compliant: Yes | Copilot+ PC: Yes
Microsoft’s Snapdragon X Elite-powered laptop delivers exceptional 22-hour battery life while maintaining compatibility with business applications. The competitive pricing and purchasing card eligibility make this attractive for large-scale government deployments.
Key Strengths:
Outstanding battery life (22+ hours)
Snapdragon X Elite efficiency
Native Microsoft integration
Competitive pricing for government budgets
Strong collaboration features
Government Considerations: Eligible for purchasing card procurement under $10K limits, making this ideal for end-of-year government spending.
5. Acer Swift 14 AI – Budget-Conscious Excellence
Price Range: $1,499 – $1,899 | TAA Compliant: Yes | Copilot+ PC: Yes
Acer’s AI-powered ultraportable delivers remarkable 26-hour battery life at budget-friendly pricing. The Snapdragon X Elite processor provides modern performance while keeping costs manageable for large-scale deployments.
Key Strengths:
Industry-leading 26-hour battery life
Aggressive pricing for government budgets
Modern Snapdragon X Elite performance
Multiple connectivity options
Excellent value proposition
Government Considerations: Prime for purchasing card eligibility and bulk ordering for departments requiring hundreds of units.
Government Procurement Considerations
TAA Compliance and GSA Schedules
All recommended models maintain Trade Agreements Act (TAA) compliance, essential for federal procurement. Each manufacturer participates in GSA Schedule contracts, streamlining the procurement process through pre-negotiated terms and pricing.
Key Compliance Features:
Manufacturing or substantial transformation in TAA-designated countries
GSA Schedule availability for streamlined ordering
Security features meeting government standards
Energy Star and EPEAT certifications
End-of-Year Purchasing Strategy
With September 30th fiscal year-end approaching, government agencies face the “use it or lose it” budget reality. Historical data shows 33% of annual federal spending occurs in the final quarter, with September alone accounting for 16% of yearly expenditures.
Purchasing Card Considerations:
$10,000 single transaction limit for most government purchase cards
Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 and Acer Swift 14 AI eligible for direct purchase card procurement
Higher-end models require contracting office involvement but offer bulk pricing opportunities
Licensing Critical Considerations
The licensing landscape has become more complex, especially with Windows 11 transitions. Key considerations for government buyers:
OEM License Limitations: Standard OEM Windows licenses cannot be transferred when hardware is redeployed, creating compliance challenges during refresh cycles.
Volume Licensing Requirements: Organizations using Windows upgrades through volume licensing need qualifying base OS licenses to avoid audit violations and unexpected fees.
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI): Government agencies planning virtual desktop deployments require appropriate VDA or Microsoft 365 licensing models for compliance.
Recommendation: Work with authorized resellers who provide both hardware and licensing guidance to ensure compliance with Microsoft’s evolving terms and government-specific requirements.
Market Changes Since May 2025
Processor Evolution
The shift to Intel’s Lunar Lake and AMD’s latest mobile processors has revolutionized battery life while maintaining performance. Snapdragon X Elite adoption has accelerated, offering impressive efficiency for government workloads requiring all-day operation.
AI Integration
Copilot+ PC certification has become standard across business laptops, providing 40+ TOPS of AI performance for enhanced productivity. Government agencies can leverage on-device AI processing while maintaining data security and compliance.
Display Technology
Tandem OLED and high-refresh displays are becoming mainstream in business laptops, offering better visual quality for detailed work while managing power consumption effectively.
Recommendations for Implementation
Immediate Actions (Next 30 Days)
Audit current Windows versions across your organization to identify systems requiring immediate replacement
Calculate purchasing card vs. contract procurement based on quantity and configuration requirements
Engage with GSA Schedule vendors for pricing and availability confirmation
Assess licensing compliance to avoid audit issues during transition
Strategic Considerations
Prioritize critical systems running Windows versions ending support in October 2025
Consider bulk purchasing to maximize government discounts and ensure consistency
Plan deployment timeline to complete transitions before support deadlines
Coordinate with IT security to ensure new systems meet updated compliance requirements
The window for proactive laptop upgrades is closing rapidly. Government agencies and businesses must act decisively to avoid the compliance and security risks associated with unsupported systems while taking advantage of fiscal year-end budget opportunities.
Ready to implement these recommendations? Contact authorized government resellers now to secure inventory and pricing for end-of-year procurement before availability tightens and deadlines approach.
