In today’s tech landscape, Windows laptops are no longer the underdogs they once were. With rapid advances in processing chips and battery innovations, these machines have stepped up their game to rival even the best MacBooks. Drawing on insights from seasoned reviewers and comprehensive lab testing, let’s dive into the top Windows laptop picks for 2025 and break down what makes each one stand out.
Although there’s a brief adjustment period when acclimating to its futuristic capacitive function keys and invisible touchpad, the overall experience is hard to beat if you’re after everyday productivity with a side of style. Ideal for work, school, and creative pursuits on the go, the Dell XPS 13 remains the go-to recommendation for many.
Granted, it isn’t built for heavy multitasking or high-intensity gaming—the modest Intel Core i3-N305 CPU, 8GB RAM, and limited storage reflect its budget-friendly nature. However, with a tested battery life of around 10 hours, the Aspire Go 15 delivers solid performance where it matters most for users who prioritize value over high-end specs.
While the battery might fall just shy of the best-in-class (sub-10-hour life), and the 720p webcam is less impressive, the Zenbook’s versatility makes it an attractive option for users who need a machine that can perform double duty—whether in presentations, note-taking, or casual media edits.
Keep in mind, however, that gaming performance does come at a cost—battery life during prolonged gaming sessions or heavy web surfing is shorter (just under 7 hours in some tests). For those willing to plug in when the gaming heat is on, the Zephyrus G14 is a stellar option.
The ergonomics don’t disappoint either—featuring a refined keyboard, touchpad, and even a DialPad for nuanced creative control. Powered by a combination of an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and an RTX 4070, the ProArt P16 handles heavy processing tasks head-on, even if battery life isn’t its strongest suit.
This model is perfect for everyday tasks like browsing or streaming, though its Lunar Lake processor may show its limitations in more rigorous tasks such as video editing or intense multitasking. Battery performance here is a more modest nine hours, but if your primary criterion is a world-class viewing experience, the trade-off might be well worth it.
There are a couple of minor design quirks—such as an inconveniently placed power button and a short power cable—but overall, the Slim 7 stands out as an ideal machine for business settings and remote working scenarios.
Although some competitors sport Snapdragon chips with slightly better performance or battery efficiency, the Galaxy Book 5 Pro’s strong compatibility with a broad range of applications makes it a very capable device. For those who want extra power, Samsung also offers variants like the Galaxy Book 4 Ultra, or you might even consider options like the LG Gram 17 Pro or the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 for slightly different balances of performance and portability.
It’s important to note that these test conditions are set for fairness, but real-world use—where you might be multitasking, adjusting brightness, or streaming media—can yield different results. Still, the figures offer a useful benchmark when determining which laptop best suits your lifestyle.
• Define Your Usage: Are you primarily working, gaming, creating, or simply browsing the web? A premium ultrabook like the Dell XPS 13 suits productivity, while a gaming machine like the ROG Zephyrus G14 works best for high-intensity tasks.
• Battery Life: If you’re often mobile, prioritize devices with lengthy battery endurance. The Dell XPS 13 and Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 have demonstrated excellent results in this area.
• Display Quality: For creative work or media consumption, a high-quality OLED display—as seen in the Asus Zenbook 14 Flip OLED or Dell’s tandem OLED model—can be crucial.
• Portability vs. Power: Thinner devices like the Lenovo Slim 7 focus on portability, while more robust machines deliver extra power at the expense of a bit more bulk.
• Budget: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The Acer Aspire Go 15 exemplifies how affordability doesn’t necessarily mean sacrifice in usability, especially for light-duty tasks.
Making an informed choice involves balancing these priorities according to your needs and lifestyle.
From the flagship Dell XPS 13, with its breakthrough Snapdragon performance and marathon battery life, to the versatile 2-in-1 options and power-packed gaming rigs, there’s never been a better time to choose a Windows laptop. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative professional, or student on the go, these machines offer the flexibility, performance, and style that modern computing demands.
In a world where every watt and pixel counts, the choices available to Windows enthusiasts have reached a new peak. So, as you weigh your options, take a moment to consider what matters most for your workflow and lifestyle—and get ready to experience a Windows laptop that truly transforms the way you work and play.
Happy computing, and here’s to many more hours of productivity, creativity, and pure enjoyment on your new Windows machine!
Source: Tom's Guide The best Windows laptops in 2025: our top picks
The Evolution of Windows Laptops
Windows laptops have undergone a radical transformation since the clunky, resource-hungry systems of the 1990s. Over the decades, improvements in design, performance, and battery life have made modern devices not only extremely efficient but also a delight to use on the go. Brands like Dell, HP, Lenovo, Asus, Acer, and Samsung are leading the charge, continually pushing boundaries to meet the diverse needs of users—from professionals and gamers to students and creative artists.Top Recommendations for Every Need
The following sections highlight standout choices from various categories. Whether you need ultimate portability, groundbreaking display quality, or a lean gaming machine, there’s something for everyone.Best Overall: Dell XPS 13
As a longtime favorite among Windows aficionados, the Dell XPS 13 continues to shine in 2025. This ultraportable is renowned for its stunning, near bezel-less 1200p display and sleek design. The latest models are available with Qualcomm Snapdragon X chips, delivering a remarkable boost in performance and battery life—laboratory tests even clock nearly 20 hours on a single charge.Although there’s a brief adjustment period when acclimating to its futuristic capacitive function keys and invisible touchpad, the overall experience is hard to beat if you’re after everyday productivity with a side of style. Ideal for work, school, and creative pursuits on the go, the Dell XPS 13 remains the go-to recommendation for many.
Best Budget Option: Acer Aspire Go 15
For those who want the full Windows experience without breaking the bank, the Acer Aspire Go 15 is a compelling choice. Priced at under $500, this laptop is crafted for users who simply need a reliable machine for web browsing, emailing, and word processing. Its 15.6-inch 1080p display, comfortable keyboard, and array of essential ports make it a pragmatic everyday tool.Granted, it isn’t built for heavy multitasking or high-intensity gaming—the modest Intel Core i3-N305 CPU, 8GB RAM, and limited storage reflect its budget-friendly nature. However, with a tested battery life of around 10 hours, the Aspire Go 15 delivers solid performance where it matters most for users who prioritize value over high-end specs.
Versatility in a 2-in-1: Asus Zenbook 14 Flip OLED
For those who crave flexibility, the Asus Zenbook 14 Flip OLED brings a lot to the table. This convertible laptop sport a gorgeous 14-inch 2.8K OLED display that not only dazzles with vibrant colors and excellent contrast but also serves as a capable touchscreen when you flip it into tablet mode. Its thin, light design makes it easy to carry, and it comes equipped with enough ports to keep your accessories connected.While the battery might fall just shy of the best-in-class (sub-10-hour life), and the 720p webcam is less impressive, the Zenbook’s versatility makes it an attractive option for users who need a machine that can perform double duty—whether in presentations, note-taking, or casual media edits.
A Dual-Screen Marvel: Lenovo Yoga Book 9i
If you’re all about multitasking and unique interfaces, the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i should be on your radar. This inventive device features dual 13.3-inch OLED displays, which can be configured in multiple modes—from a conventional laptop to a dynamic tent setup ideal for presentations. While the build might feel a tad less robust than traditional clamshell designs, the dual-screen functionality provides a distinctive edge for creative professionals and multitaskers alike.Power Meets Play: Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
Gaming laptops have long been seen as specialized tools, but the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 blurs the line between a powerhouse for gamers and a solid productivity machine. Sporting a sleek 14-inch chassis and an impressive Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, the G14 runs the latest titles smoothly and handles demanding tasks with ease, thanks to its potent internal components.Keep in mind, however, that gaming performance does come at a cost—battery life during prolonged gaming sessions or heavy web surfing is shorter (just under 7 hours in some tests). For those willing to plug in when the gaming heat is on, the Zephyrus G14 is a stellar option.
Crafted for Creators: Asus ProArt P16
Creative professionals demand rigorous performance coupled with top-notch display quality, and the Asus ProArt P16 answers that call. This laptop is tailored for content creators who work with graphics-intensive applications, video editing, and other demanding workflows. Its 4K OLED touchscreen is color-calibrated for peak accuracy, a boon for artists and designers who need true-to-life visual fidelity.The ergonomics don’t disappoint either—featuring a refined keyboard, touchpad, and even a DialPad for nuanced creative control. Powered by a combination of an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and an RTX 4070, the ProArt P16 handles heavy processing tasks head-on, even if battery life isn’t its strongest suit.
Prioritizing Display Quality: Dell XPS 13 with Tandem OLED
While the Dell XPS 13 has already taken center stage as an all-rounder, the version with a tandem OLED display is worth special mention for those who prioritize screen quality above all else. Its 13.4-inch display, sporting a crisp 2,880 x 1,800 resolution and the deep contrasts of OLED technology, ensures that every image, video, and piece of text is rendered with breathtaking clarity.This model is perfect for everyday tasks like browsing or streaming, though its Lunar Lake processor may show its limitations in more rigorous tasks such as video editing or intense multitasking. Battery performance here is a more modest nine hours, but if your primary criterion is a world-class viewing experience, the trade-off might be well worth it.
Business-Ready: Lenovo Slim 7
For professionals looking to blend work and personal computing seamlessly, the Lenovo Slim 7 is built to impress. Its 14-inch OLED touchscreen delivers striking visuals, while its lightweight chassis and comfortable keyboard make for an excellent travel companion. With a tested battery life just over 10 hours, this device ensures that productivity isn’t hampered by constant power concerns.There are a couple of minor design quirks—such as an inconveniently placed power button and a short power cable—but overall, the Slim 7 stands out as an ideal machine for business settings and remote working scenarios.
Samsung's Contender: Galaxy Book 5 Pro
Rounding out our list is the Samsung Galaxy Book 5 Pro, a laptop that encapsulates everything fans appreciate about Samsung’s design philosophy. With its impressive 16-inch OLED display (offering a resolution of 2,880 x 1,800), this machine is as stylish as it is functional. The inclusion of the Intel Core Ultra 7 “Lunar Lake” chip ensures that the Galaxy Book 5 Pro handles everyday tasks elegantly, while also incorporating modern AI features through Copilot+ to streamline productivity.Although some competitors sport Snapdragon chips with slightly better performance or battery efficiency, the Galaxy Book 5 Pro’s strong compatibility with a broad range of applications makes it a very capable device. For those who want extra power, Samsung also offers variants like the Galaxy Book 4 Ultra, or you might even consider options like the LG Gram 17 Pro or the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 for slightly different balances of performance and portability.
Performance and Battery Life at a Glance
Lab benchmarks provide a useful snapshot of what to expect from these machines. For example, Geekbench scores and controlled battery tests reveal how each laptop stacks up. Here’s a quick comparison:| Laptop Model | Battery Life (Tested) | Approx. Geekbench Single-Core Score |
|---|---|---|
| Dell XPS 13 (2024) | 19:41 hours | 2797 |
| Acer Aspire Go 15 | 10:15 hours | 1310 |
| Lenovo Slim 7 | 10:10 hours | 2432 |
| Asus Zenbook 14 Flip OLED | 8:24 hours | 2524 |
| Lenovo Yoga Book 9i | 9:18 (dual-screen) / 12:13 (single display) | 2317 |
| Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 | 11:15 hours | 2614 |
| Asus ProArt P16 | 9:32 hours | 2872 |
| Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Ultra | 13:19 hours | 2426 |
| LG Gram 17 Pro | 12:02 hours | N/A |
| Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 | 15:44 hours | 2809 |
Choosing the Right Windows Laptop for You
With so many excellent options available, how do you decide which Windows laptop fits your needs? Here are some key considerations:• Define Your Usage: Are you primarily working, gaming, creating, or simply browsing the web? A premium ultrabook like the Dell XPS 13 suits productivity, while a gaming machine like the ROG Zephyrus G14 works best for high-intensity tasks.
• Battery Life: If you’re often mobile, prioritize devices with lengthy battery endurance. The Dell XPS 13 and Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 have demonstrated excellent results in this area.
• Display Quality: For creative work or media consumption, a high-quality OLED display—as seen in the Asus Zenbook 14 Flip OLED or Dell’s tandem OLED model—can be crucial.
• Portability vs. Power: Thinner devices like the Lenovo Slim 7 focus on portability, while more robust machines deliver extra power at the expense of a bit more bulk.
• Budget: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The Acer Aspire Go 15 exemplifies how affordability doesn’t necessarily mean sacrifice in usability, especially for light-duty tasks.
Making an informed choice involves balancing these priorities according to your needs and lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
The state of Windows laptops in 2025 is a testament to innovation and evolution. Manufacturers are not only competing with each other but also with the established dominance of devices like the MacBook. The impressive battery life, striking displays, and refined designs of today’s laptops demonstrate that Windows isn’t just keeping up—it’s setting its own pace.From the flagship Dell XPS 13, with its breakthrough Snapdragon performance and marathon battery life, to the versatile 2-in-1 options and power-packed gaming rigs, there’s never been a better time to choose a Windows laptop. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative professional, or student on the go, these machines offer the flexibility, performance, and style that modern computing demands.
In a world where every watt and pixel counts, the choices available to Windows enthusiasts have reached a new peak. So, as you weigh your options, take a moment to consider what matters most for your workflow and lifestyle—and get ready to experience a Windows laptop that truly transforms the way you work and play.
Happy computing, and here’s to many more hours of productivity, creativity, and pure enjoyment on your new Windows machine!
Source: Tom's Guide The best Windows laptops in 2025: our top picks
