Ultimate Laptop Guide 2025: CNET's Top Picks & Surprises Inside!

If you’re in the market for a new laptop in 2025, CNET’s expert review lineup is the go-to resource for finding the perfect match. With choices suitable for every need and budget, there’s a fascinating mix of innovation and practicality this year. Let’s dive into the standout offerings that have been rigorously tested to provide unbeatable value and performance.

Cutting-edge Performance: The Best Overall Laptop

The crown for the best overall laptop goes to the fresh M4 MacBook Air (15-Inch, 2025). With enhancements in performance and a reduced price point, it’s more accessible than ever. As stated in CNET, Apple’s M4 chip ensures impressive battery longevity, making it the best choice for the everyday user seeking reliability without compromising on quality.

Top Choice for Windows Enthusiasts

For those who swear by Windows, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 enters the arena as a top contender. Packing the powerful Snapdragon X CPU, it offers robust AI capability and a battery life that eclipses its MacOS rivals. It’s the seamless fusion of design, performance, and endurance, marking it a compelling choice for professionals on the move.

Gaming Unleashed: Lenovo Legion 5i Gen 10

Gaming aficionados will relish the prowess of Lenovo’s Legion 5i Gen 10. Sporting a stunning 2.5K OLED display and robust Nvidia RTX GPU, it’s designed for those who crave immersive gameplay without the hefty price tag. The added free M.2 slot for expanding storage makes this device a gamer’s delight and a creator’s dream.

Best of Both Worlds: The Versatile Lenovo Yoga 9i

In the competitive 2-in-1 laptop sphere, the Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition shines brightly. This model takes versatility to new heights with its dazzling OLED display and ingenious rotating soundbar. For students and professionals seeking both a laptop and a tablet, this model is a revolutionary companion that offers unparalleled flexibility.

Budget-conscious Innovation: Acer Aspire 16 AI

For those on a tight budget but unwilling to compromise on functionality, the Acer Aspire 16 AI offers an enviable balance. Its thin-and-light design coupled with monstrous battery life makes it perfect for productivity on the go. This budget-friendly device is a testament to Acer’s dedication to making technology accessible to all.

Creative Powerhouse: Asus ProArt 16

In the realm of creative computing, the Asus ProArt 16 sets the benchmark with its enticing 4K OLED display and an array of powerful components tailored for demanding tasks. It’s ideal for media editors and those needing serious computational power in a portable package.

Decoding the Best: Factors to Consider

When selecting the best laptop, consider your specific needs such as portability, battery life, performance, and budget. The landscape of laptops is diverse; choose wisely based on your primary use case. Whether for work, creativity, gaming, or general productivity, there’s a suitable pick in CNET’s comprehensive roundup.

With this guide, we’re unraveling the best laptops of 2025. So, whether you’re tech-savvy or a casual user, there’s a perfect device waiting for you to explore new possibilities.