We have compiled a detailed list of the best laptops for 2024, as tested and reviewed by IT-UK experts. This list includes top picks across various categories like gaming, business, creative work, and everyday use, ensuring there’s a choice for every need and budget.
1. Apple MacBook Air M3 (15-inch)
Best for: Overall Performance and Battery Life
Price: Starting at £1,299
Key Features:
- Processor: Apple M3 chip with 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU
- RAM: 8GB to 24GB Unified Memory
- Storage: 256GB to 2TB SSD
- Display: 15.3-inch Liquid Retina (2880 x 1864) with True Tone
- Graphics: Integrated Apple GPU
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
- Weight: 1.51 kg
Review:
The 15-inch MacBook Air M3 is lauded for its exceptional performance and stunning display. Its thin and lightweight design, combined with impressive battery life, makes it perfect for users who need a portable yet powerful machine. The M3 chip ensures smooth multitasking and enhanced graphics performance, making it ideal for both work and media consumption.
Where to Buy:
Best for: Premium Design and Portability
Price: Starting at £1,399
Key Features:
- Processor: Intel Core i7-1375U
- RAM: 16GB to 32GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 512GB to 2TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Display: 13.4-inch OLED 3.5K (3456 x 2160) or FHD+ (1920 x 1200)
- Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe
- Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
- Weight: 1.23 kg
Review:
The Dell XPS 13 Plus is a standout in the premium laptop market with its sleek design and edge-to-edge display. The touch-enabled function row and haptic feedback touchpad provide a futuristic feel. With top-tier Intel processors and a stunning OLED display option, this laptop is well-suited for professionals and creatives on the go.
Where to Buy:
3. ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16
Best for: Gaming and Content Creation
Price: Starting at £1,799
Key Features:
- Processor: Intel Core i9-13900H
- RAM: 16GB to 32GB DDR5
- Storage: 1TB to 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD
- Display: 16-inch QHD+ (2560 x 1600) 240Hz
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Weight: 1.95 kg
Review:
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 combines a powerful performance with a sleek design, making it a top choice for gamers and content creators. The high refresh rate and colour-accurate display ensure an immersive experience for gaming and media editing. The laptop’s advanced cooling system maintains optimal performance under heavy loads.
Where to Buy:
4. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12
Best for: Business and Security
Price: Starting at £1,499
Key Features:
- Processor: Intel Core i7-1365U
- RAM: 16GB to 32GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 512GB to 2TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Display: 14-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) or 2.8K OLED (2880 x 1800)
- Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe
- Battery Life: Up to 14 hours
- Weight: 1.12 kg
Review:
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 continues to be a favourite among business users for its robust build, excellent keyboard, and comprehensive security features. Its lightweight design and long battery life make it ideal for professionals on the move. The OLED display option offers vibrant colours and sharp details, enhancing the viewing experience.
Where to Buy:
5. HP Spectre x360 14 (2024)
Price: Starting at £1,382
Key Features:
- Processor: Intel Core i7-1355U
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 512GB to 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Display: 13.5-inch OLED 3K2K (3000 x 2000)
- Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe
- Battery Life: Up to 13 hours
- Weight: 1.34 kg
Review:
The HP Spectre x360 14 is known for its convertible design and premium build. The 3K2K OLED display is perfect for both work and entertainment, providing rich colours and deep blacks. The laptop’s 360-degree hinge allows it to be used in various modes, making it highly versatile. It also includes a stylus for creative tasks.
Where to Buy:
6. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2
Best for: Creative Work and Versatility
Price: Starting at £1,899
Key Features:
- Processor: Intel Core i7-1385G7
- RAM: 16GB to 32GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 512GB to 2TB SSD
- Display: 14.4-inch PixelSense Flow (2400 x 1600) 120Hz
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
- Battery Life: Up to 16 hours
- Weight: 1.8 kg
Review:
The Surface Laptop Studio 2 is a powerhouse for creatives, featuring a unique hinge design that allows the screen to be positioned in multiple ways. The high-refresh-rate display is excellent for drawing, photo editing, and video work. With powerful graphics and processing capabilities, it handles demanding tasks with ease.
Where to Buy:
7. Acer Swift X 14
Best for: Budget-Friendly Performance
Price: Starting at £899
Key Features:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 7840HS
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Display: 14-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050
- Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
- Weight: 1.39 kg
Review:
The Acer Swift X 14 is an excellent choice for those looking for a balance between performance and price. Its Ryzen processor and RTX graphics make it suitable for light gaming and creative tasks. The laptop’s sleek design and solid build quality add to its appeal, making it a great option for students and professionals alike.
Where to Buy:
8. MSI Stealth 14 Studio
Best for: High-End Gaming and Portability
Price: Starting at £1,999
Key Features:
- Processor: Intel Core i9-13900H
- RAM: 16GB to 32GB DDR5
- Storage: 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Display: 14-inch QHD+ (2560 x 1600) 240Hz
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080
- Battery Life: Up to 9 hours
- Weight: 1.7 kg
Review:
The MSI Stealth 14 Studio offers a premium gaming experience in a portable form factor. It features a high-refresh-rate display and top-tier graphics, ensuring smooth gameplay and immersive visuals. The laptop’s slim design and robust build make it easy to carry, while its advanced cooling system keeps it running efficiently.
Where to Buy:
9. Razer Blade 14 (2024)
Best for: Compact Gaming Powerhouse
Price: Starting at £2,099
Key Features:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS
- RAM: 16GB to 32GB DDR5
- Storage: 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Display: 14-inch QHD+ (2560 x 1440) 240Hz
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070
- Battery Life: Up to 11 hours
- Weight: 1.78 kg
Review:
The Razer Blade 14 is known for its powerful performance packed into a compact and stylish design. The laptop’s high-refresh-rate display and RTX graphics make it ideal for gaming and creative tasks. With a premium build and customizable RGB lighting, it’s a top choice for gamers who want a portable yet powerful machine.
Where to Buy:
10. Lenovo Yoga Book 9i
Best for: Innovative Design and Dual-Screen Functionality
Price: Starting at £1,999
Key Features:
- Processor: Intel Core i7-1365U
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD
- Display: Dual 13.3-inch 2.8K OLED (2880 x 1800) displays
- Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe
- Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
- Weight: 1.38 kg
Review:
The Lenovo Yoga Book 9i stands out with its dual-screen OLED design, offering a unique and flexible user experience. The screens can be used in tandem for multitasking or folded in different orientations for various use cases. This laptop is ideal for creatives and business users looking for innovation and style.
Where to Buy:
Choosing the Right Laptop
Performance
- CPU: Look for the latest generation Intel Core i7 or i9, AMD Ryzen 7 or 9, or Apple M3 chips for best performance.
- RAM: 16GB is sufficient for most users, but consider 32GB for high-end gaming or professional use.
- Storage: SSDs offer faster performance than HDDs; 512GB is a good starting point.
Display
- Resolution: Higher resolutions (QHD, 4K) offer sharper images but may reduce battery life.
- Refresh Rate: Gamers should opt for higher refresh rates (120Hz or above).
Graphics
- Integrated vs. Dedicated: Integrated graphics are suitable for everyday use, while dedicated GPUs are needed for gaming and professional graphics work.
Battery Life
- Portability: Laptops with longer battery life are ideal for users on the go.
Design and Build
- Form Factor: Choose between traditional clamshell, 2-in-1, or convertible designs based on your needs.
- Weight: Consider the weight if you plan to carry the laptop frequently.
Where to Purchase
- Check official websites and authorized retailers for the best deals and warranties.
- Online marketplaces like Amazon, IT-UK and John Lewis often offer discounts and promotions.
OUR LOCATION
IT-UK UNIT 6 CHILTERN BUSINESS CENTRE63-65 WOODSIDE ROADAMERSHAM, HP6 6AA TEL: 01494240083 MOB: 07963209527
IT-UK Laptop Repair Centre in Amersham, Buckinghamshire, offers a comprehensive range of repair and support services for laptops, tablets, mobile phones, and other electronic devices.
About Us
- IT-UK: TECH TEAM
- Amersham,, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom
-
IT-UK! Tech Help Community Group Blog