Since laptops arrived on the home computing scene, we’ve witnessed huge leaps forward in what these powerful, compact machines can do. The most recent laptops deliver unbelievable graphics, powerful computing, as well as unmatched portability and style. To make your next tech purchase as painless as possible, we’ve collected the 10 very best laptops this year. From gaming powerhouses, to flexible, multi use devices, the following laptops showcase the very best of what is currently available.
Apple MacBook Air (13-inch)
$999 – $1,749
The current 13 inch MacBook Air makes little improvements on previous models, but boasts an incredible battery life. Able to run more than 12 hours while in use, this laptop is an excellent option for those needing portability and more power.
Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga 3 Pro
$1,349 – $1,749
The original Lenovo ThinkPad was an effective laptop for professionals and students on the go. A highly reviewed laptop, this years version’s only major changes are a larger screen and body. This laptop still packs a 1 TB hard drive, as well as 8GB of RAM, making light gaming easy and straightforward. Not only that, the unique design allows users to position this laptop several different ways, and also functions as a tablet. This handy computer is an exceptional option for consumers looking for performance, as well as portability.
Acer C720P Chromebook
$249 – $349
This impressively low priced laptop manages to still deliver on the main qualities that consumers look for in a budget computer. Running the new Chrome operating system, this computer runs apps online, freeing up your hard drive space for your own files. At such a low price, it’s a computer accessible to everyone.
Apple MacBook Pro with Retina Display (2013, 15-inch screen)
$1,999 – $3,200
This mainstay in the high performance laptop market brought revolutionary display features at it’s time of release. The current release added minor improvements to internal hardware, streamlining performance and multitasking capabilities. However, the biggest move forward is a notable price cut to both the 13 and 15 inch models.
Gigabyte P25X v2
$1,649
A strong alternative to Desktop gaming machines, this high definition laptop offers impressive gaming performance. With a full 1080p screen and powerful battery life, this laptop is an excellent option for consumers looking for a powerful laptop without a huge price tag. Though the laptop does get a bit hot and noisy while gaming, the impressive performance and stylish design still make this laptop a strong contender.
Dell Latitude 12 Rugged Extreme
$3,649 – $6,474
This superbly tough laptop delivers military grade durability, as well as strong performance. Most interestingly, this laptop includes a rotating display, as well as a touchscreen and spacious keyboard. Some consumers find the 12 inch notebook to be a little heavy for it’s size, but this laptop is nearly indestructible. Not only that, the rotating touchscreen makes this laptop function as a tablet, which may account for the bigger price tag.
Lenovo Y50-70 Touch
$1,499
Another more affordable laptop that doesn’t skimp on performance is the Lenovo Y50–70. The display allows users to utilize touchscreen technology, and brings mid range gaming performance as well. A worthy bundle for the price tag, however, this laptop does have below average battery life and runs a bit hot while gaming.
Maingear Pulse 15
$2,199 – $2,600
This impressively slim laptop still manages to deliver outstanding graphics and performance. Not only that, the display is vibrant and bright, plus the keyboard is wide and comfortable. Another great option for those looking for functional laptop with some gaming capability, this lightweight notebook is a mobile and powerful one. On the other hand however, this laptop also has a shorter battery life and tends to get warm while gaming.
Microsoft Surface Pro 3
$797 – $1,999
Though technically a tablet, the Surface Pro 3 is a functional, yet cost-effective option for mobile computing. Billed as a tablet that can replace your laptop, this multitasking device packs considerable power for its modest price tag. This laptop may not let users play graphics heavy games, but it easily performs basic computer functions needed for students or professionals. While not a complete replacement for high performance gaming or media computer, this tablet and included keyboard is an effective option for consumers who need a basic and affordable laptop.
HP Stream
$299
Incredibly, this low-priced Chrome based laptop brings is not only lightweight and portable, it also includes some useful features. Users who purchase this laptop receive 25 GB of Dropbox storage for six months, as well as 100 GB of OneDrive storage for two years. Though this laptop does limit users to the Chrome OS, it packs a decenlty powerful 1.4 GHz CPU and nearly 8 hours of battery life. All of which are phenomenal specs for your average student or professional, especially at such an astoundingly low price.
Featured photo credit: Dan Taylor via flickr.com
