Best Laptops Money Can Buy in 2020
There is a veritable jungle of features in the laptop market these days: screens sizes from 10 to 17 inches, low power consumption, high performance CPUs in more or less compact dimentions, battery autonomy that varies from 4 up to 12 hours and so on. Basically there is a laptop for everyone and every need these days, but choosing one, well that is a total different story. What is the best laptop for your budget? We try to answer this question by listing our favorites.
Here is what we have in mind:
- Under $2600: Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) and Asus ROG Strix Scar III G531GW
- Under $2200: Acer Predator Trion 500 and Dell XPS 13 7390 two-in-one Laptop
- Under $1800: Dell XPS 13 9300 - Full HD (2020 edition) and Apple MacBook Pro 13 (2019 edition)
- Under $1200: Dell XPS 13 9380 and Microsoft Surface Pro 7 (Intel i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD)
- Under $900: Huawei MateBook D14 (2020 edition - 512GB SSD) and Acer Swift 3 SF314-42-R30P
- Under $450: Acer Chromebook 514
- Under $300: Lenovo Chromebook IdeaPad Duet
Testing a laptop involves combining many aspects, both exterior and interior. So here is how we did it. To test the power of a laptop we launched a whole set of benchmarks for both CPU and GPU (where a dedicated GPU was available). This allowed us to obtain two distinct potency indices, which we then can use to compare other products from the above-mentioned categories.
To test the screens we used looked at the contrast ratio, maximum brightness, and colorimetry. For heating, we used a thermal camera to find out how hot a laptop gets in high as well as normal usage, and for battery autonomy, we launched a Netflix series in Google Chrome, plugged in the headphones, and setting the screen brightness to 200 cd/m2.
Finally, for the audio part, we display the frequency curve of the speakers and the output power of the audio jack.
So after all these tests here are the winners for all the above-mentioned categories.
Best Laptops Under $2600: Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) and Asus ROG Strix Scar III G531GW
Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (16GB RAM, 512GB SSD)
Apple has taken care of its MacBook Pro to the touch. It's hard to find any real flaws in this laptop, as the Cupertino brand has worked on every detail, be it the screen, the keyboard, the Touch Bar or the battery life. Ultra-high-end par excellence, the 16-inch MacBook Pro is an example to follow in this segment.
Replacing the 15-inch model, this model aims to be the brand's ultimate laptop, both in terms of finish and power. Intended above all for creatives looking for quality and a particular software ecosystem, it seeks to seduce with its screen of unprecedented size, its worked chassis and its high-end Intel processor - we will choose between a Core i7 and two Core i9s, all of 9th generation, all classified in the "H" category, high performance. Read the full review here.
Full Specs:
16-inch screen diagonal
Screen resolution 2520 x 1080
Dimensions (width, length, thickness) 356 x 246 x 16 mm
Weight 2 kg
Intel Core i9-9980HK processor
32 GB RAM
AMD Radeon Pro 5500M graphics card
Video memory 6GB
Storage 1TB SSD
MacOS operating system
IPS panel
Connections 4 x USB-C, 0 x USB-A, 0 x HDMI, 0 x DisplayPort, 0 x Ethernet, 0 x SD reader, 0 x Micro-SD reader, 1 x Headphone output, 0 x Microphone input
Asus ROG Strix Scar III G531GW
Powerful, with an impeccable chassis and a very good (if not perfect) display, the Strix Scar 3 has everything a good gaming laptop should have. Asus has once again succeeded with this model, which has risen to the pantheon of the best gaming products for the moment. A safe bet for those who are not afraid to put their money in a product.
The ROG Strix Scar 3 aims to combine finesse and power. Finesse, first of all, with its 26 mm thick chassis, which is relatively thin for a gaming laptop. Power, then, with its Nvidia GeForce RTX 2070 graphics card. A laptop that wants to offer everything for just under $2500. Read the full review here.
Full Specs:
15.6-inch screen diagonal
Screen resolution 1920 x 1080
Dimensions (width, length, thickness) 360 x 275 x 26 mm
Weight 2.3 kg
Intel Core i7-9750H processor
16 GB RAM
Nvidia GeForce RTX 2070 graphics card
Video memory 6 GB
Storage 1 TB SSD
Windows operating system
IPS panel
Connections 1 x USB-C, 3 x USB-A, 1 x HDMI, 0 x DisplayPort, 1 x Ethernet, 0 x SD reader, 0 x Micro-SD reader, 1 x Headphone output, 0 x Microphone input
Best Laptops Under $2200: Acer Predator Trion 500 and Dell XPS 13 7390 two-in-one Laptop
Acer Predator Trion 500
The Acer Predator Triton 500 is a very well-rounded gaming laptop. Powerful, with a good screen as well as a perfectible chassis, but decent, it brings everything a buyer can expect from a PC of this category. However, it is a bit worse than its main competitor, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 3, which offers a better chassis. But the Predator Triton 900 remains a quality laptop that manages to seduce.
With its Predator range, Acer wants to offer gaming laptops with more or less inflated configurations. The model tested ic, the Triton 500, is placed in the coveted segment of powerful, thin, and 15-inch laptops. It, therefore, competes with the Asus Strix Scar 3 or the Gigabyte Aero 15 Classic.
The Triton 500 thus offers a 9th generation Intel Core i7 as well as an RTX 2060 graphics card in an 18 mm thick chassis. Attractive characteristics, but it remains to be seen whether Acer has been able to give a beautiful setting to their baby.
Full Specs:
15.6-inch screen diagonal
Screen resolution 1920 x 1080
Dimensions (width, length, thickness) 359 x 255 x 18 mm
Weight 2.15 kg
Intel Core i7-9750H processor
16 GB RAM
Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 graphics card
Video memory 6GB
Storage 512 GB SSD
Windows operating system
IPS panel
Connections 1 x USB-C, 3 x USB-A, 1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x Ethernet, 0 x SD reader, 1 x Headphone output, 1 x Microphone input
Dell XPS 13 7390 two-in-one Laptop
Dell blows hot and cold with this XPS 13. Equipped with a very high-quality chassis, a well-managed processor as well as an impeccable screen, this laptop PC is nevertheless weighed down by a rather tight autonomy and a headphone jack completely missed. If it is technically successful, we can not help but be a little disappointed, Dell having accustomed us to much better. A 2-in-1 version which, if it has serious arguments to make, unfortunately, does not manage to rise to the level of the classic version.
The Dell XPS 13 had won us over both in terms of technique and design. We are testing its 2-in-1 version here. In addition to having a touch screen, this variation offers a tablet mode as well as a slightly different chassis. Added to this are a solid technical sheet and the latest technical innovations from the brand, such as the MagLev keyboard.
The XPS 13 7390. A computer equipped with a 10th generation Intel Core i7 processor (10nm, Intel Iris Plus iGPU), but also a 4K touchscreen. A prestigious model, therefore, sold for nearly $2,000 in stores and which must be technically impeccable. Versions at more affordable prices exist, with a Full HD panel and an Intel Core i5 processor. Enough to lower the bill by a few hundred dollars while enjoying the same chassis.
Full Specs:
13.3-inch screen diagonal
Screen resolution 3840 x 2160
Dimensions (width, length, thickness) 296 x 207 x 13 mm
Weight 1.3 kg
Intel Core i7-1065G7 processor
32 GB RAM
Intel Iris Plus graphics card
NC video memory
Storage 512 GB SSD
Windows operating system
IPS panel
Connections 2 x USB-C, 0 x USB-A, 0 x HDMI, 0 x DisplayPort, 0 x Ethernet, 0 x SD reader, 1 x Micro-SD reader, 1 x Headphone output, 0 x Microphone input
Best Laptops Under $1800: Dell XPS 13 9300 - Full HD (2020 edition) and Apple MacBook Pro 13 (2019 edition)
Dell XPS 13 9300 - Full HD (2020 edition)
By eliminating the only flaw of the 4K version (autonomy), this Full HD version takes its rightful place: that of the new benchmark for premium ultraportables under Windows. The Dell XPS 13 2020 marks a comeback: new chassis, the screen in 16:10 format, keyboard ... the XPS 13 does not neglect its fundamentals, it sublimates them. We just regret the disappearance of the full-size SD card reader and the charge indicator on this new incarnation.
Full Specs:
13.4-inch screen diagonal
Screen resolution 1920 x 1200
Dimensions (width, length, thickness) 296 x 199 x 14.8 mm
Weight 1.2 kg
Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor
8 GB RAM
UHD Graphics G1 graphics card
512 GB SSD storage
Windows operating system
IPS panel
Connections 2 x USB-C, 1 x Micro-SD reader, 1 x Headphone output, 1 x Microphone input
Apple MacBook Pro 13 (2019 edition)
Unsurprisingly, the 2019 MacBook Pro is a neat laptop that establishes itself as one of the best ultraportables technically. Like the previous model, it has an impeccable chassis, offers a well-calibrated screen, and, above all, excellent battery life. On the less expensive version, tested here, the processor remains a model of speed, with a performance very similar to that of last year. Failing to observe more profound changes, Apple is renewing a successful model.
Over the summer of 2019, Apple released new versions of its computers and laptops. The most affordable 13-inch MacBook Pro model is equipped with an Intel Core i5-8257U, a chip that should prove to be a little more energy efficient than the Core i5-8259U used on the previous generation, but just as powerful. Likewise, all models are now equipped with the famous Touch Bar, a long Oled screen supplementing the keyboard. Read the full review here…
Full Specs:
13.3 inch screen diagonal
Screen resolution 2560 x 1600
Dimensions (width, length, thickness) 304 x 212 x 15 mm
Weight 1.3 kg
Intel Core i5-8257U processor
8 GB RAM
Intel Iris Plus Graphics 645 graphics card
Storage 512 GB SSD
MacOS operating system
IPS panel
Connections 2 x USB-C, 0 x USB-A, 0 x HDMI, 0 x DisplayPort, 0 x Ethernet, 0 x SD reader, 0 x Micro-SD reader, 1 x Headphone output, 0 x Microphone input
Best Laptops Under $1200: Dell XPS 13 9380 (2019 edition) and Microsoft Surface Pro 7 (Intel i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD)
Dell XPS 13 9380
Year after year, the XPS 13 evolves little, but always in the right direction. The 2019 vintage thus retains everything that makes the strength of the range, namely an excellent finish, a chassis combining aluminum and carbon fiber, and an overall design of great sobriety. The matt treatment on the top of the hood is both visually and to the touch pleasant and only the brand's logo disrupts her light gray dress. The model we're testing here is a bit different though, as the interior of the chassis opts for white and, above all, an area around the keyboard in the "honeycomb" style, slightly grainy under the fingers. Exit therefore the very messy rubber coating of previous generations of XPS 13. We will not complain.
The Dell XPS 13 is, once again, one of the best ultraportables on the market. This 2019 edition changes little but improves on a few important points: autonomy revised upwards, slight performance gain and less messy chassis. In addition, the screen of this model is one of the most convincing that we have seen. Once again a safe bet.
Full specs:
13.3-inch screen diagonal
Screen resolution 1920 x 1080
Dimensions (width, length, thickness) 302 x 199 x 11.6 mm
Weight 1.2 kg
Intel Core i7-8565U processor
8 GB RAM
Intel UHD Graphics 620 graphics card
Storage 256 GB SSD
Windows operating system
IPS panel
Microsoft Surface Pro 7 (Intel i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD)
Microsoft always delivers a technically very successful product, almost free of criticism on this point. The Surface Pro 7 remains a sure bet on the market and will suit those looking for a powerful two-in-one with a long-lasting battery. However, keep in mind that it is sold as a tablet and you have to get the keyboard as an extra.
Full Specs:
12.3-inch screen diagonal
Screen resolution 2736 x 1824
Dimensions (width, length, thickness) 292 x 201 x 8.5 mm
Weight 780 g
Intel Core i5-1035G4 processor
8 GB RAM
Intel Iris Plus graphics card
NC video memory
128 GB SSD storage
Windows operating system
IPS panel
Touch screen YesHybrid Yes
Connections 1 x USB-C, 2 x USB-A, 1 x Micro-SD reader, 1 x Headphone output
Best Laptops Under $900: Huawei MateBook D14 (2020 edition - 512GB SSD) and Acer Swift 3 SF314-42-R30P
Huawei MateBook D14 (2020 edition - 512GB SSD)
Huawei has perfectly balanced this 2020 edition of the MateBook D14. Without trying to revolutionize its recipe, the manufacturer has rather improved it by small touches. It succeeds in delivering a product that is both enduring, efficient and pleasant to use on a daily basis, all without blowing up its budget. Thus armed, the MateBook D14 2020 is positioned as a safe recommendation against products like the Aspire 5 or the Swift 3.
An elegant chassis, a heart powered by a Ryzen 5 3500U chip, a Full HD IPS panel, a biometric sensor, and a consequent 512 GB space on SSD, here is a list of very appetizing ingredients, especially when put in prospect with the launch price of the set: $749.99!
Full Specs
14 inch screen diagonal
Screen resolution 1920 x 1080
Dimensions (width, length, thickness) 215 x 322 x 15.9 mm
Weight 1.38 kg
AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor
8 GB RAM
AMD Radeon Vega 8 graphics card
512 GB SSD storage
Windows operating system
IPS panel
Connections 1 x USB-C, 2 x USB-A, 1 x HDMI, 1 x Headphone output, 1 x Microphone input
Acer Swift 3 Thin
With a decent chassis and unprecedented performance in a compact size, the Acer Swift 3 Thin could have been the affordable benchmark for this first wave of ultraportables with AMD Ryzen 4000 Mobile processors. It was without counting on a screen not bright enough and poorly calibrated. This one major flaw, unfortunately, prevents us from recommending it, but if you choose to buy it we won't hold it against you as it will deliver enough power for your daily needs. Read the full review here…
Full specs:
14-inch screen diagonal
Screen resolution 1920 x 1080
Dimensions (width, length, thickness) 323.4 x 218.9 x 17.95 mm
Weight 1.2 g
AMD Ryzen 7 4700U processor
8 GB RAM
AMD Radeon Vega 7 graphics card
512 GB SSD storage
Windows operating system
Connections 1 x USB-C, 2 x USB-A, 1 x HDMI, 1 x Headphone output, 1 x Microphone input
Best Laptop Under $450: Acer Chromebook 514
Acer delivers a very attractive Chromebook with its 514. Despite obvious flaws, such as mediocre speakers or a keyboard that deserves more care, it manages to convince thanks to its exemplary construction as well as its well-calibrated screen. Chrome OS, for its part, provides a pleasant experience, which represents an affordable and interesting alternative to Windows.
Full Specs:
14-inch screen diagonal
Screen resolution 1920 x 1080
Dimensions (width, length, thickness) 323 x 232 x 1.6 mm
Weight 1.4 kg
Intel Celeron N3350 processor
4 GB RAM
Intel HD Graphic 600 graphics card
Storage 32 GB SSD
Chrome OS operating system
IPS panel
Touch screen Yes
Best Laptop Under $300: Lenovo Chromebook IdeaPad Duet
The IdeaPad Duet is a decent 2-in-1 for ChromeOS. Despite obvious gaps in connectivity and a screen coating that is too shiny, it manages to provide a good experience in the context of mobile office use, in particular thanks to its great autonomy and its keyboard delivered by default. As for ChromeOS, compatible with Android applications (and sometimes Linux), it remains an interesting alternative to Windows.
Full Specs:
10.1 inch screen diagonal
Screen resolution 1920 x 1080
Dimensions (width, length, thickness) 239 x 159 x 7.35 mm
Weight 920 g
MediaTek P60T processor
4 GB RAM
64 GB SSD Storage
Chrome OS operating system
IPS panel
Touch screen Yes
Hybrid Yes
Connection 1 x USB-C
Passive Cooling
