Best Laptop: 3 Choices

Pick the laptop that fits your needs

Updated July 21, 2009 Set Alert

We think of laptops in three categories:

• Mainstream Laptops. These get the job done for most people. If you typically use a computer no more than a few hours per day, a "mainstream" laptop is probably your best bet. Be careful about buying a laptop cheaper than our recommended mainstream choice, as you very likely will run into premature obsolescence. See our pick for Best Mainstream Laptop.
• Premium Laptops. These are built better than mainstream laptops (more aluminum and magnesium, less plastic) and offer higher resolution screens, faster graphics, better keyboards, etc. Often they also come with superior technical support (it's built into the premium price). However, their high end components typically draw significantly more power, which translates into shorter battery life and more heat. If you travel frequently with your laptop (or like to place it on your lap), this may not be the right choice for you. However, if your laptop spends most of its time plugged in on your desk, this could be an ideal choice. See our pick for Best Premium Laptop.
• Road Warrior Laptops. For people who are always on the go with their laptops, size and weight frequently trump other factors. A "road warrior" class laptop will sacrifice some usability due to the smaller screen, but for many this is more than compensated for by the reduction in weight and bulk. To put this in perspective a mainstream or premium class laptop will typically weigh 6+ lbs, whereas a "road warrior" class laptop will typically weigh in at around 4 lbs. See our pick for Best Road Warrior Laptop.

NOTE: It is merely a coincidence that all three of our picks for Best Laptop are made by Dell. We have no special affiliation or love for Dell, it's just at the current time they make the best product in each category. This could change at any time, of course, so we will keep you updated.

On The Horizon: Windows 7 (October 22, 2009)

Microsoft has publically confirmed that Windows 7, the successor to Windows Vista, will be available starting October 22, 2009. Microsoft will be providing various upgrade options for Vista customers. To find out more, visit the Microsoft Windows 7 website.