The Best Laptop of 2026: What You Can Actually Buy Right Now
December 11, 2025
Stores are full of models built on completely new platforms. Memory now starts from 8 GB, most screens are 120 Hz or OLED, NPUs appear even in the simplest configurations, and 32 GB stopped being anything special a long time ago. The selection has become huge but also straightforward: almost any recent model is already solid, so the only thing left is to decide what screen size, weight, and port set fit your needs.
Below are 11 laptops you can already buy. All specs were verified using real retail listings, no guesses or "coming soon" placeholders. Just what is actually on the shelf.
1. ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 18 G835LX
ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 18 G835LX comes in a black chassis with an aluminum lid and a plastic base weighing 3.48 kg, designed for heavy workloads. The 18 inch matte Mini LED display at 2560×1600 with a 240 Hz refresh rate, more than 2000 dimming zones, 500 nits SDR and 1200 nits HDR brightness, plus 100 percent DCI-P3, delivers accurate colors and high contrast for gaming and professional editing. The keyboard includes a full numeric block, per key RGB with Aura Sync, and a dedicated Copilot key for easier lighting control and quick access to AI tools. NVIDIA G-Sync support reduces tearing during fast action scenes.
The Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX configuration with 24 cores, 64 GB DDR5-5600 (expandable to 96 GB), a 2 TB SSD, and a GeForce RTX 5090 24 GB GDDR7 (175 W TDP) can run AAA titles on ultra settings and handle 8K editing without slowdown. The full port set includes three USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, two Thunderbolt 5, HDMI 2.1, 2.5 Gb Ethernet, and USB-C with Power Delivery and DisplayPort Alt Mode, allowing multiple external monitors and peripherals with no compromises.
Advantages:
Mini LED 240 Hz with HDR 1000 and G-Sync for stable frame output
RTX 5090 24 GB and 64 GB DDR5 for gaming and rendering
Full size numpad with RGB and Copilot key
2.5 Gb Ethernet and two Thunderbolt 5 ports
Who is it for:
Gamers and streamers working at max settings
Video editors and 3D artists who need high color accuracy
Users building a stationary gaming or creative workstation
2. GIGABYTE AORUS Master 16
GIGABYTE AORUS Master 16 is built in a blue plastic chassis with a light blue lid, weighing 2.5 kg, aimed at gaming and professional content creation. Its 16 inch glossy OLED 2560×1600 panel with a 240 Hz refresh rate, Pantone Validated certification, 100 percent DCI-P3, HDR True Black 500, and G-Sync offers perfect color reproduction and smooth motion for gaming and editing. A card reader, Copilot key, and FHD IR camera complete the feature set.
The Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX (24 cores) configuration with 32 GB DDR5-5600 (expandable to 64 GB), a 2 TB SSD, and GeForce RTX 5080 16 GB GDDR7 (175 W) can run any modern game at ultra settings and render complex 3D scenes. Ports include two Thunderbolt 5, two Thunderbolt 4, two USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, HDMI 2.1, and Ethernet.
Advantages:
OLED 240 Hz with Pantone and G-Sync
RTX 5080 16 GB and 2 TB SSD out of the box
Two Thunderbolt 5 plus card reader and Ethernet
Expandable memory and two M.2 slots
Who is it for:
Gamers who want maximum frame rates and image quality
3D artists and videographers working with 8K and HDR
Users building a powerful mobile workstation with upgrade potential
3. Apple MacBook Pro 16 with Apple M4 Max
Apple MacBook Pro 16 with Apple M4 Max comes in a fully aluminum Space Black chassis weighing 2.15 kg and remains a benchmark for premium workstations. The 16.2 inch glossy Liquid Retina XDR (Mini LED) panel at 3456×2234 with 120 Hz, 1000 nits SDR brightness and 1600 nits HDR, plus full DCI-P3 and P3 wide color, delivers extremely accurate and contrast rich visuals for editing, color grading, and HDR workflows. The backlit keyboard features Touch ID in the power button and a full size SDXC card reader that accepts cards from professional cameras directly.
The system is built on Apple M4 Max (16 core CPU: 12 performance + 4 efficiency, 40 core GPU, 16 core Neural Engine), 48 GB unified LPDDR5X-8533 memory, and a 1 TB SSD. This setup is enough for editing several 8K streams at once in Final Cut Pro, rendering complex Blender scenes, and running heavy local AI models. Ports include three Thunderbolt 5 (up to 120 Gbit/s), HDMI 2.1, MagSafe 3, and a 3.5 mm jack, allowing output to three external 6K displays and connecting pro gear without adapters.
Advantages:
Liquid Retina XDR 120 Hz with true HDR and full DCI-P3
M4 Max 40 core GPU and 48 GB unified memory
Three Thunderbolt 5 + HDMI 2.1 + full size SDXC reader
Full compatibility with pro Apple and Adobe software
Who is it for:
Video editors and colorists working with 8K and HDR
3D artists and motion designers within the macOS ecosystem
Users who need maximum performance in an aluminum chassis with a best in class display
4. Dell XPS 14 9440
Dell XPS 14 9440 is built in a full aluminum gray body weighing 1.7 kg and belongs to the premium mobile line. The 14.5 inch matte IPS panel at 1920×1200 with 120 Hz, 500 nits brightness, anti glare coating, and 100 percent sRGB offers smooth scrolling and accurate colors outdoors or in bright rooms. The backlit keyboard includes a fingerprint scanner in the power button, a dedicated Copilot key, and a side mounted card reader that accepts camera cards without adapters.
The Intel Core Ultra 7 155H (16 cores) configuration with 16 GB LPDDR5x-6400, a 1 TB SSD, and Intel Arc Graphics with NPU handles multitasking, local AI features, and basic editing. Three Thunderbolt 4 ports with Power Delivery and DisplayPort Alt Mode allow charging, output to two 4K monitors, and connecting fast external drives at the same time.
Advantages:
120 Hz matte 500 nit display with full sRGB
Three Thunderbolt 4 ports and a card reader in a slim chassis
Copilot key and fingerprint scanner in the power button
Fully aluminum construction at 1.7 kg
Who is it for:
Photographers and videographers who work outside the studio
Users who connect multiple external devices through a single hub
Those who value premium materials and accurate color reproduction
5. HP ZBook Ultra G1a
HP ZBook Ultra G1 is built in a silver metal chassis weighing 1.5 kg and meets the MIL-STD-810H military standard. The 14 inch matte IPS 1920×1200 panel with 400 nits brightness and full sRGB is tuned for accurate color in field environments. A webcam shutter, fingerprint scanner, and Copilot key ensure security and fast access to AI features.
The AMD Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 395 configuration (16 cores), 64 GB LPDDR5x-8533, a 1 TB SSD, and integrated Radeon 8060S with a powerful AMD Ryzen AI NPU can run heavy local AI models and handle large projects. The full set of ports includes two Thunderbolt 4, USB-C Gen 2, USB-A Gen 2, and HDMI 2.1.
Advantages:
64 GB memory and a powerful NPU in a 1.5 kg chassis
MIL-STD-810H and webcam shutter
Full sRGB and an extended port selection
Copilot key and fingerprint scanner
Who is it for:
Mobile machine learning and analytics specialists
Designers and engineers working in the field
Users who need maximum performance in a durable and lightweight chassis
6. Dell Pro 13 Premium Touch
Dell Pro 13 Premium Touch comes in a black metal chassis weighing just 1.07 kg and is one of the lightest 13 inch Windows laptops. The 13.4 inch glossy touch WVA display at 2560×1600 with Gorilla Glass and 500 nits brightness is convenient for presentations, signing documents with a finger, and using tablet mode. The backlit keyboard with a dedicated Copilot key reinforces its business orientation.
The Intel Core Ultra 7 268V (Lunar Lake) platform with 32 GB LPDDR5x-8533, a 512 GB SSD, and the new Arc Graphics 140V delivers instant system response and strong power efficiency. Two Thunderbolt 4 ports, one USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 and HDMI make it easy to connect modern docking stations as well as older projectors without adapters.
Advantages:
1.07 kg weight with a touch 2.5K display
32 GB of ultra-fast soldered memory
Two Thunderbolt 4 + USB-A and HDMI
Gorilla Glass and Copilot key
Who it’s for:
Executives and consultants constantly flying for work
Users who sign documents and take notes directly on the screen
Those looking for an extremely lightweight device with full functionality
7. HP ZBook Power G11A
HP ZBook Power G11A comes in an aluminum chassis weighing 2.04 kg and is aimed at stationary high load work. The 15.6 inch matte IPS 1920×1200 display with a numpad is convenient for long sessions with spreadsheets, diagrams, and CAD programs. The Quad HD webcam and fingerprint scanner support high quality video calls and security.
The configuration based on AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS, 64 GB DDR5-5600, a 1 TB SSD, and professional NVIDIA RTX 1000 Ada 6 GB (35 W) is certified for most engineering applications. The full port set includes two Thunderbolt 4, two USB-A, HDMI 2.1, and Ethernet.
Advantages:
64 GB RAM and certified RTX 1000 Ada
Full size numpad and Ethernet
1 TB SSD and extended ISV software support
Quad HD webcam for professional calls
Who it’s for:
Engineers, architects, and 3D modelers
Users of Autodesk, SolidWorks, CATIA, and similar suites
Those building a stationary workstation with many wired connections
8. HP ZBook Firefly 16 G11
HP ZBook Firefly 16 G11 is built with a metal and plastic chassis weighing 1.79 kg and meets the MIL-STD-810H military standard. The 16 inch matte OLED 2880×1800 display delivers accurate colors and deep blacks, which is important for graphics and video work. The keyboard includes a numpad, backlight, fingerprint scanner, and Copilot key.
The Intel Core Ultra 7 155H configuration with 64 GB DDR5-5600 and a 2 TB SSD allows running dozens of heavy projects at once and accessing them quickly. Ports: two Thunderbolt 4, two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 2.1.
Advantages:
16″ OLED 2880×1800 in a chassis under 1.8 kg
64 GB RAM and 2 TB SSD
Numpad and professional software certification
Increased durability and full port selection
Who it’s for:
Graphic designers and motion designers
Video editors working with 4K+ material
Specialists who need a large accurate display and mobility at the same time
9. HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14-fh0001
HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14-fh0001 is an aluminum 2-in-1 convertible weighing 1.34 kg, designed for flexible workflows. The 14 inch 2880×1800 120 Hz OLED touch display with HDR provides excellent color accuracy and smooth UI motion, which is critical for photo and video editing. The chassis folds completely, turning the laptop into a tablet for stylus drawing or media viewing. A webcam shutter and Copilot key complete the setup.
The Intel Core Ultra 7 258V (Lunar Lake) platform with 32 GB LPDDR5x-8533 and a 2 TB SSD ensures high speed when handling large files and long multitasking sessions. Two Thunderbolt 4 ports and one USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 allow connecting professional docks, external GPUs, and older devices.
Advantages:
OLED 120 Hz in a 2-in-1 form factor
2 TB SSD and 32 GB soldered memory
Full stylus support and Thunderbolt 4
Premium display at under 1.4 kg
Who it’s for:
Creative professionals working with a stylus
Photographers and videographers who need accurate color
Users who want to combine a laptop and a tablet in one device
10. Dell Latitude 7455
Dell Latitude 7455 comes in a thin aluminum body weighing only 1.44 kg and is positioned as an ultraportable business device. The 14 inch 2560×1600 VA touch display with 400 nits brightness is convenient for presentations, signing documents by hand, and working on the go. A physical webcam shutter, built in card reader, and fingerprint scanner ensure increased privacy, while the dedicated Copilot key speeds up routine tasks.
The Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite platform with 12 cores, 32 GB LPDDR5x-8448, and a 512 GB SSD offers strong energy efficiency, instant system response, and a powerful Hexagon NPU for local AI work. Two USB4 ports (40 Gbit/s, DisplayPort Alt Mode, Power Delivery) and one USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 cover most use cases from docking stations to older drives.
Advantages:
1.44 kg weight with a 2.5K touch display
32 GB soldered memory and a powerful NPU
Physical webcam shutter and card reader
Full Windows compatibility via Prism emulation
Who it’s for:
Managers and consultants constantly on the move
Those who value privacy and touch input
Enterprise users transitioning to the ARM ecosystem
11. Lenovo LOQ 15IRX10
Lenovo LOQ 15IRX10 comes in a practical gray plastic chassis weighing 2.4 kg and is aimed at users who need a versatile machine. The 15.6 inch matte IPS display with a 144 Hz refresh rate and 100 percent sRGB provides smooth motion in games and natural colors during long editing sessions or content viewing. The keyboard includes a full numeric pad, customizable RGB lighting, and a dedicated Copilot key for quick access to AI features from any app.
The configuration is built on Intel Core i7-13650HX, 32 GB dual channel DDR5-4800, a 1 TB SSD, and discrete GeForce RTX 5060 8 GB GDDR7 with a 115 W power envelope. This delivers comfortable FPS in modern titles on high settings and stable 4K editing workflows in DaVinci Resolve or Premiere. The rich port selection (three USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, USB-C Gen 2 with DisplayPort and Power Delivery, HDMI 2.1, gigabit Ethernet) allows connecting an external monitor, gamepads, storage devices, and wired internet simultaneously without extra adapters.
Advantages:
RTX 5060 8 GB and 144 Hz for gaming and editing
32 GB DDR5 and 1 TB SSD out of the box
Full numpad and customizable RGB
Complete port selection including Ethernet
Who it’s for:
Gamers and engineering students
Those who combine gaming, streaming, and study projects
Users who need wired networking and classic USB-A ports
Conclusion
Almost every recent model already includes a powerful NPU, a 120 Hz or faster display, at least 16 GB of memory, and solid build quality. The differences now lie in details that still matter: weight and thickness, screen size and presence of a numpad, port selection, color accuracy, and how quietly the laptop runs under load.
If you pick a lightweight 14 inch model on Lunar Lake or Snapdragon X2, you get portability and a great display on the go. Choose a 15-16 inch system with a numpad and you can work at a desk without constant scrolling in spreadsheets. Need old school USB-A, Ethernet, and a card reader? They’re still alive in business lines and some all-rounders. Want to edit 4K-8K footage, game, or draw? There are options with RTX 4060 and up or with Apple’s M4 Max.
In short, it’s hard to go wrong today. Any laptop from this list will easily last 4-6 years without annoying limitations. The key is deciding where and how it will spend most of its life – in a backpack, on a desk, or on your lap on a plane – and choosing the size, weight, and ports accordingly. The rest is already taken care of by modern tech.