Best Laptops of 2024: Expert Reviews and Reddit Consumer Insights

If you’re looking to update your tech in 2024 and want the best laptop as recommended by real users, Reddit is the place to start. Reddit consumers frequently share their experiences and opinions about the latest tech, making it a valuable resource for anyone in the market for a new laptop. This article draws from a wealth of Reddit laptop recommendations to help you find the best options across various categories. From gaming to programming to everyday use, we cover the top choices that have earned high marks for reliability, performance, and user satisfaction. Each laptop we discuss has been praised by Reddit users for its standout features and overall value, giving you insights that go beyond specs to include real-life usage and feedback. Discover the best laptops of 2024 with advice from those who know them best—fellow consumers who take tech seriously.

We’ll guide you through the top laptops for various uses: those that are ideal for gamers who demand high performance and robust graphics, models that suit students looking for long battery life and portability, and units perfect for professionals who need powerful machines for programming and intensive tasks. We also highlight choices for creative minds focused on video editing, where precision and high processing power are key.

For each category, we present laptops that Reddit users have tested and praised for their dependability, ease of use, and excellent price-performance ratio. You’ll find insights into how these laptops hold up under daily use, from their keyboard comfort and screen brightness to battery longevity and customer support. This guide is designed to arm you with the knowledge shared by real users to ensure you make a choice that feels right for your specific needs and lifestyle. Discover the top-rated laptops of 2024 and make an informed choice with confidence, knowing you’re getting a peer-reviewed product that stands up to scrutiny and delivers on its promises.

How We Chose These Laptops Based on Reddit Recommendations

Selecting the best laptops for 2024 involved a thorough process, deeply rooted in the real-life experiences and opinions shared by Reddit users. Our approach was methodical and community-focused, ensuring that each recommended laptop not only meets high standards but also resonates with actual user needs and preferences.

1. Community Insights: We started by diving into various Reddit communities, where tech enthusiasts, students, professionals, and casual users all converge to discuss their latest gadgets. By reading through dozens of detailed reviews and comment threads, we gathered a broad spectrum of opinions covering everything from day-to-day usability to technical performance.
2. Personal Experiences: Alongside community insights, personal experiences with several of the laptops provided additional layers of understanding. This firsthand knowledge helped in assessing the practicality of features such as battery life, portability, and user interface.
3. Sharing Experiences: Beyond individual assessments, we expanded our research to include experiences shared by other Reddit users. These discussions often reveal critical information about longevity, support, and real-world performance that might not be apparent from specs alone.

Through this comprehensive process, we were able to identify laptops that consistently received positive feedback for their reliability, performance, and value. Each model listed has proven itself across a variety of settings, from intense gaming sessions and creative projects to everyday tasks and business applications. By synthesizing data from multiple sources—direct user feedback, personal testing, and shared community reviews—we’ve curated a list that truly reflects the preferences and recommendations of the Reddit community.

This meticulous selection process ensures that our recommendations are not just based on theoretical specs or promotional materials but are backed by robust community endorsement and real-life validations. Whether you’re looking for a high-performance machine for demanding tasks or a simple, budget-friendly option for everyday use, our guide provides well-rounded choices that align with the collective wisdom and proven experiences of Reddit consumers.

Here’s a table summarizing the laptops with their key features and what they are best for, highlighting that these choices have been influenced by Reddit consumer discussions:

Laptop Model	Best For ?	Key Features
ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15	Gaming & Creative Work	AMD Ryzen 9 5900HS processor, NVIDIA RTX 3080 graphics, 15.6-inch QHD 165Hz display, 1TB PCIe SSD, 16GB RAM, Lightweight, RGB lighting
2022 Apple MacBook Air M2	Portability & Battery Life	Apple M2 chip, Ultra-thin and light design,  Long battery life, Slightly larger display, MagSafe charging
Dell XPS 13 9310	Productivity & Premium Build	13.4-inch OLED touchscreen, Intel Core i7-1195G7 processor, Sleek design, premium materials, Long battery life
Acer Aspire 5	Budget	AMD Ryzen 3 3200U, Radeon Vega 3 graphics, 15.6-inch Full HD display, Backlit keyboard, Affordable, decent performance
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch	Professional Creative Work	Apple M1 Pro chip, Liquid Retina XDR display, SD card slot, HDMI, Thunderbolt 4 ports, High build quality
Microsoft Surface Laptop 5	Business professional & students	Ultra-thin, premium build, excellent touchscreen, Comfortable keyboard, Variety of configurations

Whether you’re a gamer looking for the ultimate performance, a student in need of a reliable study partner, or a professional on the hunt for a powerful machine for creative tasks, our curated list of the best laptops for 2024 has something for everyone. The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 is your go-to for gaming and heavy-duty creative work, boasting top-tier specs like the AMD Ryzen 9 and NVIDIA RTX 3080. For those who prioritize portability and battery life, the Apple MacBook Air M2 shines with its incredibly thin design and impressive battery stamina. The Dell XPS 13 9310 offers the perfect blend of productivity and premium build, ideal for professionals who need a robust yet stylish workhorse. Budget-conscious buyers will find great value in the Acer Aspire 5, which delivers solid performance for everyday tasks without breaking the bank. Lastly, the Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch provides unmatched power and a stunning display, making it the preferred choice for professionals engaged in intensive creative work.

Each of these laptops has been chosen based on extensive discussions and recommendations from the Reddit community, ensuring that they not only meet various technical needs and budgets but also come highly recommended by users who have experienced them firsthand.

Best laptop for Gaming & Creative Work

The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 stands out as the best laptop for gaming and creative work for several compelling reasons, as evidenced by user testimonials on Reddit and other tech forums:

1. Exceptional Performance: At its heart, the G15 is powered by the AMD Ryzen 9 5900HS processor and paired with an NVIDIA RTX 3080 graphics card. This combination delivers blistering performance that can effortlessly handle the most graphically demanding games and resource-intensive creative applications like video editing, rendering, and design software.
2. Immersive Display: The laptop’s 15.6-inch QHD display with a 165Hz refresh rate is a gamer’s dream for smooth and responsive gameplay, while creative professionals will appreciate the true-to-life colors and crisp details for editing and design tasks.
3. Ample Storage and RAM: With a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD and 16GB of RAM, the G15 offers ample space for large project files and the ability to multitask efficiently without any lag, a must-have for both gaming and creative workflows.
4. Designed for Users: Beyond the specs, the G15 boasts a sleek design with customizable RGB lighting, providing a personal touch that resonates with users. Its lightweight build is rare for a gaming laptop, making it an excellent choice for creatives on the go.

Reddit user experiences reinforce that the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 is not just about top-tier specs; it’s about how these specs translate into an unparalleled experience for gaming and creative work. It’s this user-verified performance that truly makes the G15 the best choice for those who demand excellence in both play and work.

ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15

When selecting the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15, we carefully combed through Reddit, looking at various tech and gaming communities to understand what features were most valued by users. The G15 emerged as a favorite for its blend of power and design, ideal for both gaming enthusiasts and creative professionals.

Reddit users have consistently lauded the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 for its top-tier components. The AMD Ryzen 9 5900HS processor and NVIDIA RTX 3080 graphics card are frequently highlighted in comments for delivering exceptional performance. Whether for the latest gaming titles or intensive creative work like video editing and 3D modeling, the G15 doesn’t just keep up—it excels.

What sets the G15 apart in the eyes of Reddit users is not just its raw power, but the immersive display experience. The 15.6-inch QHD display with a 165Hz refresh rate provides visuals that are not only crisp but exceptionally smooth, a point often noted by Reddit gamers and creators alike. Speedy storage and ample RAM are also a plus; with a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD and 16GB of RAM, multitasking and quick load times become the norm, aligning with the experiences shared by users in the community.

In terms of design, the G15’s lightweight and sleek form factor, along with customizable RGB lighting, is praised for breaking the mold of traditional gaming laptops, which are often bulky. This blend of aesthetics and functionality resonates well with the lifestyle of Reddit users who need their tech to be both portable and powerful.

By reflecting on Reddit communities and their feedback, such as discussions in gaming subreddits, we see a pattern of preference for the G15. Users often share their satisfaction with its performance and design, backing our decision to recommend this laptop. Just as a Redditor in r/ gaming, r/laptops might express their contentment with the G15’s ability to handle demanding applications, we find that this laptop is a standout choice for those who want no compromises in their computing experience.

Thus, by incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data from Reddit, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 is our top pick for a high-performance laptop in 2024, resonating with real users’ experiences and fulfilling the demands of the Reddit community’s discerning tech enthusiasts.

Best portable laptop

The 2022 Apple MacBook Air M2 is best for users seeking a highly portable laptop without sacrificing performance. Its M2 chip ensures it handles a multitude of tasks with ease, from typical productivity applications to more demanding creative software. The battery life is exceptional, often cited by users as capable of lasting through an entire day, which is perfect for students, professionals, and anyone on the go. Its sleek design and updated features, including the MagSafe connector for easy and secure charging, make it not just a technological tool but a lifestyle accessory. This laptop is ideal for those who appreciate the seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem and require a reliable, stylish, and user-friendly computing experience

The 2022 Apple MacBook Air M2

The 2022 Apple MacBook Air M2 is an exemplary choice for those seeking a harmonious balance of power and unparalleled portability. This latest iteration of the MacBook Air has been thoughtfully engineered with the new Apple M2 chip, which has been the subject of numerous positive Reddit consumer discussions for its incredible efficiency and the ability to handle a broad range of tasks without breaking a sweat.

Portability and Design: Reddit users frequently bring up the MacBook Air’s lightweight and slim profile, making it a constant in backpacks of mobile professionals and students alike. It is the epitome of on-the-go computing, without the extra bulk commonly found in laptops with similar capabilities.

Battery Performance: The standout feature for many Reddit users is the MacBook Air M2’s battery life. It’s been reported to last through intensive workdays, and even during continuous use like long coding sessions or back-to-back lectures, the need for a power outlet becomes less of a tethering concern.

Display and Charging: A slightly larger display offers more screen real estate while maintaining sharp and vibrant visuals, a point of appreciation among users who engage in media consumption or creative tasks. Moreover, the reintroduction of MagSafe charging has been a welcomed feature, ensuring that a trip over the power cable doesn’t result in the laptop taking a tumble.

User Experience: The overall user experience with the MacBook Air M2 is highly rated among Reddit consumers. From the silent operation due to the fanless design to the quick wake from sleep, users note how these small quality-of-life features add up to a smooth, enjoyable experience.

The 2022 Apple MacBook Air M2 emerges as a top contender from the Reddit community’s wealth of knowledge for those who prioritize a blend of sleek design, solid performance, and remarkable battery life. It’s these real-world accolades that underscore the MacBook Air M2 as the best laptop for users who require a dependable, everyday machine that they can take anywhere.

The 2022 Apple MacBook Air M2 has captured the attention of the Reddit community, garnering praise for its significant leaps in efficiency and performance. It’s not uncommon to see a Reddit user in /r/mac or /r/apple commend the M2 chip for its ability to effortlessly manage a plethora of applications, from everyday productivity tools to more demanding photo and video editing software—all while maintaining energy efficiency.

A notable aspect often mentioned is its portability. Reddit users who are students or professionals on the move discuss how the MacBook Air’s thin and light design is a game-changer, fitting unobtrusively into a small space in a bag or being easy to carry around campus or to cafes.

Battery life is another highly talked-about feature in Reddit threads. Users share their experiences of the MacBook Air lasting beyond a full workday without needing a charge, a significant advantage for those who dislike carrying chargers or are frequently away from power sources.

Reddit comments also highlight user appreciation for the enhanced screen size and the return of MagSafe charging in the new MacBook Air M2. The ease and security that MagSafe brings, preventing potential accidents, is a detail that resonates well with the Reddit community, emphasizing the thoughtful design choices Apple has made based on user feedback.

Each of these points, distilled from real Reddit consumer experiences, builds a compelling case for the 2022 Apple MacBook Air M2. It’s clear that the laptop’s combination of power, endurance, and sleek design not only meets but often exceeds the expectations of discerning Reddit users.

Best for Productivity & Premium Build

The Dell XPS 13 9310 excels in productivity and premium build, making it a top choice for professionals who require a robust and high-performing laptop. Its sleek, ultraportable design crafted from premium materials, coupled with a powerful Intel Core i7 processor and stunning OLED display, ensures that it meets the needs of the most demanding tasks while maintaining a luxurious aesthetic.

Dell XPS 13 9310 laptop

BEST FOR

• High-End Productivity: Its powerful processor and high-resolution display are perfect for professionals and creatives needing a dependable and high-performing machine.
• Visual Quality: The OLED screen with its incredible color accuracy is ideal for visual content creators and anyone who values excellent display quality.
• Build and Design: For those who appreciate a laptop that feels as good as it looks, its premium materials offer a balance of elegance and resilience.
• Mobility: The laptop’s slim profile and light weight make it an excellent choice for users who need power on the move.

Why the Dell XPS 13 9310 is Best for Productivity & Premium Experiences:

Reddit users often point to the Dell XPS 13 9310 when discussing a laptop that combines a luxurious design with practical functionality. It’s the OLED touchscreen that often becomes a focal point of discussion, especially among users who value vibrant colors and deep blacks whether they’re editing photos, watching content, or simply working through their daily tasks. The display offers a visual clarity that is both a pleasure to look at and easier on the eyes over long periods.

Performance is another area where the XPS 13 does not disappoint. Equipped with an Intel Core i7 processor, it handles everything from spreadsheets and presentations to more CPU-intensive tasks with a brisk efficiency that users have come to expect from Dell’s flagship line. This is often noted by Reddit’s tech community members who require their devices to be reliable workhorses during business travel or while working remotely.

The build quality is also a major selling point. Dell’s use of premium materials like aluminum and carbon fiber not only gives the laptop a sleek and modern appearance but also a sturdy feel that users on Reddit appreciate for its durability. The comfort of the keyboard and touchpad, combined with the laptop’s lightweight nature, further positions it as a top choice for professionals who spend a lot of time typing and desire a device that feels solid yet easy to carry around.

The Dell XPS 13 9310 is frequently recommended in Reddit communities like r/Dell, r/Laptops, and r/TechSupport, where tech enthusiasts and professionals gather to share their experiences and advice. In these forums, the OLED touchscreen is often a highlight, with users in r/Laptops discussing its exceptional color accuracy and detail, crucial for graphic designers and photographers who need precise visual representation.

Performance discussions are prevalent in r/Dell, where users praise the Intel Core i7 processor for its reliability and speed, essential for running demanding applications without lag. This capability is especially valued by users who multitask extensively, as seen in threads where software developers and digital artists share their setups and workflows.

Build quality is another highly talked about feature within these communities. In r/TechSupport, the durability of the Dell XPS 13 9310 is often cited in conversations about the best laptops for frequent travelers or for use in variable environments, highlighting the robustness provided by its premium materials.

These specific mentions from Reddit communities not only underscore the practicality and high performance of the Dell XPS 13 9310 but also demonstrate the laptop’s wide-ranging appeal to a diverse audience of tech-savvy users. These discussions offer potential buyers confidence that their preferences and needs are reflected in the experiences of their peers, making it a trusted choice for those looking for a top-tier portable laptop.

Best laptop for Budget

The Acer Aspire 5 is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, budget-friendly laptop that doesn’t skimp on essential features. It has garnered attention on Reddit, particularly praised for its affordability and decent performance for everyday tasks.

Acer Aspire laptop

BEST FOR

• Budget-Friendly Computing: Ideal for students and casual users looking for a laptop that balances cost and capability.
• Everyday Tasks: Perfect for handling daily activities such as internet browsing, streaming, and light productivity tasks.
• Nighttime Use: The backlit keyboard ensures comfortable typing in low-light conditions, enhancing usability.

Why the Acer Aspire 5 is Best for Budget-Conscious Users and Everyday Tasks:

Reddit communities like r/LaptopDeals and r/BudgetLaptops frequently highlight the Acer Aspire 5 when discussing the best value for money laptops. Users appreciate its AMD Ryzen 3 3200U processor and Radeon Vega 3 graphics, which, while not designed for high-end gaming, handle everyday computing tasks like web browsing, streaming, and office productivity with ease.

The Full HD 15.6-inch display is another feature that receives positive remarks. It provides good visual clarity for the price point, making it suitable for watching videos and working on documents without straining the eyes, a point often noted in Reddit threads focused on finding cost-effective tech solutions.

Furthermore, the inclusion of a backlit keyboard is praised as a thoughtful addition not always found in budget laptops. This feature is particularly appreciated by Reddit users who work late or in dimly lit environments, as shared in discussions within r/BudgetLaptops.

Why the Acer Aspire 5 is Best for Budget-Conscious Users and Everyday Tasks:

Reddit communities like r/LaptopDeals and r/BudgetLaptops frequently highlight the Acer Aspire 5 when discussing the best value for money laptops. Users appreciate its AMD Ryzen 3 3200U processor and Radeon Vega 3 graphics, which, while not designed for high-end gaming, handle everyday computing tasks like web browsing, streaming, and office productivity with ease.

The Full HD 15.6-inch display is another feature that receives positive remarks. It provides good visual clarity for the price point, making it suitable for watching videos and working on documents without straining the eyes, a point often noted in Reddit threads focused on finding cost-effective tech solutions.

Furthermore, the inclusion of a backlit keyboard is praised as a thoughtful addition not always found in budget laptops. This feature is particularly appreciated by Reddit users who work late or in dimly lit environments, as shared in discussions within r/BudgetLaptops.

The Acer Aspire 5 is widely recognized within the Reddit community as a solid performer that exceeds expectations for its price bracket, making it a top recommendation for anyone needing a straightforward, effective laptop solution without a hefty investment. Top of Form

The Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch is a formidable contender for those requiring advanced computing capabilities, especially in creative and professional environments. It’s celebrated on Reddit for its top-tier performance and exceptional display qualities, making it a favorite among professionals.

Best for Professional Use and Creative Work:

The Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch is a formidable contender for those requiring advanced computing capabilities, especially in creative and professional environments. It’s celebrated on Reddit for its top-tier performance and exceptional display qualities, making it a favorite among professionals.

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch

BEST FOR

• Professional Creative Work: With the M1 Pro chip and high-performance memory and storage options, it’s ideal for demanding creative tasks.
• Visual Content Creation: The Liquid Retina XDR display offers exceptional visual quality, crucial for photographers and video editors.
• Enhanced Connectivity: Equipped with essential ports for a seamless workflow in professional settings.
• Long Battery Life: Provides ample power to get through a full day of intense use without needing to recharge.

On Reddit, particularly in communities like r/Mac, r/Apple, and r/VideoEditing, the Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch is frequently discussed for its robust performance, powered by the Apple M1 Pro chip. This chip enables users to handle complex tasks such as 3D rendering, sophisticated video editing, and other CPU-intensive applications without a hitch. The performance is often compared favorably to other high-end laptops, with many users noting significant improvements in workflow efficiency.

The Liquid Retina XDR display is another highlight often mentioned in Reddit discussions, particularly praised for its mini-LED technology that provides outstanding brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. Creative professionals on Reddit, especially those in video and photo editing, laud this feature for its true-to-life color representation and the ability to handle HDR content superbly.

Additionally, the MacBook Pro’s array of ports is a welcomed return in the professional community on Reddit. The inclusion of an SD card slot, HDMI output, and multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports addresses the connectivity issues seen in previous models, making it highly versatile for various peripherals and external displays.

Best laptop for Business Professionals and Students

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is widely regarded for its elegant design and impressive functionality, particularly appreciated in environments where both portability and performance are essential. It has garnered significant attention on Reddit for its responsive touchscreen and comfortable typing experience.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 5

BEST FOR

• Portability and Convenience: Its slim profile and light weight make it ideal for users who need a powerful device on the go.
• Interactive Use: The responsive touchscreen is perfect for those who engage actively with their devices.
• Extended Typing Tasks: The comfortable keyboard provides a satisfying typing experience for prolonged periods.
• Versatility: Offers a variety of configurations to suit different needs and budgets.

Why the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is Best for Business Professionals and Students:

In communities like r/Surface and r/Laptops on Reddit, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is frequently discussed for its ultra-thin design and premium build quality. Business professionals and students alike praise the laptop for its lightweight, making it incredibly easy to transport between meetings, classes, or coffee shops.

The high-quality touchscreen is a standout feature that receives plenty of accolades on Reddit. Users appreciate the vivid and responsive display, which enhances interaction with digital content, whether it’s managing spreadsheets, taking notes, or presenting. This feature is particularly valued by those who prefer a more hands-on approach to their tasks.

Additionally, the comfortable keyboard is often mentioned in discussions, with many Reddit users noting how pleasant it is for long typing sessions. This is crucial for users who spend significant time writing, such as students working on essays or professionals preparing reports.

As recognized by the Reddit community, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is a superior choice for users who value a blend of sleek design, tactile functionality, and reliable performance. Its features are particularly tailored to meet the demands of business professionals and students who require a versatile and efficient laptop for their daily activities.

Reddit FAQ on Popular Laptops for 2024

1. What are the common thermal management issues with the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15, and how can they be mitigated?

• Answer: The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 can run warm during intense gaming sessions or heavy multitasking. Users recommend using a cooling pad and adjusting the power settings to better manage heat without sacrificing too much performance.

2. Are there any compatibility issues with the 2022 Apple MacBook Air M2 regarding older software?

• Answer: Some older applications might not be optimized for the M2 chip, leading to compatibility issues. It’s advisable to check for software updates or use Rosetta 2 for running Intel-based apps until developers release updates.

3. How does the Dell XPS 13 9310’s webcam perform for professional video calls?

• Answer: The webcam on the Dell XPS 13 9310 is functional but not exceptional. For critical video conferencing, users might consider an external webcam for improved video quality.

4. What should I know about the build quality and screen brightness of the Acer Aspire 5?

• Answer: The Acer Aspire 5 is budget-friendly but the build quality may not feel as premium. Additionally, the screen brightness could be an issue in well-lit environments. Adjusting screen settings and using the laptop in moderately lit areas can help.

5. Is the cost of the Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch justified?

• Answer: Many users feel the high cost of the MacBook Pro 14-inch is justified by its powerful performance, exceptional display, and robust build quality, especially for professional and creative work that demands high processing power.

6. What are the challenges with repairing or upgrading the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5?

• Answer: The Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is not easily user-serviceable due to its compact and integrated design. Users considering future upgrades or repairs might find this a limiting factor.

7. How can the limited number of ports on the MacBook Air M2 be managed?

• Answer: To manage the limited number of ports on the MacBook Air M2, users can invest in a USB-C hub or docking station to expand connectivity options for peripherals and external displays.

8. Can the fingerprint smudges on the Dell XPS 13 9310 be easily cleaned?

• Answer: Yes, fingerprint smudges on the Dell XPS 13 9310’s sleek surface can be cleaned with a soft microfiber cloth and a little isopropyl alcohol, ensuring the laptop maintains its premium look.

In conclusion, selecting the right laptop in 2024 requires careful consideration of both technical specifications and real-world user experiences. The laptops discussed in this article—ranging from high-end models like the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 and Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch to budget-friendly options like the Acer Aspire 5—demonstrate a spectrum of choices that cater to various needs and preferences.

Drawing from extensive discussions on Reddit, this guide aims to provide a holistic view of what current users value and experience with these laptops. Whether you’re a gamer, a creative professional, a student, or just need a reliable device for everyday tasks, the insights shared by the Reddit community can help steer your decision towards a laptop that best fits your lifestyle and workload.

By addressing common concerns and highlighting user-recommended models, we hope to alleviate some of the uncertainties that come with purchasing new technology. Remember, the best laptop for you depends on your specific requirements; hence, weighing these insights against what you genuinely need will ensure that your investment is sound and satisfying. As technology continues to evolve, staying informed through platforms like Reddit can keep you updated and well-equipped to make the best possible choices in the rapidly changing landscape of personal computing. Top of Form