Best Laptops in 2026: Which Computer to Buy in February?

Editor’s Note

This article highlights key laptop options for professionals and students, focusing on models that balance performance, portability, and versatility for remote work and study. Recommendations are based on current market offerings.

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The Best for Professionals and Students

Laptops offer precious mobility in an era dominated by smartphones, with various models catering to the diverse needs of remote work, studies, or other office uses. Numerama recommends the MacBook Air M4 for its versatility and lightweight design, while the Asus ZenBook S 16 and Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 offer a powerful and portable Windows alternative.

MacBook Air M4: The Best MacBook in 2025

Since Apple decided to equip its MacBooks with in-house chips starting with the “M1” series, they have arguably become the best laptops on the market, especially for work. It’s not being pro-Apple to say this. On paper, they tick all the boxes of what one expects from a laptop: long battery life (about 24 hours), excellent multitasking management, and, above all, a thin and lightweight design that allows them to be carried anywhere (only 1.55 kg for the 13-inch version and 1.55 cm thick). Everything is well thought out, down to its backlit keyboard, which is appreciated when brightness decreases.
The key is to choose the right MacBook among the different ranges and generations. In our view, the best choice remains the latest generation MacBook Air, here the M4, to ensure better longevity. For intensive use and demanding creative tasks, it’s better to opt for the Pro models with an M4 chip.

“Versatile and powerful, this version is the best choice for those who can afford the luxury and comfort of a latest-generation portable Mac.”
Le MacBook Air M3. // Source : Nino Barbey / Numerama
MacBook Air M2 or M3: More Affordable Options

However, other models can also be worth it depending on needs and budget. Older generations, starting from the M2, remain solid choices.

Asus ZenBook S 16: The Thinnest
Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: A Good Alternative to MacBooks
The Best Gaming Laptops

For gamers, the Razer Blade 16 offers a high-end gaming experience, while the Lenovo LOQ 17i Gen 10 positions itself as an affordable choice, completing a range of recommendations suited to different uses and budgets.

ZenBook S 16 // Source : Asus
Razer Blade 16: The Best Gaming Laptop
Lenovo LOQ 17i Gen 10: The Affordable Gaming PC
The Cheapest Options
Dell Inspiron 15: Good Value for Money
Acer Chromebook Plus 514: A Solid Option at This Price

A laptop offers less flexibility than a desktop tower: components are integrated and often difficult to replace. Therefore, it is important to choose the right configuration from the start, based on current and future needs. Whether for remote work, studies, or classic office use, here are the models that Numerama recommends for their good balance between performance, battery life, and price.

Surface laptop 7

Laptops have not lost their appeal in the smartphone era. Practical, the laptop is easily transported in a laptop backpack and can be taken anywhere. Are you looking for the best laptop but don’t know which model to choose? Numerama offers its selection of laptops to choose in 2025 based on your usage and budget.

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⏰ Published on: August 27, 2025