What are the best MacBook, Dell XPS, ThinkPad, HP, and ASUS laptops?

Choosing the best laptop among MacBook, Dell XPS, Lenovo ThinkPad, HP, and ASUS depends on what you value most: battery life, keyboard feel, portability, display quality, touch/pen support, or raw performance.

A practical shortlist is:

• Apple MacBook Air / MacBook Pro: best if you want macOS, excellent battery life, quiet operation, and a polished build. The Air is usually the best pick for most people; the Pro is better for heavier creative or development work.
• Dell XPS 13 / XPS line: a strong choice for a premium Windows ultrabook with a compact design and high-end feel. Exact current models and design details change often, so check the specific configuration before buying.
• Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon: one of the best choices for business users who care about keyboard quality, durability, and a balanced set of ports and security features.
• HP Spectre x360 / newer OmniBook 2-in-1 models: great if you want a premium convertible with touch and pen support, especially for note-taking and media use.
• ASUS Zenbook OLED models: often a strong value pick, especially if you want an OLED display, good performance, and better pricing than some premium competitors.

Simple rule of thumb:

• Best overall for most people: MacBook Air
• Best Windows ultrabook: Dell XPS or Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, depending on whether you prefer style or business usability
• Best 2-in-1: HP Spectre x360 / similar OmniBook convertible
• Best value with premium display: ASUS Zenbook OLED

If you’re comparing current models, verify the exact model name, processor, RAM, storage, display type, and battery size, since these change often by region and retailer.