Key points to consider when finding the best laptop for you

The first step in choosing a laptop is determining your budget. It’s important to know the maximum amount you can spend on this type of equipment. This helps you avoid considering overly expensive options that may not meet your needs. It’s important to remember that there are laptops to suit every budget, from the most basic to the most sophisticated models.

Best Laptops 2023 - Rue Montgallet

The different operating systems for laptops

Choosing an operating system is also a key factor in choosing the best laptops for 2025. The most popular are Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS. Many users consider Windows to be the most versatile operating system. The best recommended laptops for 2025 usually run on Windows 10 or 11. Apple enthusiasts appreciate macOS for its ease of use and stability. Chrome OS, on the other hand, is ideal for online tasks.

Choosing a laptop according to your mobility needs

Size and weight are among the deciding factors to consider when looking for the best laptops of 2025. This is important for users who travel frequently. It’s not just the body of the computer, but also its adapter. Indeed, some products come with large and heavy chargers. So, to prioritize portability, opt for lightweight and compact equipment. However, for those who need a large screen for work and don’t travel too often, larger models shouldn’t be too much of a problem.

Best Laptops 2025 - Rue MontgalletProcessing power, RAM, graphics card and storage: the key elements of a laptop

Important technical specifications to look for include the power of the processor, RAM, graphics card, and storage capacity. If you’re using your laptop for tasks like web browsing and word processing, basic specifications and RAM are sufficient. However, if you plan to run more resource-intensive software, it’s better to invest in machines with more advanced features.

The importance of battery life matters for the best laptops 2025

Battery life is an important factor to consider when choosing a laptop. Whenever possible, you should always choose a machine with good battery life unless you always have a power outlet nearby. This provides peace of mind if you have to use the laptop for long hours. On the other hand, it’s important to know that battery life depends on several factors. Battery life is linked to the size and type of the screen, the power consumption of the processor and graphics card, etc.

Best Laptops 2025 for Gaming

#1 ASUS TUF Gaming A14 TUF401UV-RG029W, a Gaming laptop for the general public

ASUS TUF Gaming A14 TUF401UV-RG029W

The ASUS TUF Gaming A14 TUF401UV-RG029W is a 14-inch laptop for gamers who want an ultraportable machine with sufficient performance. This mid-range laptop is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 and has nothing to envy from larger machines. This device has a comprehensive connectivity including a female HDMI 2.1 port, a USB Type-C DisplayPort port, two USB 3.1 ports as well as a female 3.5 mm stereo jack.

Its physical specifications include a black color, a depth of 227 mm, a width of 311 mm, a thickness of 16.9 mm, and a weight of 1.46 kg. Additionally, the 1600p 165 Hz display is coupled with a perfectly adequate battery life. This makes for one of the best portable computers at a very reasonable price. These features should appeal to gamers who want to make minimal compromises in their gaming station. The advanced model here has 16 GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1 TB SSD.

What we like
– Lightweight and durable chassis
– Bright and vivid display
– Solid performance
– Good battery life
– Comfortable keyboard
– Dual M.2 SSD slots
What we like less
– Plain design
– Very basic audio

#2 MSI Cyborg 15 AI A1VFK-003FR, a low price for gamers on a budget

MSI Cyborg 15 AI

For mainstream gamers on a budget, the MSI Cyborg 15 AI A1VFK-003FR is a laptop that shouldn’t be overlooked. This gaming laptop boasts a cyberpunk design and cutting-edge performance. It features an AI-optimized Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, 16GB of DDR5 memory, and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card. Together, these deliver a smooth and powerful experience for both gaming and creative applications.

In terms of display, the 15.6-inch 144Hz Full HD IPS screen guarantees fluidity for most uses. Because by default, there is a 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD, it is better to use an external storage drive to store game files or other things. Finally, the manufacturer adds here an RGB backlit gaming keyboard that is a pleasure to use. We therefore have a complete package, ideal for gamers and demanding users looking for an affordable laptop.

What we like
– Capable of gaming at highest 1080p settings
– Powerhouse processor for the money
– Decent build for a budget gaming rig
What we like less
– RTX 4050 not impressive compared to RTX 3060
– Screen is dark and disappointing

#3 ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 GA403UU-QS109X, well built, pleasant to use and very powerful

ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14

The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 GA403UU-QS109X stands out as one of the best ultraportable gaming laptops on the market, combining performance, design, and competitive pricing. It offers excellent value for money in its category. This compact gaming PC features a Ryzen 9 8945HS, 32GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and an RTX 4050 for smooth 1080p gaming.

Asus offers a premium 1.5kg chassis with a 120Hz G-Sync-compatible OLED display with a brightness of 500 nits. Despite its slim design, battery life remains long and connectivity options are plentiful. This makes for an ideal laptop for mobile gamers with a good balance of performance and portability.

What we like
– Sleek and compact with metal chassis
– Powerful overall performance and gaming speed
– 1800p 120Hz OLED panel with G-Sync support
– Wide selection of ports
– Long battery life
What we like less
– Soldered RAM
– Maximum storage capacity limited to 1 TB
– Noticeable heating under heavy load

#4 MSI Katana 15 B13VEK-1696XFR, an RTX 4050 laptop for casual gamers

MSI Katana 15 

With its price, the MSI Katana 15 stands out as a must-have for gamers looking for a high-performance laptop without breaking the bank. Under the hood, you’ll find a surprisingly comprehensive configuration for the price. It features an Intel Core i7-13620H processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 graphics card. RAM-wise, there’s 16GB of RAM with a generous 512GB SSD.

The MSI Katana 15 delivers decent 1080p performance, often exceeding 60 fps in recent games. Its 144Hz display will delight eSports gamers, despite somewhat dull colors, while its impressive speakers and good price-performance ratio make it a smart choice. With decent battery life, efficient cooling, and no compromises on key components, this computer stands out as a solid value.

What we like
– Solid 1080p gaming performance
– Good speakers
– Excellent value for money
What we like less
– Short battery life
– Lower display quality

#5 Gigabyte G6X 9KG-43FR854SH, a fast mid-range, but with compromises

Gigabyte G6X 9KG-43FR854SH

The Gigabyte G6X 9KG-43FR854SH (2024) stands out as the best affordable gaming laptop of the moment. This model relies on an Intel Core i7-13650HX combo (6 Performance cores at 4.9 GHz + 8 Efficient cores) and a 105 W RTX 4060. This allows the machine to offer solid gaming performance for its price. The 16-inch 1920×1200 IPS screen at 165 Hz remains decent, if a little dull, but this remains a classic on entry-level laptops.

Design-wise, the understated gray chassis (2.5 kg) fits into any environment. Plus, the backlit QWERTY keyboard comes with a spacious trackpad. Storage features an upgradable 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD, as does DDR5 RAM (16 GB standard, expandable to 64 GB). Finally, connectivity includes USB-C, HDMI 2.1, Wi-Fi 6E, and a decent 73 Wh battery for a gaming PC.

What we like
– Solid 1080p gaming performance
– Acceptable price
What we like less
– Fan noise sometimes annoying

#6 Razer Blade 16 (RZ09-0483SFJ3-R3F1), no compromise on gaming or creation experience

Best laptops 2024 - Rue Montgallet

The Razer Blade 16 (RZ09-0483SFJ3-R3F1) is a high-end gaming laptop. It is perfect for those looking for an exceptional OLED display. Equipped with an Intel Core i9-14900HX processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card, it is designed to handle the most demanding games as well as intensive content creation applications. Its 16-inch display offers a QHD+ resolution (2560 x 1600) and uses OLED technology, which provides vibrant colors and high contrast. Gamers can enjoy vivid details with this model, which is especially appreciated during gaming sessions or working on graphic projects.

This model is primarily aimed at avid gamers and creative professionals looking for the best visual experience and superior performance. It features a sleek CNC-machined aluminum design that combines robustness with a refined aesthetic. While its price is high, it’s justified by its build quality and premium components. It’s an ideal investment for those who don’t want to compromise on their gaming or creative experience.

What we like
– 4K resolution at 120Hz and Full HD at 240Hz
– Powerful performance with NVIDIA RTX graphics
– Premium build quality
– Good selection of ports, including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1
– Comfortable keyboard and a responsive trackpad
What we like less
– High price
– About 5 hours of general use and 90 minutes of intensive gaming
– Relatively high weight (2.45 kg)
– Loud fan noise under load
Best Laptops 2025 for Business and Students

#7 Apple MacBook Pro 14, a high-end workstation laptop

Apple MacBook Pro 14

The MacBook Pro 14″ M4 is a must-have when it comes to a machine for demanding professionals. With its new M4 chipset, it offers blazing performance. It is suitable for video editing, 3D, or AI development. Its 14.2-inch Mini-LED display (3024×1964 px) now reaches 1000 nits in SDR (1600 nits HDR). Apple adds a nano-texture option to reduce reflections. Battery life easily exceeds 15 hours in mixed use, despite an ultra-compact chassis of only 1.6 kg.

In terms of usability, Apple pushes the boundaries even further with an ultra-responsive Magic Keyboard and a precise Force Touch trackpad. Connectivity has been boosted with three Thunderbolt 5 (USB-C) ports and HDMI 2.1, while the new 12MP webcam with Center Stage improves video conferencing. The only downside: the inability to upgrade RAM or storage after purchase, so choose carefully when ordering.

What we like
– Wide selection of ports
– Display is suitable for content creation and other color-critical work
– Minimal throttling under load
– Doesn’t get too hot or noisy
What we like less
– Soldered RAM and storage
– Keyboard that may bother heavy typists

#8 Microsoft Surface Pro 11 Copilot+ PC – Platinum (ZHX-00004), ultraportable, powerful and innovative

Best laptops 2024 - Rue Montgallet

The Microsoft Surface Pro 11 Copilot+ PC – Platinum (ZHX-00004) is a 2-in-1 device that redefines the flexibility and power of modern laptops. It is a high-end Windows tablet PC. It features a 1440p webcam on the front, an IR camera with Windows Hello facial recognition, and a 10MP Ultra HD camera on the back. It is a must-have for those who want portability and power. However, you must be well prepared in terms of budget to acquire this little technological marvel.

Indeed, this tablet/laptop is equipped with a Snapdragon X Elite processor. It offers remarkable performance, particularly thanks to its Qualcomm Hexagon NPU, capable of performing up to 45 trillion operations per second. It is a perfect device for mobile workers who want to invest in a portable, powerful, and innovative solution.

This device features a 13-inch touchscreen display with 2K resolution. An immersive and responsive visual experience is guaranteed for content creation and multitasking. Its impressive battery life, reaching up to 14 hours of video playback, allows users to work all day without having to worry about recharging.

In addition, it integrates advanced security features with Windows Hello and Microsoft Pluto, ensuring effective data protection. It is a versatile tool for working on the go. Furthermore, it features extensive AI integration with Copilot+ experiences. The latter facilitates everyday tasks such as taking notes or organizing projects. The ability to use the detachable keyboard and optional stylus makes it an ideal choice for those who prioritize productivity while remaining mobile.

What we like
– Adjustable stand to easily switch from tablet to laptop mode
– 16-inch touchscreen with 3840 x 2400 UHD+ resolution
– Lightweight and portable with a slim 9.3mm profile
– Impressive battery life of up to 14 hours
What we like less
– Limited graphics performance for high-end gaming
– Positioned at a premium price
– Detachable keyboard sold separately
– Only two USB-C ports

#9 Apple MacBook Air M2 15-inch, ultraportable and powerful for multitasking

Apple MacBook Air M2 15 inch

The 13″ M4 MacBook Air redefines the premium ultraportable with unmatched performance and versatility. Powered by the all-new M4 chipset, it excels at productivity tasks while remaining incredibly thin (1.24 kg) and quiet (fanless). Its 13.6″ Retina display (2560 x 1664 px) maintains excellent brightness, although it doesn’t rival the Mini-LED in the MacBook Pro. This Mac combines elegance and durability with its machined aluminum chassis.

Ideal for students and mobile users, the machine offers all-day battery life (18 hours in real-world use) and a premium user experience. The backlit Magic Keyboard pairs with an XXL haptic trackpad and ultra-fast wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3). The only limitations: the two USB-C ports (supplemented by a MagSafe) and the inability to upgrade the RAM (up to 24 GB) after purchase.

What we like
– Rugged construction and compact design
– All-day battery life
– Crisp and bright display
– Tactile keyboard, responsive touchpad
– Fanless design
What we like less
– Display still limited to 60 Hz
– Limited port selection

#10 ASUS ExpertBook B5 B5602CVA-MB0513X, productivity, security and reliability

Best laptops 2024 - Rue Montgallet

The ASUS ExpertBook B5 B5602CVA-MB0513X is a business laptop designed for power and portability. It’s ideal for users on the go. It’s powered by a 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, delivering robust performance for multitasking and demanding applications.

With up to 40GB of RAM and up to 2TB of SSD storage, this device guarantees optimal responsiveness and fast loading times. Its 16-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels offers vivid colors and excellent contrast, making this laptop perfect for design and content creation professionals.

Additionally, its lightweight design, weighing only 1.29 kg, makes it easy to transport while ensuring durability thanks to its aluminum alloy chassis that meets MIL-STD 810H military standards. This is a computer that combines performance and security, with its fingerprint sensor and a TPM 2.0 module. These protect sensitive user data. Battery life of up to 11 hours allows for efficient work. It is a preferred option for facilitating productivity while ensuring the security and reliability necessary in a modern business environment.

What we like
– Durable build quality (MIL-STD-810H)
– Up to 14 hours in optimal conditions
– IPS display with good color reproduction
– Good performance for office tasks
– Upgrade options available for RAM and storage
What we like less
– Limited graphics capabilities
– Average audio quality
– Full HD webcam quality lower than some competitors
– Higher price
– Keyboard layout with smaller arrow keys

To remember

Choosing the right laptop means first understanding your needs and your intended use: office work, gaming, graphic design, or professional mobility. Finding the ideal laptop starts with considering your daily needs. What do you want to do with it? Simple word processing, immersive video games, artistic creation, or taking it everywhere for work?

Once you’ve defined your usage, choosing a processor is a natural next step. Intel Core i5 and i7 (or the new Ultra range) and AMD Ryzen 5 and 7 offer excellent performance for most uses. For RAM, plan on at least 8GB for basic tasks, 16GB if you’re juggling multiple applications, and 32GB for intensive uses like video editing.

As for storage, an NVMe SSD between 512GB and 1TB will guarantee fast boot-ups and smooth file transfers. The screen deserves your full attention: choose an IPS or OLED panel in Full HD at least, with a refresh rate of at least 60Hz. Its size will depend on your priorities: a 14-inch for mobility, or a 17-inch for greater visual comfort.

If you’re on the go a lot, look for a battery life of 6 to 8 hours and a weight under 2 kg. Gaming enthusiasts or graphic designers should invest in a dedicated graphics card like the NVIDIA RTX 40 series or the AMD Radeon RX 7000M.
Don’t forget to check the connectivity (presence of USB-C and HDMI ports) and the comfort of use: keyboard quality and overall robustness. A good laptop is one that finds the right balance between power, portability, and durability, while adapting perfectly to your daily life.

Best Laptops 2024 for Gaming and Content Creation

#1 MSI Raider 18 HX A14VHG-059FR, a large screen and lots of performance

Best laptops 2024 - Rue Montgallet

The MSI Raider 18 HX A14VHG-059FR is a premium gaming laptop designed to deliver exceptional performance. Powered by a 13th Gen Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card, it can handle the most demanding games and intensive content creation applications. Additionally, its advanced cooling system ensures optimal performance even during extended gaming sessions.

Thanks to its raw power, it allows you to play recent titles in high definition. It can also offer high performance in heavy software such as those used for video editing or 3D modeling. The MSI Raider 18 is one of the best laptops 2024 for those looking for a computer capable of adapting to various tasks without compromising on performance, with superior display quality. For this, it has a huge 18-inch screen that will satisfy the most demanding users. In addition, its robust design and backlit keyboard also add an aesthetic and functional touch that will please design-conscious users.

What we like
– High-quality components for superior gaming performance
– 18-inch UHD Mini LED display with vivid colors
– Sturdy design with durable metal chassis
– Various ports for extensive connectivity
– Efficient cooling to maintain performance
What we like less
– Noisy fans affect the gaming experience
– Heavy laptop, less easy to carry
– 120Hz refresh rate, lower than competitors

#2 Lenovo Legion Pro 5 16IRX9 (83DF00HDFR), a good gaming and creation experience

Best laptops 2024 - Rue Montgallet

The Lenovo Legion Pro 5 16IRX9 (83DF00HDFR) is a gaming laptop designed to deliver cutting-edge performance to gamers and content creators. Powered by a 14th Gen Intel Core i9-14900HX processor, it delivers exceptional processing power, capable of handling the most demanding games and intensive creative tasks. Its NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card with 8GB of GDDR6 memory allows you to run games in high definition at high graphics settings.

The 16-inch display, with WQXGA (2560 x 1600) resolution, a 240Hz refresh rate, and G-Sync technology, delivers a smooth and immersive visual experience, ideal for fast-paced gaming. Plus, with 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD, this device guarantees fast loading times and optimal responsiveness. The Legion Pro 5 comes with an efficient cooling design, helping to maintain low temperatures even during extended gaming sessions. It offers a four-zone backlit keyboard and a sturdy chassis. This is a laptop that combines power and advanced features for a good gaming and creative experience.

What we like
– Performance with AMD Ryzen 7000 and NVIDIA RTX 40
– 16-inch WQXGA (2560 x 1600) display
– 165 Hz refresh rate
– Efficient cooling system
– Durable and lightweight chassis
– User-friendly keyboard with customizable RGB backlighting
What we like less
– Around 4-5 hours in general use
– Noisy fans under load
– Limited portability (2.5 kg)
– No Thunderbolt or USB4 support
Best Laptops 2024 for Gaming

#3 ASUS ROG STRIX G16 G614JV-N4213X, for serious gamers

best laptops 2024 Rue Montgallet

The ASUS ROG Strix G16 G614JV-N4213X is a gaming laptop powered by an Intel Core i9-13980HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 graphics card. It is therefore capable of delivering smooth and responsive gaming experiences, even in the most demanding titles. Its 16-inch QHD display with a 240Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time guarantee unprecedented visual precision, making every movement and detail visible.

This model is especially aimed at serious gamers looking for one of the best 2024 laptops capable of competing with the best configurations on the market. The Strix G16 uses advanced cooling technology with a Tri-Fan system and the use of Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal. The machine stays cool even during extended sessions. In addition, its sleek design with a 90% screen-to-body ratio enhances gaming immersion.

What we like
– Excellent gaming performance
– 16-inch 165Hz QHD+ display for crisp visuals
– User-friendly design with a spacious keyboard and responsive touchpad
– Expandable memory and storage for future upgrades
– Good build quality with a sturdy and aesthetic design
What we like less
– Heavy and bulky design (2.5 kg)
– Average battery life
– Hot and noisy under load
– Insufficient webcam quality

#4 ASUS TUF Gaming A15 TUF507NV-LP018W, a good balance between price and performance

Best laptops 2024 - Rue Montgallet

The ASUS TUF Gaming A15 TUF507NV-LP018W is a laptop powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card. It’s perfect for running the latest games in Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080) at a refresh rate of 144 Hz. This is the laptop to consider for gamers looking for good value for money without sacrificing performance. The machine can handle recent titles and multitasking.

Asus offers an excellent choice for those looking to invest in a powerful and reliable gaming laptop without breaking the bank. Unlike the more expensive models mentioned above, the TUF Gaming A15 combines performance and durability. It’s a balanced option that meets the needs of gamers while remaining affordable.

What we like
– Solid 1080p gaming performance
– Good battery life, between 4 and 9 hours
– Choice of 144Hz or 165Hz refresh rate
– Durable build quality
– Good value for money
What we like less
– Limited storage options
– 300 nits sometimes insufficient in direct sunlight
– Loud fan noise under load
– Average speaker quality

Best Laptops 2024 for Professional Content Creation

#5 MSI Prestige 16 AI Studio B1VFG-203FR, optimizing creative performance for professionals

Best laptops 2024 - Rue Montgallet

The MSI Prestige 16 AI Studio B1VFG-203FR is a laptop designed specifically for content creators and professionals looking for power and portability. Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7-155H processor, it offers a powerful architecture with 16 cores, allowing for smooth multitasking performance. The device is equipped with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card limited to a TGP of 55 W. This allows it to efficiently handle graphical tasks while offering an immersive visual experience on its QHD+ (2560 x 1600) display. The latter comes with an excellent color gamut (100% DCI-P3).

This model is one of the best laptops of 2024, especially for graphic design, video, and development professionals looking for a powerful yet lightweight machine. Unlike other gaming laptops, the Prestige 16 focuses on optimizing creative performance thanks to its MSI AI Engine technology. This automatically adjusts settings based on the user’s needs. The computer offers impressive battery life thanks to its 99 Wh battery and a 140 W fast charging system. It is an ideal device for users on the go who require consistent performance without compromise.

What we like
– Powerful performance
– UHD+ OLED display with vivid colors and excellent contrast
– AI features powered by Intel NPU, optimizing application performance
– Long battery life
– Solid build quality with magnesium alloy chassis
What we like less
– Refresh rate limited to 60 Hz
– Low TGP of the RTX 4060 GPU at 55W, limiting graphics performance
– No slot for a second SSD