Table of Contents
Today's top ultraportable laptops are super-light thin models that pack high-efficiency processors for snappy performance and all-day battery life, with cutting-edge materials helping to trim off the ounces. Not every model has all that, though. So, which ones make the right trade-offs? Our experts at PCMag have been testing and reviewing laptops for more than 40 years, as luggables shrank to today's sleek designs. We review more than 100 laptops annually, and our analysts use their expertise and PC Labs' rigorous benchmark testing to evaluate raw CPU and graphics speeds, display quality, battery life, connectivity, and overall value. Our top pick for the best ultraportable laptop for most people is the HP OmniBook 5 14, thanks to its brilliant OLED display, peppy CPU, and extreme battery life. For different budgets and needs, we've prepared more tested and vetted recommendations, along with in-depth buying advice and a handy spec comparison tool.
Our Top Tested Picks
HP OmniBook 5 14
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
HP's 14-inch OmniBook 5 AI PC laptop is a thin, lightweight, and affordable battery-life champ, lasting more than 34 hours on a charge.
Pros
- Field-leading battery life
- Aggressively priced, and speedy enough for the cost
- Vivid OLED display
- Ultra-thin, light design
Cons
- Plastic keyboard deck could use stiffening
- Ho-hum graphics performance
Apple MacBook Air 13-Inch (2026, M5)
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
Apple's 2026 MacBook Air is largely unchanged on the outside, but its exceptional build pairs up with an even faster M5 chip and a major storage upgrade to secure its spot as a top-value ultraportable.
Pros
- M5 CPU whizzes through productivity and graphics tasks
- Still a standout thin, all-metal design
- Boosted SSD speed and capacity justifies bump up in starting price
- Quiet, fanless performance
Cons
- Battery life down a bit versus M4 model, but still competitive
- No external design changes
- Display still lacks OLED option
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
Lenovo's ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition evolves the class-leading business laptop with an accessible, repairable internal redesign and even longer battery life.
Pros
- Best-in-class portable build
- Clever “Space Frame” design pushes user repairability forward
- Beautiful 2.8K OLED display option
- Longer battery life
- Potent connectivity and feature support
Cons
- Panther Lake brings minimal boost
- Small SSDs for their prices
Dell XPS 13
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
At $699, Dell's 2026 XPS 13 serves up flagship-grade metalcraft, a 120Hz touch display, and marathon battery life. Mind the 8GB of memory, but this is today's budget Windows ultraportable to beat.
Pros
- All-metal build is attractive for the price
- Capable performance for its price class
- 120Hz 1600p touch screen
- Comfortable, backlit keyboard
Cons
- 8GB RAM insufficient for some applications
- Only two USB-C ports, and no headphone jack
Apple MacBook Neo
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
Apple's MacBook Neo rewrites the budget laptop playbook, with a higher-end build, a more advanced screen, longer battery life, and faster speeds than many laptops in its price range.
Pros
- Excellent speeds for basic computing
- Impressive graphics performance
- Sharper, more colorful display than almost any budget laptop
- Premium, rigid aluminum build
- Surprisingly low price for the package
Cons
- Limited selection of physical ports
- One USB port is USB 2.0
- No keyboard backlighting
Dell XPS 14 (2026)
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
Dell’s revived XPS 14 ultraportable laptop dazzles with sublime build quality, a crisp and colorful OLED screen, and fiery productivity and graphics performance. XPS is back and ready to tussle with the top laptops of 2026.
Pros
- Vivid OLED screen
- Potent flagship Intel chip
- Class-leading battery life
- Premium metal build
- Standout 4K webcam and high-fidelity speakers
- Warranty includes a year of onsite coverage
Cons
- Pricey configurations
- All ports are Thunderbolt/USB Type-C
LG Gram Pro 2-in-1 16 (2025)
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
In the Gram Pro 2-in-1 16, LG combines a dazzling OLED display, long battery life, and a feathery metal build to produce an ultra-appealing, ultraportable 16-inch convertible.
Pros
- Super-slim magnesium chassis
- Vivid OLED screen
- Lengthy battery life
- Decent port selection
- Stylus included
Cons
- Pricey
- No dedicated GPU available
Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 (2025)
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
Asus’ update to the Chromebook Plus CX34 remains an excellent value, with a competitive processor and an approachable, comfortable design for the price.
Pros
- Impressive CPU performance
- Pleasant keyboard and touchpad
- Lots of connectivity
- Attractive, friendly design
Cons
- A bit of flex to the chassis
- Basic 1080p display easily outclassed for not much more
- Enough battery for a workday—no more
LG Gram 17 (2025)
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
LG's Gram 17 (2025) packs a massive, vibrant screen and advanced AI into a sturdy frame nearly light enough to qualify as an ultraportable laptop. (Just know that the CPU performance is squeezed a bit to achieve the rest.)
Pros
- Unbeatably lightweight, surprisingly durable
- Large, high-quality display
- Comfortable keyboard
- Copilot+ PC with additional AI from LG
Cons
- Peak performance limited by lightweight design
- Pricey
Framework Laptop 13 (2025)
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
The updated Framework Laptop 13 is the best yet, with a quick AMD Ryzen AI 300 processor, long battery life, and the company's signature modular component design for excellent future upgradability and sustainability.
Pros
- Light, compact build
- Customizable before and after ordering
- Repairable, upgradable, sustainable design
- Aggressively priced DIY Edition
- Support for AMD Ryzen AI 300 processors
- 14-hour battery life
Cons
- Price premium for prebuilt Windows system
- Some fine print for setup and compatibility
- Display is workable, but not a standout for the price
MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+
Bottom Line
- 5.0 - Exemplary: Near perfection, ground-breaking
- 4.5 - Outstanding: Best in class, acts as a benchmark for measuring competitors
- 4.0 - Excellent: A performance, feature, or value leader in its class, with few shortfalls
- 3.5 - Good: Does what the product should do, and does so better than many competitors
- 3.0 - Average: Does what the product should do, and sits in the middle of the pack
- 2.5 - Fair: We have some reservations, buy with caution
- 2.0 - Subpar: We do not recommend, buy with extreme caution
- 1.5 - Poor: Do not buy this product
- 1.0 - Dismal: Don't even think about buying this product
Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies.
MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+
Longest Battery Life: Laptops
Read More About MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+ Read More About How We TestAn absolute battery-life monster, MSI's Prestige 14 Flip AI+ is a top-notch 2-in-1 laptop with lots of ports, an included stylus, and a powerful, efficient Intel "Panther Lake" processor.
Pros
- Record-setting battery life in rundown testing
- Speedy overall performance for a compact 2-in-1
- Generous mix of ports for its size
- Nano Pen stylus with in-chassis storage
Cons
- Dim display (even for an OLED)
- Can run hot under heavy processor load
- So-so webcam quality
The Best Ultraportable Laptop Deals This Week*
- Dell XPS 13 Intel 5 512GB SSD 8GB RAM 13.4" Touch Laptop — $699 With Student Discount
- HP OmniBook X Flip Intel Ultra 7 512GB SSD 16GB RA... — $899 ($1,429) Save $530.00
- Lenovo Yoga 7i Intel Ultra 5 1TB SSD 16GB RAM 16"... — $849 ($1,349) Save $500.00
- Lenovo Yoga 7a Ryzen AI 7 1TB SSD 24GB RAM 16" OLE... — $1,349 ($1,999) Save $650.00
- Dell XPS 14 Intel Ultra X7 1TB SSD 32GB RAM 14" Laptop — $2,619 ($2,999) Save $380.00
- Get the Best Prices On Laptops — Download Our Free Price Comparison Tool $0
EDITORS' NOTE
August 18, 2026: With this update, we added the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition as our latest Best Ultraportable Business Laptop, replacing Lenovo's previous Gen 13 version. We also added the LG Gram Pro 2-in-1 16 as the Best Ultraportable 2-in-1 Laptop for Most Buyers, replacing the Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 10 Aura Edition. Finally, we added Dell's 2026 update of its XPS 13 as our new Best Budget Ultraportable Windows Laptop. Our remaining picks have been vetted for currency and availability. Since our last update, we reviewed and evaluated 15 new laptops for potential inclusion in this story and our other laptop guides. We're currently testing more than a dozen laptops in PC Labs, including models from Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
- Field-leading battery life
- Aggressively priced, and speedy enough for the cost
- Vivid OLED display
- Ultra-thin, light design
- Plastic keyboard deck could use stiffening
- Ho-hum graphics performance
We love the HP OmniBook 5 14 (Snapdragon) and recommend it for pretty much everyone. The laptop's standout feature is its field-leading battery life, which lasted more than 34 hours in testing, surpassing almost every conventional laptop tested in years. We also appreciated the laptop's high-end feel, speedy performance, exceptionally thin and light design, and vivid OLED display. The fact that it does all that for less than $900 is worthwhile enough, but it's also a capable Copilot+ PC, built to handle heavy AI workloads and features the latest suite of Microsoft and HP AI tools.
Casual home users: This laptop is perfect for you if you want a stylish, lightweight device for browsing and streaming without the bulk of desktop replacements. While older peripherals like dated printers can sometimes be a headache to connect, the ultra-thin chassis and gorgeous OLED screen turn every simple task into a high-definition, luxury experience.
Mobile contractors: HP's OmniBook works best for workflows focused on communication and documents rather than heavy creative software. Qualcomm optimized the laptop's Arm-based Snapdragon CPU architecture for the productivity apps and AI assistants you use to stay organized on the go.
College students: The 14-inch OmniBook 5 is the ideal companion for long days on campus, where finding a power outlet is a constant struggle. You can forget your charger at home, because the Snapdragon X-series processor provides industry-leading efficiency that keeps you powered through back-to-back lectures and late-night study sessions.
- M5 CPU whizzes through productivity and graphics tasks
- Still a standout thin, all-metal design
- Boosted SSD speed and capacity justifies bump up in starting price
- Quiet, fanless performance
- Battery life down a bit versus M4 model, but still competitive
- No external design changes
- Display still lacks OLED option
The M5 chip vaults the 13-inch MacBook Air to new levels of performance, making it the best ultraportable Mac laptop by a mile. The M5 chip brings more powerful processing and neural-accelerated graphics to provide noticeably fast speeds for modern workloads, all with a silent, fanless design. The base model's storage is larger—now starting at 512GB—and faster for smoother day-to-day performance. The best things about the Air haven't changed a bit, with a slim all-metal construction, a vivid display, and potent ports. Even with cheaper models joining the MacBook lineup, the Air is still Apple's top-value ultraportable.
Creative minimalists: The Apple MacBook Air 13-Inch (2026, M5) will meet your needs as a professional photo editor or content creator in a thin and light package. This ultraportable brings the M5 chip's fiery graphics performance to Apple's fanless aluminum chassis, powering high-quality renders without sacrificing portability.
Digital nomads: This MacBook is your ultimate travel companion for frequently working from cramped airplane trays or bustling coffee shops. You no longer have to worry about finding a seat near a power outlet or carrying bulky external drives, because the energy-efficient M5 chip and the newly doubled 512GB starting storage can handle your entire project library on the go.
Multitasking mainstream Mac users: If you prefer to spend your days juggling dozens of research tabs and high-resolution media without the distraction of a whirring cooling fan, then Apple built this laptop for you. The product utilizes a sophisticated fanless thermal design that allows you to breeze through intensive multitasking in total silence.
- Best-in-class portable build
- Clever “Space Frame” design pushes user repairability forward
- Beautiful 2.8K OLED display option
- Longer battery life
- Potent connectivity and feature support
- Panther Lake brings minimal boost
- Small SSDs for their prices
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition updates the best-of-the-best business ultraportable with an innovative repairable design, Intel Panther Lake Core Ultra Series 3 processor, and a high-quality 2.8K OLED display option. All of those improvements build atop the solid foundation of the X1 Carbon laptops that came before, with the same carbon-fiber-infused chassis, superb keyboard, and excellent battery life. This is the industry standard for ultraportable design and travel-friendly business machines.
Corporate leaders: Whether you're an executive or middle management, Lenovo built the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14 Aura Edition for business leaders of every stripe. It delivers extended, travel-ready battery life and efficient mobile productivity, whether you're on the go or staying put.
IT departments: Organizations with healthy budgets may find this to be the ideal choice for a general-purpose fleet laptop, since it not only brings speedy daily performance and adapter-free connectivity, but it also has Lenovo's proprietary Space Frame internal architecture. With streamlined component replacement and easier interior access, it's the most repairable X1 Carbon yet.
Traveling contractors: If you're a deep-pocketed freelancer or contractor who frequently commutes or travels, then the X1 Carbon is ideal, thanks to its featherlight weight and durable construction. Carrying this laptop everywhere, you'll appreciate its specific and special blend of portability and power every single day.
- All-metal build is attractive for the price
- Capable performance for its price class
- 120Hz 1600p touch screen
- Comfortable, backlit keyboard
- 8GB RAM insufficient for some applications
- Only two USB-C ports, and no headphone jack
Dell's answer to the MacBook Neo is a slam dunk, bringing much of the high-end XPS brand identity to a system that costs well less than $1,000. You will be hard-pressed to find a laptop with a high-resolution screen, a thin-and-light all-metal frame, and a high-quality keyboard elsewhere for this price. Considering its internals, however, you should not expect the performance that the XPS identity usually suggests, rather a system that's capable of the basics and little more—just like any other budget laptop. For elevating budget Windows laptops to something you can be proud to carry, we gave the revamped XPS 13 our Editors' Choice award. It's the new standard for affordable Windows laptops.
Discerning PC shoppers on a budget: When you're on a tighter budget but still don't want to put up with poor quality, shortlist the Dell XPS 13. This laptop brings just enough performance for basic work, such as writing and web browsing, in a package that feels pleasant to use for hundreds less than most models that look just like it.
High school and college students: Equipping the student(s) in your life with a laptop like the XPS 13 will set them up for success, thanks to its sharp touch screen and snappy keyboard/touchpad combo. This laptop is certainly adequate for most high school work, but for college students, it's a better fit for liberal arts and communications fields than for power-user STEM majors.
- Excellent speeds for basic computing
- Impressive graphics performance
- Sharper, more colorful display than almost any budget laptop
- Premium, rigid aluminum build
- Surprisingly low price for the package
- Limited selection of physical ports
- One USB port is USB 2.0
- No keyboard backlighting
Apple has worked a miracle with the MacBook Neo: It's a lightweight laptop providing a premium experience at a lower starting price. Weighing the same as a MacBook Air, it uses the same A18 Pro processor as an iPhone 16 Pro, delivering excellent speeds for basic computing and surprisingly potent graphics performance. More than that, the Neo comes in a rigid aluminum chassis (in four colors!) with a vibrant display and fantastic battery life.
First-time Mac owners: If you have always wanted to get into Apple's computers but found the MacBook Air's entry price just out of reach, then this one is just for you. While you may have to adapt to the lack of keyboard backlighting during late-night sessions, the rigid aluminum build and colorful design provide a luxury feel that makes your daily computing tasks feel like a premium experience.
Mobile minimalists: The MacBook Neo serves you well if you prioritize a light, compact footprint for working in coffee shops or while traveling. Despite its limited selection of physical ports, the laptop's modern Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 6 capabilities keep you connected and productive, and it lasts for a long time on a charge.
Budget-strapped shoppers: This is the perfect affordable MacBook if you need a reliable, punchy machine but just can't afford Apple's Air and Pro models. You can stop worrying about your laptop feeling sluggish during research marathons with the A18 Pro chip whizzing through multitasking and browser tabs efficiently.
- Vivid OLED screen
- Potent flagship Intel chip
- Class-leading battery life
- Premium metal build
- Standout 4K webcam and high-fidelity speakers
- Warranty includes a year of onsite coverage
- Pricey configurations
- All ports are Thunderbolt/USB Type-C
The Dell XPS 14 (2026) isn't just the return of a beloved laptop brand, it's also a return to form for Dell, with superb build quality, a potent flagship Intel Core Ultra X7 chip, and a premium OLED touch-screen option that easily outshines the competition. High-fidelity speakers and 4K webcam heighten the professional-grade look and feel, while impressive 21-hour battery life lets you use it all day long. Plus, Dell adds some peace of mind, with a year of onsite warranty coverage, providing a level of service rarely seen in the consumer ultraportable space.
The creative professional: The Dell XPS 14 (2026) is the ultimate canvas for you if your work demands pixel-perfect accuracy and high-speed rendering while on the move. You no longer have to endure the frustration of washed-out colors or stuttering timelines because the integrated Intel Arc B390 graphics and vivid OLED screen deliver professional-grade clarity and power in a portable frame.
The remote executive: This product is designed for you if your daily schedule consists of high-stakes video conferences where looking and sounding your best is non-negotiable. You can say goodbye to grainy, dark video feeds during important meetings because the standout 4K webcam and high-fidelity speakers ensure you maintain a commanding presence from any home office or airport lounge.
The power traveler: The Dell XPS 14 (2026) caters to you if you are constantly hunting for power outlets in crowded spaces to keep your workflow alive. This laptop eliminates the anxiety of a dying battery during a long-haul flight thanks to its class-leading efficiency and Intel Core Ultra X7 processor, which balances extreme speed with remarkable energy conservation.
- Super-slim magnesium chassis
- Vivid OLED screen
- Lengthy battery life
- Decent port selection
- Stylus included
- Pricey
- No dedicated GPU available
The LG Gram Pro 2-in-1 16 is our top pick for a 2-in-1 ultraportable, providing a combination of top-tier productivity performance, an ultra-slim magnesium chassis, and a spacious 16-inch OLED display that provides more usability-per-ounce than any convertible we've seen. Normally, that large screen would weigh you down, but instead, LG has managed to cut weight and deliver nearly 18 hours of battery life, delivering everything we want in a convertible, including killer speed and an included stylus. The only disappointment is the lack of a discrete GPU, but that didn't hold it back from earning both an Editors’ Choice award and a PCMag Readers' Choice award for laptops.
Mobile workers: The LG Gram Pro 2-in-1 16 puts extra emphasis on the "ultra" in ultraportable, thanks to a featherweight magnesium-alloy chassis that keeps this 16-incher right at the 3-pound mark. It'll last through the longest commute, thanks to its lengthy battery life, and the silent fan design keeps things quiet when you need to work in a group.
Mainstream professionals: If you need a capable, highly portable, big-screen convertible with a stylus, then LG built the Gram for you. Expect fast app loading and efficient multitasking, thanks to the high storage throughput and Core H-class processor. And the astoundingly light design eliminates the fatigue of hauling a heavy machine with a big screen.
Multimedia enthusiasts: If you need exceptional visual clarity and high contrast for photo editing, media creation, or just streaming, you'll love this vivid OLED screen. Factor in the Intel Core H-class processor and included stylus, paired with the panel's precision color and vibrancy, and it's great for watching and editing media alike.
- Impressive CPU performance
- Pleasant keyboard and touchpad
- Lots of connectivity
- Attractive, friendly design
- A bit of flex to the chassis
- Basic 1080p display easily outclassed for not much more
- Enough battery for a workday—no more
Asus' second-gen version of the Chromebook Plus CX34 delivers speedy performance and excellent features for a reasonable cost. Bargains like this have traditionally been limited to the least-capable ChromeOS laptops, but Google's Chromebook Plus initiative has prompted laptop makers like Asus to push the envelope on value, boosting processing power and enhancing the feature set with numerous ports—all without raising the price. Equipped with a 1080p display, an i5-class CPU, and a comfortable keyboard, the CX34 is our favorite Chromebook ultraportable at the moment, and an easy recommendation for anyone interested in ChromeOS laptops.
Budget-conscious home users: This is the leading ultraportable Chromebook if you're just a mainstream shopper. The Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 (2025) is an excellent pick for a bargain system that performs like a pricier device. The "Chromebook Plus" designation ensures the device has sufficient memory and processing power to handle standard workloads efficiently and has an up-to-snuff screen.
Writers and students: If you're a writer or a student, then this is an ideal ultraportable laptop for you. The CX34 features a comfortable keyboard and touchpad, making it a reliable workhorse for typing-intensive tasks and research. These use cases don't require luxury features like super-sharp screens, so it's a shoo-in for focused, low-intensity work.
- Unbeatably lightweight, surprisingly durable
- Large, high-quality display
- Comfortable keyboard
- Copilot+ PC with additional AI from LG
- Peak performance limited by lightweight design
- Pricey
When it comes to lightweight laptops, you simply can't ignore the 2025 LG Gram 17, one of the lightest laptops we've reviewed, despite its 17-inch display, which dwarfs most compact ultraportables. The large, vibrant display features a sharp QHD+ IPS screen with anti-glare technology and slim bezels, while the laptop's magnesium alloy construction is sturdy enough to hold up to the rigors of travel. Throw in a comfortable keyboard, decent performance, and 19-hour battery life, and it's the best big-screen ultraportable we've seen in a while.
Desktop-replacement shoppers: Do you need a desktop replacement for work or at home? This laptop is the go-to ultraportable for you. Weighing just 3.1 pounds, the LG Gram 17 (2025) is ideal for individuals who require a large, sharp, and bright-screen laptop with a numeric keypad for work that they can easily tote around.
Frequent travelers who still want a big screen: This laptop is an excellent fit if you travel a lot but hate giving up your large monitor at home. The Gram's durable frame and advanced security features make it a reliable, trustworthy large-screen companion for frequent travel.
- Light, compact build
- Customizable before and after ordering
- Repairable, upgradable, sustainable design
- Aggressively priced DIY Edition
- Support for AMD Ryzen AI 300 processors
- 14-hour battery life
- Price premium for prebuilt Windows system
- Some fine print for setup and compatibility
- Display is workable, but not a standout for the price
The Framework Laptop 13 (2025) is a unique option among ultraportables, giving shoppers a modular laptop design that lets you swap out parts, ports, and even the mainboard with relative ease and for much less than a complete system replacement. The most recent model is on par with the best premium ultraportables, but upgrading an old unit to the latest processor requires less investment than most complete midrange laptops. The newest model gains a powerful AMD Ryzen AI 300 processor while weighing less than 3 pounds. A Framework laptop costs a premium up front, but you'll start saving after the first upgrade, not to mention the second or third.
DIY enthusiasts: This is the ultimate ultraportable laptop if you love building and tinkering with your own hardware. The Framework Laptop 13 DIY Edition enables you to assemble the machine yourself, a well-guided and relatively straightforward process, even if you're new to computer building.
Eco-conscious shoppers: This laptop is tough to beat when it comes to sustainability and environmental protection by reducing e-waste. If you prioritize sustainability, then you'll appreciate the design philosophy focused on reducing waste through repairability.
Mainstream shoppers focused on long-term value: For achieving maximum long-term saving, this is the ultimate ultraportable laptop. With patience, you will save money over time with the ability to upgrade specific components rather than purchasing a new laptop every few years, and this one is a punchy performer.
Best Ultraportable for Long Battery Life
MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+
MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+
Longest Battery Life: Laptops
Read More About MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+ Read More About How We Test- Record-setting battery life in rundown testing
- Speedy overall performance for a compact 2-in-1
- Generous mix of ports for its size
- Nano Pen stylus with in-chassis storage
- Dim display (even for an OLED)
- Can run hot under heavy processor load
- So-so webcam quality
Ultraportables deliver portability on two fronts: Light weight and long battery life. The longest battery we've seen, on any laptop, is the incredible 42 hours reached by the MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+. That's not just impressive—it's worthy of our first laptop PCMag Lab Test Award.
Aside from the bonkers battery life, this 3-pound 2-in-1 convertible also delivers serious punch from a highly efficient Intel "Panther Lake" processor. MSI's versatile convertible design (complete with an integrated Nano Pen stylus with dedicated in-chassis storage) and a generous mix of ports sweeten the deal. It's a travel-friendly hybrid that can last through a trans-Atlantic flight and still keep going well into the weekend, all without touching a charger.
Remote workers: If you rarely get into the office, MSI built the Prestige 14 Flip AI+ for maximum unplugged productivity. The power-efficient processor enables extended all-day work away from a wall outlet, eliminating charger anxiety, whether you're moving to the next room or settling in at the neighborhood coffee shop.
Tech enthusiasts: For cutting-edge silicon architecture and compact design, this convertible provides efficient, capable performance and effective connectivity. It eliminates the performance throttling typically seen in slim 2-in-1s when they're stressed with heavy workloads.
Mobile presenters: If you frequently share content directly from your screen, this 2-in-1 is a smart pick, thanks to the flexible 360-degree hinge and included Nano Pen. The in-chassis storage slot eliminates the frustration of misplacing or losing the pen during travel, and you can leave the charger at home.
The Best Ultraportable Laptops for 2026 Compare Specs
While ultraportable laptops as a class may look sleek, several key differentiators set models apart. The first to consider is price. You'll notice a significant difference between a system that costs $400 and one that costs $1,300, even if they share the same brand name, looks, and features.
At the low end are entry-level systems, which generally cost $500 or less. For many casual users, this is the only price range worth looking at, but keep certain caveats in mind. The processing power, display resolution, and storage capacities are usually lower on inexpensive ultraportables, and the construction can be flimsy. The weight of these models also ranges up to 4 pounds, whereas we consider a true ultraportable to be under or at least close to 3 pounds.
Entry-level ultraportables make solid systems for younger family members to use for homework or watching movies at home, as they are both highly portable and relatively inexpensive. Value is a significant factor in this category, as many budget ultraportables can entice you with low prices. If you're not careful, you may be let down by a system that's a bargain only because its manufacturer cut too many corners.
However, the spec floor has risen in this category. As faster base parts become less expensive and more common, cheaper systems with decent build quality have become more capable. Your average $500 laptop is adequate for simple web browsing, word processing, and media viewing.
Midrange systems are better, but by definition, they also cost more, ranging from about $800 to $1,300. Materials and components that were once exclusive to high-end ultraportables are now the norm in midrange systems, including panels with full HD (1,920-by-1,080-pixel) or even QHD (2,560-by-1,440-pixel) screen resolutions, touch displays, and all-metal chassis. Battery life and storage have also improved, making it easier to get a better bang for your buck in this price range. You'll still have to compromise in one or two areas (such as storage capacity, port options, and resolution) compared with the high-end systems, but for most shoppers, this price range represents the best mix of price and performance.
At the top of the price ladder are premium ultraportables, which we categorize as anything costing $1,400 or more. With these high-end systems come premium materials, cutting-edge components and features, and top performance that will accelerate photo editing and other productivity tasks. Here, you'll also see 3K- or 4K-resolution displays, quality sound hardware (often from familiar brands like Bang & Olufsen), spacious and speedy storage, and other exciting features, all while the system's form factor remains slim and compact.
Due to specialized remote management and corporate features, many premium business laptops also fall into this class. This pricing tier yields the best overall user experience, the most features and port options, and the fastest internal hardware, but not every premium system is created equal. When you're spending this much money, do you want second best? If you have the budget and spend a lot of time on your laptop, it may very well pay to invest in quality.
Which Processor Should I Get in an Ultraportable?
For smooth performance and a decent user experience, you'll want to be choosy about your processor. Even in a less-expensive system, today's average Intel or AMD processor is more capable than ever of handling routine tasks, but if you need speed, select carefully. For the latest CPU products from Intel, you'll want one of its Core Ultra processors, also known as "Lunar Lake" (Core Ultra 200V Series) and "Panther Lake" (Core Ultra Series 3). In these families, the Core Ultra 7 and 9 deliver top performance. The newest Intel chips with "X7" or "X9" in the name support much better integrated graphics than Intel's earlier laptop chips.
Intel Processor Options in Ultraportables
Lunar Lake and Panther Lake utilize a tiled system-on-chip (SoC) design that combines modular chip components, such as the CPU, graphics, and I/O, to handle tasks like PCI Express connections. The most significant new addition to Lunar and Panther Lake is a neural processing unit (NPU), a core cluster that's tailor-made for AI processing tasks. If you're seeking one of Microsoft's Copilot+ PCs, and looking at ones based on an Intel processor, it'll come equipped with one of these two families of Intel CPU.
Microsoft's Copilot+ PC program essentially outlines the minimum specifications for laptops that can fully leverage the suite of Copilot AI features in Windows 11. A certain level of AI performance, measured in total operations per second (TOPS), is required: 40 TOPS. A minimum memory capacity of 16GB and at least a 256GB solid-state drive are also required.
The Copilot-compliant Lunar Lake chips are officially known as the Intel Core Ultra 200V series, introducing some of the market's best power and thermal efficiency. The "V" designates chips optimized for no-compromise performance while still delivering long battery life.
Core Ultra series processors are designed for thin-and-light laptops that need power while keeping wattage low enough for extended battery life. Designed for systems with limited thermal headroom, these processors are ideal for ultraportables that require performance without the added weight of bulky cooling systems. Also worth looking for: Intel Evo. A subset of Intel Core-based ultraportables, laptops with the Intel Evo badge meet strict Intel criteria for performance, fast charging, and connectivity. They also have longer battery life and excellent connectivity options.
Finally, among budget-priced ultraportables, look out for systems with Intel "Wildcat Lake" chips inside, with the first models, like the overhauled Dell XPS 13.
AMD Processor Options in Ultraportables
AMD has also made inroads with ultraportable laptops, with its AMD Ryzen U series filling the same role. Now in the 8000 generation, these Ryzen chips are also optimized for low power consumption and lower thermal design power (TDP), enabling longer-lasting batteries in thinner, lighter laptop designs. (Like Intel's Core Ultra line, AMD's Ryzen chips also come in H-series options for thicker, more powerful laptops.)
However, AMD's latest mobile chips available are the "Strix Point" Ryzen AI 300 processors, which are even higher-power ultraportable laptop chips with upgraded integrated graphics and even more raw AI performance. While intended as the flagship top-tier power chips, the first Ryzen AI 300 models still run on just 28 watts, the same as the 8000-series Ryzen U CPUs. Stay tuned for Ryzen AI 400 chips from AMD set to hit laptops this year.
Qualcomm Processor Options in Ultraportables
A third option for Windows laptops, Qualcomm's Snapdragon X- and X2-series chips, finally provides a viable alternative to the x86 architecture. Using an alternative architecture called Arm, Qualcomm's chips are found in thin-and-light systems from several major retailers, driving competitive performance and graphics capability.
These Arm processors support emulation in Windows 11 and run native versions of many key Windows apps, making them compatible with most expected software. (Snapdragon X Elite-based laptops were the first entrants in Microsoft's Copilot+ AI PC initiative.) Please note that Windows on Arm has some differences from how Windows runs on x86-based Intel and AMD processors, so be sure to read up on these if you're considering one.
Apple and Other Processor Options in Ultraportables
Finally, at the low end, are Intel's now-discontinued Celeron, Pentium, N-series, and Core i3 processors, which are being slowly replaced with a new line of entry-level "Intel Core" processors (without the "Ultra" in the name). Ranging from Core 3 to Core 7, these newer budget processors are inexpensive, energy-efficient updates of "Raptor Lake" chip designs. Some power users, a key audience for ultraportables, may be frustrated by slower performance, so you won't see many of these in the category.
None of this applies to Apple laptops. A few years back, Apple shifted away from Intel silicon, moving in stages to its own processor designs for the entire MacBook line. The latest MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models use M5 processors, the fifth generation of Apple's homegrown CPUs. Given recent MacBooks' tested performance, we've been impressed with every successive processor in the Apple Silicon lineup, making these MacBooks a safe bet for shoppers who can afford them and are cool with macOS. As a more affordable option, the Apple MacBook Neo leverages an A18 Pro phone chip to power laptop-grade processing at an aggressively low price.
Note that Apple uses its own-design processors in all of its current-model laptops. That reduces complexity when choosing among Apple models. Still, if you're a Windows user, you must decide whether Apple Silicon's impressive speed (particularly with specially written native software) is worth switching to macOS.
One related spec to keep an eye on: memory. As RAM becomes a hot commodity for AI data centers, we're seeing memory shortages and rising prices, and that's reflected in laptop prices and the memory options sold in ultraportable systems. Read our guide to how much RAM you need for each use case to ensure you don't overspend this year.
Which Graphics Processor (GPU) Should I Get in an Ultraportable?
The graphics processor, aka the GPU, is also essential. Most ultraportable systems rely on integrated graphics, whose graphics processing hardware is integrated alongside the CPU cores on the same silicon die. (In contrast, mobile workstations and gaming laptops use a dedicated GPU, a separate chip devoted to rendering graphics with higher frame rates and more detailed textures.) The integrated graphics capability is suitable for productivity and casual media work, but it does not perform well in demanding PC games or significantly aid with power-intensive photo and video editing.
Since 2022, Intel has equipped most of its CPUs with Intel Iris Xe graphics, first introduced in 2020 on its higher-end chips, and has since made Iris the baseline integrated GPU for its Core chips.
However, Intel's latest Core Ultra processors upgraded their integrated graphics to Intel Arc Graphics, a scaled-down version of Intel's dedicated Arc GPUs. The performance edges closer to what you'd get from a low-end dedicated GPU a few years ago, especially with the latest Core Ultra X7 and X9 chips that feature the Intel Arc B390 GPU onboard.
Additionally, Apple has pushed its integrated graphics to new heights of performance with the latest M5 processors. Top-end Mac laptops no longer use discrete third-party GPUs; all have multi-core GPU hardware on the same chip die as the CPU, sharing the main system memory. These combined CPU/GPU hybrids blur the line between integrated and discrete graphics, but the distinction is still evident in the price tag, especially in current high-end MacBooks. At the entry level, though, the base M5 chip's performance is similar to Intel's current Arc integrated graphics.
If you want to do more with media and play games at higher settings and frame rates, you'll need a discrete graphics chip, like the mobile versions of Nvidia's GeForce RTX graphics cards. These GPUs require more power and cooling, and as such, are generally only found in gaming laptops or bulkier desktop-replacement notebooks. Typically, you'll find them in only a few ultraportables. The most travel-friendly systems are not suited to gaming, so don't expect the integrated graphics to suffice for much more than a few less-demanding games on lower detail settings.
How Much Storage Should I Get in an Ultraportable?
Speedy hardware is all well and good, but you also need a place to store all your digital content. This means that all ultraportables now come with a solid-state drive (SSD). These compact, flash-based storage devices are weight savers and immune to data loss from shock or bumps because they have no moving parts, which is ideal for systems that travel a lot.
Nowadays, almost all SSDs in laptops (when they're not soldered down) use a stick-of-gum form factor called M.2, which is much smaller than your traditional 2.5-inch SATA SSD. Smaller connectors enable smaller designs, making them a perfect fit for ultraportable devices. Now, most such M.2-connected drives use a PCI Express (PCIe) bus connection for faster data transfer, improving overall performance. Skinny ultraportable designs, though, may just solder the storage directly to the motherboard for even greater space efficiencies. (You can't upgrade those SSDs. What you buy is what you're stuck with.)
SSD storage with 512GB or 1TB of capacity is mostly the standard now on midrange and high-end ultraportables. It's helpful to have a bit more than 256GB, but boosting SSD capacity still tends to be pricey, and the cost can increase significantly if you opt for a larger 1TB option, especially if the manufacturer sells it. A 512GB drive is a happy medium for most, while a 256GB drive will suffice for many users, especially if you won't store large media projects on this type of computer.
What Is the Best Kind of Display in an Ultraportable?
Let's go from what's inside a typical ultraportable to the most visible aspect of the exterior: the screen. Ultraportables' displays come in an increasingly varied array of resolutions, from now-humdrum 720p (1,366 by 768 pixels) in the very cheapest budget models, to full HD (1,920 by 1,080 pixels) as the mainstream norm, to Ultra HD or 4K (3,840 by 2,160 pixels), with a few nonstandard resolutions peppered between full HD and UHD.
Lower-resolution screens are most frequently found in entry-level systems simply because they're the least expensive option. They work well enough for reading and typing text, and YouTube often defaults to something lower than full HD, anyway, so less discerning users can get by just fine. However, a 1,366-by-768-pixel screen is best avoided in any new laptop with a screen size of 13 inches or larger.
Full HD (often referred to as 1080p or 1200p) screens are what you can expect on many budget systems, all midrange models, and some premium ultraportables. The 1080p display is now standard enough that even most budget options include it, a far cry from just a few years ago, when a much grainier 1,366-by-768 resolution was the norm for budget laptops. These displays are better suited to multitasking, as they can fit more readable text and two side-by-side windows on a 13- or 14-inch 1080p screen. This sharp, true full-HD resolution is ideal for most daily use and video playback.
Ultra HD is currently the resolution of choice for the highest-end ultraportables and models designed for content-creation professionals. As 4K screens have four times the resolution of a full HD display, you can fit a lot onto them. However, the sheer number of pixels requires more power, and 4K systems usually see a significant drop in battery life compared with similar full HD systems. You also have the question of content. Although 4K TVs and displays are becoming increasingly common, 4K content streaming is far from universal (this is slowly improving on some streaming services), and gaming at 4K is well beyond what any ultraportable can support. Currently, these displays are best suited for uses such as photo and video editing. Regardless, they do look stunning.
Many premium laptops now use QHD or QHD+ screens, which are resolutions that fall between 1080p and 4K. They represent a helpful middle ground between expensive, power-draining 4K resolutions and sharp, better-than-full-HD picture quality, so you should be happy to see QHD or QHD+ on a laptop you're considering buying. In addition, an increasing number of laptop makers have shifted their ultraportable models to screens with squarer aspect ratios, such as 16:10 or 3:2, away from the much more common 16:9. This trend began a couple of years ago and is continuing. Additionally, brilliant OLED displays are available across several of our favorite laptop lines.
The other feature to watch for is support for touch input. While touch-capable displays were uncommon just a few years ago, they're now much more prevalent in ultraportables, even in the entry-level and business laptop categories. Touch technology is particularly useful on a bus or train, where you may not have enough elbow room to use a mouse or touchpad, making it a smart match for ultraportables. Even if you don't regularly use touch in your day-to-day computing and don't plan to incorporate it, it may be worth having anyway, so you don't regret not getting it later.
Should Your Next Ultraportable Be a 2-in-1?
Some ultraportables are designed as convertible hybrids or 2-in-1s. Most 2-in-1s rotate 360 degrees around the screen hinge; a few have a separate keyboard base that detaches from the screen. In the former case, these mash-up machines let you enjoy both laptop and tablet functionality, thanks to hinges and swiveling joints that enable you to bend the display back around to use it without a keyboard.
Rotating-hinge convertible devices are laptops first, but they aren't limited to traditional clamshell designs. Because they feature specialized hinges and touch screens, you can also prop them up like a tent or flip the keyboard face down so the screen is better positioned for watching a movie or giving a presentation. While convertibles are a category in their own right, the ability to shape-shift naturally lends itself to making a decent travel laptop. You'll notice that some of our highest-rated ultraportable laptops are also convertibles. (See our guide to the best 2-in-1 convertible laptops and detachables.)
Should You Consider a Lightweight Chromebook?
Depending on what you do with your computer, you might find a Chromebook to be one of the best values in ultraportables. A Chromebook is a bare-bones laptop that runs Google's ChromeOS. It limits you to using web apps and Android apps.
Running ChromeOS means that you won't have access to traditional Windows software, so if that's central to how you work and play, a Chromebook may not be the best choice for you. However, if you use a web-based email client such as Gmail or Outlook for communications, rely on Google Drive for doing your work, and spend most of your time watching videos on YouTube or playing web games—and you don't expect your needs to change—chances are you'll get along just fine with a Chromebook. Considering that computers of this type can be extraordinarily affordable (most cost $500 or less), you could outfit your family with several Chromebooks for the cost of one high-end Windows ultraportable.
Ready to Buy the Right Ultraportable for You?
With ultraportables that are now thinner, lighter, and more powerful than ever, you'll find something in this vibrant class of laptops to suit your usage habits and travel needs. Check out our component-by-component spec breakout of the top ultraportables we've tested for more details. We continually refresh the list to include the latest products, but due to the wealth of laptops we review each year (100-plus!), not every top-rated product makes the cut. Rest assured, though: These are all winners in their own ways.
