The best MacBooks to buy in 2025: The M5 is our new battery life champ
When it comes to choosing the right MacBook, Apple’s latest offerings present a range of options catering to different needs and budgets. The newly released 14-inch MacBook Pro, powered by the M5 chip, stands out with impressive features including a stunning 120Hz display, enhanced multitasking capabilities, and an array of ports that make it ideal for professionals and creatives. Notably, it boasts an extraordinary battery life, clocking in at 21 hours and 17 minutes, which is the longest of any MacBook tested to date. This model is perfect for those who can stretch their budget and require high-performance computing for demanding tasks.
However, for the average user, particularly students or those seeking a more portable and economical option, the 15-inch M4 MacBook Air is highly recommended. This model strikes an excellent balance between performance and price, often available for under $1,000 at major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy. The M4 Air delivers Pro-level power in a lightweight design, making it an exceptional choice for everyday tasks without the hefty price tag associated with the Pro models. Additionally, the 13-inch version of the MacBook Air offers even greater portability, making it a solid option for students who need something easy to carry around campus.
As we look ahead to 2025, potential buyers will find a variety of MacBooks tailored to different needs, from budget-conscious students to professionals seeking top-tier performance. The new 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro is undoubtedly a powerhouse for those who can afford it, while the M4 MacBook Air remains a fantastic choice for most users, providing a blend of efficiency, portability, and affordability. Whether you’re a creative professional, a student, or simply someone in need of a reliable laptop, there’s a MacBook that fits your requirements perfectly.
Which MacBook should you buy?
Apple just released a new
14-inch MacBook Pro
, its first laptop with the
M5 chip
. Still, I think the
15-inch M4 MacBook Air
is the best choice for most people. (Its
13-inch counterpart
is also a good option for students since it’s cheaper and a little more portable.) The M4 Air offers quiet, Pro-level power with a more portable design and a more reasonable price point. Better yet, it’s frequently on sale for under $1,000 at
Amazon
and
Best Buy
.
SEE ALSO:
Apple is finally working on a touchscreen MacBook Pro
The new
14-inch M5 MacBook Pro
is the superior pick if you want a nicer 120Hz display, cooler multitasking performance, a better variety of ports, and the best battery life — and you’ve got some wiggle room in your budget. Its
predecessor
is also worth considering when it’s on sale.
Below, I’ve detailed all of my recommendations for the best MacBooks to buy in 2025, including more options for students, bargain hunters, and creative professionals who can splurge.
What’s new
In mid-November 2025, we added the 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro’s results from our battery life test. It lasted 21 hours and 17 minutes before dying, making it the longest-lasting MacBook we’ve ever tried.
