The best laptops of 2025: Compare the M4 MacBook Air, Microsoft Surface Laptop 7, and more
As of November 2025, the 15-inch Apple MacBook Air (M4) has emerged as the top choice for most users seeking a MacBook. This model combines sleek design with robust performance, making it an ideal option for both casual users and professionals alike. One of its standout features is the ability to support two external displays while maintaining an open lid, enhancing productivity for those who multitask. Additionally, the MacBook Air is equipped with a high-quality 12MP Center Stage camera, perfect for video calls and virtual meetings. Priced at a competitive starting point of $1,199, it is $100 less than its predecessor, the M3, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers who do not want to compromise on quality or performance.
On the other side of the operating system spectrum, the 13.8-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 has been recognized as the best Windows laptop currently available. This sophisticated device is powered by Microsoft’s Copilot+ technology, providing users with a seamless and responsive computing experience. One of the laptop’s most impressive features is its battery life, which can last nearly 23 hours on a single charge, making it a fantastic choice for those who need a reliable machine for extended use throughout the day. While Microsoft offers an Intel version of the Surface Laptop 7, catering to users concerned about app compatibility with Windows on ARM, it is important to note that this model is more business-oriented and comes with a higher price tag. Overall, both the MacBook Air (M4) and the Surface Laptop 7 exemplify the best of their respective platforms, catering to different user needs and preferences while maintaining high standards of performance and usability.
As of November 2025, I think the
15-inch Apple MacBook Air (M4)
is the
best MacBook
for most people. It’s a sleek-as-ever notebook featuring impressive performance, open-lid support for two external displays, a great 12MP Center Stage camera, and an extremely reasonable starting price of $1,199 (making it $100 cheaper than its
M3 predecessor
).
The
best Windows laptop
we’ve tested is the
13.8-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop 7
, a sophisticated and snappy
Copilot+ PC
boasting a stellar battery life of nearly 23 hours. Note that Microsoft makes an
Intel version
that may appeal to users wary of Windows on ARM for app compatibility reasons, but it’s a business-oriented model with a significant markup.
