We've put loads of different instant cameras so that we can find the best around, thoroughly checking all their features and how well they take those snaps. If you're looking for a new camera, we know all the best options.

The best right now is the Fujifilm Instax mini Evo. It's a slightly more expensive option, but its image quality is the very best we've ever seen, and its compact form factor fits into a bag with no issues at all. A bit too rich for your blood? No problem, there are cameras here to suit every budget. Here are the best instant cameras of 2026.

Why you can trust Tom's Guide

While they may not be professional devices, we still put the best instant cameras through their paces to find out which one you should buy. That's thanks to our dedicated camera testing team, who love taking photos with cameras big and small. Most of the reviews you'll find here are taken by keen photographer Nikita Achanta, who, before writing for Tom's Guide, was a sub-editor and writer for Canon EMEA. Then there's Reviews Senior Editor Peter Wolinski, who takes professional shots alongside running Tom's Guide's reviews team.

Here are the tests the reviews team put the best instant cameras through before they land on the list proper.

• We take them out and shoot some pictures. What better way is there to see how well a camera works than to take some pictures and compare them to its closest competitor? Not many, that's for sure.
• We try different lighting. Just because a camera works well in daylight doesn't mean it's going to work well when things get darker. We make sure to take photos in a bunch of different conditions to get a better idea of performance in different lighting scenes.
• Making sure it's easy to use. A point-and-shoot camera can't get you bogged down in image settings and other options. You should be able to point it at a thing, press the shutter, and get an image spat out with a whir. Anything more would be too complicated.
• Is there an app and is it good. We install any companion apps and test them — they're something that can get in the way of taking snaps as much as they can help, so we want to make sure that they work well.

The best instant cameras you can buy today

The Fujifilm Instax mini Evo is the best instant camera overall, merging the experience of a dedicated digital camera of the 2000s, the fun of 70s and 80s instamatics, and the design aesthetics of 50s and 60s SLRs.

The Instax mini Evo offers extensive creative control. It has a dedicated dial to choose from 10 filters and a lens dial to choose from 10 lens effects, such as fisheye, double exposure and color shift. Combined, you get 100 combinations at your fingertips for any situation and photography style. The photos this camera produces are lovely. In our testing, the camera performed exceptionally well in both bright and low-light conditions. We also enjoyed the ease of use and portability. The camera weighs just over 10 ounces so it’s comfortable to carry it around your neck.

Compared to similarly priced cameras, such as the Kodak Mini Shot 2 Retro, the Instax mini Evo provides way more creative control. The print quality is also a lot better. Additionally, the camera stores 45 photos so you can go back and print the ones you like. It also comes with a microSD card slot for more storage. You can also transfer images from the camera to your smartphone, but this applies only to the ones that have been printed.

If you're on a budget, this isn't going to be the right camera for you, and we'd recommend the Polaroid Go Gen 2, which you can read about just below. If you can stretch your budget though, the mini Evo offers way more than the Polaroid, thanks to its huge array of creative controls and excellent low light performance.

Overall, the Instax mini Evo is a stellar camera and while it will set you back $199, we feel like it’s well worth the money.

• Read our full Fujifilm Instax mini Evo review

The best budget instant camera

If you're on a budget, there are plenty of options for you, but the Polaroid Go Gen 2 is the best of the bunch. As Polaroid claims, this is the world’s smallest instant camera, and it really is “take anywhere-able” as you can slip it into your pocket and go about your day.

With a maximum aperture of f/9, a top shutter speed of 1/300 second and a built-in flash, it delivers superb and detailed retro prints, especially in bright conditions. With the addition of a double exposure mode which was missing from the original Go, you can get really creative with your shots.

There’s also a selfie mirror and self-timer, and both are fun to use. User-friendly with only 3 buttons, this little beauty can be used by anyone, even someone who isn’t well-versed with the semantics of photography. The Go Gen 2 also boasts great battery life as a single charge will last you between 15 and 18 shots.

The camera, however, doesn’t perform as well in low-light conditions and might have you considering other options like the Instax mini Evo above, if that’s a dealbreaker. Similarly, there is no dedicated macro mode so shooting a flower, for example, up close takes a bit of trial and error. Film is also relatively expensive — a single print will cost you approximately $1.12.

That being said, the Go Gen 2 is the cutest camera I’ve shot with and is super user friendly (although not quite as user-friendly as the Instax mini 12, our top pick for beginners). It looks and feels premium, and it’s easy to carry, making it the ideal travel companion.

• Read our full Polaroid Go Gen 2 review

The best instant camera for beginners

Looking for one of the best instant cameras but don’t want to get bogged down with the technical side of photography? The Fujifilm Instax mini 12 might be the one for you. It’s for beginners venturing into the world of instant photography for the first time, thanks to the ease of use.

The camera furnishes just a single adjustment: turning the lens barrel one click sets it to shoot at a normal distance, and turning another click sets it for close-ups and selfies. And the resulting images are bright, detailed, and the colors are faithfully reproduced. Photos develop in just under 90 seconds, and cost 75 cents apiece. The compact and lightweight body also make it very easy to travel with the Instax mini 12. A dedicated smartphone app allows you to quickly scan and share your prints on social media too.

In our testing, most shots turned out the way we envisioned, and we loved how easy it was to use the camera, as there’s only the shutter button you need to familiarize yourself with.

However, the Instax mini 12 doesn’t feature a self-timer or double exposures — features present in the similarly priced Polaroid Go Gen 2. Also, photos taken in very bright light may be over exposed. The Kodak Mini Shot 2 Retro doesn’t have this issue, so if you value correct exposures over anything, consider other options than the Instax mini 12.

Overall, the Instax mini 12 is excellent for beginners and travelers who want to capture memories in mini prints.

• Read our full Fujifilm Instax mini 12 review

The best instant camera for video

The Fujifilm Instax mini Evo Cinema is the latest addition to Fuji’s lineup of hybrid instant cameras, and at the time of writing, it’s the only instant camera that can shoot video — and it does a great job. Its design is inspired by Super 8 cameras from years past, and it’s the perfect blend of modernity and nostalgic aesthetics.

A delight to handle thanks to its compact design and an additional, attachable grip, the Instax mini Evo Cinema sports a well-laid out control scheme that’s easy to get to grips with. One of its biggest selling points is the Gen Dial that lets you choose one of 10 decade-specific effects, such as grainy footage from the 1930s and YouTube-esque framing from the 2010s. This, combined with the Degree Control dial that lets you adjust the contrast and grain, gives you access to 100 effect combinations for any and every situation.

The Instax mini Evo Cinema borrows its imaging tech from the Instax mini Evo and the Instax Wide Evo, enabling you to shoot 5MP images featuring bright and vivid colors. Alongside being able to shoot stills and print directly from your smartphone, the Instax mini Evo Cinema can record 600 x 800 or 1080 x 1440 video and add it to your print as a QR code. This QR code can then be scanned, and the video can be viewed by anyone, anywhere in the world. It’s like a cross between the Instax mini Evo and the Instax mini LiPlay+, as it can record clear audio too.

Its user-friendly companion app lets you edit videos, add opening and closing titles, and a digital copy is saved to internal storage or a microSD card, in case you want to share your creations on social media. It offers fantastic value for money, and it’s the best instant camera for video out there.

• Find out more in our Fujifilm Instax mini Evo Cinema review

The best instant camera for weddings

The Fujifilm Instax mini 41 is the best instant camera for weddings. It’s like the Instax mini 12 but for grown-ups, thanks to its sleek, dark, premium body. It’s extremely easy to use with just a couple of buttons on its body, so even those who aren’t familiar with the semantics of photography can take photos with it. It can be passed around your wedding to document everything without any worry at all. And for selfies with the bride and groom, there’s a selfie mirror on the front as well as a close-up mode for detailed shots.

The Instax mini 41 takes lovely photos regardless of the lighting conditions — so whether it’s an indoor or outdoor wedding, or it’s taking place at night, this camera will capture great photos. Prints are quick to develop, and color reproduction is accurate. If you want to share your wedding snaps on social media, the Instax Up! app lets you quickly scan them on any smartphone.

One of the Instax mini 41’s drawbacks is that its flash is always on — which isn’t the case with the Instax mini 12. But this also means that the camera takes good photos in dimly lit environments, like wedding dance floors!

The cherry on top of an already delicious cake? It's long battery life. Utilizing two AA batteries, the Instax mini 41 can take a total of 100 shots before the batteries need replacing. No need to worry about putting the camera on charge between film pack changes.

Overall, the Instax mini 41’s premium build and design, ability to take stunning photos, long battery life and great low-light performance make it the best instant camera for weddings.

• Find out more in our full Instax mini 41 review

What to look for when buying an instant camera

Instant cameras are not exactly instant. You have to wait at least 90 seconds for the picture to "fill in" to view the finished result, but we often found it took several minutes for the completed image to fully bake, revealing richer color and sharper focus.

Zink vs. Fujifilm Instax

Some instant cameras use the Fujifilm Instax film cartridges, which come in several sizes and varieties. This is the photo paper that Polaroid cameras have traditionally used: the paper is exposed to light, and the chemicals react to produce an image.

Other instant cameras use Zink paper, which uses heat to activate colors in the paper. The advantage to Zink is that you don’t have to worry about accidentally exposing the paper to light, as you do with Instax film. However, we’ve found that Zink prints tended to be less vibrant overall.

Does it print everything you shoot?

With traditional instant cameras, every photo you took was printed out. That's still the case for a good number of modern instant cameras, but given the cost of film, that approach can be very pricey — 50 cents and higher per shot, in some cases. However, some instant cameras now let you preview each shot so you can decide if you want to print it out or not. It could save you money in the long run.

Digital storage

While not universal, some of the new instant cameras have a microSD card slot, and save a digital copy of every photo you take. Not only does this make it easier to make a second print, but you can also share that photo on social media a lot more easily.

Smartphone app

Still other instant cameras can connect via Bluetooth to a smartphone app. This opens up a few more features, such as the ability to use the camera to print photos taken with your smartphone, add filters, stickers, and more.

FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about instant cameras.

How we test instant cameras

We test instant cameras in the same way we test full mirrorless cameras: that is to say, we put them through their paces. Obviously, we look at how much the camera costs, but we also consider how much money you're going to spend in the long term, too, with things like film cost, ink cartridge prices and battery expenditure.

Then we test the cameras in a range of scenarios to give a complete evaluation of their pros and cons. We'll always test out our instant cameras shooting in the types of places and scenarios you would: indoor selfies with friends, group shots, outdoors in the street and, of course, with any cute pets we come across along the way!

We always make sure to shoot with the cameras in daylight as well as low light to work out how well the cameras perform in challenging conditions. We test out all of their features and components to see how much control they will give you over exposure and how much creativity they'll offer with things like filters.

This naturally allows us to test out the camera's focusing and any other neat features, like screens, audio recording or digital storage. After all this, we'll have a great feel (literally) of what the camera feels like in use, how comfortable it is to hold, and how well its built.

If there's an app, we'll use it to edit our photos, as well as print smartphone images if we can. Of course, we print out all our instant photos and evaluate the quality of the prints, the aesthetic of the camera filters and film, plus the colors, sharpness and definition. While doing this, we also get a good idea of how long the camera spends printing.

What does all this mean? That you can rest assured we've put the instant cameras in this list through rigorous testing, and the best picks come highly recommended.

At Tom's Guide, we have nearly 20 years of experience testing, benchmarking and, of course, playing games on a wide range of rigs to help you find the best gaming laptop for you.

Our top recommendation right now is the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14, as this lightweight 14-inch gaming laptop delivers great performance and visuals with its gorgeous OLED display. For pure performance power, the mighty Razer Blade 16 (2026) is worth considering. If it's a value-worthy purchase that still delivers excellent gaming performance, the MSI Katana 15 HX is worth grabbing.

As the RAM crisis continues, gaming laptops have become a lot more expensive than they once were. As with the best graphics cards, even the latest laptops with great but entry-level specs can set you back well over $1,000 / £1,000, so value is more important than ever. While also showcasing the best gaming laptops we've tested with top-end performance, we've kept the cost in mind to help you find a gaming machine that's worth every penny.

With Nvidia launching DLSS 5, along with Nvidia's RTX Spark N1X and Intel's XeSS 3 turning laptops of all kinds into capable gaming machines, there's a lot of exciting movement in the gaming laptop space. We'll be keeping you updated on the latest, and for now, this guide will help you find the best gaming laptops for all types of gamers.

Why you can trust Tom's Guide

We love a gaming laptop here at Tom's Guide — and one of our favorite things to do with them is giving them a good stress test. We've been doing it for 20 years now, and our current testing team is our most experienced yet. You'll find Tony Polanco heading up testing here; he's our Senior Computing writer who's been testing laptops for a whole load of time. Then there's Jason England, our Computing managing editor, who's been lucky enough to wield some of the world's finest gaming laptops. Finally, there's our dedicated reviews team, who love nothing more than putting a gaming laptop to task.

Here are the kind of tests our reviewing team do to check out the best gaming laptops.

• We use them as our primary devices. These are computers first and foremost, and that means they need to be good at stuff beyond games. To find out how good they are we use them day by day to replace our regular machines.
• We play games. because, lets face it, that's what you're here for. We play the latest games to see how they handle the most graphically intensive titles, but also the classic games that you know and love.
• We lab-test them. Look, numbers and benchmarks are more than just good ways of finding out how well a laptop performs — they're fun. And a great visual way of comparing performance across different devices.
• We check out those screens. We do loads of tests on the screen to see how color accurate, bright and sharp they are. After all, if you're buying online, you want to make sure they're good before you drop those dollars.
• We test the battery. Gaming laptops are never going to be the longest lasting machines, but we want to make sure that they're last at least a decent amount of time. We see how long it takes to drain the battery doing different activities, from gaming to heavy workloads.

The best gaming laptops you can buy today

The best gaming laptop overall

The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 continues to be our favorite gaming laptop we recommend to most gamers, as it's a powerful ultraportable machine with a stunning OLED display that can play the latest AAA PC games at high settings while being light enough to carry around anywhere. Our only real complaint is to watch out for its short battery life.

Under the hood, the Zephyrus G14 delivers top-tier specs for playing games and handling demanding workloads, from video editing to AI tasks. But really, when you're able to play Cyberpunk 2077 with Ultra settings at over 130 fps (with help from Nvidia's DLSS), gamers will see the benefits of playing on this machine.

The visual experience is just as impressive. The 14-inch 2880 x 1800 OLED panel offers a 120Hz refresh rate, which translates to crisp visuals and vibrant colors during both work and play. Games and movies truly pop on this display, and the combination of high resolution and OLED contrast brings out detail you just don’t see on most laptops in this class.

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080) Gaming Tests

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The CNC-machined aluminum body feels rigid and lightweight, and Asus has clearly invested in thermal management. Upgraded heat pipes and larger fans kept the keyboard and palm rests cool, even during extended gaming sessions. In our experience, we never experienced thermal throttling, even after hours of stress testing.

Battery life remains the one real compromise. We averaged 5-6 hours in typical use, enough for a cross-country flight but not a full workday away from an outlet. Otherwise, the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 remains the best gaming laptop for most.

We've tested the latest Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 2026, and while it's still a powerful, premium gaming laptop, it's more expensive than its predecessor and you're still getting the same GPU options. It's a powerhouse with the upgraded Intel Panther Lake chip, and the redesigned ventilation means zero throttling, but we found the fans to still be quite noisy. Since the latest model starts at just over $3,000, we still recommend getting the 2025 model for value.

• Read our full Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2025) review

The best gaming laptop for value

At a time when gaming laptops are getting pricier, the MSI Katana 15 HX stands out for its competitive starting price and unexpectedly strong gaming performance, delivering more value than most gaming laptops at this tier. It shows that even with the base configuration we tested, including an Intel Core i7 14650HX CPU and RTX 5050, you can get an impressive gaming machine for less right now.

Digging into the numbers, the Katana delivered a strong showing in our gaming benchmarks. We measured an average of 159 fps in Counter-Strike 2 at 1440p with settings cranked up, matching the display’s fast 165Hz 15-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) panel. What impressed us was the vibrant colors this display boasts, giving games and media a vividness that made everything on show a treat for the eyes.

MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050) Gaming Tests

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What's more, the Katana’s performance kept pace with our expectations for a modern gaming laptop in this range. We never noticed any lag or sluggishness during a week of real-world use, whether gaming or multitasking. The trade-off comes in sound: under heavy loads, the fans get noticeably loud, but not once did we notice the Katana 15 HX get too hot.

If you’re looking for an affordable gaming laptop that delivers on high-refresh QHD gaming and accurate color, the Katana 15 HX makes sense, as this is a standout value buy for gamers focused on performance per dollar.

• Read our full MSI Katana 15 HX review

The best premium gaming laptop

For top-of-the-line specs in a supremely slim, lightweight and premium gaming laptop, set your sights on the Razer Blade 16 (2026). Just from the look of it, it's hardly surprising our reviewer, Tony Polanco, said it's one of the "loveliest-looking gaming laptops" around. Just make sure your bank account is prepared for its high cost.

Razer's latest 16-inch beast comes in a fantastically thin, portable design, but still leaves room for its vivid and bright 16-inch 2.5K (2560 x 1600) OLED display with a wicked-fast 240Hz refresh rate and 0.2ms response time, bringing out the best in visually stunning titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and fast-paced competitive shooters like Counter-Strike. It is quite glossy, though, so it's best used in darker rooms.

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090) Gaming Tests

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Expect to crank up the settings to max, especially with the higher configurations available for the Blade 16. With the Intel Core Ultra 9 358H chipset and RTX 5090 GPU in the model we tested, this gaming laptop was reaching above 70 fps at 1440p resolution without DLSS 4 turned on, and that was with maxed-out graphics settings in AAA titles. No matter the game, this machine can make it shine.

Interestingly, another big perk is Blade 16's battery life. Gaming laptops aren't known to last too long, even when not gaming, but you can expect close to 13 hours of battery for productivity, which is an impressive feat (though still expect just under 2 hours while gaming).

When put under pressure, we noticed the Blade 16 gets loud and hot, likely due to its slim profile. Keep that in mind, and you'll find a premium gaming laptop that will last you for years to come. That is, if you have the funds, considering it can cost you up to $5,599 with the best specs. At the very least, prices start at $2,399 for lower configurations.

• Read our full Razer Blade 16 (2026) review

The best ultraportable gaming laptop

Put simply, this is the power of roughly an RTX 4070 gaming laptop in something the size of a tablet. The Asus ROG Flow Z13 is a Microsoft Surface Pro that ingested a whole lot of caffeine, and it's one of my favorite gaming systems ever. And now, for all you Death Stranding fans out there, there's the Asus ROG Flow Z13 Kojima Edition, and it boasts the highest configuration you can get for this marvelous gaming 2-in-1.

At just 11.8 x 8 x 0.6 inches, it's easily the smallest system on this list, and I know when I say the words "integrated graphics," a lot of you reading this guide will recoil in horror. But stick with me. AMD's Strix Halo chips are a true marvel in gaming performance.

I'm talking Cyberpunk 2077 at a solid 30 fps and Red Dead Redemption 2 at 60 fps (at the right settings, no less). If you turn on FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) tech for frame generation and resolution scaling, you can easily get these games running at over 100 fps. And they look really rather pretty on that 500-nit display with a vibrant 82% DCI-P3 color gamut. But going the integrated route reveals two key superpowers here: battery life and versatility of play.

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S) Gaming Tests

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Most of the laptops on this list will struggle to make it much further past the one-hour mark when disconnected from the charger. At over two hours in our lab testing, that integrated GPU knows how to slow sip that battery juice and keep you playing for longer (of course, mileage varies based on what kind of games you're playing).

Then there's the versatility. This is a 2-in-1, after all, and while the keyboard attachment feels shockingly good to play on, with good key depth and tactility, you could just ditch it altogether, pull out a Bluetooth controller, and play on your own dedicated superpowered tablet, too!

So long as you're prepared for a couple of other tablet-esque frustrations, like the limited number of ports and the price tag attached to this, there's nothing better for ultraportable gaming right now.

• Read our Asus ROG Flow Z13 (2025) review

The best 16-inch gaming laptop

The Alienware 16 Area-51 2026 is a marvelous upgrade over last year's still-excellent Area-51, now boasting an absolutely outstanding glare-free OLED panel. It may only be a minor update, but with the latest Intel CPU and graphics card from Nvidia, it's quickly become our favorite 16-inch gaming laptop right now.

This beast is built for gamers who want a roomy, immersive 16-inch (2560x1600) OLED display that cuts the glare and delivers a blistering 240Hz refresh rate right at your desk. As we've seen throughout testing, that big, anti-glare panel makes games look stunning and motion feel great.

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080) Gaming Tests

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Under the hood, you can configure it with up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus and an Nvidia RTX 5090 GPU. In our hands-on testing, the review unit’s RTX 5080 and high-end CPU combo cranked out an impressive 110 fps in Cyberpunk 2077 at native resolution and default graphics settings (that's with frame generation off). In short, this system can handle demanding gaming loads, from AAA PC gaming to fast-paced competitive play. In fact, it even beats the powerful Razer Blade 16 (2026) in a few games, and that boasts an RTX 5090 (with a less powerful CPU, though).

Of course, battery life is abysmal, at just over 1 hour when gaming and 3 hours and 33 minutes in our tests, and expect to leave this at your desk rather than traveling around with it, thanks to its hefty 7.4-pound weight. If you’re planning to travel with your gaming rig or game away from a power outlet, this is a limitation you’ll feel.

If you want a pure 16-inch gaming powerhouse that prioritizes visuals and performance, and you don’t mind staying plugged in, the Alienware 16 Area-51 is a pick that won't disappoint.

• Read our full Alienware 16 Area-51 (2026) review

The best 18-inch gaming laptop

There are plenty of big-screen gaming laptops to choose from, but it's rare to find one that can also fit in a normal backpack. That's where the Razer Blade 18 comes in — packing mightily powerful specs into a big yet slim chassis that can be carried around.

Yes, of course, it's going to be heavy at 6.9 pounds, and it comes with the standard hefty Razer price tag too. But for what you get, this is a seriously good option for serious gamers. With a sustained 280W of power delivered to the CPU and GPU, this is capable of some beasty frame rates with all the ray tracing goodness turned on.

Compared to the astronomically expensive MSI Titan 18 HX, the Blade wins out easily — Metro: Exodus is 9.5% faster on Extreme detail, Marvel Rivals is 20.8% faster on Ultra, and Assassin's Creed: Shadows is a whopping 24% faster at Ultra detail.

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090) Gaming Tests

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Plus, a plethora of ports (including Thunderbolt 5) and a phenomenal 4K 240Hz display mean you can embrace DLSS 4 and multi-frame gen and not lose any of that buttery smoothness. And since it's Razer, the laptop parts also get plenty of TLC — the keyboard feels amazing to use with an ocean of a touchpad, the speakers are clear with nice bass, and thermal management is kept optimal with a massive vapor chamber.

Yes, that $5,000 price tag for the RTX 5090 version will sting, but for the ultimate large display experience on the go, this is the one to pick.

• Read our full Razer Blade 18 (2025) review

The best desktop replacement

Desktop replacements need to do three things well: be powerful (duh), have a great screen and nail the ergonomics. Not only does the HP Omen Max 16 tick the boxes on all three, but it also does so at a slightly lower price than the rest of the pack.

Yes, at a starting price of $3,000, that cost is still going to sting. But given you're looking at $4k upwards for systems of a similar spec, this is actually value for money for those who want as much of a desktop as possible without the space for a giant tower.

Performance-wise, you're looking at well over 60 fps in all your favorite AAA titles at the highest settings, which can be multiplied with DLSS 4 and multi-frame gen (thanks to that RTX 5090), and the high wattage pumping through all the components (and strong heat dissipation) meant I got blistering fast sustained performance, too.

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080) Gaming Tests

1080p|Max Settings|DLSS Off

< Prev

Cyberpunk 2077

Next >

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

71

020406080

FPS

Cyberpunk 2077 Data

Product	Value
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	71

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

51

015304560

FPS

Black Myth Wukong Data

Product	Value
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	51

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

175

050100150200

FPS

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Data

Product	Value
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	175

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Then let's talk about the screen up top — a gorgeous QHD+ OLED panel with a silky smooth 240Hz refresh rate. Normally, you're looking at Mini LED screens that can run this fast, and to see the flash flood of color of OLED this smooth is a treat for the eyes.

Of course, you're not here for the battery (it's a desktop replacement), so it should come as no real surprise that you're getting under 90 minutes of gameplay on one charge.

But there's no mistake about it, if you want the most performance possible to give a gaming desktop-esque experience without taking up too much space with a tower, the Omen Max 16 would be my choice. Oh, and the wealth of ports and that sleeker chassis give it pride of place on any desk (as well as unlocking great cooling).

• Read our full HP Omen Max 16 (2025) review

The best upgradeable gaming laptop

Gaming laptops are great and all, but I feel like you do miss out on one of the best bits of the best gaming PCs — the modularity and upgradeability. Seeing the ever-increasing spec demands of AAA titles in the next few years can be worrying, but none of that matters with the Framework Laptop 16.

Put simply, this is a gaming laptop that you can customize, repair and upgrade on your own time. And it's super simple, thanks to the expansion slots and a comprehensive guide to do so! This means while you get some top-notch options included (the RTX 5070 Ti in here is an impressive dedicated GPU for 1080p, 1440p and even some 4K gaming in our testing), you're not limited to it when new GPUs come out in the future.

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070) Gaming Tests

1080p|Max Settings|DLSS Off

< Prev

Cyberpunk 2077

Next >

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

38

010203040

FPS

Cyberpunk 2077 Data

Product	Value
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	38

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

35

010203040

FPS

Black Myth Wukong Data

Product	Value
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	35

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

132

037.575112.5150

FPS

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Data

Product	Value
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	132

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And even if you go for the "DIY version" that you build yourself, it only takes 15 minutes to put together, and with the vast array of port options you can add to it, I managed to find the perfect arrangement of sockets and performance for me with the greatest of ease.

On the face of it, this is quite a chunky option, and to get the downsides out of the way, the screen up top is a little dim, and those keyboard deck panels can slide around a little.

But for the chance to be able to upgrade, repair or even switch the ways you use it through the super easy modularity of the Laptop 16 makes these gripes fade into the background in my experience.

• Read our full Framework Laptop 16 (2025) review

Performance test results compared

When you're buying a gaming laptop, you want to know how well it can run the best PC games.

That's why we run every gaming laptop we review through a series of performance tests in 3DMark and a number of games, including Assassin's Creed Shadows, Doom: The Dark Ages, Black Myth: Wukong, Cyberpunk 2077 and Grand Theft Auto V.

In 3DMark, we run several tests on each laptop, including Fire Strike, Time Spy, Fire Strike Ultra, Time Spy Extreme, Speed Way, Steel Nomad, and Port Royal. Each of these benchmarks shows how well a laptop can handle graphics, and the higher the number, the better.

Here's how each laptop compares. Take note: not all benchmarks could be performed for each laptop, but here's a general look at how they scored.

Best Gaming Laptops 3DMark Benchmarks

Slide through to see different results from our 3DMark tests

< Prev

3DMark Fire Stirke

Next >

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

37411

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

36218

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

32769

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

31779

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

30564

MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)

24243

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

18985

010,00020,00030,00040,000

3DMark Fire Stirke Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	37411
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	36218
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	32769
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	31779
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	N/A
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	30564
MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)	24243
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	18985

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

15527

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

14641

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

10376

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

14737

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

11082

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

7988

MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)

6123

05,00010,00015,00020,000

3DMark Fire Stirke Ultra Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	15527
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	14641
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	10376
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	14737
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	11082
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	7988
MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)	6123
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	N/A

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

12061

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

10662

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

8252

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

10216

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

8157

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

6100

MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)

4560

03,7507,50011,25015,000

3DMark Time Spy Extreme Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	12061
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	10662
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	8252
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	10216
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	8157
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	6100
MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)	4560
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	N/A

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

16285

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

15715

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

10376

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

13558

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

11167

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

8676

05,00010,00015,00020,000

3DMark Port Royal Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	16285
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	15715
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	10376
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	13558
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	11167
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	8676
MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)	N/A
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	N/A

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

65

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

65

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

71

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

62

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

49

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

38

MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)

29

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

13

020406080

FPS

Cyberpunk 2077 Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	65
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	65
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	71
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	62
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	49
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	38
MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)	29
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	13

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

74

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

58

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

51

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

56

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

47

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

35

MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)

26

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

21

020406080

FPS

Black Myth Wukong Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	74
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	58
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	51
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	56
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	47
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	35
MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)	26
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	21

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

213

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

182

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

175

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

191

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

129

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

132

MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)

91

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

70

075150225300

FPS

Shadow of the Tomb Raider Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	213
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	182
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	175
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	191
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	129
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	132
MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)	91
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	70

MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)

2334

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)

1600

07501,5002,2503,000

3DMark Speed Way Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	N/A
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	N/A
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	N/A
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	N/A
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	N/A
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	N/A
MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)	2334
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8060S)	1600

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• ▲ Back to the top

Battery benchmarks: comparison

We run every laptop we review through battery tests, which measure how long it can last on a full charge, both while gaming and while doing less demanding work like browsing the web.

Below you'll find a chart of how long these laptops last while gaming using the PCMark 10 benchmark tool. This is typically far less time than they would use while just browsing the web, so while these battery times are the most conservative, when doing less demanding work, you can generally expect between 8 and 12 hours of battery life from these laptops on a full charge.

Ultimately, what you do on your laptop, how bright you set the screen and what power settings you use will all affect how long your laptop lasts before running out of juice — but this chart will help you compare and find the best gaming laptop for your needs.

Best Gaming Battery Life Test Results

Using the PCMark 10 benchmark tool, here's how long each gaming laptop lasts while gaming

Battery life (hh:mm:ss)

Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)

01:56:00

Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)

01:41:30

HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)

01:23:00

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)

01:45:00

Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)

02:09:00

MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)

01:21:00

Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)

01:02:00

Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8050S)

02:15:00

0123

hours

Battery life (hh:mm:ss) Data

Product	Value
Razer Blade 18 (RTX 5090)	1.9333333333333333
Razer Blade 16 (RTX 5090)	1.6916666666666667
HP Omen Max 16 (RTX 5080)	1.3833333333333333
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (RTX 5080)	1.75
Framework Laptop 16 (RTX 5070)	2.15
MSI Katana 15 HX (RTX 5050)	1.35
Alienware 16 Area-51 (RTX 5080)	1.0333333333333334
Asus ROG Flow Z13 (AMD Radeon 8050S)	2.25

• ▲ Back to the top

Also tested

Our computing experts at Tom's Guide review dozens of gaming laptops every year, and while some may have their faults, they could suit your needs or budget. So, have a look at the other machines we've tested.

• ▲ Back to the top

Best Gaming Laptops: Frequently Asked Questions

• ▲ Back to the top

How to choose the best gaming laptop

Everyone has different needs, so think about the requirements that are essential to you.

• Performance: Since recent gaming laptops hold a lot of power, you can expect them to manage any game you throw at them. But it's a matter of how much power you're getting. Generally, the higher the price, the more performance a laptop offers, meaning being able to turn settings in games to max without the system melting. With Nvidia's latest GeForce RTX 50-series and AMD's recent GPUs here, though, you can also get a lot more out of a machine thanks to DLSS 4 (and DLSS 4.5) and Multi Frame Generation. Essentially, more frame rates at higher resolutions, and a good middle-ground example is the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14. However, RTX 40-series aren't out of the game yet, as these can pull off some major performance gains in the latest PC titles.
• Portability & Battery: Plan on gaming on the go or sticking to your desk for gaming sessions, with the ability to transport it? Gaming laptops are well known to lack strong battery life, but that doesn't mean there aren't any that can last a while. Take the Asus ROG Flow Z13 as an example, which is ultraportable and can last over 2 hours while gaming (and much longer while not). If you're more inclined to have a beast for your PC setup, laptops like the 18-inch Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 are it; just don't expect it to run long when it's not plugged in. Otherwise, if you're not planning on gaming just anywhere, you'll want to look at the best gaming PCs.
• Productivity: The good thing about gaming laptops is that they have plenty of power for professional tasks as well, such as video rendering or CAD work. As they can be an expensive purchase, it might be worth looking at getting a machine that can pull double duty as a gaming and work laptop. Machines like the Razer Blade 16 are good examples of this, offering a design that’s slim enough to easily take to work, yet also has powerful enough specifications for AAA gaming.

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How we test gaming laptops

To find the best gaming laptop, we run every machine through a rigorous suite of benchmarks and real-world tests to gauge how it will perform during everyday use. We measure the average brightness and color quality of each laptop's display using our in-house light meter and colorimeter.

For general performance, we run our machines through tests that include Geekbench 6 (CPU performance), as well as various 3DMark tests to measure graphics capabilities. We also run a file transfer test to measure how fast a machine's hard drive is, and a custom battery test that has the machine browse the internet over Wi-Fi until it runs out of juice.

We also run benchmarks for popular games such as Assassin's Creed Shadows, Black Myth: Wukong and Red Dead Redemption 2 on every gaming laptop we test. For more information on our testing process, check out our guide to how we test.

• ▲ Back to the top

Fortunately for you, I've been testing Nespresso machines for over five years, and while I've admittedly moved onto more manual machines, I was once a very happy Nespresso owner for a number of sleep-deprived student years.

I'll run down the key things you should know before you shop below, but if you want to skip to the best Nespresso machine you can buy, I'll offer two key options. The first is the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima, which features milk frothing. Due to its Vertuo tech, it can brew a range of drink sizes, but this also locks you into Nespresso-branded pods, which can be more expensive.

Want something a bit simpler? Take a look at the Nespresso CitiZ + Milk, which is a high-quality machine that makes great espresso. This is a Nespresso Original model, meaning it brews from a standard pod size (which doesn't have to be Nespresso-branded) and can make two drink sizes.

Why you can trust Tom's Guide

Our Nespresso machine reviews are written by experienced home journalists and specialist reviewers. This includes Millie Fender, who has over five years' experience testing all things home tech, and ex-barista Erin Bashford, who has insider knowledge of what really makes a good cup of coffee.

Here's how we put Nespresso machines to the test, brewing up countless cups of joe to determine which deserve to go on this list:

• Tested by coffee aficionados. Our in-house reviews team is passionate about coffee and knows how important brewing the perfect cup is to getting your day started right. This means they pull no punches when it comes to evaluating just how well a Nespresso machine works.
• We've put dozens of coffee machines to the test. We've tested countless coffee machines over the years, beyond the 11 Nespresso machines for this guide specifically. This gives us great insight into what really works for a coffee machine — and what really doesn't.
• We use these coffee machines for weeks. We want to understand what it's like to use these coffee machines day-to-day, and so we do — we put our usual brewing methods to the side and solely use our chosen Nespresso machine during the review period. This allows us to give a genuine opinion on what these Nespresso machines are like to use, day in, day out.

What you need to know before buying a Nespresso machine

Nespresso makes two types of machine: Original and Vertuo. When choosing the right machine for you, it will help to know which type of brewer best suits your lifestyle.

I wrote a complete Nespresso Original vs Vertuo article where I pitted my favorite machine from each option head-to-head. But I'll give you a brief summary of my findings here.

Price: Nespresso Vertuo machines can often be cheaper than the Original line, and you'll also see them on sale during sales events like Black Friday. But if I was feeling cynical, I'd suggest that it's because you're locked into a more expensive ecosystem when you buy Vertuo.

Without getting too deep into the history, Nespresso owns the patent for Vertuo pods, but not for Original line machines, meaning you can buy pods for your Orignal machine from a number of brands, many of which will save you a lot of money over time.

Winner: Nespresso Original

Variety: With an Original machine you can only brew from one pod size, so you're limited to either an espresso or a more watered-down lungo. Whereas Vertuo machines can brew many sizes, all of which come with their own specific pods. These pods have barcodes which will allow your machine to brew the perfect length for that capsule automatically.

Winner: Nespresso Vertuo

Taste: Personally, I prefer the quality of the coffee you get from Original machines. That's because Vertuo machines are brewed using a unique spinning motion that creates a thick layer of faux-crema at the top of your cup. Some people love how this looks, but for me, I want a more authentic brew. If you love traditional espresso, you should maybe consider buying an espresso machine, but the Original line will give you a more conventional shot of coffee.

With that being said, Nespresso does create some very interesting flavors for its Vertuo line. Some of the most popular include Sweet Vanilla, Golden Caramel, and even a pod that's designed specifically to pair with oat milk.

Winner: It depends on your preference!

The best Nespresso machines you can buy today

Best overall

If you want a Nespresso machine that can do it all, the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima is our top pick. This multi-faceted machine can make a selection of milky drinks and still has all the benefits of Nespresso's clever Vertuo system which automatically brews the ideal drink length for your chosen capsule.

We enjoyed the neat design of this attractive machine, which has a removable milk container that slots easily onto the front unit to make all-in-one cappuccinos or latte macchiatos. You can also make a babyccino, so not everything you make in this machine needs to be espresso-based.

In terms of performance, we were happy with the range of drinks we made in this machine, but the milk-based were the standouts. We also made a delicious long coffee over iced, but noticed that the 57fl oz container could run out fast if you prefer to drink mugs of coffee over espresso.

Read our full Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima review.

Best Original line

Looking for an Original-line coffee maker that can keep up with a range of coffee preferences? The CitiZ & Milk reliably delivers rich, aromatic shots crowned with a dense crema that rivals café quality. And our reviews writer and former barista Erin doesn't say that lightly! Its compatibility with both Nespresso Original-line and a wide variety of third-party pods offers flexibility and predictable ongoing costs, making it a smart pick for espresso lovers who want choice and value from their daily routine.

Using the CitiZ & Milk is straightforward. The two-button interface keeps things simple, offering programmable cup sizes for espresso and lungo, while the integrated milk frother expands your drink options without complicating your workflow. We found daily use nearly effortless: loading pods, pressing a button, and enjoying a consistently satisfying shot, all within just a couple of minutes. This fuss-free approach makes it easy to fit high-quality espresso into even the busiest mornings. However, compared to Vertuo line machines, its suitability for Americano-lovers is questionable. That's a general downside of Original-line machines, though, and the CitiZ & Milk remains the best of that bunch.

While this machine features a milk frother, it's not in the form of a dispenser, like you'll find with the Lattissima. Instead, it comes in the form of an add-on Aeroccino which sits in an in-built housing on the right side of the machine. This allows you to customize the amount of milk you're frothing and the thickness you'd like, but it still needs to be poured into your finished cup. Nespresso does sell the Aeroccino separately, but it works out cheaper to buy it built-in with the CitiZ.

The main downside? Its construction feels less premium than the metal-clad Creatista Plus, but it also costs less up front and lets you take advantage of more affordable Original-line pods. If you’re weighing it against the Vertuo Pop Plus, the CitiZ & Milk adds the milk module and maintains a user-friendly footprint, balancing value and convenience for its category.

Read our full Nespresso CitiZ + Milk review.

Best value

Nespresso's Vertuo Pop+ coffee maker is the brand's most compact and budget-friendly Vertuo model. Regularly on sale for around $100, it's got the same versatility as many Nespresso machines, but in a smaller frame.

You get to choose from five drink sizes with this machine, which is one less than larger options such as the Vertuo Creatista, which can brew carafe coffees. However, you still get to brew Espresso (1.35oz), Double Espresso (2.7oz), Gran Lungo (5oz), Coffee (8oz), and XL (12oz) drinks. That's the same as the Vertuo Plus.

With a smaller frame comes a shorter mug capacity, so you may need to remove the cup holder to fit in some larger cups. However, this is easily done and slots back into place in seconds. The water reservoir is also removable, which means it's easy to refill. That's useful because this machine does have a smaller water capacity than others on the market. If you're on a budget or working with a small space, this is a savvy choice.

Read our full Nespresso Vertuo Pop Plus review.

Best for iced coffee

Nespresso’s Vertuo Up is the brand’s most compact Vertuo model yet, measuring just 4.7 inches across and featuring a clever rotating water tank that fits snugly at the back or either side. If you’re short on counter space or want a machine that tucks neatly into a teeny kitchen, this design gives you flexibility without feeling like a compromise.

We found the Vertuo Up exceptionally easy to use, living up to Nespresso’s reputation for breezy daily coffee. The rotating water tank makes refilling and cleaning simpler, even in cramped kitchens, and the overall operation is so straightforward that even first-timers will be brewing confidently in minutes.

There's also the benefit of an over-iced setting, which is a new feature available exclusively with the Up. Pair it with Nespresso's dedicated over-ice capsules and enjoy a more mellow and less watered-down brew.

There’s a catch, though: the Vertuo Up only works with Nespresso’s patented Vertuo pods. That means you’re locked out of cheaper third-party options, and as we've said in our Original versus Vertuo section, the Vertuo pods are pricier and can be tougher to source, so your ongoing costs will be higher and you’ll need to plan ahead for refills.

Compared to its siblings, the Vertuo Up trades premium features for value and space-saving design. It’s much slimmer than models like the Vertuo Lattissima or Creatista Plus, but you won’t get milk frothing or advanced customization, and it’s notably loud in use, peaking at 70.9dB in our tests. If small footprint and iced drinks matter more than endless drink options or luxury finishes, the Vertuo Up is a sensible pick — just budget for those pods.

Read our full Nespresso Vertuo Up review

Best for milky drinks

I find hard to recommend a Nespresso machine that costs over $600, but it can't be denied that if you want the best of the best and price isn't an option, Nespresso made the Nespresso Vertuo Creatista for you. It's got the classic Vertuo brewing system and can make drinks in 6 sizes, including 5, 8, 12, and 18 oz coffees, as well as single and double shots.

What really stands out is, first, the high-tech look and feel of the design. Who doesn't love a Breville-style stainless steel coffee maker? Not everyone will this the Vertuo Creatista is a looker, but I'm quite keen on the build which straddles retro and hyper-modern style.

Secondly, milk steaming options are next-level. Featuring Breville's bespoke automatic milk steaming wand, which can brew to three different temperatures and textures, you'll be set to make any milk-based milk drink you could want with this machine.

But it goes without saying that you could get this same milk wand on an actual espresso machine for around the same price, so this one's for the Nespresso fans who'd knowingly choose a single-serve over a classy espresso machine. If that's you, this is a great option.

Read our full Nespresso Vertuo Creatista review

Also tested

How we test the best Nespresso machines

We tested each and every coffee maker in this guide to bring you our comprehensive ranking. There are a few models that have very similar names: that's because Nespresso is currently adding Vertuo iterations of its most popular Original lineup to its offering: for example, the most recent Nespresso launch of the Vertuo Creatista is a Vertuo version of Nespresso's original Creatista machine, which features the same steam wand but with a different brewing system. Ranking these machines is tricky, because it depends on your prefered Nespresso system.

When reviewing, we firstly considered the actual taste of the coffee. After all, even the most convenient Nespresso machine would be no good if it didn't provide quality flavors. We also considered user experience though, because single-serve machines are designed to put convenience at the forefront. If a machine felt too prissy, we marked it down. This included the need to refill too often, or empty the capsules too regularly.

Where Nespresso machines came with milk wands or dispensers, we tested them on every setting. A good milk dispenser should create evenly distributed micro-foam that's not too hot and which lasts a good amount of time. And we give bonus points where it brews cool enough to steam plant milks without burning them.

If you're not sure which type of coffee maker to buy, be sure to check out our guide.

How to choose the best Nespresso machine for you

When considering which Nespresso machine would best fit you, it's important to consider the context of how you will be using your device, the space you have available, and the pods you want to use.

How you will use your Nespresso
If you need a coffee machine that can handle larger servings, either for multiple morning drinkers or for guests later on in the day, make sure you've got a fast brew, a large water reservoir, and a large pod storage drawer. You could also check out the best coffee makers for some pod-alternative options.

However, if you just need a few cups in the morning to get you going, you won't need to pay for these features and can easily get by with a much smaller device.

How much space you have
Nespresso machines can get pretty large, even though they're still only using smaller pods. Once you add milk frothers, reservoirs, and pod storage into the equation you can easily start running out of counter space. Measure not only the coffee machine you're intending to buy, but also the accessories and storage needed to make the most of it.

Pod type
Nespresso Vertuo machines use different pods to the Original line of coffee makers. These pods allow for the centrifusion brewing technique that makes Vertuo coffee so creamy and well-balanced, so it's worth checking which pod type your chosen device will take.

Price
Nespresso tends to offer more premium and expensive designs compared to other pod brands on the market. This is because these machines can actually reach a high enough temperature and pressure to produce a quality espresso, complete with a layer of crema. Some of the best Keurig coffee makers come close to offering a comparable performance, and these feature a more reasonable price. However, if you want an espresso similar to what you’d get from an espresso machine, Nespresso is your best bet.

Some Nespresso machines are more wallet-friendly than others, particularly if you opt for a smaller design which doesn’t come with so many features or milk-frothing capabilities. And when you compare the price of our winner, which costs less than $200, to some of the best espresso machines, you will find there’s substantial savings to be had by opting for Nespresso.

FAQs

We here at Tom's Guide have put together this guide to help you find the best one for your needs, after reviewing all the latest MacBooks for nearly 20 years.

The MacBook Air M5 is an easy recommendation as the best MacBook for most people. All-day battery life and even better specs under the hood compared to previous models make it a winner, despite the bump in price. But if you're all about affordability, the MacBook Neo is an exemplary budget laptop for the price. It's a win for students, first-time Mac users and, well, anyone looking for plenty of value.

If you're a creative pro and need the extra performance, I’d steer you toward either the MacBook Pro M5 or, for the monster GPU to nail professional-grade video edits and AI, the MacBook Pro M5 Pro. But hold on! During Apple’s “Pro and Tell” event, the long-rumored MacBook PROLED and next-gen M6 MacBook Pro were finally revealed, and we got hands-on time with both laptops. Once we’ve finished testing, we’ll let you know how these new MacBooks perform, and whether they’re right for you. Find out more in our FAQs.

For MacBook owners and first-time buyers, you'll want to know that macOS Golden Gate has arrived, and it's available to download and install now. This brings a bigger focus to the all-new Siri AI and other Apple Intelligence features. It's not a big update, but to make the most of Siri AI, it's worth downloading. For more hands-on testing and expert advice, this guide will help you find the best MacBook for your needs.

The best MacBooks you can buy today

The best MacBook overall

Who is the MacBook Air M5 13-inch for?

This is the go-to MacBook for most folks. Why? The MacBook Air M5 13-inch brings even faster performance under the hood thanks to the M5 chip, which also results in even greater battery life at over 15 hours. That's all wrapped up in the familiar yet fantastic, sleek, lightweight design, especially with the 13-inch model. Aside from those who already have an M4, or even an M3, MacBook Air, this is hands down not just the MacBook, but also the laptop to beat.

Why is it the best overall MacBook?

As with its predecessor, the MacBook Air M5 comes out on top because it ticks all the right boxes. Premium performance for a laptop under $1,500 (and even less when those discounts start pouring in)? Check. Faster M5 power for seamless multitasking, especially for web surfing, video editing and even demanding gaming? It's got it. Now offering over 15 hours of battery life, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity and an upgraded 512GB base storage? You know it. It's got it all for most.

MacBook Air 13-inch (M5) Performance Results

Slide through to see our performance
and battery life test results

< Prev

Geekbench 6 (single-core)

Next >

MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)

4168

01,5003,0004,5006,000

Geekbench 6 (single-core) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)	4168

MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)

17067

05,00010,00015,00020,000

Geekbench 6 (multi-core) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)	17067

MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)

05:08

0123456

minutes

Handbrake (video transcoding) mm:ss Data

Product	Value
MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)	5.133333333333334

MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)

15:28

05101520

hours

Battery life (hh:mm) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)	15.466666666666667

1 of 4

What do we like about the MacBook Air M5 13-inch?

👍 Fast M5 performance: In our benchmark tests, the M5 knocked it out of the park in both single- and multi-core performance, allowing for seamless multitasking for multiple tasks.

👍 Even longer battery life: Now boasting a battery life that lasts 15 hours and 30 minutes, the latest MacBook Air delivers one of the longest-lasting laptops around.

👍 Useful upgrades: While its price hike hurts, the Apple N1 wireless chip for Wi-Fi 7 support and boosted 512GB base storage make this MacBook Air better than ever.

What don’t we like about the MacBook Air M5 13-inch?

👎 Prepare to pay more: Sure, the upgrades are useful, but being $100 more for both the 13- and 15-inch models stings, especially when the design hasn't changed at all. Keep an eye out for discounts.

👎 A modest upgrade over M4: This is the same laptop, just with boosted performance. There's a noticeable jump in power, but not enough for an upgrade from M4.

MacBook Air M5 13-inch: Bottom line

Apple has done it again, making the do-it-all MacBook even better with faster M5 performance, longer battery life, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity and a much-appreciated 512GB base storage. It still boasts the same impressively sleek and lightweight design, making this the MacBook for travelers, students, workers and more.

• Read our full MacBook Air M5 review

The best budget MacBook

Who is the MacBook Neo for?

At $699 (and $599 for education), the MacBook Neo is a reliable, sturdy laptop with a fun pop of color for students, workers on the move and anyone after a budget laptop. With its A18 Pro chip onboard, expect solid performance for general, day-to-day tasks, including writing in documents, editing photos, exploring the web and more. If you don't mind a lack of keyboard backlight or no Touch ID (you'll have to pay $100 extra), this MacBook is well worth considering.

Why is this the best budget MacBook?

The MacBook Neo's price beats that of the MacBook Air M2 (even a refurbished model), even after the $100 price hike from Apple. The Neo's performance is nearly on par with that chip, too, showing just how far Apple's A-series chips (generally made for iPhones) have come. So, instead of paying over $1,000 for a MacBook, you can now get one for a fraction of the price. And a reliable one with plenty of fun colors, too.

MacBook Neo (A18 Pro) Performance Results

Slide through to see our performance

and battery life test results

< Prev

Geekbench 6 (single-core)

Next >

MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)

3535

01,0002,0003,0004,000

Geekbench 6 (single-core) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)	3535

MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)

8920

02,5005,0007,50010,000

Geekbench 6 (multi-core) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)	8920

MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)

09:57

012345678910

minutes

Handbrake (video transcoding) mm:ss Data

Product	Value
MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)	9.95

MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)

13:28

03.757.511.2515

hours

Battery life (hh:mm) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)	13.466666666666667

1 of 4

What do we like about the MacBook Neo?

👍 Solid A18 Pro performance: Compared to other Chromebooks and Windows machines at the same price, the MacBook Neo outperforms these laptops with good speeds for multitasking and juggling multiple tabs or apps.

👍 Long battery life: Impressively, the MacBook Neo can last 13 hours and 28 minutes, which is more than enough to breeze through a full workday without needing a charger.

👍 Design that pops: Fan of the sleek, lightweight design of the MacBook Air? Well, the MacBook Neo takes the best parts of this (aluminum design included) but adds a splash of colors, making for an attractive laptop that works for the office, classroom and while out and about.

What don’t we like about the MacBook Neo?

👎 Annoying trade-offs: I mean, sacrifices had to be made. Expect to pay $100 extra for Touch ID and double the storage, no keyboard backlight and 8GB of RAM being the limit.

👎 No Thunderbolt support: If you need a laptop with Thunderbolt for speedy data transfer or to connect to peripherals (like a monitor), the MacBook Neo has no such support, so prepare to have a USB-C hub on hand.

MacBook Neo: Bottom line

The MacBook Neo finally makes Apple's lineup of laptops supremely more affordable, and it's amazing what $699 can get you. If you're looking to get started in macOS but don't want to spend $1,000 or more and only need it for everyday tasks, the MacBook Neo provides.

• Read our full MacBook Neo review

The best MacBook for creatives

Who is the MacBook Pro M5 14-inch for?

Like last year’s model, the MacBook Pro M5 is for creatives and those after more performance than the Air models who want a dependable machine wherever they go. It offers a perfect mix of portability, performance and battery life.

Why is this the best MacBook for creatives?

The MacBook Pro M5 is the best MacBook for creatives because it nails the basics for power users. Namely, strong performance, epic battery life and easy to travel with. It offers more ports than a MacBook Air (three Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C, one SD Card slot and an HDMI port). Its 14-inch display size is also in that sweet spot when it comes to easy readability, and with a fan, it's able to deliver better performance than the regular Air.

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5) Performance Results

Slide through to see our performance

and battery life test results

< Prev

Geekbench 6 (single-core)

Next >

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)

4288

01,5003,0004,5006,000

Geekbench 6 (single-core) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)	4288

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)

17986

05,00010,00015,00020,000

Geekbench 6 (multi-core) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)	17986

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)

03:31

01234

minutes

Handbrake (video transcoding) mm:ss Data

Product	Value
MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)	3.5166666666666666

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)

18:00

05101520

hours

Battery life (hh:mm) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)	18

1 of 4

What do we like about the MacBook Pro M5 14-inch?

👍 Strong M5 performance: The new Apple M5 chip provides a notable performance boost over its predecessor and Windows-based competitors. If you’re a video editor, you can render 4K videos much faster than before, and if you’re into gaming, the new MacBook Pro can also deliver impressive performance for titles that are optimized for M-series Macs.

👍 Vibrant display: Like last year’s model, you can spend an extra $150 for a nano-texture display, which radically reduces screen glare. Trust me, the investment is worth it, especially if you work near a window or outdoors. And as before, everything looks bright and colorful on the 14-inch mini-LED display.

👍 Astonishing battery life: The MacBook Pro M5 is no joke when it comes to battery life. In our testing, the laptop endured for an incredible 18 hours and 14 minutes! The Dell 14 Premium lasted for a comparatively paltry 8 hours and 16 minutes. If you want a laptop that can potentially last for two full work days on a single charge, this is it.

What don’t we like about the MacBook Pro M5 14-inch?

👎 A minor spec bump: The MacBook Pro M5 deserves its spot on this list, but it’s a modest spec bump over the MacBook Pro M4. If you have an M3 or older MacBook, then you can consider upgrading. But if you own last year’s 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro, you can skip this M5 model.

MacBook Pro M5 14-inch: Bottom line

The 14-inch MacBook Pro M5 is one of the most powerful and longest-lasting laptops out there. I love its practical design, lovely display and insanely long battery life. The nano-texture display option is also a worthwhile upgrade.

• Read our full MacBook Pro M5 review

The best big-screen MacBook

Who is the MacBook Air M5 15-inch for?

This is for the people who have those casual-to-moderate productivity demands, but really want a big-screen laptop experience. The M5 chip performs just as well here as the 13-inch, but you’re getting the benefit of a larger display (and bigger battery, too).

Why is this the best big-screen MacBook?

Previously, a giant screen was limited to just the 16-inch MacBook Pro, so a 15-inch Air is warmly welcomed! Put simply, this is the cheapest way to get a MacBook with a large display. But with that, Apple hasn’t forgotten about what makes the Air so great — making it slim, light and incredibly portable.

MacBook Air 15-inch (M5) Performance Results

Slide through to see our performance

and battery life test results

< Prev

Geekbench 6 (single-core)

Next >

MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)

4191

01,5003,0004,5006,000

Geekbench 6 (single-core) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)	4191

MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)

17276

05,00010,00015,00020,000

Geekbench 6 (multi-core) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)	17276

MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)

04:34

012345

minutes

Handbrake (video transcoding) mm:ss Data

Product	Value
MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)	4.566666666666666

MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)

15:30

05101520

hours

Battery life (hh:mm) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)	15.5

1 of 4

What do we like about the MacBook Air M5 15-inch?

👍 Gorgeous display that goes big: You don’t really know how big a 15-inch display will be until you see it. This thing is big. Not only that, but it packs an impressive average brightness of 454 nits and a lot of color, so this is great for both work and binge-watching.

👍 Same Air design with one key improvement: What’s even more impressive is the fact that Apple keeps the 15-inch MacBook Air just as slim as the 13-inch at 0.45 inches. For something of this size and stature, that aluminum construction feels almost impossible in the hands.

👍 Incredible battery life: The difference between the 13- and 15-inch models may be slightly less compared to their predecessor, but the latest 15-inch MacBook Air still delivers an amazing 15 hours and 30 minutes.

What we don’t like about the MacBook Air M5 15-inch?

👎 Desk view is awkward to use: With that higher megapixel count and wider field of view, you can use desk view using the MacBook Air's webcam, but it does look a little awkward!

👎 No fan = lower sustained performance: Over a longer period of work or gaming, you’re best off sacrificing an inch of screen size and going for the M5 MacBook Pro, which has a fan to keep the M5 running at 100% for longer.

MacBook Air M5 15-inch: Bottom line

Regardless of our criticisms of ports and sustained performance, it’s hard to really knock the 15-inch MacBook Air in real-world use. The M5 chip affords impressive power and battery life, and Apple has made the thinnest big-screen laptop you can buy right now.

• Read our full MacBook Air M5 15-inch review

The best MacBook for power users

Who is the MacBook Pro M5 Pro 16-inch for?

The MacBook Pro M5 Pro 16-inch not only launches laptops into a new realm of performance but also delivers insanely long battery life. In fact, it’s the longest-lasting laptop we’ve tested to date, at over 21 hours. This one’s for all the creators and power users looking for a mighty, portable machine to take with them on the go, without worrying about battery life.

Why is this the best MacBook for power users?

Just from the benchmarks alone, the MacBook Pro with M5 Pro soars ahead of its competition. M4 Pro is still fast, but the latest chip brings a significant performance bump that makes video editing, coding, creative design work and more faster than ever. While the M5 Max undoubtedly boasts even higher power, this model is the sweet spot between price and performance for most power users.

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro) Performance Results

Slide through to see our performance

and battery life test results

< Prev

Geekbench 6 (single-core)

Next >

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)

4306

01,5003,0004,5006,000

Geekbench 6 (single-core) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)	4306

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)

28586

07,50015,00022,50030,000

Geekbench 6 (multi-core) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)	28586

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)

01:45

012

minutes

Handbrake (video transcoding) mm:ss Data

Product	Value
MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)	1.75

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)

21:10

07.51522.530

hours

Battery life (hh:mm) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)	21.166666666666668

1 of 4

What do we like about the MacBook Pro M5 Pro 16-inch?

👍 Speedy M5 Pro performance: The highlight of the latest MacBook Pro is its M5 Pro chipset, and it’s a beast, to say the least. It easily outperforms its competition, and that’s not even talking about the next step up: the M5 Max. Expect to breeze through everyday workloads, edit 4K video faster than ever, utilize on-device AI and more.

👍 Epic battery life: When a laptop reaches nearly a full day of battery life, you know it’s a machine where you can leave the charger at home. Lasting over 21 hours, the 16-inch MacBook Pro M5 Pro is the go-to laptop for work during the day and entertainment at night, whether that be web surfing, streaming videos and gaming.

👍 Gorgeous 16-inch display: No, this isn't any different from the last few MacBook Pro models, but it's hard to deny the sheer brilliance of the M5 Pro's 16.2-inch Liquid Retina Display (3456 x 2234). We go as far as to say it's the best non-OLED screen around. It makes it great for creative work and watching shows.

What don’t we like about the MacBook Pro M5 Pro 16-inch?

👎 That’s one big price tag: Now, anyone looking to buy a MacBook Pro knows how expensive it will be, but this time, it's more expensive than ever. At $2,999, that’s $500 more than the 14-inch MacBook Pro M5, so be sure to know exactly what you’ll need this mighty machine for before taking out your wallet.

👎 Not a major upgrade: It's become the norm to expect Apple to deliver more of a spec bump than a revamp to its MacBook Pro lineup. That's okay, as these laptops continue to be fantastic machines, but for anyone waiting for a change in design or an OLED screen, it's best to wait.

MacBook Pro M5 Pro 16-inch: Bottom line

The MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro, 2026) strikes that balance between being just powerful enough to justify its price tag and being an absolute workhorse, offering the big-screen treatment. It may not match the performance of the M5 Max, but it’s certainly more affordable, and for many power users, the M5 Pro offers more than enough performance to power through their intense workloads.

• Read our full MacBook Pro M5 Pro 16-inch review

MacBook performance tests

MacBooks are among the most powerful laptops on the market, and we have to the testing to prove it. Using the Geekbench 6 benchmark to see the single-core (for simple tasks) and multi-core (for complex tasks) results of each MacBook we get in, along with the Handbrake test to see how fast a laptop is at converting a 4K video to 1080p, we can gauge the performance of each MacBook. Here's how each compares.

Best MacBooks Performance Test Results

Slide through to see Geekbench
and Handbrake tests compared

< Prev

Geekbench 6 (single-core)

Next >

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)

4306

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)

4288

MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)

4191

MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)

4168

MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)

3535

01,5003,0004,5006,000

Geekbench 6 (single-core) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)	4306
MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)	4288
MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)	4191
MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)	4168
MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)	3535

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)

28586

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)

17986

MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)

17276

MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)

17067

MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)

8920

07,50015,00022,50030,000

Geekbench 6 (multi-core) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)	28586
MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)	17986
MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)	17276
MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)	17067
MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)	8920

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)

01:45

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)

03:31

MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)

04:34

MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)

05:08

MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)

09:57

012345678910

minutes

Handbrake (video transcoding) mm:ss Data

Product	Value
MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)	1.75
MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)	3.5166666666666666
MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)	4.566666666666666
MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)	5.133333333333334
MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)	9.95

1 of 3

MacBook battery life tests

Our big test for every MacBook is the battery life. We run our custom battery test to see how long each MacBook (at 150 nits of brightness) can last browsing the web over Wi-Fi until it runs out of juice. Here's how all of the best MacBooks stack up.

Spoiler alert: they're some of the best laptops for battery life you can snag right now.

Battery Life Benchmarks

In our battery test, we set the laptop's display to 150 nits of brightness and have it endlessly browse the web via Wi-Fi until it runs out of juice.

Battery life (hh:mm:ss)

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)

21:10:00

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)

18:00:00

MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)

15:30:00

MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)

15:28:00

MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)

13:28:00

07.51522.530

hours

Battery life (hh:mm:ss) Data

Product	Value
MacBook Pro 16-inch (M5 Pro)	21.166666666666668
MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5)	18
MacBook Air 15-inch (M5)	15.5
MacBook Air 13-inch (M5)	15.466666666666667
MacBook Neo (A18 Pro)	13.466666666666667

Best MacBook: Frequently Asked Questions

How to choose the best MacBook for you

As of 2026, there are three types to choose from:

• MacBook Neo: The budget pick that boasts more than enough power for browsing the web with multiple tabs and handling apps, wrapped up in a compact, sturdy frame with a splash of fun colors.
• MacBook Air: The go-to option for everyone that ticks all the boxes for everyday productivity, creative work, web browsing, some light gaming and the like in an ultra-thin and light form factor.
• MacBook Pro: The powerhouse for those who want to get into more demanding work like video editing, coding, music production or even gaming.

Each comes with its own set of strengths, but it all depends on your needs and budget. Here's a breakdown of what to check out:

• Performance: The transition to Apple Silicon breathed new life into the MacBook lineup — pairing seriously impressive performance with peak power efficiency and downright bafflingly low operating temperatures (even under max load). Of course, the question of how much of that face-melting speed you need comes down to individual use cases. Not really doing much beyond casual productivity? The MacBook Neo is perfect. Need a little more? Bump up to the MacBook Air M5. If you're a power user with creative tasks, the M5 MacBook Pros are the way to go.
• Graphics and gaming: If you want to work by day and play by night on your MacBook, anything with an M3 chip (or above) is the way to go. These 3nm chipsets pack the best GPUs, which enable huge graphical capabilities such as hardware-accelerated ray tracing. Plus, this additional power means you can breeze through graphically intense productivity tasks, too.
• Size and weight: If portability is important to you, the MacBook Airs are a must-buy from this selection. From a weight of just 2.7 pounds for the 13-inch version (and a mere 3.3 pounds for the 15-inch), these are so easy to carry around. If portability isn't the biggest concern, you could go all the way up to 4.3 pounds for the 16-inch MacBook Pro. But as far as dimensions go, all of these models are seriously sleek and carryable.
• Battery life: The 16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro is the longest-lasting MacBook there is, posting a Tom's Guide battery test time of 21 hours and 10 minutes. But the whole MacBook lineup lasts 13 hours and above, so if longevity is your primary concern, each model will have you covered for a full workday.

How we test every MacBook

Outside of putting them through their real-life paces in our day-to-day, we have an advanced suite of lab tests to truly see what performance and power efficiency are like in every single MacBook. Go behind the scenes and check out all the lab tests we do!

To get straight to the point of the key reasons people buy a MacBook — speed and battery life — we use our Geekbench 6 performance testing and the speed of transcoding video (Handbrake) to find out how well each MacBook performs, along with battery test to see how long these machines last before needing a charge.

Beyond these, we test the display with a high-end colorimeter and brightness tester — to ensure you're getting a great panel for the price. Then, we move on to professional performance and graphics-intensive tasks like Pugetbench benchmarks with Adobe apps.

And finally, as Apple is now really going hard on MacBook gaming, we have plenty of game benchmarks, including Cyberpunk 2077!