In 2018, the laptop market witnessed a remarkable evolution, offering a diverse range of devices that catered to every need and preference. From sleek ultrabooks designed for portability to powerful gaming machines that could handle intense graphics, there was something for everyone. With technology advancing rapidly, consumers found themselves overwhelmed by choices, making it essential to identify the standout options.
This article highlights the top 10 laptops of 2018, showcasing their unique features and performance capabilities. Whether it’s for work, play, or creative pursuits, these laptops set the standard for quality and innovation. Dive in to discover which models made the cut and why they remain relevant even as new contenders emerge.
Top 10 Laptops 2018
1. Dell XPS 13
Dell XPS 13 features a 13.3-inch InfinityEdge display, offering stunning visuals in a compact form. Its lightweight design and powerful Intel Core i7 processor deliver excellent performance for productivity and entertainment.
2. Apple MacBook Pro (13-inch)
Apple MacBook Pro boasts a Retina display with True Tone technology. This model combines a sleek design with robust performance, powered by the 8th generation Intel Core CPU, ideal for creative professionals and students.
3. Microsoft Surface Laptop 2
Microsoft Surface Laptop 2 presents a 13.5-inch touchscreen and Intel Core i5 or i7 options. Its elegant design, along with Windows 10 S, provides a smooth user experience for everyday tasks and productivity.
4. HP Spectre x360
HP Spectre x360 offers a versatile 2-in-1 design with a 360-degree hinge, enabling tablet and laptop modes. Its long battery life and stunning 13.3-inch AMOLED display support both work and play seamlessly.
5. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (6th Gen)
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon features a durable, lightweight chassis and a 14-inch display. It includes a powerful performance with Intel Core i7 choices, well-suited for business professionals who prioritize efficiency and reliability.
6. ASUS ZenBook 13
ASUS ZenBook 13 combines portability with power, featuring a 13.3-inch display and impressive battery life. Its Intel Core i7 processor and lightweight design make it a strong contender for travelers and busy individuals.
7. Razer Blade 15
Razer Blade 15 stands out with its gaming capabilities, featuring a powerful NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 graphics card. Its sleek design, full HD display, and customizable RGB Chroma keyboard make it perfect for gamers on the go.
8. Acer Swift 3
Acer Swift 3 delivers a budget-friendly option without sacrificing performance. It features a 14-inch Full HD display and AMD Ryzen 5 processor, catering to users seeking value and efficiency in a portable package.
9. Samsung Notebook 9 Pen
Samsung Notebook 9 Pen includes a responsive S Pen, making it ideal for creatives. This laptop combines a vibrant 13.3-inch touchscreen with a lightweight build, allowing smooth transitions from sketching to writing.
10. LG Gram 15
LG Gram 15 showcases an ultra-lightweight design with a 15.6-inch display. Its impressive battery life and powerful Core i7 processor cater to professionals seeking portability without compromising performance.
Laptop Buying Guide
Navigating the laptop market requires understanding key features and budget constraints. This guide highlights essential specifications along with budget considerations to make informed decisions.
Key Specifications to Consider
- Processor: Choose between Intel and AMD processors. Look for Intel Core i5 or i7, or AMD Ryzen 5 or 7 for optimal performance.
- RAM: Select at least 8GB of RAM for standard tasks. 16GB or more benefits heavy multitasking or gaming.
- Storage: Consider SSD for faster boot times and data retrieval. Opt for at least 256GB SSD or a combination of SSD and HDD for added space.
- Display: Aim for a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. Higher resolutions, like 4K (3840 x 2160), enhance visual quality but may impact battery life.
- Battery Life: Look for laptops boasting 8 hours of usage or more. Battery capacity measured in watt-hours (Wh) often indicates longevity.
- Graphics: Identify the purpose. Integrated graphics suffice for basic tasks. Dedicated graphics cards, such as NVIDIA GeForce GTX or RTX, are necessary for gaming and graphic design.
- Weight and Portability: Lighter models, typically under 3 pounds, benefit frequent travelers. Ultrabooks offer a mix of performance and portability.
- Build Quality: Evaluate materials and durability, particularly for devices expecting to endure travel. Metal chassis typically provide sturdiness.
Budget Considerations
- Determine Spending Range: Set a budget according to intended use. Basic models range from $300 to $600, while mid-range options vary from $600 to $1,200. High-end devices often exceed $1,200.
- Identify Essential Features: Prioritize specifications relevant to specific needs. Think about whether gaming capabilities are necessary or if high portability is crucial.
- Look for Deals and Discounts: Keep an eye on seasonal sales and promotional offers. Certified refurbished laptops can also provide significant savings without sacrificing quality.
- Consider Longevity: Investing in a higher-end model can extend usability over time. Assess whether a higher price tag correlates with future-proofing based on increasing application demands.
By focusing on these specifications and budget guidelines, consumers can confidently select the best laptop to suit their needs while still navigating the diverse market landscape.
Detailed Reviews of Each Laptop
This section provides in-depth reviews of the top 10 laptops from 2018, highlighting their key features, strengths, and user suitability.
Laptop 1: Dell XPS 13
The Dell XPS 13 boasts a stunning 13.3-inch InfinityEdge display, offering vivid colors and impressive resolution. Equipped with Intel’s 8th Gen processors, it ensures fast performance for multitasking. The compact design and lightweight build facilitate portability, making it ideal for professionals on the go.
Laptop 2: Apple MacBook Pro (13-inch)
The Apple MacBook Pro (13-inch) features a captivating Retina display, enhancing the visual experience for creative tasks. Its robust performance stems from the powerful Intel Core i5 processor, while the Touch Bar adds convenience for users. The long battery life supports extensive usage without frequent charging.
Laptop 3: Microsoft Surface Laptop 2
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 2 is designed for elegance, with a sleek, premium feel. The 13.5-inch touchscreen provides interactivity, while the Intel Core i5 offers substantive processing power. All-day battery life makes it suitable for both work and leisure, catering to diverse user needs.
Laptop 4: HP Spectre x360
The HP Spectre x360 features a flexible 2-in-1 design that allows users to switch between laptop and tablet mode effortlessly. This device includes a vivid 13.3-inch display and Intel’s powerful processors, achieving seamless performance for creative and productivity tasks alike. The premium aluminum construction adds to its appeal.
Laptop 5: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (6th Gen)
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (6th Gen) excels in durability and business functionality. Its lightweight design doesn’t compromise on build quality, featuring a robust keyboard and impressive battery life. The bright, 14-inch display ensures clear visuals, perfect for professional environments.
Laptop 6: ASUS ZenBook 13
The ASUS ZenBook 13 impresses with its ultra-slim profile and high-performance capabilities. The 13.3-inch Full HD display offers sharp graphics, while the Intel Core i7 processor ensures responsiveness for demanding tasks. Battery longevity makes it perfect for users needing extended use without interruption.
Laptop 7: Razer Blade 15
The Razer Blade 15 caters to gamers with its powerful NVIDIA GeForce GTX graphics and customizable RGB keyboard. The 15.6-inch display provides a high refresh rate for smooth gameplay. It also balances performance and portability, making it suitable for gamers seeking a mobile solution.
Laptop 8: Acer Swift 3
The Acer Swift 3 offers an impressive combination of affordability and performance. Its AMD Ryzen processor delivers adequate speed for everyday tasks and light gaming. The 14-inch display provides decent visuals, and the lightweight design facilitates ease of transport for students and professionals.
Laptop 9: Samsung Notebook 9 Pen
The Samsung Notebook 9 Pen enhances creativity with its S Pen stylus, perfect for note-taking and sketching. Boasting a 13.3-inch display, it delivers crisp visuals. Thermal management and solid performance ensure reliability whether working or enjoying multimedia content.
Laptop 10: LG Gram 15
The LG Gram 15 stands out with its incredibly lightweight design while offering a spacious 15.6-inch display. The Intel 8th Gen processor guarantees strong performance, ideal for multitasking. Long battery life enhances its portability, making it suitable for users on the move.
Comparison of Key Features
| Laptop Model | Processor | RAM | Storage | Display | Battery Life | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dell XPS 13 | Intel Core i7 | 8GB | 256GB SSD | 13.3″ FHD InfinityEdge | Up to 21 hours | 2.7 lbs |
| Apple MacBook Pro (13-inch) | Apple M1 | 8GB | 256GB SSD | 13.3″ Retina | Up to 20 hours | 3.02 lbs |
| Microsoft Surface Laptop 2 | Intel Core i5 | 8GB | 128GB SSD | 13.5″ PixelSense | Up to 14.5 hours | 2.76 lbs |
| HP Spectre x360 | Intel Core i7 | 8GB | 512GB SSD | 13.3″ FHD OLED | Up to 12 hours | 2.88 lbs |
| Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (6th Gen) | Intel Core i7 | 16GB | 512GB SSD | 14″ FHD | Up to 15 hours | 2.49 lbs |
| ASUS ZenBook 13 | Intel Core i7 | 16GB | 512GB SSD | 13.3″ FHD | Up to 14 hours | 2.5 lbs |
| Razer Blade 15 | Intel Core i7 | 16GB | 256GB SSD | 15.6″ FHD | Up to 6 hours | 4.63 lbs |
| Acer Swift 3 | AMD Ryzen 5 | 8GB | 256GB SSD | 14″ FHD | Up to 12 hours | 2.65 lbs |
| Samsung Notebook 9 Pen | Intel Core i7 | 16GB | 512GB SSD | 13.3″ FHD | Up to 15 hours | 2.2 lbs |
| LG Gram 15 | Intel Core i5 | 8GB | 256GB SSD | 15.6″ FHD | Up to 18.5 hours | 2.4 lbs |
Key features define the performance and usability of laptops. Each model presents specific strengths, such as processor options. The Dell XPS 13 and Apple MacBook Pro feature powerful Intel and Apple processors, aiding productivity. RAM sizes vary, with Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon offering 16GB, enhancing multitasking capabilities.
Storage solutions range from 128GB to 512GB SSDs, enabling faster data access. Display types, including FHD and Retina, affect visual quality and color accuracy, catering to various use cases. Battery life spans from 6 to 21 hours, impacting portability and convenience for on-the-go users.
Weight affects portability, with models like the Samsung Notebook 9 Pen and LG Gram 15 being among the lightest for travel ease.
Conclusion
Choosing the right laptop in 2018 was a rewarding yet challenging experience. With a diverse range of options available consumers could find the perfect fit for their unique needs. Each laptop on the list showcased impressive features and performance capabilities that catered to various user preferences.
Whether it was the portability of the Dell XPS 13 or the creative potential of the Apple MacBook Pro every option represented a significant advancement in laptop technology. As the market continues to evolve staying informed about these standout models ensures that users can make confident decisions for their next purchase.