The best laptops from Apple and HP
HP Pavilion Plus 14 features AMD and Intel processors, and it can be configured with entry-level discrete graphics. Credit: CBS Interactive
In our world today it seems you almost cannot exist without a laptop. You can try to do it all on your phone or tablet, but for some things you really need a bigger screen, a keyboard and a fast processor. Below are three of the best laptops to handle your needs.
WHAT Apple MacBook Air M2
THE COST $1,199
AVAILABLE FROM apple.com
Thanks to a new design, a larger display (13.6 inches versus the previous 13.3 inches), a faster M2 chip and a long-awaited upgrade to a higher-res webcam, the 2022 version of the MacBook Air is easily the most universally useful laptop in Apple's lineup, with one caveat. The $200 increase over the traditional $999 MacBook Air starting price is a disappointment.
WHAT HP Pavilion Plus 1
THE COST $850
AVAILABLE FROM hp.com
The HP Pavilion Plus is exemplary because it can meet the needs of a lot of people while still being affordable. Though available in 14- and 16-inch sizes; the former was the one tested. It's small enough for travel but big enough that you won’t feel cramped while working. HP offers AMD and Intel processors, and it can be configured with entry-level discrete graphics. There are also multiple displays to match your budget, including a beautiful OLED panel. Paying an extra $100 for the OLED screen is worth the investment.
WHAT HP Spectre x360 14
THE COST $1,999.99
AVAILABLE FROM hp.com
Yes, this laptop is pricey and it relies on integrated graphics. At this price, it's reasonable to expect a dedicated GPU for gaming or content creation. However, this two-in-one is one of the first laptops to feature Intel's new Core Ultra CPU that delivers solid performance today and is equipped for the AI workloads of the future. Plus, those graphics integrated to the Core Ultra processor are an improvement on Intel’s previous-generation iGPU.
The all-metal, matte-black chassis is as stunning as the high-res OLED display. And the 9-megapixel webcam is awesome, especially when combined with the AI-assisted Windows Studio Effects and noise reduction features.
The following CNET staff contributed to this story: former CNET editor Dan Ackerman, senior editor Matt Elliot, managing editor Joshua Goldman and copy editor Jim Hoffman. For more reviews of personal technology products,visit cnet.com.
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