I Review Hundreds of Tech Products. These Are the Desktop Computers, Laptops, and Accessories You Should Buy in 2025
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Men's Journal's 2025 Tech Awards share intel on the very best product launches and innovations. Whether you want to revamp your home theater with the hottest new speakers and TVs or projectors, upgrade your everyday essentials with new earbuds or headphones, or want to elevate your home with the latest sleep tech and smart home gadgets, we have the expert insight to help you make the right decision. Here, we're shining a light on the best new computers and accessories.
Every year, laptops and tablets become faster, thinner, and lighter, while the capabilities of desktop computers expand rather dramatically. Here are the items we're coveting.
Best Computers, Laptops, and Accessories at a Glance
- Best Windows Desktop Computer Overall: HP Z2 Tower
- Best Apple iMac Desktop Computer Overall: Apple Mac Pro
- Best Windows Laptop Computer Overall: Asus ExpertBook B9 OLED
- Best Chromebook Plus Laptop Overall: Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus
- Best Apple MacBook Laptop Computer Overall: 16” MacBook Pro with M4 Max
- Best Laptop Computer for Gaming: ROG Strix SCAR 18 (2024)
- Best Android Tablet: Samsung Galaxy S10 Ultra
- Best Apple iPad Tablet: Apple 11” iPad Pro
- Best E-Reader With Color Display: Amazon Kindle Colorsoft
Best Laptop Computers of 2025
Best Windows Laptop Overall: Asus ExpertBook B9 OLED
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When it comes to Windows laptops, we’re fans of Asus because the company integrates cutting-edge, high-end components into machines that can be configured for specific computing needs. For higher-end business users, you can’t go wrong with the sleek, lightweight ExpertBook B9 OLED.
This laptop offers a beautiful, 14-inch (non-touch) OLED display. It runs Windows 11 Pro thanks to its powerful Intel Core i7-13550U processor and Intel X graphics GPU. Several memory and storage options are available at the time of purchase. One of my favorite design features is the computer weighs a mere 2.18 pounds and it’s just 0.62-inches thick when shut. Since it’s targeted to business users, the laptop comes with a handful of useful ports, a webcam with shield, and an integrated TMP 2.05 security chip. Thus, you can expect fast and secure communications and connectivity.
Best Windows Laptop for Creatives: Asus ProArt P16 (H7606)
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There are a few things to absolutely love about the ProArt P16 laptop, starting with its thin and durable design. However, you also get a stunning, 4K OLED touchscreen display. It’s powered using an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU and an AMD XDNA NPU.
Like so many of Asus’ newest laptops, the ProArt P16 offers CoPilot+ PC AI tools and capabilities. This is supported by 64GB of RAM and a 2TB SSD for storage. In addition to a generous selection of ports, we love this laptop because built into the keyboard is a dedicated CoPilot+ key and the exclusive Asus DialPad with MuseTree. The dial gives enhanced creative control when using creativity tools for graphics, photo editing or video editing.
The ProArt P16 is also more durable than most Windows laptops, so it can be used in more extreme temperature situations and withstand a bit more abuse based on where your computing adventures take you. As for wireless connectivity, you get support for Wi-Fi 7. The laptop weighs in at 4.08 pounds and is 0.68-inches thick when shut. Lower cost ProArt laptops are available in the lineup, but this one offers higher-end components and better overall performance.
Best Value Windows Laptop: Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro
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You can easily find Windows laptops priced well below $1,000, but if you’re looking for a lightweight powerhouse with good battery life and an impressive design, Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro laptop checks all the boxes. It’s powered using an Intel Core Ultra 7 (Series 2) processor, comes with 32GB of RAM and is equipped with a 1TB SSD. You also get an impressive 16-inch AMOLED touchscreen display.
As part of the Samsung Galaxy lineup, this laptop works seamlessly with other Galaxy equipment, including the latest Samsung smartphones and tablets. It also incorporates all the latest Samsung AI features and functions. Other notable features include a quad speaker system that supports Dolby Atmos, Wi-Fi 7 support, and an impressive port selection. Oh, and battery life is up to 25 hours. This is a great option for anyone looking for a mid-priced, well-rounded laptop.
Best 2-in-1 Windows Laptop: Microsoft Surface Pro CoPilot+ PC
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Microsoft created the Windows operating system, and the CoPilot+ PC AI tools and functions now built into many Windows computers. So, if you want to get the absolute most out of these tools, it makes sense to use a laptop also designed by Microsoft. This latest version of the Surface Pro was designed around CoPilot+ PC. You get up to a 14-hour battery life, 90 percent faster performance than previous models, and a bright OLED touchscreen display.
The Surface Pro is a 2-in-1 device. What this means is it can be used as a full-features tablet that runs Windows, but you can snap on an ultra-thin keyboard (sold separately) and use it as a laptop that supports Wi-Fi 7 for ultra-fast wireless connectivity. To maximize how you interact with the Surface Pro, you can also handwrite directly on the display using a stylus (sold separately), or use the AI tools to dictate or record audio that can be transcribed into editable text.
We love this latest model of the Surface Pro because it’s incredibly lightweight (0.75 pounds), ultra-thin (0.21-inches) and can be used in a variety of different ways to maximize productivity while you’re on the move, regardless of your work habits. And unlike when using other tablets, this one runs the same version of Windows as other laptop and desktop computers.
Best Chromebook Plus Laptop: Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus
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If you maintain an active wireless internet connection, the latest Chromebook Plus laptops are as powerful and versatile as most Windows laptops, but are priced considerably lower. Because these devices rely so heavily on cloud-based applications and online storage, the hardware in these devices does not need to be as advanced to achieve similar results. Yes, a Chromebook Plus can run all the popular Google and Microsoft 365 applications, plus other popular online-based tools and Android apps.
Samsung has done a nice job designing this higher-end Chromebook, which is suitable for students, home users, and business users alike. It’s configured with a vibrant, 15.6-inch OLED display. What’s nice about Chromebooks is they’re virus-proof and have a long battery life. They also support Google Gemini AI tools and features, which in many ways are more advanced (yet as easy to use) as what’s offered by CoPilot+ PC, Apple Intelligence, or Samsung AI.
Right out of the box, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus comes with a handful of pre-installed apps for handling common, everyday computing tasks. Setting up and customizing a Chromebook is easy when using your Google Account. Plus, data, documents, files, photos and other content will sync with your other Google and Android devices. This is one of the nicest Chromebook Plus laptops currently available—and you can’t beat the $700 price.
Best Value Chromebook Plus Laptop: Acer Chromebook Plus 515
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All Chromebook Plus laptops offer at least the core configuration that’s dictated by Google to ensure these devices easily run all the popular Google apps and can seamlessly offer Gemini AI integration. The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is one of the lower-priced, but not lower-end Chromebook Plus laptops. It offers a really good value for the money but still relies heavily on cloud-based applications and storage.
This model offers a 15.6-inch IPS LED Full HD display and comes with 128GB of internal storage. Priced at $400, this is a versatile laptop that’s well-designed and reliable. The laptop weighs in at 3.7 pounds and is 0.79-inches thick when shut. Battery life is up to 10 hours. This is a really good choice for average users who don’t mind using cloud versions of popular applications and Google or Android apps.
Best Apple MacBook Laptop: 16” MacBook Pro with M4 Max
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All Apple MacBooks runs the same version of the MacOS operating system and come with the same selection of preinstalled apps. What sets the various models apart is the display size and type, and the speed of the processor that drives the laptop. The 16-inch MacBook Pro is currently the highest-end MacBook option. It’s also capable of running Apple’s M4 Max processor.
The most beautiful feature of this MacBook Pro is its 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display. While it’s not a touchscreen, it does an impressive job making photos, video, graphics and text look sharp, bright and crystal clear. This MacBook Pro now also supports Apple Intelligence, which is still in its infancy in terms of its core capabilities, but it’s an AI toolset with a tremendous amount of potential. Battery life is up to an impressive 24 hours.
The core configuration of this laptop can be upgraded at time of purchase to include up to 128GB of unified memory and up to an 8TB SSD for storage. It’s also possible to upgrade to a nano-texture display, which does a better job eliminating unwanted glares. This is the laptop you want with you if you’re looking for the best of what Apple has to offer for on-the-go computing. It fully integrates with Apple iCloud, so all your key data, documents, files and photos will sync between all your other Apple gear, including your iMac, iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch. This is also the laptop we recommend to creatives for things like video editing and music production.
Best Value Apple MacBook Laptop: 13” MacBook Air with M3
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Ideal for everyday users, the 13-inch MacBook Air offers the hardware needed to handle all common computing tasks effectively and efficiently. You get the power of MacOS, all of apps that come preinstalled with the laptop, iCloud integration, and Apple Intelligence tools and features bundled into a unit that runs using Apple’s M3 processor.
The laptop comes with a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, two Thunderbolt ports, four USB ports and enough unified memory and internal storage to make working with this laptop an absolute pleasure.
What sets the MacBook Air apart from the MacBook Pro is that the speed of the processor and quality of the display is a bit inferior on the Air, but for everyday tasks, you probably won’t notice a big difference. Battery life is up to 18 hours. This laptop weighs a mere 2.7 pounds and is just 0.44 inches thick when shut, which makes it extremely easy to carry around.
Best Laptop for Gaming: ROG Strix SCAR 18 (2024)
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Gamers require a lot of computing power from their laptop. While this often means compromising on battery life, screen size, and graphics quality when experiencing the very best and most popular entertainment titles, it’s not the case with this 2025 edition of the ROG Strix SCAR 18.
While more expensive than a typical laptop, ROG Strix SCAR 18 runs using an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and up to a Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 laptop GPU. What’s special about this laptop is its extra-large, 18-inch 2.5K resolution Nebula display that offers up to a 240Hz refresh rate and 1,200 nit maximum brightness. Combine this with 100 percent DCI-P3 and Dolby Vision support, and everything displayed on the screen will appear detailed, smooth, and ultra-realistic.
And with its 64GB of RAM and 2TB SSD, you get plenty of processing power and storage space for all your favorite games and data. The integrated, customizable Aura Sync RGB lighting on the keyboard and casing will appeal to gamers, while the large keys make controlling games a breeze. You also get Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio support for added realism, plus 5.1.2 channel virtual surround sound.
Best Desktop Computers of 2025
Best Apple iMac Desktop Computer Overall: Apple Mac Pro
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For creatives and other power users, the Mac Pro is hands-down the most powerful Mac on the market, period. It dramatically exceeds the computing power required for traditional personal or business computing task. At its heart is the Apple M2 Ultra processor. And you can choose between a tower and rack design.
The Mac Pro is highly customizable at the time of purchase. It’s loaded with ports and expansion possibilities and can support up to eight simultaneous displays. While an Apple Keyboard and Magic Mouse is included, a monitor—such as the 32-inch Apple Pro Display XDR ($4,999 and up)—is not.
This computer excels at 3D rendering, 8K video editing and processing, scientific computing, code compiling, music production, and other tasks that require an extremely high level of computing power. A more affordable option is the Mac Studio, which has a starting price of $1,999. It can be powered using Apple’s M2 Max or M2 Ultra processor and can be paired with the Apple Pro Display or Apple Pro XDR Display.
Best Value Apple iMac Desktop Computer Overall: 24” Apple iMac with M4 Chip
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For an Apple enthusiast looking for an affordable and highly configurable iMac desktop computer that can easily handle everyday computing tasks and so much more, the 24-inch Apple iMac is ideal. It’s powered using Apple’s latest M4 processor and comes in a choice of seven housing colors. Everything needed to start using the computer almost immediately comes in the box. Plus, the MacOS operating system includes dozens of preinstalled apps to handle many popular computing tasks.
In addition to being easy to use, the iMac supports Apple iCloud, so all data, documents, files, photos and other content can be set up to automatically and securely backup to the cloud, then sync with your other Apple equipment, including your iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and Apple Watch. The one drawback to the iMac is that it’s difficult (but not impossible) to upgrade after it’s been purchased.
Best Windows Desktop Computer Overall: HP Z2 Tower
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When choosing and configuring a Windows desktop computer, it comes down to the processor, GPU, NPU, amount of RAM, internal storage capacity, and port selection. Plus, you can select your own keyboard, mouse, and monitor. The HP Z2 Tower is a mid-priced PC that offers plenty of custom configuration options at the time of purchase when you shop directly from HP’s website.
For example, with this HP desktop, choose between several versions of the Intel Core i3, i5, i7 or i9 processor. Next, select the amount of RAM, and amount of storage you want from the internal SSD. There are also a handful of AMD Radeon and Nvidia RTX GPU options, plus port and Wi-Fi options that allow you to create the perfect desktop PC to meet your needs, whether you want to run Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro. Of course, the options you choose directly impact how much you’ll pay.
We chose the HP Z2 Tower because you get quality components from a reliable brand, plus more customization options than what are typically offered by competitors. The Z2 Tower can make the perfect PC for home computing or business computing. Its performance can handle more advanced applications and multitasking. Plus, up to a three-year warranty and five years of hardware support is available.
Best Value Windows Desktop Computer Overall: Dell XPS Model 8960
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While the Dell XPS Model 8960 offers fewer configuration options than the HP Z2 Tower, the base model of this desktop PC is powered using a 14th Generation Intel Core i9-14900K processor. This means you get 24 cores, 32 threads, and a processor speed up to 5.6GHz. The manufacturer configures the computer with Windows 11 Pro, a Nvidia GeForce RXT 4070 GPU, 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD for storage. However, the GPU, memory, and storage can all be upgraded for an additional fee at the time of purchase. The manufacturer includes a Dell Wired Keyboard and wired mouse with the computer, but you can use any keyboard or mouse, plus the monitor(s) of your choice.
For a typical user, the XPS Model 8960 offers impressive processing power at a fair price. It’s also a good option for photo and video editing, music production and other more advanced computing tasks. And it’s a decent gaming machine, too.
Best Tablets of 2025
Best Android Tablet: Samsung Galaxy S10 Ultra
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Samsung S10 Ultra is not only Samsung’s top-of-the-line tablet, but also one of the most powerful and versatile Android tablets on the market, period. Like all of Samsung’s latest tablets, this one fully integrates Galaxy AI tools and features. We absolutely adore the tablet’s 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x touchscreen display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It makes everything displayed look fantastic.
Choose between 12GB or 16GB of RAM, and between 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of internal storage. Battery life is up to 16 hours. The Samsung S10 Ultra comes with an impressive selection of preinstalled apps and runs using the latest version of Android. What sets this tablet apart from many is that it's IP68 rated for durability and water resistance.
The tablet also comes with the S Pen stylus, so you can handwrite or draw directly on the screen, which makes it a powerful notetaking tool. A detachable keyboard is sold separately. Whether you’re a gamer, business user, mobile photo/video editor, or someone who enjoys streaming video content, it’ll all consistently look and sound fantastic using the S10 Ultra.
Best Value Android Tablet: Google Pixel Tablet
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Google created the Android operating system and is the designer of the Google Pixel Tablet, Pixel smartphones and Pixel smartwatches. All utilize features of the Android operating system that you won’t find in other Android tablets. Plus, you get all the cutting-edge AI features built into Gemini. Best of all, Google bundles these and other advanced features in a tablet that’s priced well below the competition.
As a result, the Google Pixel Tablet is versatile and suitable for use by any type of mobile user—whether you’re relying on the tablet alone or using it in conjunction with other Android gear. The tablet is built around a 10.95-inch LCD display and measures 10.2 x 6.7 x 0.3 inches. Battery life is up to 12 hours. It’s powered using Google’s own Tensor G2 processor that’s bundled with the Titan M2 security processor.
Google Pixel Tablet comes with all the popular Google apps preinstalled, so it’s ready to handle all your everyday computing tasks right out of the box. For the price, this is one of the best values on the market if you want a versatile and powerful tablet in your hands. While the tablet works with Bluetooth wireless keyboards and optional stylus pens, these are not accessories offered by Google. The company does, however, offer an optional dock/charging system that, when connected to the tablet, allows the device to serve as a home hub and smart speaker.
Best Value Apple iPad: Apple iPad
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While the iPad Pro is Apple’s highest-end, most powerful tablet, the entry-level model is the Apple iPad. It comes in your choice of four casing colors and takes advantage of a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display. It’s not as bright or high-resolution as what’s offered by the iPad Pro, but it’s more than adequate for most users.
This tablet runs using Apple’s older (and less powerful) A15 Bionic professor. It comes with the same apps as the iPad Pro, but the processing speed is slower. You also don't gain access to Apple Intelligence features with this iPad, because the A15 Bionic does not have adequate processing power. That said, for the price, the iPad is an extremely useful productivity, communications, and entertainment tool that’s suitable for kids and adults alike.
An optional keyboard and older version of the Apple Pencil stylus are sold separately. Either can expand the ways you interact with the tablet, based on how and where you choose to use it.
Best Value Apple iPad: Apple iPad
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While the iPad Pro is Apple’s highest-end, most powerful tablet, the entry-level model is the Apple iPad. It comes in your choice of four casing colors and takes advantage of a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display. It’s not as bright or high-resolution as what’s offered by the iPad Pro, but it’s more than adequate for most users.
This tablet runs using Apple’s older (and less powerful) A15 Bionic professor. It comes with the same apps as the iPad Pro, but the processing speed is slower. You also don't gain access to Apple Intelligence features with this iPad, because the A15 Bionic does not have adequate processing power. That said, for the price, the iPad is an extremely useful productivity, communications, and entertainment tool that’s suitable for kids and adults alike.
An optional keyboard and older version of the Apple Pencil stylus are sold separately. Either can expand the ways you interact with the tablet, based on how and where you choose to use it.
Best E-Reader and Digital Notepad
Best E-Reader With Color Display: Amazon Kindle Colorsoft
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E-readers have been around since 2007, but until recently, they’ve all offered a monochrome display. A few years ago, Amazon started using Paperwhite technology that lacked color, but made the display easily readable in any lighting situation, including direct sunlight. Recent versions of the Kindle have also been waterproof and could hold thousands of full-length e-books and hundreds of audiobooks.
This year, Amazon released Kindle Colorsoft—a handheld e-reader with a full-color, 7-inch display. This means content that was created in color can be viewed in color in any lighting situation, thanks to the device’s auto-adjusting touchscreen display. It's also waterproof, and has a battery life of up to eight weeks.
Of course, this Kindle is compatible with all Amazon Kindle eBook and audiobook content. It can also be used with Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited and Audible subscription services. The unit measures 7 x 5 x 0.3 inches and weighs just 7.7 ounces. It comes with 32GB of internal storage.
Best eReader With Digital Notepad Capabilities: ReMarkable Paper Pro
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If you’re looking for a dedicated digital notepad that can also be used as an eBook and PDF document reader, out of all the devices out there, the reMarkable Paper Pro is currently the best option. It offers a 11.8-inch, full-color display integrated into a tablet-like device that’s about the same size as a traditional notepad. It also comes with a pen-shaped stylus. Whether you’re handwriting or drawing on the display, the experience is extremely close to using a traditional paper and pad. But, with this device, you can quickly switch between virtual writing instruments and ink colors.
The operating system and integrated software make note taking and organizing digital notebooks an intuitive process. Plus, it’s easy to import PDF files to be viewed, annotated and then shared directly from the device. Your content can also automatically be backed up securely in the cloud. The Paper Pro is highly portable, offers a battery that lasts for weeks, and it provides a writing experience that’s highly customizable, so it’s easy for this device to adapt to your existing workload. Yes, it’s a bit on the costly size for a dedicated device, but for the right type of user, the Paper Pro can become an indispensable notetaking, writing and creativity tool.
Best Computer and Mobile Accessories
Best Wireless Computer Keyboard: Keychron Q6 Max QMK/VIA Custom Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
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Wired and wireless keyboards come in a wide range of shapes, styles, and colors, so there’s no single “best” keyboard for all users. That said, if you’re seeking a high-end and extremely well-crafted mechanical keyboard that offers your choice of Gateron Jupiter Red, Brown, or Banana switches, as well as keycaps that adhere to a Mac or Windows layout, Keychron Q6 Max is a viable option.
This keyboard is great for typists and those who spend a lot of time at their computer and want to experience a comfortable, accurate, and responsive typing experience. Use the Q6 as a wired or wireless keyboard that provides a satisfying typing experience accompanied by a satisfying key press sound and feel. Key features include a double-gasket design, 1000Hz polling rate, a CNC aluminum body, and double-shot PBT keycaps. It’s a full-size keyboard with hot-swappable keys and south-facing RBG lighting. A variety of color options are available for easy customization.
Best Wireless Mouse for Mac: Apple Magic Mouse
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All of Apple’s latest iMacs and desktop models come with the Apple Magic mouse. It can also be used with any MacBook or iPad. It’s a wireless, simplistic, and ergonomic mouse that offers comfort, accuracy, and a long battery life. Instead of relying on physical buttons and dials, this mouse offers a smooth, multi-touch surface.
Best Wireless Mouse for Windows PCs/Laptops: Logitech Master 3S
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There are many mouse options for Windows laptop and desktop computers. The Logitech Master 3S is a mid-priced, wireless option that provides a total of seven buttons, a thumb wheel, and a scroll wheel. When used with the Logi Option+ app for Windows or Mac, the mouse is highly customizable. It offers a wireless distance up to 32.8 feet and relies on a rechargeable battery.
The ergonomic design fits the hand nicely and it even has a built-in thumb rest. Its most impressive feature is the mouse’s 8,000 DPI track-on glass sensor that provides maximum precision. The scroll wheel can move up to 1,000 lines per second. Battery life is up to 70 days, but a one-minute charge provides up to three hours of use.
Best Laptop Carrier: Tumi Alpha Comact Large Screen Laptop Brief
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Tumi is well-known for making premium, durable, and fashionable luggage. The company’s Compact Large Screen Laptop Brief offers the same quality and durability you’d expect from a Tumi bag. It's designed to keep your laptop and other mobile devices organized and protected during storage and transit. The bag is made from FXT ballistic nylon and comes in black with elegant orange trim.
Like all Tumi bags, this one is jam-packed with pockets and compartments to keep your gear well-organized and protected. The main, padded compartment holds a laptop with up to a 17-inch display. The bag is stylish enough for use within a corporate setting, but durable enough to be taken on the road and handle the rigors of travel.
Best General-Purpose Laptop Sleeve: Waterfield PC Laptop Sleevecase
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If all you need is a well-made, nicely padded sleeve to hold and protect your laptop, you have myriad options. Our current favorite is the Waterfield PC Laptop Sleevecase. It comes in your choice of six sizes and several colors. It’s made from waxed canvas or ballistic nylon. And, of course, the inside is nicely cushioned to offer your laptop a nice level of protection. This sleeve offers a simple, useful, and easy-to-carry design.
Best Mobile Device Charging Station: Anker Power Bank 25K, 165W with Retractable Cables
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There are all sorts of power banks and charging stations on the market, but we chose this one because of its smaller size and versatility. You get a 25,000mAh rechargeable battery built into a device that has integrated and retractable cables. In fact, you can charge up to four devices at once, thanks to the built-in USB-C (100W), USB-C (100W), USB-C (100W), and USB-A (33W) connectivity options.
For example, this Anker Power Bank can recharge a 16” MacBook Pro (M3) of MacBook Air (M3) in 33 minutes, an iPhone 16 in 25 minutes, or a Samsung S24 in 28 minutes. One key feature is the device’s integrated display that showcases battery health and other key information to help you manage the power and track recharge times. The rectangular unit measures 6.18 x 2.12 x 1.93 inches and weighs just 21 ounces. This makes it very portable and convenient to use.
What to Look for in the Best Computers and Tablets
When shopping for a new computer or tablet, you want to consider size, brightness, and resolution of the display. Here's the criteria we nitpick.
Resolution
Higher resolution makes photos, graphics, and video content appear more vibrant and detailed. A higher-end display also makes text appear sharper and easier to read in a variety of lighting situations.
Storage
You also need to consider how much internal storage the computer or tablet offers. Unless you plan to rely heavily on cloud storage (which requires a continuous internet connection), more local storage will serve you well. For most users, 1TB should be sufficient.
Speed
And with artificial intelligence tools and functionality now being integrated into all the latest computers and tablets, pay attention to the speed and performance of the device’s neural processing unit (NPU), in addition to the capabilities of the CPU (central processing unit) and GPU (graphics processing unit). These three components work together to maximize a device’s performance. The NPU provides extra computing power to handle AI-driven functionality.
AI is evolving quickly and is now being integrated into virtually all commonly used applications—from word processors and email management tools to photo editing and calendar/scheduling applications. Since you’ll likely own your new computer or tablet for at least several years, choose a device that can handle the latest AI technologies, even if you’re not yet using them.
Over the next few years, we’ll be seeing vast improvements and exciting new ways AI is used to help us interact with our computers and tablets. This will impact how the technology is able to anticipate our wants and needs, automatically adapt to our everyday computing habits, plus seamlessly collect and securely share data between apps to boost our productivity and creativity. Thus, you will probably want technology at your disposal that’ll make using AI effortless and secure.
Wi-Fi Capabilities
And if you consider yourself to be a “power user,” another consideration when buying a new computer or tablet is its Wi-Fi capabilities. The latest Wi-Fi protocol is Wi-Fi 7, which provides a significantly faster web surfing experience (compared to Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E) when it’s supported by the internet service provider you’re connecting to.
You also want to consider a laptop or tablet’s device’s battery life. Keep in mind that actual battery life of a mobile device depends on how and where you use it. Thus, when a device boasts a 20-hour battery life per change, for example, you can often expect this to be somewhat less in the real-world.
Needs and Budget
When choosing a computer or tablet, choose a configuration that’ll meet your needs today, and what you anticipate your needs to be in the future. This will help you ultimately get the most life out of the new equipment purchase.
If you’re a “creative,” or someone who needs enhanced computing power, pay attention to our top picks overall for the best desktops, laptops and tablets. Our “best value” picks are most suitable for average users who don’t want to spend top dollar but still want the latest technological tools and features at their disposal. Our picks cover the latest Windows, Apple Mac and Chromebook Plus laptops, as well as the best Android and Apple iPad tablets.
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