(Nairobi) – As the laptop market evolves in 2024, there is no shortage of devices that cater to various needs, budgets, and performance requirements. Whether you’re looking for an ultra-powerful workstation or a budget-friendly option for basic tasks, the following laptops stand out for their performance, design, and overall value.
One of the top picks for 2024 is the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition, priced at $1,300. This Copilot+ PC stands out due to its exceptional AI and graphics performance, making it a great choice for those needing both power and efficiency. The laptop also offers impressive battery life, one of the best we’ve seen from Intel-powered devices. However, it does have its downsides: the fan can be quite loud, and the system’s weight might feel heavy for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, its overall performance makes it a solid choice.
If you’re on a tighter budget but still need a reliable machine, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 might be the right fit at just $399. This Chromebook offers a large 15-inch screen and solid battery life, lasting 8.5 hours of continuous video playback. The Acer Chromebook Plus also includes an HDMI 1.4 output jack, which is an upgrade over the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i, making it ideal for users who often give presentations or need to connect to external displays. A slightly smaller version, the Chromebook Plus 514, offers similar features at $380, making it an excellent option for those who want a more compact model.
For users who demand premium performance, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Ultra is a powerful contender, priced at $3,000. This laptop features the latest Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor, paired with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card, offering superior performance and processing power. The 16-inch AMOLED touchscreen display is sharp and vibrant, ideal for professional or creative tasks. However, the high price tag might deter some potential buyers, especially since similar performance can be found in more affordable models.
For those looking for a balance between performance and affordability, the Acer Swift Go 14 at $834 is a strong choice. While not as refined as some more expensive laptops, it still delivers excellent performance, particularly for users on a budget. It offers impressive battery life, lasting up to 15 hours, though the speakers are underwhelming, and the build feels a bit plasticky. This model is one of the least expensive Intel Core Ultra laptops available, making it a worthwhile option for budget-conscious buyers.
Another great value option is the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x Copilot+ PC, priced at $1,200. Though it may not have the flair of some other models, it delivers the best price-to-performance ratio among Copilot+ PCs. With solid battery life and consistent performance, it remains a great choice for those looking for a reliable, no-nonsense laptop.
Finally, the Microsoft Surface Laptop (7th Edition, 2024) at $1,600 offers a smooth user experience with a 120-Hz display and solid performance. While it’s a bit pricey for its features, the Surface Laptop remains a dependable choice for users who want a high-quality Windows experience, especially if you’re already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.
