Group test: what's the best laptop?

5. Apple MacBook Pro 15in (Late 2011)

• Reviewed on: 21 December 11
• RRP: £1849 inc VAT
• Rating:

Apple didn’t even press release the changes in this gentle speed bump for autumn 2011’s MacBook Pro. But small increases in performance are there to be had, over what was already a spectacularly fast laptop. We’re still holding out for a complete revision to the design, though, to improve on the poor default glass-fronted screen – and maybe even a slimmer, lighter chassis, more in line with the demand for ultraportable mobile computing that Apple itself has helped engender with the MacBook Air.

 

4. Asus Zenbook UX31E

• Reviewed on: 1 March 12
• RRP: £1000 inc VAT
• Rating:

The Asus Zenbook UX31E is impressive. It's an excellent performer, it's attractive and light, and it plays back multimedia well. Unfortunately, its screen is off-colour and its touchpad needs more work.

3. Toshiba Satellite P750-137

• Reviewed on: 7 November 11
• RRP: £999 inc. VAT
• Rating:

The Toshiba Satellite P750-137 is a good all-rounder, handling all types of multimedia content well, though it might not have the kind of performance that dedicated gamers are looking for.

2. Dell XPS 14z

• Reviewed on: 16 March 12
• RRP: £949 inc VAT
• Rating:

Dell's XPS 14z could be accused of looking rather like a MacBook Pro. If this was a deliberate ploy, it’s also a risky one, as few laptops can stand comparison with the MacBook Pro's design, build and feature set and still walk away with their reputations intact. Fortunately, the Dell XPS 14z is one that almost can. In all, there's a lot of laptop on offer here for under £1000, despite our mixed feelings about the display. A fine looking, sturdy and fast laptop with an attractive price tag, we've no hesitation in recommending it.

1. Apple MacBook Air 13in (Mid-2011) 1.8GHz Core i7

• Reviewed on: 2 March 12
• RRP: £1449 inc VAT
• Rating:

The most expensive of the thin and light laptops we've tested recently, the 13in Apple MacBook Air will set you back the best part of a grand and a half. This makes it a sizeable investment, but one you're unlikely to regret – the build quality is phenomenal and the components top-notch.