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The best MacBooks to buy for all budgets and needs
Choosing an Apple laptop doesn’t have to be confusing
Apple’s MacBook laptops are a common sight in coffee shops, offices and classrooms – and for good reason. MacBooks combine extreme speed, intense power and long-lasting battery in a sleek design.
These machines are built to high standards and can reliably serve you for seven to 10 years, if not more! Of course, you’ll pay a premium for a MacBook compared to many Windows laptops, but their durability, polished software and excellent user experience make them worth the investment.
Choosing the right MacBook isn’t always straightforward, though. Apple’s lineup includes the latest models with M-series chips, and while the performance is better than ever, the product names and options can get a little confusing. That’s where we come in – we’ve pulled together a list of all the best options to buy right now.
Best MacBooks
To compile this list of the best MacBooks, we’ve tested and researched the range to identify the best picks for different needs. Whether you want a portable laptop for travel, a powerful workstation for creative work, or simply the best value for your money, there’s an option for you. Read on for our expert recommendations, plus tips on what to look for when buying.
Pros
- Thin and lightweight design (just 1.24kg)
- Fast M4 chip performance
- Excellent 18-hour battery life
- Responsive keyboard and large trackpad
Cons
- Limited selection of ports
- Not designed for heavy 4K video editing
Who it’s for: The 13-inch Air is ideal for most people, whether you’re a student or professional. It’s a dependable laptop for web browsing, managing documents, streaming videos, creative work and a lot more. There isn’t a lot that sets it apart from the pricier models, and it’s brilliant if you’re prioritising portability and a long battery life.
Why we like it: This laptop is the sweet spot of the MacBook range because it’s slim, lightweight and fanless, and it shouldn't get too hot during typical use. In our testing, there was nothing we could throw at the M4 chip that it couldn’t handle – you can have dozens of browser tabs open and edit high-resolution photos with ease. Its display is bright, it’s great to type on, and it has a big trackpad. You’ll also easily get all-day battery life from this computer.
Take note: The main limitation is a lack of ports. You get two USB-C slots and a headphone jack on the Air, along with a MagSafe port for charging. The addition of MagSafe does mean the extra ports are free for USB-C accessories, but if you need to connect several things, you’ll need a USB-C hub. Also, while the M4 chip is highly powerful, those with demanding workloads will find a MacBook Pro laptop is the most capable pick.
Read our Apple MacBook Air M4 review
Key specifications
| Processor and storage | Apple M4 chip; 256GB or 512GB (configurable to up to 2TB) |
|---|---|
| Ports | USB-C x2, 3.5mm headphone jack, MagSafe charging |
| Screen size | 13-inch |
| Weight | 1.24kg |
| Colours | Sky Blue, Starlight, Silver, Midnight |
Pros
- Larger 15-inch display is fantastic for multitasking and films
- Same slim, lightweight build – only 1.51kg
- Webcam keeps you in frame on video calls
- Same design and 18-hour battery life as the 13-inch model
Cons
- Higher price than the 13-inch; high-end configurations can reach Pro prices
- Still a limited port selection
- Slightly less portable and won’t fit in smaller bags easily
Who it’s for: Like the sound of the MacBook Air but know you need a larger display? In the past, you’d have needed to make the leap to the Pro models, but nowadays, you can buy the Air with a more expansive 15-inch screen. It’s still thin, light, portable and powerful, just with a bit more space for bigger videos or detailed photo editing.
Why we like it: Apple didn’t overcomplicate things here. It just took everything we like about the 13-inch Air and put it into a larger body. The extra screen space will feel beneficial if you like to watch films on your laptop or need more room for editing documents. It’s otherwise just as good as the smaller laptop, with the same battery, the same fast M4 chip, the same excellent camera with Centre Stage, which keeps you in frame during video calls. And, at 1.51kg, it’s still lighter than most 15-inch laptops out there.
Take note: This will cost you a bit more than the entry-level option, especially if you start to add extra storage or memory. When you do, the cost could reach MacBook Pro territory, so we think it’s worth being aware of how this can add up. Just like the 13-inch model, it’s not one for loads of ports and connectivity, and it has the same performance limits and lack of dedicated cooling system that make it a little less appropriate for the heaviest professional work.
Key specifications
| Processor and storage | Apple M4 chip; 256GB or 512GB (configurable to up to 2TB) |
|---|---|
| Ports | USB-C x2, 3.5mm headphone jack, MagSafe charging |
| Screen size | 15-inch |
| Weight | 1.51kg |
| Colours | Sky Blue, Starlight, Silver, Midnight |
Pros
- Powerful M4 chip handles intensive tasks with ease
- Brilliant high-resolution display
- More ports than the Air
- Sturdy build quality with an upgraded speaker system
Cons
- Higher cost is a significant jump in price from the MacBook Air
- Heavier and thicker than the Air
- Overkill for casual computing
Who it’s for: The MacBook Pro models are just for professionals or advanced users. They deliver a lot of serious computing power that makes them designed for photographers, videographers, content creators, music producers, designers and developers. You’ll know if you work with the kind of demanding applications that require a computer this high-end.
Why we like it: We’d struggle to find workloads that would challenge a MacBook Air, so of course there’s nothing we could test the Pro with that would actually slow it down. It’s going to speed through large batch photo edits, 3D rendering, multi-layered Photoshop projects and more. We love the mini LED display for detail and colour accuracy, and if you manage to push it to its peak performance, it has a proper cooling system with fans to keep it running at speed for a long time. You’re also getting versatile connectivity with extra ports, better speakers and tremendous battery life.
Take note: Unsurprisingly, it’s a lot more expensive than the Air, so it’s only worth investing in if you’re going to take advantage of its sheer power. We’re inclined to say that any MacBook with an M1 chip or newer is going to deliver far more speed than most average users need anymore. This Pro is for “pro-level” work, so it will probably feel like overkill for the majority of users.
Read our Apple MacBook Pro M4 review
Key specifications
| Processor and storage | Apple M4 chip; 512GB or 1TB (configurable to up to 8TB) |
|---|---|
| Ports | USB-C x3, HDMI x1, SD card slot, 3.5mm headphone jack, MagSafe charging |
| Screen size | 14-inch |
| Weight | 1.55kg |
| Colours | Space Black, Silver |
Apple MacBook Pro M4 Pro (16‑inch, 2024)
Pros
- Expansive “Liquid Retina XDR” display is ideal for multitasking and creative work
- The M4 Pro chip delivers workstation-level performance
- Capable of up to 24 hours of battery life
- Excellent for content creators
Cons
- Large and heavy – it’s about 2.14kg, which isn’t easy to carry all day
- Very expensive, especially with upgraded configurations
- Completely unnecessary if you only need a laptop for everyday tasks
Who it’s for: Just like the 14-inch MacBook Pro, this is a computer designed for pros, designers, engineers and power users who would otherwise use a desktop machine. It’s for those who edit lengthy videos, work in animation or develop software. Its main perks over the other Pro are not only its larger screen, but its super-long battery life and even more powerful “M4 Pro” chip.
Why we like it: This is just about the most capable Apple laptop you can buy, and it can be configured to be even more powerful (with the M4 Max chip) if the base options somehow don’t meet your needs. It has a large and stunning display that’s great for creators working with 4K videos, photographers doing complex edits, and those needing to multitask and see all their content at once. This is a laptop with incredible battery life, too, as well as its extensive port selection, robust sound system and spacious keyboard.
Take note: Unfortunately, if you want this laptop, you’ll have to accept that it’s big and heavy compared to many other options. It weighs in at 2.14kg, which is not a trivial amount to carry around. If you need to carry this on your commute, or you often travel, you’ll feel that weight in your bag, and it will be a tight fit on tables, especially on airlines. Once again, casual users will find that this is complete overkill for most computing, and most professionals should find the 14-inch Pro sufficient for all their work, unless they need the bigger screen or longer battery life.
Key specifications
| Processor and storage | Apple M4 chip; 512GB or 1TB (configurable to up to 8TB) |
|---|---|
| Ports | USB-C x3, HDMI x1, SD card slot, 3.5mm headphone jack, MagSafe charging |
| Screen size | 16-inch |
| Weight | 2.14kg |
| Colours | Space Black, Silver |
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Still delivers fast performance
- Up to 18 hours of battery life
- Thin and lightweight design
Cons
- Sub-par webcam compared to the newer models
- Limited to two USB-C ports and no MagSafe charging
- The base model is not a good choice for heavy multitasking
Who it’s for: If you’re a buyer on a budget, you’ll be happy to know that it’s not impossible to get an Apple laptop at a lower price. You will have to pick a refurbished MacBook, but there really aren’t as many compromises as you’d expect, especially if you go with a trusted seller and check that there’s a warranty. We use the M1 MacBook Air for our work every single day, and there’s no office task that it struggles to complete. This is also an attractive option for anyone wanting to switch from Windows to macOS without spending a fortune.
Why we like it: It may have been released in 2020, but the first generation of Apple’s M-series chips is so good that it still compares well to the best of today’s laptops. It’s fast and can handle loads of browser tabs and tasks at once. It’s also highly efficient and has a battery life that lasts a full day of typical use. Like the latest MacBook Air models, it's silent and fanless, and still supported with all the latest macOS updates. Not only that, but it will continue to be for years, as Apple tends to deliver extended support (at least seven years) for its MacBook laptops.
Take note: It is an older model, so you should be prepared to make a couple of compromises. The newer Air models have a different design with slimmer edges around the screen, and much-improved HD webcams. The call quality on this one won’t be quite as crisp, although without comparing them side-by-side, you may also not see the difference. Of course, the M1 chip also isn’t quite as powerful as Apple’s newer processors, but you probably won’t notice this with everyday tasks. It’s still fantastic value, and you can buy it refurbished from Apple and from several reputable sellers.
Key specifications
| Processor and storage | Apple M1 chip; 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB |
|---|---|
| Ports | USB-C x2, 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Screen size | 13-inch |
| Weight | 1.3kg |
| Colours | Space Grey, Silver, or Gold |
How we chose the best MacBooks
We’ve tested several of the latest and best MacBook models hands-on, and this list is a combination of both our testing and in-depth research about the MacBook range.
When we assess the qualities of a MacBook, we look at its performance, heat levels, display quality, speakers, battery and efficiency.
We focus on real-world use, and consider the selection of ports, weight and typical computing tasks, such as sending emails, juggling loads of different tabs on web browsers, streaming videos on Netflix and YouTube and photo editing.
Why you should trust Good Housekeeping
At Good Housekeeping, we’ve been testing products independently for over 100 years, so we know what to consider when it comes to the best laptops, whether it’s a budget-friendly Chromebook or a high-powered computer.
This guide was written by Good Housekeeping UK’s Technology Editor, Simon Cocks, who has been hands-on with the latest MacBook models to see how they stack up to older versions.
Other products to consider
If you’re in the Apple ecosystem (or thinking of joining it) and either want a device that complements your MacBook to serve as an alternative for casual use or that entirely replaces your laptop, we think that one of the best iPads is a great option.
If you only need a tablet for reading, streaming, and casual use – go with the entry-level iPad (11th gen). But, if you want extra versatility and near-laptop performance in a tablet, the iPad Air M3 is our top pick – the 11-inch is best for portability or the 13-inch is ideal as a bigger canvas.
And if you’re a professional who will use the tablet for creative work and demanding tasks, the iPad Pro M4 is an unmatched pick for power and screen quality.
How to buy the best MacBook
There are a lot of specifications to consider when buying any computer, although they’re not all going to be relevant for every single user. Below, we’ve explained the key ones we’d keep in mind when shopping around.
Processor and RAM
The processor, or chip, is the “brain” of the laptop, and all the MacBook models we recommend feature an M-series chip – this is the range of Apple-designed chips that the company introduced in 2020.
The newer chips will be faster, and if you go for an option with more RAM (measured in gigabytes, or GB) you’ll find you can do more at once without the laptop slowing down or overheating. The starting point of 16GB of RAM will be enough for all the multitasking that most of us do, though.
It is important to say that even the base M4 chip is incredibly speedy and efficient – it’ll handle everything from emails, essays and Netflix through to photo and video editing and coding. You’d only need to step up to M4 Pro or Max for huge projects or heavy workloads.
Storage
Also measured in GB or TB (terabytes), the storage on your laptop is all the space you have to keep apps, photos and videos on your device. Once it’s full, you’ll have to delete items or keep them only in “cloud” storage, so it’s important to get the right size up front.
A lot of us use cloud storage for our photos and files, so 256GB may end up being enough space if you don’t need to download a lot on your MacBook. Get 512GB if you don’t want to run out of space, and only upgrade to 1TB or more if you’re a content creator or want a huge photo or video library to be available on your machine at all times.
Ports and connectivity
These are your plug-in points for your charger, monitor, wired headphones and any other external accessories.
MacBooks don’t tend to have quite as many ports as some of the other laptops out there, so you’ll find that you only have a charging port, two USB-C slots and a headphone jack on a MacBook Air.
Need to get files from an SD card or USB thumb drive? You’ll likely need a small USB-C hub. The same is true if you need to connect over HDMI to a monitor or TV. The Pro models have extra ports, though, so you’re less likely to need an additional dongle.
Size and weight
Some of us will find a bigger screen easier to work on, although a compact 13-inch display tends to be more than enough, and it will be easier to carry. If you’re often connecting your laptop to a monitor, its screen size is going to matter less, and you could pick the smaller size to travel lighter.
The difference between the 1.24kg of an Air and the 1.55-2.14kg of a Pro model might not sound like much, but if you’re carrying it in a laptop backpack, you’ll feel that weight as you walk around.
Frequently asked questions
MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: which one should I choose?
We could go in-depth with this answer, but the truth is that most people should pick a MacBook Air. It has far more power than the majority of us need.
Whether you get the Air with the M1, M2 or M4 chip, it’s going to be thinner, lighter and more affordable than a Pro while delivering loads of speed for web browsing, emails, productivity, streaming, schoolwork and more.
Professionals, power users or content creators who know they’ll need the upgrades of the MacBook Pro – the better screen, extra ports, more power for intensive tasks – will potentially see the benefits of the heavier and more expensive models.
Is it safe to buy a refurbished MacBook?
Yes, it’s safe to buy a refurbished MacBook, and it can be a great way to save money. We recommend looking at Apple’s own refurbished store, along with reliable refurbished marketplaces like Back Market, Amazon Renewed and Music Magpie. Make sure you pick models with a warranty and a good returns policy.
That’s why going through the official Apple store is a safe bet – every refurbished Mac that Apple sells comes with a one-year Apple warranty (that you can extend) and has been fully tested, thoroughly cleaned, and restored to a like-new condition.
How long do MacBooks typically last?
While a current MacBook will come with a higher upfront cost than some of the best budget laptops out there, these computers have a well-earned reputation for longevity. We can quite confidently say you can expect a MacBook to remain in working condition for at least five to seven years.
We’ve had an M1 MacBook Air since 2020, and it’s still going strong, so we think it’s realistic to say it could last even longer – probably eight to 10 years or more! The hardware is reliable, Apple supports its devices with software updates for a long time, and it’s possible to get a battery replacement, should you need one.
Any of these laptops is a long-term investment, and you can always protect your MacBook with a laptop sleeve if you want it to be a little bit more protected.
Verdict: Which MacBook should you buy?
For most users, the MacBook Air M4 (13-inch) is our top recommendation. It has just the right combination of speed, portability, and value. Want a bigger screen? Get the MacBook Air M4 (15-inch) instead.
You should only consider the Pro models if you're actually a professional or a power user. If you are, look to the MacBook Pro M4 models: the 14-inch MacBook Pro M4 delivers all the pro-level performance that content creators will need.
Lastly, if you’re on a tight budget, don’t overlook refurbished models. The MacBook Air M1 (from 2020) is still worth it. When bought refurbished, it’s an absolute steal. We work on this every single day, and can confirm it's seriously fast and reliable.
Simon Cocks is Good Housekeeping UK’s Technology Editor, overseeing tech shopping content and strategy for the title. He previously also worked across other titles including Esquire UK, Digital Spy, Men’s Health UK and Women’s Health UK.
Simon specialises in testing the latest smart gadgets, home entertainment gear, headphones, speakers, portable chargers, radios, e-book readers and smartphones. He's reviewed top tech products from brands including Google, Apple, Amazon, JBL and Bose.
A magazine journalism graduate from Kingston University in 2014, Simon also worked on the Discovery and Silkroad inflight magazines. He then gained experience writing about entertainment at SFX and Total Film. He also contributed reviews and interviews to TwitchFilm (later ScreenAnarchy), CultBox and Frame Rated.
He joined Good Housekeeping UK as the Editorial Assistant for Special Projects and was part of Good Housekeeping’s Consumer Affairs Team between 2014 and 2019. In this role, he conducted price comparison research, wrote detailed household and money-saving advice guides and edited thousands of in-depth reviews for the Good Housekeeping Institute.
He has focused on technology and gadgets since 2020, where he started by testing out power banks and instant cameras. He writes reviews, roundups, news articles and deals updates, and also covers top tech deals during sales like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
When not testing out the latest gizmos, you’ll find Simon either catching up with the newest releases at his local cinema or out shooting with his beloved compact camera.
You can follow Simon on Instagram, on Bluesky, on LinkedIn and on Threads.
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