Best Laptops of 2018: Top 3 Picks for Performance and Portability

In 2018, consumers demanded laptops that combine portability, speed, and sleek design while remaining affordable. Navigating the vast array of options can be challenging, often forcing compromises on features. To simplify your choice, here are three of the best laptops of 2018 that balance performance with budget considerations.

Huawei MateBook X Pro – Starting at $1200

This model features an 8th gen Intel Core processor paired with an Nvidia GeForce MX150 graphics card.

The device offers a stunning 3K LTPS display with 3000 x 2000 resolution, 260 PPI, 100% sRGB color coverage, 450 nits peak brightness, and a 1500:1 contrast ratio. Its 91% screen-to-body ratio, 10-point touchscreen, ultra-thin Gorilla Glass, and anti-fingerprint coating combine style with durability, making the Huawei MateBook X Pro both elegant and powerful.

Dell XPS 13
Dominating the 2018 laptop scene for a long time, the Dell XPS 13 was known for its premium build and performance until the Huawei MateBook X Pro arrived. Equipped with an 8th gen Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, it starts at around $939.99, especially accessible through student discounts.

It features an 8th Gen Intel Core i5-8250U processor (6M cache, up to 3.4 GHz), Windows 10 Pro, 8GB LPDDR3 RAM at 1866MHz, a 13.3” FHD InfinityEdge display, and Intel UHD Graphics 620 with shared memory.

Acer Swift 3 Ryzen – Priced at $899.99
This updated Ryzen-powered version of the Acer Swift 3 stands out for offering excellent value for money. With solid performance and affordability, it’s a top choice for budget-conscious users. While it may not match premium systems in specs, it performs reliably for everyday tasks. It includes Windows 10 Home, an AMD Ryzen 7 2700U quad-core processor at 2.20 GHz, a 15.6” Full HD IPS display, AMD Radeon Vega 10 graphics, 8GB DDR4 RAM, a 512GB SSD, and a 30-day Microsoft Office trial.

When selecting the best laptops of 2018, remember that the most powerful isn’t always necessary. Mid-range and lower-tier systems often fulfill user needs without sacrificing performance.