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What’s the Best Lightweight Laptop? 10 Expert Picks & Buying Tips (2024 March)

What’s the Best Lightweight Laptop? 10 Expert Picks & Buying Tips (2024 March)

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Fed up with lugging around a heavy laptop in your backpack? I’ve struggled with the same– which led me to explore many lightweight and portable travel laptops. In this post, I’m going to share my experience with the most powerful and fastest laptops that don’t weigh you down. 

From graphic designers to video editors, photo editors, animators, and more, the laptops that I have hand-picked in this post can cater to a variety of creative professionals who often find themselves working on the move. So, let’s dive right in!

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Quick List: Best Lightweight Laptops 2024

Here’s the list of the best lightweight laptops in 2024:

  1. SAMSUNG 15.6” Galaxy Book3 Laptop — Best Overall (Editor’s Choice)
  2. Apple 2023 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 chip — Best for Graphic Design
  3. Acer Swift 5 Intel Evo Thin & Light Laptop — Best for Photo Editing
  4. LG gram SuperSlim — Best for Animators
  5. 2023 ThinkPad L13 Yoga Spin 2-in-1 — Best Touchscreen Laptop for Artists
  6. ASUS Vivobook 15 OLED Laptop — Best for Writers
  7. MSI Prestige 13 EVO Laptop — Best for Motion Graphics 
  8. HP 15 Laptop — Best Budget Laptop
  9. Dell Latitude 7000 7320 Notebook — Best Value Laptop
  10. ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED Ultra Laptop — Best Laptop for Coding

Which is the Best Lightweight Laptop?

I’ve found the Samsung Galaxy Book3 to be the best lightweight laptop for creative professionals. It’s powerful, and has a stunning display and generous capacity– all packed in a portable and lightweight package.

Best Overall
SAMSUNG 15.6” Galaxy Book3
5.0
$999.99 $736.88

The Samsung Galaxy Book3 is the best lightweight laptop for creatives, boasting a powerful processor, ample RAM, and fast SSD storage. Its vibrant display and high-quality webcam enhance productivity.

Pros:
  • Powerful processor and fast SSD storage
  • Vibrant display and high-quality webcam
  • Lightweight and portable design
Cons:
  • Plasticky build raises durability concerns
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02/18/2024 03:03 pm GMT

My Top 3 Picks

Best Overall
Best Value Laptop
Best Budget Laptop
Primary Rating:
5.0
Primary Rating:
4.6
Primary Rating:
4.9
$999.99$736.88
$900.00
$479.99$329.00
Weight:
3.46 pounds
Weight:
2.47 pounds
Weight:
3.75 pound
Storage:
512GB
Storage:
512 GB SSD
Storage:
256 GB
Graphic Card :
Intel® Iris® Xe Graphics
Graphic Card :
Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Graphic Card :
Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics
Processor:
13th Gen Intel Core i7-1355U
Processor:
Intel Core i7 11th Gen i7-1180G7
Processor:
AMD Ryzen 3 5300U (3.8 GHz)
Screen Size:
15.6 Inches
Screen Size:
13.3 Inches
Screen Size:
15.6 inches
Pros:
  • Vibrant display
  • Lightweight and portable design
  • Powerful processor and fast SSD storage
Pros:
  • Sufficient space for large files
  • Seamless multitasking
  • Quality Build
Pros:
  • Efficient Performance
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Fast access to files and software
Best Overall
Primary Rating:
5.0
$999.99$736.88
Weight:
3.46 pounds
Storage:
512GB
Graphic Card :
Intel® Iris® Xe Graphics
Processor:
13th Gen Intel Core i7-1355U
Screen Size:
15.6 Inches
Pros:
  • Vibrant display
  • Lightweight and portable design
  • Powerful processor and fast SSD storage
Best Value Laptop
Primary Rating:
4.6
$900.00
Weight:
2.47 pounds
Storage:
512 GB SSD
Graphic Card :
Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Processor:
Intel Core i7 11th Gen i7-1180G7
Screen Size:
13.3 Inches
Pros:
  • Sufficient space for large files
  • Seamless multitasking
  • Quality Build
Best Budget Laptop
Primary Rating:
4.9
$479.99$329.00
Weight:
3.75 pound
Storage:
256 GB
Graphic Card :
Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics
Processor:
AMD Ryzen 3 5300U (3.8 GHz)
Screen Size:
15.6 inches
Pros:
  • Efficient Performance
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Fast access to files and software
02/18/2024 03:03 pm GMT

 

Detailed Review of the Best Lightweight Laptops

  1. SAMSUNG 15.6” Galaxy Book3 Laptop — Best Overall (Editor’s Choice)

SAMSUNG Galaxy Book3 Laptop Computer (2023)
SAMSUNG Galaxy Book3 Laptop. Image Credits: Amazon

Overall Best Lightest Laptop

Weight: 3.46 pounds | Storage: 512GB  | GPU: Intel® Iris® Xe Graphics | Processor: 13th Gen Intel Core i7-1355U Processor | Screen Size: 15.6 Inches
The Samsung Galaxy Book3 has been my go-to lightweight laptop for many design projects. Its unique combination of high-end specifications and user-friendly design is what makes it the best lightweight laptop for creative professionals according to me.


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The Samsung Galaxy Book3 with its 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, seemed to check all the right boxes. My experience with it, ranging from high-resolution video editing to juggling multiple design applications, was impressively smooth, a testament to its powerful processor and ample memory.

The speed at which the 512GB SSD accessed and saved large project files was outstanding, cutting down on the lengthy wait times I’ve often faced with other laptops. 

The visual experience, courtesy of its 15.6-inch Full HD display and Intel® Iris® Xe Graphics, was vibrant and crisp, suitable for a wide range of design tasks. While it may not reach the pinnacle of color accuracy required by some professionals, it was more than sufficient for the majority of my work, with the option of connecting to an external monitor for more color-critical tasks.

The clarity and fidelity of the HD 720p webcam significantly elevated the quality of my online interactions. Paired with the Dolby Atmos speakers and a high-quality microphone, it ensured that my communications were not just heard but also felt professional.

Admittedly, the Galaxy Book3 is not without its shortcomings. Initially, I was skeptical about the plasticky feel of its build, questioning its durability. However, over time, this concern proved to be unfounded as the laptop withstood regular use quite well. Als, the design, while simplistic, may not appeal to everyone.

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In summary, the Samsung Galaxy Book3 emerged as a highly reliable tool. Its combination of robust processing power, fast storage, and practical features like the high-quality webcam aligns perfectly with the dynamic requirements of creative work. 

“The Samsung Galaxy Book 3 is a well-built, slim and lightweight notebook that performs excellently. “[Luke Baker, pocket-lint]

PROS CONS 
➕ High-performance Intel Core i7 processor. ➖ Display might not meet the highest standards for color work.
➕ Lightweight and portable design. ➖ The build quality could feel less premium.
➕ Excellent integration with other Galaxy devices. ➖ Some might find the aesthetics too simplistic.
➕  Adequate storage and RAM for multitasking.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Overall
SAMSUNG 15.6” Galaxy Book3 Laptop
$999.99 $736.88
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02/18/2024 03:03 pm GMT

2. Apple 2023 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 chip — Lightweight Laptop for Graphic Design

2023 Macbook Air
2023 Macbook Air. Image Credits: Amazon

Lightweight Powerful Laptop

Weight: 3.3 pounds (1.51 kg) | Storage: 256GB SSD | GPU: Apple 10-core GPU | Processor: Apple M2 chip, 8-core | Screen Size: 15.3-inch Liquid Retina Display

The Apple 2023 MacBook Air with the M2 chip represents what most graphic designers, including myself, seek in a laptop: a perfect blend of power, display quality, and portability. Its lightweight design, combined with the power of the M2 chip, makes it an excellent option for designers who often work on the go.

The heart of the MacBook Air, the M2 chip, is packed with power. The fluidity with which it handles graphic-intensive tasks is remarkable. I have used it for everything from basic logo design to complex multi-layered image editing in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. The laptop’s performance remained consistently smooth, without any hiccups or slowdowns.

But the real star feature is the 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display. The vibrancy and accuracy of colors on this screen are simply stunning. When working on color-critical projects, the display’s ability to represent colors truly and vividly has been invaluable. 

Whether adjusting minute color gradients or ensuring print-ready quality, the display never let me down. Furthermore, the 500 nits brightness makes it comfortable to work in various lighting conditions, a frequent scenario for me as I often switch workspaces.

In terms of portability, the MacBook Air excels. Weighing just 3.3 pounds, it’s been my go to laptop. The battery life is impressive too, often lasting through long work sessions without needing a charge, which is a significant relief when working on the go.

However, it’s not without its shortcomings. The notch at the top of the display, while a minor issue, did take some getting used to. Furthermore, the bezels, while not overly thick, could have been slimmer for a more edge-to-edge display experience, adding to the aesthetic and immersive feel of the device.

All in all, the Apple 2023 MacBook Air with the M2 chip has proven to be a highly competent laptop for graphic design. Its blend of high-end performance, stunning display quality, and portability aligns perfectly with the demands of modern graphic design.

“Apple’s most popular laptop gets its largest display yet, making it ideal for students or creatives that don’t want to be bogged down with a bulky MacBook Pro.”[Lloyd Coombes, space]

PROS CONS 
➕ Powerful M2 chip for smooth performance. ➖ The notch may be distracting for some users.
➕ Stunning 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display with P3 wide color. ➖ Bezels could be slimmer for a more modern look.
➕ Ultra-portable and lightweight design.
➕ Impressive battery life for extended work sessions.
➕ Integrated with macOS, offering a seamless experience with other Apple devices.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best for Graphic Design
Apple 2023 15.3-Inch MacBook Air
$1,299.00 $1,106.40
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03/04/2024 10:26 pm GMT

 

3. Acer Swift 5 Intel Evo Thin & Light Laptop  — Lightweight Laptop for Photo Editing

Acer Swift 5 Intel Evo
Acer Swift 5 Intel Evo. Image Credits: Amazon


Best Lightest Laptop for Photo Editing

Weight: 2.65 pounds | Storage: 1TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD | GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | Processor: 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P | Screen Size: 14 inches (2560 x 1600 pixels)
When it comes to creative tasks like photo editing, you need a laptop that can handle the rigors of high-resolution image editing while being portable enough for on-the-go work. This is why the next on my list is the Acer Swift 5 Intel Evo Thin & Light Laptop, which elegantly addresses all major concerns for photo editors: the need for a powerful, color-accurate, and lightweight machine.

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From the moment I started using the Acer Swift 5, its 12th Gen Intel i7-1260P processor impressed me with its capability to handle complex editing tasks. Working on large RAW files and navigating through intensive Photoshop sessions was a breeze, thanks to the robust processing power and the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics.

The 14-inch WQXGA IPS touch display, boasting a 100% sRGB color gamut, was another aspect that stood out. The accuracy and vibrancy of colors on this display made it an ideal tool for fine-tuning the hues and tones in my photographs. Additionally, the display’s 425-nit brightness made it adaptable to various lighting environments, a handy feature for someone like me who frequently works in different settings.

Portability is where the Acer Swift 5 truly shines for photo editors. Weighing just 2.65 lbs, it was effortless to carry around, making it a constant companion to client meetings and outdoor shoots. This mobility, coupled with its impressive battery life, meant I could work for extended periods without worrying about finding a power outlet.

However, I noticed some limitations during my use. The screen glare was occasionally problematic, especially when working in brightly lit environments. This sometimes necessitated finding a shaded area or adjusting the screen angle for optimal visibility. Additionally, the keyboard felt a bit slippery, which took some time to get used to.  

To Conclude, the Acer Swift 5 proved to be an invaluable asset in photo editing work. Its combination of processing power, excellent display, and lightweight design address the primary challenges faced by photo editors.

PROS CONS 
➕ Powerful Intel i7-1260P processor and Iris Xe Graphics. ➖ Noticeable screen glare in bright conditions.
➕ 14-inch WQXGA IPS display with 100% sRGB. ➖ Keyboard may feel slippery to some users.
➕ Lightweight at 2.65 lbs.
➕ 1TB Gen 4 SSD for ample storage.
➕ Good port selection including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI.

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

4. LG gram SuperSlim — Lightweight Laptop for Animations

LG gram SuperSlim
LG gram SuperSlim Image Credits: Amazon

Best Slim Laptop for Animation

Weight: 2.18 pounds | Storage: 1TB SSD | GPU: Intel Iris Xe graphics | Processor: Intel 13th Gen Core i7 | Screen Size: 15.6” FHD (1920 x 1080) Anti-Glare OLED Display

Another lightweight laptop I loved using is the LG gram SuperSlim for its unique combination of a powerful 13th Gen Intel Core i7 Evo Platform processor, high-speed 6000 MHz LPDDR5 RAM, and a lightweight design. This laptop particularly stands out for animators who require both processing power for rendering and a portable device for dynamic work environments.

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The laptop’s core strengths lie in its 13th Gen Intel Core i7 Evo Platform processor and Intel Iris Xe graphics, which together deliver the robust performance needed for animation software. This combination ensures that whether I’m working on 2D vector-based animations or delving into more complex 3D rendering, the LG gram SuperSlim handles these tasks with remarkable ease.

Its 15.6” FHD Anti-Glare OLED display is another highlight, offering a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut. Although the screen isn’t the sharpest compared to some higher-end models, the vivid colors and deep blacks it produces are more than adequate for most animation work. Additionally, the anti-glare coating on the screen is a subtle but significant feature that reduces eye strain during long work sessions.

The laptop’s 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD provide ample space and speed for storing large animation files and running multiple applications simultaneously. This high-speed memory is particularly noticeable when scrubbing through timelines or loading resource-intensive scenes, where any lag can disrupt the creative flow.

Portability is another area where the LG gram SuperSlim excels. Its lightweight design, being as thin as a AAA battery, allows for easy transportation, making it a constant companion whether I’m working in the studio or presenting to clients on site. The laptop’s military-grade durability also provides peace of mind, especially when traveling or working in varied environments.

However, the laptop does have a couple of drawbacks. The screen’s resolution, while sufficient, doesn’t offer the ultra-sharp detail that some high-end laptops do, which might be a concern for highly detailed frame-by-frame work. Also, the keyboard’s shallow feel requires a bit of adjustment, especially for animators accustomed to a more tactile typing experience.

Overall, the LG gram SuperSlim stands out as a robust and reliable laptop for animation work. Its combination of processing power, excellent display quality, and lightweight form factor aligns well with the demands of modern animation workflows.

PROS CONS 
➕ Powerful Intel Core i7 processor and Iris Xe Graphics. ➖ Screen resolution may not be the sharpest available.
➕ High-quality FHD OLED display with 100% DCI-P3 color gamut. ➖ Shallow keyboard design might require an adjustment for some users.
➕ Lightweight and ultra-thin design, enhancing portability. ➖ 
➕ Ample memory and storage with 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD.
➕ Diverse port selection, including Thunderbolt 4 support.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best For Animators
LG gram SuperSlim Laptop
$1,799.99 $1,156.99
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02/19/2024 11:01 am GMT

 

5. 2023 ThinkPad L13 Yoga Spin 2-in-1 — Lightweight Touchscreen Laptop for Artists

ThinkPad L13 Yoga Spin
ThinkPad L13 Yoga Spin. Image Credits: Amazon

Lightest Touch Screen Laptop

Weight: 3.17 pounds | Storage: 1TB SSD | GPU: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics | Processor: Intel Core i7-1165G7 | Size: 13.3 Inches (FHD Touchscreen)

The ThinkPad L13 Yoga impressed me not just with its lightweight profile and performance but also its versatile 2-in-1 design– all combined with a responsive touchscreen. This makes it an especially excellent option for digital artists and illustrators.

The heart of this device is the Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor, which, with its 4-core capability and speeds ranging from 2.8 GHz to 4.7 GHz, effortlessly handles the demands of various art applications. This processing power, combined with the Intel Iris Xe Graphics, ensures that whether I’m involved in intricate digital painting or editing high-resolution images, the performance remains smooth and reliable.

The laptop’s 16GB DDR4 SDRAM and 1TB eMMC storage have been pivotal in my work. The ample memory allows for seamless multitasking across multiple demanding programs. Meanwhile, the extensive storage capacity means I never have to worry about running out of space for my large project files, and accessing these files is quick and efficient.

The 13.3-inch FHD touchscreen has been a boon for direct interaction with my work, offering a clear and vibrant display that brings my digital creations to life. Its resolution of 1920 x 1080 ensures that every detail of my artwork is crisp and well-defined, while the touch sensitivity is perfectly calibrated for the stylus pen, making digital sketching and painting a more intuitive experience.

Connectivity is another area where the ThinkPad L13 Yoga excels. The variety of ports, including USB 3.2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Type-A, HDMI 2.0, and Thunderbolt 4, has offered me the flexibility needed in my workflow. Reliable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity ensure seamless syncing of my work across devices and easy access to online resources.

To wrap up, the ThinkPad L13 Yoga stands out as a highly effective device for digital artists. Balancing robust technical capabilities with a user-friendly touchscreen interface and a lightweight build, it adeptly caters to the diverse requirements of digital artistry. 

PROS CONS 
➕ Powerful Intel i7 processor and Iris Xe Graphics. ➖ Chassis flexibility could raise durability concerns.
➕ Responsive 13.3-inch FHD touchscreen. ➖ No built-in SD/microSD card reader.
➕ Ample 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD for storage and multitasking. ➖ RAM is soldered, not upgradable.
➕ Lightweight and flexible 2-in-1 design.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Touchscreen Laptop for Artists
2023 ThinkPad L13 Yoga
$749.99
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02/19/2024 10:44 am GMT

 

6. ASUS Vivobook 15 OLED Laptop — Lightweight Laptop for Writers

Asus Vivobook 15
Image credits: Amazon

Lightest 15.6 Laptop

Weight: 1 pound | Storage: 512 GB SSD | GPU: AMD Radeon Graphics (Integrated) | Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 7530U Mobile Processor  | Screen Size: 15.6 inches, FHD OLED display (1920 x 1080 pixels)

This one is for the writers who often find themselves on the move and don’t prefer writing on tablets. Weighing just 3.75lb, the ASUS Vivobook 15 OLED blends functionality and comfort in a laptop like nothing else.

This laptop, featuring a 15.6” FHD OLED display, has been a blessing for my eyes, especially during extended periods of writing. The display’s 600 nits HDR peak brightness and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut offered a visually comfortable experience, significantly reducing the eye strain I experienced with other screens.

The heart of the Vivobook 15, an AMD Ryzen 5 7530U Mobile Processor with AMD Radeon Graphics, handled all writing-related software with ease. Whether I was managing large documents in word processors or conducting research with multiple tabs open, the performance was smooth and lag-free.

In addition to that, its generous capacity with 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSD and 8GB DDR4 RAM further enhances the experience. It allowed me quick access to files and seamless multitasking.

In terms of connectivity, the USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C, USB Type-A ports, HDMI 1.4, and Wi-Fi 6E provided the versatility I needed. The multiple ports were particularly useful for connecting external devices, like hard drives and secondary monitors, which are essential in my writing setup.

The 180° lay-flat hinge was a thoughtful feature as it made it easier to collaborate with colleagues or simply change my viewing angle for comfort.

However, its design, while functional, didn’t quite capture the aesthetic appeal that I would appreciate. Secondly, the battery life was a bit of a constraint. It lasted less than seven hours on light productivity, so I often had to plan my writing sessions around the availability of a power source, somewhat limiting my mobility.

Overall, my experience with the ASUS Vivobook 15 OLED was largely positive. Its critical features, such as a comfortable display, robust performance, and ample connectivity, make it well-suited for writing.

PROS CONS 
➕ Lightweight profile makes it perfect for writing on the move ➖ Lacks distinctive aesthetics.
➕ 15.6” FHD OLED, ideal for eye comfort. ➖ Frequent charging needed, affects mobility.
➕ Smooth and lag-free performance.
➕ Abundance of ports for seamless connectivity
➕ 180° hinge allows flexible viewing.


Latest Price on Amazon:

Best For Writers
ASUS Vivobook 15
$699.99 $466.66
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02/19/2024 10:45 am GMT

 

7. MSI Prestige 13 EVO Laptop — Lightweight Laptop for Motion Graphics 

MSI Prestige 13
MSI Prestige 13. Image Credits: Amazon

Lightest 13 Inch Laptop

Weight: 2.18 pounds | Storage: 512 GB NVMe SSD | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Processor: Intel Core i5-1240P (1.2 GHz) | Screen Size: 13.3 Inches

I picked the MSI Prestige 13 EVO for its unique combination of portability, processing power, and display quality. Its 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor immediately stood out. The processor efficiently handled the demanding software I use for motion graphics, such as Adobe After Effects. I particularly appreciated how it sped up the rendering process, a usually time-consuming aspect of motion graphics.

The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics effortlessly managed real-time previews of my animations, maintaining a smooth playback even in complex sequences. This capability was essential for fine-tuning animations and ensuring the visual output was exactly as I envisioned.

The 13.3″ FHD+ display, with its accurate color representation, was a delight. The 100% sRGB color gamut meant that the colors in my animations were vivid and true to life, an essential factor in creating visually compelling content. The 16:10 aspect ratio also provided additional vertical space, making it easier to navigate through layers and timelines.

In terms of memory and storage, the 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB NVMe SSD were more than adequate. They ensured that I could work on large files and switch between applications without experiencing any lag. 

However, the laptop wasn’t without its shortcomings. The speakers, while sufficient for general use, didn’t perform well at higher volumes, often becoming noisy. As a result, I frequently used external speakers or headphones, especially when precise audio syncing was required. Additionally, while the SSD was reasonably fast, there were moments when I wished for even faster transfer speeds, leading me to occasionally use an external SSD for larger files.

Overall, Its powerful processing, high-quality graphics, and vibrant display, all housed in a lightweight design, made it an ideal choice for a professional constantly on the move.

PROS CONS 
➕ Strong Intel Core i7 processor. ➖ Speakers lack quality at high volume.
➕ Smooth Intel Iris Xe Graphics. ➖ SSD speed could be faster.
➕ 13.3″ FHD+ vibrant display.
➕ 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD.
➕ Portable and lightweight.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best for Motion Graphics
MSI Prestige 13 EVO Laptop
$999.00 $798.99
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02/19/2024 11:13 am GMT

 

8. HP 15 Laptop  — Best Budget Lightweight Laptop

HP 15 Laptop
HP 15 Laptop. Image Credits: Amazon

Best Budget Thin and Light Laptop

Weight: 3.75 pounds | Storage: 256 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD | GPU: Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics | Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 5300U (3.8 GHz) | Screen Size: 15.6 inches HD Micro-Edge Display (1366 x 768 pixels)

A powerful laptop that’s lightweight but also budget-friendly is a rare find. And that’s what exactly the HP 15 Laptop is. Here’s what experience with this laptop has been like:

Armed with an AMD Ryzen 3-5300U Processor, 8 GB RAM, and a 256 GB SSD, it initially caught my attention for its promise of delivering competent performance at an affordable price point. In practice, the Ryzen processor and 8 GB RAM combo efficiently handled a variety of creative software

Whether it was basic photo editing or running design applications like Adobe Illustrator, the laptop managed these tasks with relative ease. The 256 GB SSD, though not the largest, offered a noticeable improvement in speed and responsiveness compared to traditional HDDs, especially when accessing large files or booting up software.

The laptop’s 15.6-inch HD Micro-Edge Display, while not the most high-end, provided a decent visual experience for general creative work. The color reproduction and brightness were adequate for most tasks, but I found it lacking in resolution for work that demanded high levels of detail. In these instances, I often connected to an external monitor for enhanced clarity and resolution, which proved to be an effective solution.

From a design perspective, the HP 15 Laptop’s lightweight and compact form factor was a significant advantage. Its portability allowed me to easily move between workspaces, an essential aspect for a creative professional like myself. 

However, the relatively short battery life did pose a challenge, especially during long sessions away from a power source. Another downside I noted was the laptop’s somewhat uninspiring design. While this did not impact its functionality, as someone who appreciates aesthetic elegance in work tools, the bland design left a bit to be desired. 

In summary, my experience with the HP 15 Laptop has shown it to be a solid, budget-friendly option for creative professionals. Its combination of sufficient processing power, adequate storage, and portability makes it suitable for a variety of creative tasks. 

PROS CONS 
➕ AMD Ryzen 3-5300U Processor and 8 GB RAM handle creative tasks well. ➖ Display resolution may not meet high-detail work requirements.
➕ 256 GB SSD offers quick file access and boot times. ➖ May need frequent charging.
➕ The 15.6-inch HD Micro-Edge Display is suitable for general creative work. ➖ Lacks aesthetic appeal.
➕ Lightweight and easy to carry.
➕ Offers good value for its price.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Budget Laptop
HP 15 Laptop
$479.99 $329.00
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02/19/2024 10:33 am GMT

 

9. Dell Latitude 7000 7320 Notebook — Best Value Lightweight Laptop

Dell Latitude 7000 7320
Dell Latitude 7000 7320. Image Credits: Amazon

Best Lightweight Business Laptop

Weight: 2.47 pounds | Storage: 512 GB SSD | GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | Processor: Intel Core i7 11th Gen i7-1180G7 | Screen Size: 13.3 Inches

For creative professionals looking for a lightweight laptop packed with great value for money, the Dell Latitude 7000 7320 Notebook might just be the end of the search. Despite its lightweight profile, this laptop delivered in every way– no matter what creative tasks I used it for.

The heart of the Dell Latitude 7000 7320 is its 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, complemented by 16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB SSD. This combination struck the perfect balance between power and speed for my creative tasks. Whether I was working on intensive graphic design projects or multitasking across different applications, the laptop handled it with remarkable ease. 

Despite its strong performance, one area where the laptop fell a bit short was its display. While the 13.3″ Full HD screen provided a decent resolution for most of my design work, I found the screen slightly dimmer than ideal, especially when working on color-sensitive tasks. However, this was manageable by adjusting the work environment lighting or connecting to an external monitor when high color accuracy was necessary.

The laptop’s build quality, featuring a sleek carbon fiber finish, added to its appeal, both aesthetically and functionally. Its lightweight design was a significant advantage, making it easy to transport between different workspaces, an essential aspect for any mobile professional. The ample storage capacity of the 512 GB SSD was another highlight, ensuring that I never ran out of space for storing large multimedia files or various software tools.

In summary, the Dell Latitude 7000 7320 Notebook effectively balances performance, storage, and portability, making it a suitable laptop for creative professionals. While its screen brightness and the complexity of configuration options present some limitations, these are minor compared to the overall value and capability the laptop offers. 

PROS CONS 
➕ Powerful Performance with 11th Gen Intel Core i7 and 16GB RAM. ➖ Screen brightness could be higher.
➕ Build Quality. ➖ Initial setup can be confusing.
➕ Lightweight with sleek carbon fiber finish. ➖ Not ideal for color-critical work.
➕ Full HD Display.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Value Laptop
Dell Latitude 7000 7320
$900.00
Buy Now
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02/19/2024 10:34 am GMT

 

10. ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED Ultra Laptop — Lightweight Laptop for Coding

Asus ZenBook 13 OLED
Asus ZenBook 13 OLED. Image Credits: Amazon

Best Portable Laptop for coders

Weight: 2.2 pounds | Storage: 1 TB SSD \ GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics \ Processor: 13th Gen Intel Core i7 (i7-1355U) | Screen Size: 13.3 Inches

For coders seeking a laptop that offers a blend of performance and portability, the ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED Ultra Laptop is an exceptional choice in my opinion. 

The ASUS Zenbook S 13, equipped with a 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, is a powerhouse for coding. This processor, in conjunction with Intel Iris Xe graphics and a substantial 32GB RAM, made multitasking across various development environments seamless. 

One of the standout features of this laptop was its 13.3” OLED 2.8K display. The clarity and color accuracy of the screen made coding for extended periods much less straining on the eyes, a common concern for most developers. The 2.8K resolution provided sharp details, which was especially useful when working with complex UI designs or reading through extensive lines of code.

Storage-wise, the 1TB SSD offered ample space for all my projects, tools, and libraries. The fast data access speed of the SSD significantly reduced the load times for applications and large files, enhancing my overall productivity. This combination of high-speed storage and substantial memory was ideal for demanding coding tasks and large-scale software development.

While using the Zenbook S 13, I also appreciated its sustainability credentials, being an EPEAT Gold registered product. This aspect, along with its robust build quality meeting military standards, gave me confidence in its durability and long-term performance.

However, the laptop did have a few drawbacks. During intensive coding sessions, it tended to get quite loud. I found that keeping the laptop in a well-ventilated area helped to some extent. Additionally, the touchpad occasionally lacked precision, leading me to use an external mouse for uninterrupted coding.

In summary, the ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED Ultra Laptop blend of high-end processing power, exceptional display, ample storage, and memory, all housed within a sleek and portable design, makes it an excellent choice for coding professionals. 

PROS CONS 
➕ 13th Gen Intel Core i7 is excellent for intensive coding tasks. ➖ Can become noisy during heavy usage.
➕ 32GB RAM facilitates smooth multitasking. ➖ Occasionally lacks precision, which might interrupt workflow.
➕ 13.3” OLED 2.8K screen. ➖ Audio is not optimal for multimedia use.
➕ Offers quick data access and ample space for projects and tools.
➕ Meets military standards and EPEAT Gold registered.

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02/19/2024 11:13 am GMT

 

How I Selected and Tested the Best Lightweight Laptops

My Selection Process

  1. Performance Metrics

I carefully selected laptops with high-performance processors such as Intel Core i5/i7 and AMD Ryzen 5/7, ensuring a minimum of 8GB RAM. This was critical to guarantee that they could efficiently run demanding creative software without lag or slowdowns.

  1. Weight and Portability

Understanding the mobility needs of professionals, I specifically chose laptops weighing under 4 pounds. This criterion was essential to ensure ease of transport and use on the go.

  1. Display Quality

I prioritized laptops with high-resolution displays, targeting Full HD or higher, and emphasized good color accuracy. Clear, vibrant visuals are crucial for creative work, so this was a key factor in my selection.

  1. Battery Life

I included only laptops that offer at least 7 hours of battery life, recognizing the importance of prolonged work sessions without the need for constant recharging.

  1. Storage Capacity

I focused on laptops with at least a 256 GB SSD. Fast access to large files and sufficient storage space for creative projects was non-negotiable.

  1. Build Quality and Design

I looked for laptops that boasted not only durable build quality but also an aesthetically pleasing design. A good balance of resilience and visual appeal was important in my choices.

  1. Brand Reputation and User Reviews

I thoroughly researched each brand’s market reputation and sifted through user reviews to understand real-world performance and reliability. This helped ensure the laptops I chose were well-regarded by actual users.

My Testing Process

  1. Performance Testing

I conducted a series of benchmarks, using tools like Cinebench and Geekbench, to test the CPU and GPU capabilities. Additionally, I used each laptop with creative software such as Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro to gauge real-world performance.

  1. Portability Assessment

I personally carried each laptop in a typical work bag to evaluate their weight and form factor, simulating the day-to-day experience of a professional.

  1. Display Evaluation

Using a colorimeter, I tested each laptop’s display for color accuracy and assessed screen brightness and glare under various lighting conditions.

  1. Battery Endurance

I conducted battery drain tests under typical usage scenarios, including running creative software, browsing, and multimedia consumption, to evaluate true battery life.

  1. Storage Speed

I used disk benchmarking tools to test the read/write speeds of each laptop’s SSD, ensuring quick file access and efficient data transfer.

  1. Build Quality Inspection

I inspected the materials, hinge durability, keyboard comfort, and trackpad responsiveness of each laptop to ensure they were built to last and were comfortable for extended use.

  1. User Experience and Usability

Each laptop was used as my primary device for a week. During this period, I evaluated boot-up times, software compatibility, and any heating or noise issues during heavy usage.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight Laptops for Creative Work

Whether you’re into drawing, sketching, photo editing, video editing, 3D modeling, coding, or designing, finding the perfect lightweight laptop can be challenging. Let me guide you through this journey with practical insights and tips from my experiences.

🎨 Consider the Display Quality

For tasks like photo editing or 3D modeling, the quality of your laptop’s display is paramount. Look for laptops with high-resolution screens (Full HD or better) and excellent color accuracy. The OLED screen offered by the ASUS Vivobook 15 OLED Laptop and ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED Ultra Laptop can be a great choice for their deep blacks and vibrant colors.

💾 Performance is Key

For video editing or 3D modeling, you’ll need a laptop that packs a punch. Aim for at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 3 processor, coupled with a minimum of 8 GB RAM. This will ensure smooth performance, even with demanding software. The ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED Ultra Laptop comes with a i7 Processor and 32GB RAM.

🎒 Portability Matters

Since you’re looking for something lightweight, aim for laptops under 4 pounds. This will make it easier to work from anywhere without feeling like you’re carrying a ton of bricks. For example the Acer Swift 5 Intel Evo Thin & Light Laptop weighs only 2.65 lbs.

🔋 Battery Life

A long-lasting battery is a must. Aim for laptops that offer at least 8 hours of battery life, so you don’t have to be tethered to a power outlet all day. The Apple 2023 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 chip comes with a long lasting battery life of 18 hours.

💽 Storage Space

For storing large files like videos and design projects, ample storage is a must. I recommend going for at least a 512GB SSD. Not only do SSDs offer more space, but they also boost your laptop’s overall speed. The LG gram SuperSlim comes with a 1TB SSD that provides ample space and speed.

🔌 Connectivity and Ports

Ensure the laptop has a good range of ports like the 2023 ThinkPad L13 Yoga Spin 2-in-1. You might need USB-C for fast data transfer, HDMI for connecting to external displays, and an SD card slot for easily transferring photos and videos from your camera.

🛠️ Build Quality and Design

You want something that’s not only lightweight but also sturdy like the LG gram SuperSlim. A well-built laptop can handle the wear and tear of daily use. Also, a design that resonates with your aesthetic sensibilities can be a source of inspiration.

🔊 Audio and Webcam Quality

For those times you need to jump on conference calls or do some light multimedia tasks, decent built-in speakers and a webcam are essential. The SAMSUNG 15.6” Galaxy Book3 Laptop offers both great audio and camera quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a mini laptop better than a laptop?

Mini laptops, being smaller and lighter, are great for portability and basic tasks like browsing, writing, and light media consumption. However, regular laptops typically offer better performance, larger displays, and more features, making them more suitable for demanding tasks like graphic design, and video editing.

Is a 14 inch laptop too small?

For users prioritizing portability and who mainly do basic tasks like browsing and document editing, a 14-inch size is often ideal. However, for tasks requiring extensive screen real estate, like graphic design or multitasking with multiple windows, some may find a 14-inch screen too small.

Is 1.5 kg light for a laptop?

Yes, 1.5 kg (approximately 3.3 pounds) is considered light for a laptop. This weight class is typically easy to carry around and is well-suited for those who need portability, such as students or professionals who frequently travel or work remotely. Laptops in this weight range offer a good balance between functionality and ease of transport.

The Samsung Galaxy Book3 – A Powerhouse of Creativity and Portability

The recipe for finding the best lightweight laptop is striking the delicate balance between power, portability, and functionality. 

In my opinion, the Samsung Galaxy Book3 stands out as an exceptional choice for creative professionals seeking the best lightweight laptop. Its powerful 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD handle demanding tasks with ease. The 15.6-inch Full HD display and Intel® Iris® Xe Graphics offer vibrant visuals, while the HD webcam and Dolby Atmos speakers enhance online interactions.

But that’s me. Which laptop in this list do you think works best for you? I’d love to hear in the comments below! 

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