Best 5 laptops

"What laptop should I buy?"

Of course, there are some obvious questions: what size screen do you want? How much do you want to spend? But sometimes people just want to know what laptops we like.

Right now, these are the top five laptops we're excited about, for a variety of reasons: each one is a winner in one sub-category or another. 

Apple MacBook Pro Fall 2011

Best mainstream laptop

A MacBook Pro is a significant investment, especially when adding in optional upgrades. Cost aside, there's not a better choice (there are, however, some close ties) for an all-around powerhouse that will work in the home, the office, and in between.

MacBook Air Summer 2011

Best thin 13-inch laptop

The latest version of the 13-inch MacBook Air vastly outperforms its predecessor, and can finally be called suitable for mainstream use, instead of relegated as a niche product.

HP Folio 13

Best Windows ultrabook

The HP Folio 13 is the best in terms of performance, price and ergonomics, provided you can live with a less-than-razor-thin design. This laptop is targeted at small businesses but it's really for anyone who wants a reliable ultrabook that isn't a MacBook Air.

Samsung Series 7 (15-inch)

Best high-end Windows laptop

Samsung's Series 7 Chronos 700Z5A-S03 is the closest Windows equivalent to a MacBook Pro in terms of specs, power and design and even nearly matches on battery life.

HP Pavilion dm1z

Best budget ultraportable

There have been plenty of 11-inch AMD-powered ultraportables available, but HP's Pavilion dm1z was the first last year, and this updated version puts it back in the lead in this crowded category.