Laptop Testing Methodology
At ECNETNews, we put each laptop through extensive hands-on evaluations, focusing on build quality and daily usability over several weeks. Our testing included a range of activities such as document editing, email management, video streaming, webcam usage, video conferencing, music playback, gaming, and exploring unique software features.
Every laptop on our list undergoes rigorous benchmarking with industry-standard software, allowing us to simulate real-world tasks and generate scores that facilitate performance comparisons. This benchmarking process is newly integrated into our reviews, ensuring that you receive comprehensive evaluations in future laptop assessments.
Performance Evaluation
We assess Windows laptop performance using the Windows version of Geekbench 6 by Primate Labs, which evaluates processor capabilities through common tasks. Our reviews highlight multi-core scores, with higher scores indicating superior performance.
For gaming laptops, we gauge graphical performance by playing the demanding title Cyberpunk 2077. This title, known for its graphical intensity, pushes systems to their limits. We assess laptops equipped with discrete Nvidia GeForce RTX graphics by testing performance both with and without DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) at High settings, allowing us to evaluate raw GPU performance and AI upscaling capabilities.
Following gameplay, we utilize 3DMark’s Time Spy benchmark to further assess gaming performance, recording scores where higher indicates better capabilities.
Battery Life Testing
In our reviews, we expect Windows laptops to deliver around nine to ten hours of battery life, with over 12 hours deemed ideal. For gaming laptops, a minimum of two hours per charge is required, with noteworthy praise for those achieving four hours or more.
We’ve approached battery evaluation with various methods. For the Alienware m16 R2, Asus Zenbook Duo, and Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3, we implemented PCMark 10‘s battery test, assessing how long laptops can last with a suite of applications. For others, such as the Acer Swift X 14 and HP OmniBook X, we conducted a looped 1080p video playback test of Tears of Steel at 50% brightness.
Moving forward, we will standardize our battery life testing by exclusively utilizing the Tears of Steel video rundown for all Windows laptops, while maintaining the PCMark 10 benchmark for gaming laptops.
Conclusion
Our recommendations consider both hands-on evaluations and benchmark results, ultimately determining if a laptop represents a solid value. Even premium laptops may receive a favorable review if we find exceptional features and performance worthy of their price, especially when seeking discounts.
It’s important to note that our assessments encompass a wide variety of Windows laptops, with constant testing of new models. This guide will continually adapt, as we remain vigilant for emerging top performers in the market.
