Testing Methodology
At ECNETNews, we thoroughly test each laptop featured in our guide to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. Our testing process involves hands-on examination of build quality and integrating each device into our daily workflows for several weeks. We engage in various tasks, such as document editing, email communication, video consumption, webcam usage, video conferencing, music playback, gaming, and exploring unique software functions.
In addition, most laptops underwent rigorous industry-standard benchmark testing, excluding only select models. These benchmarks simulate real-world usage, generating scores that allow for straightforward performance comparisons. We also assess battery life for power efficiency, and this structured benchmarking process will be a staple in all our future laptop reviews.
Performance Testing
To evaluate overall performance, we utilize Primate Labs’ Geekbench 6 to measure CPU efficiency across common tasks, recording the resulting multi-core scores—higher scores indicate superior performance.
For gaming capabilities, we test graphical performance using the demanding AAA title Cyberpunk 2077. This game challenges systems with intense graphics, and we assess laptops with dedicated Nvidia GeForce RTX graphics cards by evaluating performance with and without DLSS technology enabled.
Following this, we employ 3DMark’s Time Spy benchmark to measure gaming performance, again noting that higher scores are preferable.
Battery Life Evaluation
Our target for MacBooks is a battery life of 11 to 12 hours, with over 15 hours being exceptional. Windows laptops aim for 9 to 10 hours, with 12-plus hours considered ideal. For gaming laptops, a minimum of two hours per charge is required, while four hours is highly regarded. Chromebooks are expected to last eight hours, with nine to ten hours being optimal.
We have previously utilized various testing methods to evaluate battery stamina. Our standard procedure now includes the UL Solutions’ PCMark 10 battery life stress test for selected models and Principled Technologies’ CrXPRT 2 for Chromebooks, which perform a series of applications until the battery is depleted.
Specifically, for the Lenovo Yoga 7i 14 (Gen 9) and Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE, we executed a video rundown test using a looped 1080p video of Tears of Steel at 50 percent brightness. For standardization, we will utilize the Tears of Steel test for MacBooks, Windows laptops, and Chromebooks moving forward, while retaining the PCMark 10 test for gaming laptops.
Conclusion
Our final recommendations stem from hands-on performance assessments and benchmarking results, ensuring we provide options that deliver value for the price. We define a “budget laptop” as one priced under $1,000.
It is important to emphasize that our exploration of affordable laptops is ongoing—we consistently test new models across various categories, and not all make it into our featured selections. As such, readers can anticipate regular updates to this guide as we identify new top contenders.
