How We Conducted Our Testing
At ECNETNews, we rigorously tested a diverse range of laptops to provide comprehensive insights for our audience. Our evaluation process included detailed inspections of build quality and extensive hands-on usage over several weeks. During this time, we engaged in various real-world tasks such as document editing, email correspondence, video streaming, webcam photography, video conferencing, music playback, gaming, and exploring any unique software features advertised by the manufacturers.
In addition to practical testing, we employed industry-standard benchmark software to assess each laptop’s performance. These benchmarks simulate real-world scenarios to yield comparative scores that help in evaluating and contrasting the laptops’ capabilities effectively. This standardized approach has been integrated into our testing methodology for all future laptop reviews.
Performance Assessment
To gauge overall performance, we utilized the latest version of Geekbench 6, tailored to the operating system of each laptop (macOS for MacBooks, Windows for gaming and standard laptops, and Android for Chromebooks). This benchmark measures CPU performance in typical tasks, with the scores indicating higher performance levels.
For evaluating gaming laptops, we tested them with the intensive title Cyberpunk 2077. This choice reflects the game’s capacity to stretch system performance. Laptops with dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics cards underwent testing in two scenarios: first without DLSS technology enabled and then with DLSS activated on the High preset (excluding ray tracing). This dual assessment examines both raw graphical capabilities and performance with AI enhancements.
We enhanced our benchmarking with 3DMark’s Time Spy tests for gaming laptops, reporting scores that serve as a benchmark for performance comparison.
Battery Life Evaluation
When testing battery life, we aim for a minimum of 11 to 12 hours for MacBooks, with exceptional performance noted at over 15 hours. For Windows laptops, we target around 9 to 10 hours, with 12+ hours considered ideal. Gaming laptops are assessed with a lower threshold, requiring at least 2 hours of life per charge to meet our approval, while models achieving around 4 hours receive commendation. Chromebooks are expected to deliver 8 hours, but 9 to 10 hours is optimal.
To streamline our battery testing, we perform a video playback test on MacBooks and Windows laptops, utilizing a looped 1080p version of Tears of Steel at 50% brightness. For gaming laptops, we deploy PCMark 10’s battery test, while Chromebooks are evaluated using CrXPRT 2.
Our Conclusion
Our final recommendations are rooted in both hands-on performance evaluations and benchmark results, weighing each laptop’s overall value for money. While we may overlook some high-priced laptops if they demonstrate exceptional performance and aesthetics worth the price, we prioritize value in our reviews.
It’s important to note that our testing process is ongoing. We continually assess new models across various categories, with only the most deserving making it into our final recommendations. This guide will be updated regularly as we discover new top-tier devices.
