The competitive landscape between Apple’s MacBooks and Windows-based systems has intensified significantly as the industry moves through 2026. According to recent evaluations, there are now more viable competitors available for every model in Apple’s lineup than ever before.
Luke Larsen, a gear editor with over a decade of experience reviewing laptops, highlighted that the current market offers exceptional variety for consumers who prefer Windows due to software requirements or hardware diversity. After testing dozens of machines this year, he identified several standout options that are currently available for purchase.
Leading the pack as the best overall Windows laptop is the Dell XPS 13 (2026), which serves as a direct rival to Apple’s premium ultrabooks. For budget-conscious buyers, the HP OmniBook 5 was recommended as the top cheap Windows laptop, offering significant value at discounted prices.
For users requiring larger screens, the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5x emerged as the best 15-inch option, featuring a high-resolution display. Meanwhile, the HP OmniBook Ultra 14, equipped with a Core Ultra 7 processor, was praised for its aesthetics, earning the distinction of being the prettiest Windows laptop available.
These recommendations are part of a broader selection guide that also covers best 2-in-1 laptops, gaming machines, and Chromebooks, providing a comprehensive resource for consumers navigating the current laptop market.
Glad there are options under a thousand dollars now. Apple pricing is getting ridiculous.
Is the HP OmniBook actually worth the premium over the regular model? I need a second opinion.
Finally, Dell gives Mac a real run for its money. The XPS 13 looks stunning.