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10 Best Lightweight Laptops 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Apple 2025 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop with M4 chip: Built for Apple Intelligence, 13.6-inch Liquid Retina Display, 16GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD Storage, 12MP Center Stage Camera, Touch ID; Starlight

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,135
Weight
Battery Life
Build Quality

Most important from
3606 reviews

Weight
Its slim profile and weight make it incredibly easy to carry without sacrificing functionality.
Battery Life
Battery life impresses with extended use, easily lasting through long work or media sessions.
Build Quality
Build quality stands out as robust and premium, with a sleek finish that resists smudging.

The 2025 Apple MacBook Air with the M4 chip is a strong pick if you want a lightweight, high-performance laptop that’s easy to carry around. Weighing just 2.73 pounds, it’s very portable and has a slim profile, making it ideal for students, professionals, or anyone on the go. Its 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display offers sharp, vibrant visuals with support for 1 billion colors, which means photos, videos, and text look crisp and lively. Apple’s M4 chip delivers fast and smooth performance whether you’re multitasking, editing videos, or enjoying casual gaming. With 16GB of unified memory and a 512GB SSD, the laptop runs apps quickly and provides ample storage for most users. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 18 hours during video playback, so you can work or watch content without frequently searching for an outlet.

The build quality maintains Apple’s reputation for durability and sleek design, and the Starlight color adds a stylish touch. Connectivity is solid, featuring two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a MagSafe charging port, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3, supporting fast data transfer and multiple external displays. The 12MP Center Stage camera and four-speaker system with Spatial Audio enhance video calls and media experiences. One potential drawback is the limited number of ports, which means you may need adapters for some accessories. Also, the integrated graphics are not meant for heavy gaming or demanding 3D work.

This MacBook Air is an excellent choice if you value portability, long battery life, and smooth everyday performance in a premium, user-friendly package.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,135
Weight
Battery Life
Build Quality

Most important from
3606 reviews

Weight
Its slim profile and weight make it incredibly easy to carry without sacrificing functionality.
Battery Life
Battery life impresses with extended use, easily lasting through long work or media sessions.
Build Quality
Build quality stands out as robust and premium, with a sleek finish that resists smudging.
#2

Apple 2025 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop with M4 chip: Built for Apple Intelligence, 13.6-inch Liquid Retina Display, 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD Storage, 12MP Center Stage Camera, Touch ID; Sky Blue

Rating
9.7
Processor
RAM
Build Quality

Most important from
3606 reviews

Processor
The new M4 chip delivers a noticeable boost in speed compared to previous models, making multitasking and daily use smoother and faster.
RAM
Despite starting with the base model, the performance impresses, though upgrading memory is recommended for heavier multitasking or future-proofing.
Build Quality
The build quality and overall finish reflect Apple's high standards, providing a premium feel and sturdy construction.

The Apple 2025 MacBook Air with the new M4 chip is a strong choice if you want a lightweight laptop that combines power and portability. Weighing just 2.73 pounds, it’s easy to carry around, making it ideal for students, professionals, or anyone frequently on the go. The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display offers vibrant colors and sharp details, delivering a great viewing experience for everyday tasks like browsing, video watching, or light photo editing. With 16GB of unified memory (RAM), the laptop handles multitasking smoothly, whether you’re switching between work apps or streaming media. The M4 chip provides a good balance of speed and efficiency, letting you work or play without lag, including some photo and video editing or casual gaming.

Battery life is impressive, with up to 18 hours of video playback, so you can expect all-day use without needing to charge often. Storage at 256GB SSD is standard for everyday use but may feel limited if you keep large files or many apps, so consider external storage if needed. The build quality is typical of Apple’s high standards, with a sleek, sturdy design in an attractive Sky Blue color. It also offers solid connectivity options like two Thunderbolt 4 ports, MagSafe charging, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring fast connections and support for multiple external displays.

The 12MP Center Stage camera, three-mic setup, and four-speaker system deliver clear video calls and good sound, useful for remote work or meetings. While the limited storage and lack of more varied ports might require adapters or external drives depending on your needs, the MacBook Air is well-suited for most everyday users who want a reliable, stylish, and lightweight laptop with excellent battery life. It is not designed for heavy gaming or very demanding professional software but fits well for general use.

Rating
9.7
Processor
RAM
Build Quality

Most important from
3606 reviews

Processor
The new M4 chip delivers a noticeable boost in speed compared to previous models, making multitasking and daily use smoother and faster.
RAM
Despite starting with the base model, the performance impresses, though upgrading memory is recommended for heavier multitasking or future-proofing.
Build Quality
The build quality and overall finish reflect Apple's high standards, providing a premium feel and sturdy construction.
#3

Apple 2025 MacBook Air 15-inch Laptop with M4 chip: Built for Apple Intelligence, 15.3-inch Liquid Retina Display, 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD Storage, 12MP Center Stage Camera, Touch ID; Starlight

Rating
9.4
Weight
Screen Size
Battery Life

Most important from
1340 reviews

Weight
Weighing just over 3 pounds, the laptop is impressively light and portable without compromising on build quality.
Screen Size
The 15.3-inch display offers clear, vibrant visuals that enhance both work and entertainment experiences.
Battery Life
Battery life is exceptional, lasting a full day and supporting extended use without frequent recharging.
Processor
The new M4 Air delivers significantly faster performance and improved value compared to the previous generation, standing out as a refined and powerful lightweight laptop.
Build Quality
Weighing just over 3 pounds, the laptop is impressively light and portable without compromising on build quality.

The Apple 2025 MacBook Air 15-inch is a strong choice if you're looking for a lightweight laptop that combines power and portability. Weighing just about 3.3 pounds, it’s easy to carry around, making it suitable for students, professionals, or anyone often on the go. The 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display offers sharp and vibrant visuals with support for a billion colors, which is great for watching videos, photo editing, or just browsing with crisp text. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 18 hours on video streaming and around 15 hours of wireless web use, helping you get through a full day without hunting for an outlet.

Under the hood, the new Apple M4 chip with 10 CPU cores and a 10-core GPU delivers fast and smooth performance, whether you're juggling multiple apps, video editing, or light gaming. The 16GB of unified memory (RAM) ensures apps run efficiently, though the 256GB SSD storage might feel a bit limited if you store lots of large files or media; external drives or cloud solutions could be needed. Build quality is premium, with a slim profile and durable materials, plus the backlit Magic Keyboard and Touch ID add convenience and security. Connectivity includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a MagSafe charging port, a headphone jack, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3, covering most daily needs but lacking more port variety like USB-A.

The 12MP Center Stage camera and good microphone system boost video calls, which is handy for remote work or classes. This MacBook Air fits well for those invested in the Apple ecosystem, as it works seamlessly with iPhones and other Apple devices. If you want a lightweight laptop that doesn’t compromise on power and screen quality, and you’re okay with moderate storage, this model is worth considering.

Rating
9.4
Weight
Screen Size
Battery Life

Most important from
1340 reviews

Weight
Weighing just over 3 pounds, the laptop is impressively light and portable without compromising on build quality.
Screen Size
The 15.3-inch display offers clear, vibrant visuals that enhance both work and entertainment experiences.
Battery Life
Battery life is exceptional, lasting a full day and supporting extended use without frequent recharging.
Processor
The new M4 Air delivers significantly faster performance and improved value compared to the previous generation, standing out as a refined and powerful lightweight laptop.
Build Quality
Weighing just over 3 pounds, the laptop is impressively light and portable without compromising on build quality.

Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight Laptops

When choosing a lightweight laptop, it's important to consider a balance between portability, performance, and battery life. Lightweight laptops are ideal for people who are always on the go, such as students, business professionals, and frequent travelers. To make the best choice, you need to understand the key specifications that define a lightweight laptop and how they align with your specific needs.
WeightWeight is a crucial factor for a lightweight laptop, as it directly affects portability. Lightweight laptops typically weigh between 2 to 4 pounds. If you travel frequently or need to carry your laptop around all day, aim for a model closer to 2 pounds. For occasional travel or if you don't mind a bit more heft, a laptop around 3 to 4 pounds can offer a good balance between portability and performance.
Screen SizeScreen size impacts both the portability and usability of a laptop. Lightweight laptops usually have screen sizes ranging from 11 to 14 inches. Smaller screens (11-12 inches) make the laptop more portable and easier to carry, but they may be less comfortable for extended use. Larger screens (13-14 inches) provide a better viewing experience and more space for multitasking, but they add to the overall size and weight. Choose a screen size based on how you plan to use the laptop and how often you need to carry it.
Battery LifeBattery life is essential for a lightweight laptop, especially if you need to use it on the go without frequent access to power outlets. Look for laptops that offer at least 8 hours of battery life for a full day of use. Some high-end models can provide up to 12 hours or more. Consider your daily routine and how long you typically need to use the laptop away from a power source to determine the right battery life for you.
ProcessorThe processor (CPU) determines the laptop's performance and ability to handle tasks. Lightweight laptops often come with energy-efficient processors like Intel Core i3, i5, i7, or AMD Ryzen 3, 5, 7. For basic tasks like web browsing, email, and document editing, an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 is sufficient. For more demanding tasks like photo editing, video conferencing, or multitasking, consider an Intel Core i5 or i7, or AMD Ryzen 5 or 7. Choose a processor based on the type of work you plan to do on your laptop.
RAMRAM (Random Access Memory) affects the laptop's ability to run multiple applications simultaneously and handle more demanding tasks. Lightweight laptops typically come with 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM. For basic use, 4GB may be adequate, but 8GB is recommended for smoother performance and better multitasking. If you plan to run more intensive applications or keep many tabs open in your browser, 16GB of RAM will provide a more seamless experience.
StorageStorage capacity determines how much data you can store on your laptop. Lightweight laptops usually come with SSD (Solid State Drive) storage, which is faster and more reliable than traditional HDD (Hard Disk Drive) storage. Common storage options range from 128GB to 512GB. For basic use and cloud storage reliance, 128GB may be sufficient. If you store a lot of files, photos, or videos, consider 256GB or 512GB. Choose storage based on your data storage needs and whether you use external drives or cloud services.
Build QualityBuild quality affects the durability and feel of the laptop. Lightweight laptops are often made from materials like aluminum, magnesium alloy, or carbon fiber, which provide strength without adding much weight. A well-built laptop can withstand daily wear and tear and provide a more premium feel. Consider how often you will be carrying the laptop and the environments in which you will use it to determine the importance of build quality for you.
ConnectivityConnectivity options, such as USB ports, HDMI, and SD card slots, are important for connecting peripherals and external devices. Lightweight laptops may have fewer ports to maintain a slim profile, so consider what devices you need to connect regularly. Look for laptops with at least a couple of USB ports, a headphone jack, and possibly an HDMI port for external displays. If you need more connectivity options, you might need to use adapters or docking stations.

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