Ultrabooks are thin, light laptops for work, study and travel, made for people who carry their computer every day. Our range has over 500 models, including Apple MacBook, Microsoft Surface, Samsung, ASUS, HP, Acer, LG and Dell, with a variety of screen sizes and processors.
How to choose an ultrabook
Screen size. The most common size in our range is 14 inches (35.6 cm), a sensible balance between weight and comfortable working space. 16-inch models suit people who value screen space over the lowest weight, while 13.3-inch ultrabooks fit into the smallest bag. 17-inch models are less common.
Processor and operating system. Many models use Intel Core Ultra 5, 7 or 9 processors, and there are also AMD Ryzen AI 9 and Qualcomm Snapdragon versions. Snapdragon chips use the ARM architecture, so some older Windows programs may run more slowly on them. Apple laptops use the company's own processors and macOS, so check that your software is available first.
Screen resolution. Some models have 1920 x 1200 pixel screens, which is enough for office work and browsing. Screens with 2560 x 1600 or 2880 x 1800 pixels show sharper text and suit photos and video. A higher resolution does drain the battery a little faster.
Storage and memory. The most common options are 512 GB and 1 TB SSDs, and 2 TB versions are also available. In many ultrabooks the RAM is soldered to the board and cannot be increased later, so choose the amount you need from the start and leave some headroom.
Graphics. Most ultrabooks use the processor's integrated graphics, which is enough for work, films and light photo editing. A few models in our range have a discrete NVIDIA GeForce RTX card, such as the RTX 5070, RTX 4070 or RTX 3050. These suit video editing, 3D work and gaming, but are usually thicker and heavier.
Brands in our range
- Apple: MacBook Air and MacBook Pro run on Apple's own processors and macOS, and Apple makes up the largest share of this category.
- Microsoft: Surface Laptop models run Windows and have touchscreens in a taller format than most laptops.
- Samsung: Galaxy Book models often have AMOLED screens and work well with Galaxy phones and tablets.
- ASUS: the Zenbook line is known for thin bodies and OLED displays.
- HP: the Spectre and Dragonfly lines are aimed at business and creative users who want a light, sturdy body.
- Acer: the Swift line offers light Windows ultrabooks at lower prices than some rivals.
- LG: gram laptops are known for very low weight, even with larger screens.
- Dell: the XPS line is known for slim metal bodies and narrow screen bezels.
Also in our range: MSI ultrabooks.
Frequently asked questions
How is an ultrabook different from a regular laptop?
An ultrabook is thinner and lighter, usually has an SSD and lasts longer between charges. The trade-off can be more limited cooling, fewer ports and parts that are harder to replace.
What size of ultrabook should I choose?
A 14-inch screen suits most people, as it fits in a backpack and still leaves room for several windows. If you travel often, choose a 13-inch model, and if you work with spreadsheets or video, a 16-inch screen is more comfortable.
Is an ultrabook good for gaming and video editing?
An ultrabook with integrated graphics only handles light games and simple editing. For heavier work choose a model with a discrete NVIDIA GeForce RTX card, and our range includes some.
How much storage does an ultrabook need?
512 GB is enough for most people who keep files in the cloud, while 1 TB is more comfortable for photos, video and many programs. Choose 2 TB if you keep large files only on the computer.
