Best Laptop for Programming

Published: 10/10/2025

The Definitive 2025 Guide: Laptops for Coders, Developers, and Software Engineers

Based on our comprehensive analysis of over 1,800 laptop and MacBook test results, we have curated the top programming laptops for 2025. This list is designed to meet the demands of everyone from web and mobile developers to specialists in machine learning and game development.

For the most versatile, all-purpose coding experience, the Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch is our standout recommendation. It delivers impressive performance and is especially well-suited for developers who need to run dual-booting setups.

Developers committed to Windows or Linux environments will find excellent companions in the dependable business-class machines. The ever-reliable Lenovo ThinkPad T16 and the premium Dell XPS 13 are proven champions in the coding world, and you can generally expect top quality from any model in the ThinkPad or XPS families.

Our recommendations span the entire spectrum of developer needs. We have included top budget-friendly options, perfect for students or anyone needing an ultra-portable device for coding on the move. At the other end, we feature robust, high-end machines built to handle the heavy processing required for advanced workloads.

Every selection on this list has undergone extensive testing by our team. We rigorously assess and compare their specifications, build quality, and overall performance, leveraging industry-standard benchmarking to ensure they meet professional standards.