Welcome to our review of the best 13-inch laptops. These are hand-picked to save you time and money, but, most importantly, to provide you with an accurate explanation of specifications and features based on our experience.
Traveling to different places or attending college daily requires a powerful, convenient laptop to ease carrying and using. Well, you will be surprised by scrolling through our picks because there’s much more than you would expect in 13-inch tiny laptops.
So, let’s start digging through the valuable information we have for you before it gets super late and somebody else takes it and runs away (jokes apart).
Table of Contents
Best 13-inch Laptops
1. Apple Macbook Air M1
- Display: 13.3” Retina display
- CPU: Apple M1 Chip
- GPU: 8-core GPU
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
Starting our laptop review section, we have selected the Apple MacBook Air on top with no defects or limitations. Surprisingly, this laptop is a multiple-purpose machine; you can make presentations, casual video/image editing, music streaming, and much more.
The Apple MacBook Air has a 13-inch screen with a retina display that enhances the screening experience (high-quality image and eyes friendly). Grab a snack because we will dig deep into the features and specifications of this small but sturdy laptop.
Starting from scratch, this Apple MacBook with the M1 chip gives extensively increased battery operating time and 3.5x CPU and 6x GPU for high performance. Plus, intellectual capabilities are increased up to 15x in contrast to Intel chips. That reduces your workload and allows getting your work done within a minimal time.
A highly powerful and unexpectedly thin laptop with 2.8 pounds weight makes it a friendly day-to-day traveling companion from home to college or the office. MacBook’s outer casing is entirely sturdy metal with three color options: silver, gold, and space gray. With a single USB type C, this machine still has so much to offer you.
Talking about its programming, the Apple MacBook Air is based on ARM architecture. That leads to becoming a variant of your iOS mobile phones. In other words, any new development in iOS mobile devices can also be integrated into the laptop. So, it’s more convenient to use and perform high-end tasks.
With that said, the Apple MacBook Air also ensures double battery life compared to previous versions. You can also increase battery times by using Apple-optimized applications. Moving to its keyboard and touchpad, MacBook Air has increased key travel and introduced a wide, smooth touchpad that gives bouncy typing and multi-touch gestures, respectively.
MacBook’s supplementary specs include a webcam 720p, front-facing resolution, and wireless connections such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 6.
No one is good at keeping secrets, and that’s what we believe. But Apple MacBook lets you keep all your dirty secrets secured with instant access through touch ID integration so that nobody can get their hands on your data.
However, if you want to run MacBook for a longer period without any mishaps, make sure to avoid a few things. Using USB 1.1, unprotected wireless connectivity options, a forbidden account, and antiquated software would lead to poor functioning of your laptop.
2. Dell XPS 13 9310
- Display: 13.4” 1080p
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1185G7
- GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
Who doesn’t know the hell called Dell machines that goes on and on for years, right? A name that grabs users’ attention worldwide introduced an outstanding Dell XPS 13 laptop. To end your curiosity, Dell XPS has entered the market with promised OLED technology compared to IPS SKUs. That provides a crisp and vibrant display due to electric current generation that results in light emission.
After the ice-breaker feature of the Dell XPS 13, let’s move to its body integration and everything you need to know before making a purchase. After unboxing, you will get a sleek, shiny laptop with 14.8 mm (.6 inches) height (extremely slim, yet a robust machine). You now have a lightweight and thin laptop that easily fits into your backpack for personal or business purposes.
The Dell XPS comes with a 13.4 inches FHD+ Infinity edge touch screen and anti-reflective 500 nit display. That gives you a high viewing experience with enhanced battery timings and an extremely good brightness level of up to 500 nits. As a result, you can work anywhere (in sunlight or dark) with this handy laptop (convenient for everyday use).
Moving to its technical specs or, you could say, quirks to boost your working competency. Dell, as a leading brand, offers highly productive working hours and non-stop mainstream gaming. Its latest 11th Generation Intel core i7-1185G7 processor results in a high-speed and unrivaled intelligence experience. Don’t forget to check your pockets because this laptop is coming up with even more perks.
Along with the bundle of work or never-ending task list, make sure to spend some me-time. Another way to relax is gaming. The laptop’s Intel Iris Xe graphics with shared graphics memory allows casual gaming and high-quality picture results. Take a bowl of popcorn, and relax a bit.
The port selection of Dell XPS is quite simple, including a headset jack, slot for microSD card, and USB type C (Thunderbolt 4). The USB type C offers high-speed data transfer and supports large changing current up to five and reverse charging.
For wireless connectivity, Dell XPS comes with powerful Wi-Fi 6 AX1650 and Bluetooth 5.1 options to experience high-speed internet access and share files in a matter of seconds. In case you are concerned about its memory capacity, the laptop comes with a built-in 512 hard disk, 16GB Ram, and memory speed of 4267 MHz. That ultimately provides you with more storage options and a high-speed processing experience.
Compared to previous versions, this laptop has increased space for a touchpad and wide keycaps. Overall, the laptop gives a better user experience with built-in Alexa that aids in performing your tasks. The only flaws associated with this high-performing machine include fan noise and excessive usage of OLED screen that leads to distorted display.
3. HP Spectre x360
- Display: 13.3” 1080p
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7
- GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
So far, so true; convertible laptops are an all-time helping hand to make your life as easy as it could be. Traveling from one city to another would definitely be a headache when your working companion just backs off. So, count HP Spectre on three because we will reveal more about its features that you would like to try.
Opening the box shows a sleek, shiny, slim, and 2.9 pounds stark machine that comes with a compact charging device with a long cord, an HP stylish pen, a USB C hub with a braided cable, and a connector to a USB slot that allows you to connect HDMI cable, two USB Type-A ports, and another USB type port.
Moving to the laptop’s integrations and technical information, its processor is Intel Core i7-1165G7 (which is undoubtedly a better fit for business and personal use), RAM up to 16 GB, and 2.8 GHz processing speed (that limits noise but also leads to compromise speed during high-end tasks), and memory capacity is up to 1 TB (boot drive type is SSD).
With the Intel Iris Xe Graphics processor, the 13.3-inch screen gives 1920×1080 native display resolution and high image/video quality. Similar to the Dell XPS 13, this laptop also has OLED integrated panel technology. It results in sharp details with vivid colors, sufficient brightness, deep blacks, and a spot white background.
If you use arrow keys more, the ones integrated into the HP Spectre keyboard are quite jam-packed (two side arrows are standard size; however, up and down arrows are reduced to half). Otherwise, the keyboard has a touch ID/fingerprint key for quick start-up, and its key travel is also increased to give a continuous non-tiring typing experience. At the same time, the touchpad is designed without buttons and smoothly glides to give noiseless clicks.
Like the Apple MacBook Air, this laptop comes with a 720p webcam (the webcam can also recognize faces, giving users an added login option). It has four speakers with notable bass (following sounds). You can also choose movies, music, or songs through Bang and Olufsen software.
A stylus with two buttons tilts swipes quickly and is converted in tablet mode (don’t forget it’s only a two-in-one convertible laptop with tablet and laptop mode). With a classic pen, the machine gives gentle writing and drawing experience during tablet mode.
You can also customize the smart sense system, fan cooling settings, and quiet modes by clicking the HP command center to enable application bases network prioritization.
Overall, HP Spectre stands tall in the top functioning outclass laptops with minimal flaws and excellent processing. It can be your best-ever companion with its convertibility feature if you love doing art.
4. Razer Blade Stealth
- Display: 13.3” 1080p
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti Max-Q
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
A perfect 13-inch gaming laptop with a bundle of features, Razer Blade Stealth is a robust, ultraportable machine that gives you a non-stop gaming experience. Are you ready to get your hands on a Razer Blade and give your games a new twist?
Whether you are a gamer or want to do high-end tasks without experiencing lagging, all you need is Razer multimedia, gaming, and a personal laptop. The laptop’s processor is Intel Core i7-1165G7 and 1.3 GHz processing speed with 512 GB memory capacity. If we compare it with other gaming laptops, the Razer might not result in highly efficient performance.
Razer is a fully metal-based (aluminum) chassis that ensures durability and makes it a sturdy laptop for playing games. Its built-in Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 Ti graphics gives a 120Hz display making Razer Blade Stealth the only small laptop suitable for gaming. Its appealing HD display with 60 frames above allows the smooth running of multiplayer games.
Unlike other wide bezels gaming laptops, this Razer Blade meets today’s thin bezels demand with an IPS display panel that produces high quality, vibrant and sharp image results.
A bit heavy compared to the laptops mentioned above, Razer Blade Stealth is 3.1 pounds and super slim. That fits easily in your bag and gives convenient carrying during traveling or commute. Experts compare Razer with the Dell XPS 13 and believe its competency is nearly equal.
The keyboard layout is somewhat similar to the HP Spectre (where up and down arrow keys are reduced to half). The reduced height of arrow keys gives more space to shift keys (one of the major flaws in previous versions). However, this integration might not be helpful for people who use arrow keys more often. Otherwise, it’s a better change (at least).
Another add-on is its backlit keyboard that enhances your games (you can also change the layout’s color). Razer’s touchpad is somewhat ahead of the trends, and its super metallic body gives extraordinary panning. It is also considered as one of the best touchpads among any Windows laptop.
The Razer’s port selection on both sides includes USB type C and USB type A slots with an audio jack. USB type C port supports video out and Thunderbolt 3, along with charging options consecutively.
Wrapping up, the Razer Blade Stealth is a top gaming laptop with 13 inches and an extremely thin body. However, if you want to play exclusive games, switching to even more upgraded laptops is better. Otherwise, this handy machine will still add more colors to your busy life.
5. Samsung Galaxy Book Pro
- Display: 13.3” 1080p
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1185G7
- GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
The thin, mighty Samsung Galaxy book pro is a friendly partner for surfing, casual gaming, and emails all at once. With an amazingly mystic blue chassis, this is a premium-looking laptop with the latest generation. If you are still here, let’s grab a Coke or any drink because we are about to open the box of this potent laptop.
Starting with its technical information, the Samsung Galaxy Book edition has a processing speed up to 2.8 GHz (goes up to 4.7 GHz through turbo boost), while its processor is Intel Core i7-1165G7 (quad-core). The processors meet the modern-day requirements resulting in efficient and potent performance.
Integrated Intel Iris Xe for graphics and a 13.3-inch FHD screen with 1920×1080 resolution gives better display results. That ultimately helps you perform premium productivity-based tasks. Its storage capacity is up to 512GB, drive type SSD, and 16GB LPDDR4x RAM that allows multitasking and exclusive work such as video editing, Photoshop, and 3D rendering.
Moving to Galaxy Book’s port selection, the latter has USB type A and USB type C (that supports Thunderbolt 4), a slot for a microSD card reader, an audio jack, and a port for HDMI cable. Collectively, the ports are enough to let you perform various tasks. Wi-Fi 6 AX and Bluetooth 5.1 ensures high-speed web surfing and quick data transfer, respectively.
Lightweight at 1.9 pounds, the extremely thin Galaxy Book has a built-in webcam with a 720p resolution. So, you can attend meetings or classes in the online era more easily and with better image results.
You may not be pleased with its keyboard and touchpad. In comparison to the computers indicated above, the keyboard key travel remains unchanged. Even so, it’s not a real flaw because different users have varied experiences. For instance, if you do casual typing, you won’t find it difficult and you can type conveniently. Reversing the situation, if you had more typing work, you might feel slippage on the keys. The only defect associated with Galaxy Book’s touchpad is its loud button clicking sound (almost similar to mouse buttons).
From graphics to size and everything except keyboard and touchpad, this laptop is worthwhile (especially because of its Samsung devices connectivity options). However, if you made your mind up on the Samsung Galaxy Book, make sure to have either have a touchscreen laptop or not. Don’t mix the two versions, as the Samsung Galaxy Book Pro has a touchscreen.
6. Apple MacBook Pro M1
- Display: 13.3” Retina display
- CPU: Apple M1 Chip
- GPU: 8-core GPU
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
Space gray advanced technology-based M1 chip integration makes Apple MacBook Pro an esteemed entry in the market. Surprisingly, this MacBook was liked by every single person who used it. With no negative reviews, MacBook makes its way all to the top of the laptop industry. If you are an iPhone or iPad user already, let’s clap together, we are going to have a lot more fun while reviewing Apple MacBook Pro.
MacBook Pro is especially suitable for you if you are looking for one gateway to all your tasks list. This concise Mac OS laptop performs intensive work with a powerful processor and fast speed. It’s highly recommended if you want to have a better and more advanced mainstream Mac with efficient working capacity compared to the Apple MacBook Air.
Apple MacBook Pro comes with an Apple M1 chip processor (same benefits as discussed in Apple MacBook Air) and 3.2 GHz processing speed (which is pretty good for highly intensive tasks including gaming and editing). Its memory capacity is 512 GB SSD (drive type) and 8GB RAM (not impressive as 16GB RAM is installed in other laptops).
For graphics, the MacBook has an integrated Apple M1 graphic processor and IPS panel technology (we have already discussed its benefits). However, its native display resolution up to 2560×1600 is peculiar to other 13 inches laptops. Still, Apple MacBook Air wins in producing high-quality images and screen displays with increased resolution.
Despite being new in the market with the M1 chip feature, the outer body doesn’t deliver a high-profile look. Rather, it’s the same as previous versions (three color options and a robust metallic chassis). Its modern look still inspires people to add to their iOS family. A lightweight, 2.6 pounds laptop will slide in your bag without any pressure over your shoulders. So, you can enjoy trips and an easy commute every time.
Unlike other small laptops, the Apple MacBook Pro comes with three ports, including a USB type C port and a head jack. However, you can buy a USB hub for various connections from either Apple stores or traders. With 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 and 5.0 Bluetooth wireless connections, you can enjoy your companion even more.
This sturdy little MacBook is exceptional with retina display quality, high processing speed, convenient connecting to iOS devices, and carrying to faraway places.
7. Asus ZenBook 13
- Display: 13.3” 1080p
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7
- GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
A venerable compact and lightweight machine, the Asus ZenBook offers plenty of features to its users. This sturdy little companion will make your office work easy to go. Wanna ride a rollercoaster “Asus ZenBook” to find its specs and offers? Fasten your seatbelts; we are going down.
Asus is one of the prominent brands among others producing high-quality, robust laptops. This laptop comes with an 11th gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor and its base processing speed is 2.3 GHz. This ultraportable laptop comes with 16 GB RAM (which is quite impressive) and 512GB SSD storage (enough space for files and pictures SSD drive type).
If you are a graphic designer or video editor, Asus ZenBook is trending in the video editing market to help users work with pace anywhere. This laptop comes with an OLED screen (that gives vibrant and real-life color and contrast), tiny bezels (gives ZenBook a premium look), Intel, and AMD silicone (keeps the laptop cool and increases battery life). Usually, AMD notebooks are considered better if you want an exceptionally functioning laptop within a lower budget.
Amazingly, ZenBook is even lighter than Apple’s MacBook Air, only 2.5 pounds. However, the integrations and quality are not compromised. Its chassis is diamond-cut aluminum with pine gray or lilac mist color scheme (you can choose either of them; both schemes give an aesthetic look).
Asus added extra room for heat dissipation but, its cooling fan still seems loud enough. You can turn the laptop up to 150 degrees (but don’t try to hinge more as it couldn’t bear the pressure and flat fold).
ZenBook’s keyboard layout is somewhat different from other laptops, but its key travel is way better than the Dell XPS. But, the keys are wide and squared, and that might cause difficulty in typing (but a rather good integration for people with large hands). Its touchpad has a calculator function that can be either activated or not.
Asus ZenBook port selection includes a USB type C Gen 1 and USB type A Gen 2, HDMI 2.1 slot, microSD card reader, and no audio jack (which is unexpected). However, if we give an overview, the notebook is a budget-friendly and fully featured mini-machine.
8. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano
- Display: 13.0” 2K
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1160G7
- GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
You only need a cook and popcorn to enjoy the movie with your best partner, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 NanoIts a gadget just waiting to engage you, giving you relaxing hours in this hustling world.
This beautifully formulated Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano is the best machine with highly advanced features. The Thinkpad possesses a stylish 13-inch slim HD screen that assures your privacy in public places with 450 nits. It provides you with the best display to keep your attention and captures your precious moments with IR & 720p HD Camera.
This year, spend your savings on the best and most worthwhile things, and surely it will be going to the Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Nano. It gives you a smooth touch screen and will keep your special instants by its 16 GB of RAM.
You might have an annoying experience with battery timing, especially during working hours, but the Lenovo ThinkPad is giving its best to its customers, i.e., 13 hours of extended battery life. Isn’t it worth buying?
Thinkpad has a beautiful black, backlit, tactile, and enhanced keyboard that is truly helpful for working for hours. This worthy investment has much more, including a fast working processor that allows you to surf without any buffering. Lenovo has installed the 11th Generation Intel Core i7-1160G7 Processor (2.10 GHz, up to 4.40 GHz with Turbo Boost, 4 Cores, 8 Threads, 12 MB Cache).
As said earlier, it is a whole complex of joy and ease that will be best for you in connecting with the world through its Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 802.11AX (2 x 2) and Bluetooth 5.2. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano prioritizes your privacy and integrates a fingerprint reader that keeps your data under your finger touch (and nobody can dare access it).
Thinkpad comes with 2 x USB4 Thunderbolt 4 (Power Delivery) for additional attachments, slim and faster USB-C 65W (supports rapid-charging technology), and a headphone and mic combo that is truly important for music and videos.
Lenovo Thinkpad might be a better option for you if you are concerned more about battery timing and high-speed processing.
9. HP Envy x360
- Display: 13.3” 1080p
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7
- GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
Grab one of the most suitable solutions in this fast-moving world for yourself. This solution is none other than the HP Envy 2020 ×360 two-in-one laptop. So, let’s start reviewing the specs of this potent laptop.
Hp Envy 2020 is a decent choice compared to other laptops, as it provides you with more advanced features with extremely high performance. So, the Hp Envy two-in-one portable laptop is the best version with a wide range of ports.
The ports on either side of the laptop include two- USB 3.2 and a type-A port for data transmission and two USB 3.2 C ports for fast charging with Intel Thunderbolt 3 (power delivery, display port, and data transfer).
For external memory, it has a four-in-one SD card reader port and a headphone/mic combo port. Its storage capacity or memory is 512 GB, DDR4 2666MHz upgraded, which may aid you in saving your documents, videos, and photos.
Moving to the overall appearance that attracts you at first glance, its beautiful pale gold color endows it with an eye-catching appearance. The display is 13.3 inches with 4K FHD (1920x108p) IPS, anti-glare, HDR400 with Dolby Vision, and 600 nits enable a clear, bright vision.
HP Envy’s solid-state processor gives higher performance due to installing advanced features (11th Generation Intel Core i7) that bring the perfect combination of effective processing and speed to make you unstoppable. Get your things done faster, with instant responsiveness and best-in-class connectivity terms.
This HP Envy has advanced features, including the keyboard with tactile and clicky keys and the loud sound system present at the bottom of the device (that usually affects the audio quality). Its touchpad size is broader, smooth, and responsive with a fingerprint reader that protects your personal information.
Collectively, this portable HP Envy provides its best to the users with high processing speed and better wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi 6 network and Bluetooth 5). It has a powerful battery life of 11 hours for continuous working and can be your next go-to laptop.
10. Acer Swift 3
- Display: 13.5” 2K
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7
- GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
Another budget-friendly, ultraportable laptop with a 13.5 inches screen and slim body, Acer always makes its place to outclass user experience. We are very near the end of this review section, but would you like to take a second to the last ride? Let’s go!
After opening the box, you will see a sleek, lightweight laptop at 2.7 pounds that helps you carry the little machine anywhere without any inconvenience. Moving to its technical information, the processor is Intel Core i7-1165G7 which is relatively outdated compared to other laptops in today’s list.
For graphics, the Asus Swift has Intel Iris Xe Graphics integrated that gives a high-quality screen experience and runs games as well (however, you cannot play high-end games on the Asus Swift). Its display properties include 2K with 2256 x 1504p resolution and 3:2 Aspect Ratio (which is considered premium quality resolution).
With 8GB DDR4 and 512 GB M.2 PCIe, NVMe SSD memory capacity Asus gives smooth working hours. Its wireless connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.0 (which offers more range and quick transferring) and IEEE 802.11 (to connect devices without wire work).
The port selection of Asus Swift is quite simple with the integration of slots for USB 2.0, USB type C (Thunderbolt 3), USB 3.0, and a port for HDMI cable. On the top of the screen, the laptop also has a webcam with 720p resolution to help you make even clearer video calls.
With its Tiger Lake CPU, it results in more powerful processing. However, among all the goodies, the Asus comes with down-facing speakers that give reduced audio results, and the lack of a microSD card still counts.
11. Samsung Galaxy Chromebook
- Display: 13.3” 4K
- CPU: Intel Core i5-10210U
- GPU: Intel UHD Graphics
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 256GB SSD
Last on the list of best 13-inch laptops, we have the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook. Who wouldn’t like Chromebooks when they are extremely handy and convenient devices for day-to-day use.
With the razor-thin chassis with amazing keyboard base color Samsung has produced the class of the market. Its integrated AMOLED panel doesn’t hesitate to create premium quality 4k images and videos. We can say the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook takes a plus point in graphics over other laptops and notebooks.
Leading to its technical specs, the processor is Intel Core i5-10210U (which might have been enhanced, but it is not bad). With Intel UHD graphics, the laptop stands firm to help you watch unlimited videos with high-quality results. Its RAM is somewhat less relative to other notebooks, i.e., 8GB with 256 GB storage capacity. Thus, Chromebook is all for daily use with casual work.
You might not be able to perform intensive work such as video editing and stuff, but it’s a perfect fit for students and office desk workers. It’s also lightweight at 2.4 pounds (so you can take it to commute, college, and office quite easily).
On the right edge, Samsung has a stylus garage with included S pen for sketching, drawing, or notes taking on the Chromebook. Its keyboard has a fingerprint sensor for quick and secure login.
Overall, this little convertible Chromebook can become your tablet and laptop companion all at once. However, the only flaws associated with the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook are its overheating and large lower bezel (not as concerning, though).
Conclusion
We are sad to say goodbye but hope we have helped you in some way. With our fingers crossed, you might have found your mighty little companion for the next go.
Living in an advanced era, it’s pretty satisfying that you can get a well-built, sturdy laptop with a limited budget.
With that said, we ranked Asus ZenBook as a budget-friendly and robust laptop. Plus, Apple MacBook Air and Apple MacBook Pro were rated as the top-picked laptops for your next purchase.
After wrapping up our review section on the best 13-inch laptop, we are still here to guide you to the best of our ability. If you have any queries or questions, drop them in the comment section below. We’ll catch you up. Happy Shopping.
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