Computers

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Sort our Ratings based on features, brands and other factors.

What's behind our computer Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 133 models in computers to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
Overall score reflects all the Ratings factors. Displayed scores are rounded; models are listed in order of precise score, out of a total of 100. Scores are comparable between the 11-inch models and 13-inch models and between the 14-inch models and 15 to 16-inch models. Scores for the 17 to 18-inch models are not comparable to other size categories.
Ergonomics
Represents the quality of the keyboard and pointing device, and accessibility of features.
Portability
Based on battery life and weight.
Performance
Based on performance while running productivity applications, multimedia applications, and 3D games.
Versatility
Includes hardware such as memory-card slots and AV connections, software such as security programs and productivity applications, and tech support and warranty provisions.
Display
Covers display size, clarity, color, contrast, brightness, and glare.
Battery life
Estimated battery life in hours while running productivity applications.
Weight
The weight of the laptop as you would carry it around, including the battery but without the power adapter.

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Recommended computers

Recommended computers are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Recommended computers

Computer buying guide

To find the computer that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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Buying guide video

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Why shop here?

In addition to finding Ratings for the latest models, you can now shop online using an ad-free interface where you can buy computers in a safe-shopping environment.

Learn more about our Price & Shop program

It's not unusual these days for families to own more than one type of computer. Students and executives on-the-go often prefer the convenience of laptops, while online bill-payers and game-players often choose desktop computers set up in a comfortable place in the home. If you're looking for information about computers, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ computer reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our computer buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and computer reviews to help you choose the best computer for your needs.

Ratings & recommended computers

Laptops (73)

Recommended models are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices among models, weigh performance, features, price, and attributes that matter to you, such as color, size, or style.

Desktop computers (47)

Netbooks (6)

Recently reviewed computers

Asus 1025C-MU17-BK (Tested)

A 10.1-inch netbook tested with Windows 7 Starter and 1.6GHz Intel Atom N2600 processor. It also came with 1GB of memory and Intel GMA 3600 graphics.

Asus 1025C-MU17-BK

Acer Aspire AS5349-2899

Dell Inspiron One IO2305-3114MSL

Asus K53E-DS31

Computer buying guide

Shopping for a laptop? Be on the lookout for Ultrabooks, new laptops that are thinner and lighter than others in their size range. Processor maker Intel set the standards for this new class of laptop. Thirteen-inch Ultrabooks, for example, should be no thicker than 0.7 inch, about 30 percent thinner than most laptops, and weigh around 2 to 3 pounds. They're available in a variety of sizes, including 15-inch models.