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 106 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.
Performance
Based on performance while running productivity applications, multimedia applications, and 3D games.
Portability
Based on battery life and weight.
Ergonomics
Represents the quality of the keyboard and pointing device, and accessibility of features.
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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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.

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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 (59)

Laptop reliability has been mostly undistinguished. Apple had the best technical support, while Acer/Gateway/eMachines had the worst. We didn't recommend the Acer Aspire AS5745-5425 because of its technical support. Consider it if tech support is not a concern for you. Here is the link to the latest tech-support Ratings.

Desktop computers (41)

Apple was the most reliable among desktop brands. It also had the best technical support, while Acer/Gateway/eMachines had the worst. We didn't recommend some top-rated models because of their technical support, including the Gateway DX4840-11e and the Gateway SX2801-07e. Consider those if tech support is not a concern for you. Here is the link to the latest tech-support Ratings. Consider those if tech support is not a concern for you. Here is the link to the latest tech-support Ratings.

Netbooks (6)

All are suitable as secondary systems for performing routine tasks. The best offer lighter weight, larger keyboards and trackpads, and longer battery life. All include a memory-card reader and webcam.

Recently reviewed computers

Lenovo IdeaPad S100 (106722U) (Tested)

A 10.1-inch netbook with Windows 7 Starter SP1 and an Intel processor. Tested with 1GB of memory and Intel GMA 3150 graphics.

Lenovo IdeaPad S100 (106722U)

Acer AspireRevo Desktop AR3700-U3002

Acer Revo RL100-U1002

Apple Mac mini MC815LL/A

Computer buying guide

Shopping for a laptop? Be on the lookout for ultrabooks, new laptops that are thinner and lighter than other laptops their size and weight. Processor maker Intel set the standards for this new class of laptop. So far, they're available in 11- and 13-inch models. Thirteen-inch ultrabooks, for example, should be no thicker than 0.7 inch, about 30 percent thinner than most laptops. In addition, Intel specs battery life to be at least 8 hours, but the reality is that some will fall short. And Intel wants computer makers to hold the price to ... Read more