Top MacBook Alternatives for 2025: What to Buy

As the new year rolls in, Apple enthusiasts are buzzing about the latest MacBook releases, including the sleek MacBook Air. But for those of us deeply rooted in the Windows ecosystem, the allure of a MacBook might not be enough to make the switch. Fortunately, there are excellent alternatives that cater to our needs, with the Asus Zenbook S 16 standing out as my top choice.

TL;DR - The Best MacBook Alternatives:

Our Top Pick### Asus Zenbook S 16

4See it at Best Buy### Acer Swift Go 16

2See it at Acer### Asus Zenbook S 14

1See it at AsusSee it at Best Buy### Asus TUF Gaming A14

0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Asus### Microsoft Surface Pro 11

0See it at AmazonSee it at MicrosoftWhen searching for a laptop to rival the MacBook, certain criteria must be met. The ideal alternative should be lightweight and ultra-portable, boast impressive performance, feature a high-quality screen, and offer a battery life that lasts at least a full workday. After reviewing numerous laptops over the past year, I've pinpointed the best options that meet these standards and can serve as viable MacBook replacements, whether you're eyeing the MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, or a versatile 2-in-1 for creative work.

1. Asus Zenbook S 16

The Best MacBook Alternative

Our Top Pick### Asus Zenbook S 16

2The Asus Zenbook S 16 emerges as an exceptional Windows alternative to the MacBook Pro. It's designed for effortless portability and delivers a delightful user experience.See it at Best BuySee it at AsusProduct SpecificationsDisplay16" (2880 x 1800)CPUAMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370GPUAMD Radeon 890MRAM32GB LPDDR5XStorage1TB PCIe SSDWeight3.31 poundsSize13.92" x 9.57" x 0.47" - 0.51"Battery lifeAround 15 hoursPROSThin, light, and exceptionally portableHigh performance with great battery lifeStunning 3K OLED touchscreenSurprising gaming performanceCONSCan get hotThe Asus Zenbook S 16 is the premier choice for those seeking a MacBook Pro alternative, especially if a larger screen is a priority. This laptop combines a slim, lightweight design with powerhouse performance, making it ideal for productivity and intensive creative tasks like 4K video editing. It's also one of the most visually appealing laptops I've had the pleasure of reviewing.

Powered by the AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 CPU, this laptop boasts 12 cores and 24 threads, reaching a max clock speed of 5.1GHz. This processor is not only capable of handling a wide array of tasks but also supports gaming, similar to those found in top-tier Windows gaming handhelds.

While it doesn't match the efficiency of Apple's M3 or M4 chips, the Zenbook S 16 still offers remarkable battery life. At 50-60% screen brightness, I achieved about 15 hours of usage, ensuring it lasts through a full day and beyond.

The laptop's design is truly stunning, featuring Asus's innovative Ceraluminum lid, which blends ceramic and aluminum for durability and a fingerprint-resistant finish. The attention to detail, such as the intricate ventilation design above the keyboard, underscores its premium status.

Connectivity surpasses that of the MacBook, with dual USB Type-C ports, a full-size USB Type-A, an SD card reader, a headphone jack, and an HDMI-out port for external monitor connections.

The screen is another highlight, boasting a 500-nit OLED display with a 2.8K resolution (2880x1880) and multi-touch support. It dynamically adjusts between 60Hz and 120Hz for smooth visuals while maintaining excellent battery life.

The only notable downside is that the laptop can run hot. While this is manageable by placing it on a desk, it's something to consider compared to the MacBook's thermal performance. Nonetheless, the Zenbook S 16 remains an outstanding choice.

2. Acer Swift Go 16 OLED

Best Budget MacBook Alternative

### Acer Swift Go 16

0The Acer Swift Go 16 OLED offers a premium OLED screen, impressive battery life, and a sleek, portable design at a budget-friendly price point.See it at AcerProduct SpecificationsDisplay16" (3200 x 2000), OLED multitouchCPUIntel Core Ultra 5 125HGPUIntel ArcRAM8GBStorage512GBWeight3.53 poundsDimensions14.02" x 0.59" x 9.55"PROSHigh-resolution OLED displayThin, light, and portableGreat battery lifeCONSLimited memory and storagePriced well under $1,000, the Acer Swift Go 16 OLED is an affordable alternative to the MacBook Air. It provides a high-quality screen and all-day battery life in a highly portable package.

At just 3.53lbs, this laptop is easy to carry all day. Its 16-inch screen boasts a stunning 3200x2000 resolution, which is surprising for its price range.

Performance-wise, it's equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 5 125H CPU. Though a generation behind, it still handles daily productivity and light creative work well. It also includes a neural processing unit (NPU) for enhanced AI functionality and Microsoft Copilot support.

The budget-friendly pricing reflects its 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. While the storage suffices for most users, the limited RAM may hinder multitasking and more demanding tasks like video editing.

For users who work within a few applications at a time, the Acer Swift Go 16 OLED offers a compelling balance of performance and portability.

Asus Zenbook S 14 – Photos

13 Images3. Asus Zenbook S 14

Best MacBook Air Alternative

### Asus Zenbook S 14

1The Asus Zenbook S 14 is a compelling MacBook Air alternative, offering superior performance, an excellent screen, multi-day battery life, and an elegant design. See it at AsusSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsDisplay14" (2880 x 1800)CPUIntel Core Ultra 7 258VGPUIntel ArcRAM32GB LPDDR5XStorage1TB PCIe SSDWeight2.65 poundsSize12.22" x 8.45" x 0.51"Battery life15+ hoursPROSThinner, lighter, and more powerfulGreat battery lifeEnhanced gaming performanceGorgeous OLED touchscreenCONSNo microSD card readerThe Asus Zenbook S 14 is a smaller yet equally impressive sibling to the Zenbook S 16, making it an excellent MacBook Air replacement. While both share many features, the S 14 has distinct advantages, including its use of the latest Intel Core Ultra processor.

The Intel Core Ultra 7 258V delivers high performance and unexpected gaming capabilities. During my review, it handled everything from Adobe Premiere Pro to casual browsing with ease. It's also cooler and more portable than the S 16, weighing in at just around 2.5lbs and less than half an inch thick.

Despite concerns about screen size, the Zenbook S 14's portability won me over. It's so lightweight that I often forgot I was carrying it. The battery life is exceptional, lasting over 15 hours in testing, which means it can easily support multiple days of intermittent use.

The 2.8K OLED display (2880x1800) is a standout feature, reaching up to 500 nits and providing a stunning visual experience, especially for HDR gaming. While it requires some adjustments to maintain playable frame rates, it's remarkable for a laptop primarily aimed at productivity and creative work.

Overall, the Asus Zenbook S 14 is a fantastic MacBook Air alternative at a reasonable price.

Asus TUF Gaming A14 – Photos

10 Images4. Asus TUF Gaming A14

Best MacBook Pro 14 Alternative

Product SpecificationsDisplay14” (2560 x 1600) IPSCPUAMD Ryzen 7 8845HS to AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370GPUNvidia RTX 4060RAM16GB to 32GB (7500MHz)Storage1TBWeight3.2 poundsDimensions12.24" x 8.94" x 0.67" – 0.78"PROSImpressive battery lifeQuiet, efficient coolingCONSExpensiveThe Asus TUF Gaming A14 stands out as a top choice for those looking to replace the MacBook Pro 14. It combines compact size, powerful performance, and quiet operation with impressive battery life. Plus, its Nvidia RTX 4060 GPU makes it a gaming powerhouse, and at 3.2lbs, it's lighter than the MacBook Pro 14.

Available in three configurations, you can choose between the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS or AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, and either 16GB or 32GB of RAM. The faster RAM gives it an edge over competitors like the MSI Stealth 14. Even the entry-level model with the Ryzen 7 8845HS impressed me with its speed, often surpassing the Apple M3 in multicore performance. The HX 370 version, though untested by me, promises even greater performance.

While it does generate more fan noise than the MacBook Pro, the A14 remains quieter than most powerful laptops. Its cooling system is also remarkably efficient, reducing the risk of thermal throttling.

The dedicated GPU impacts battery life, but using Advanced Optimus helps mitigate this by engaging the 4060 only when necessary. On the processor alone, it lasts around 10 hours, sufficient for a full workday.

The main challenge is its price. The entry-level model is suitable for many, but upgrading to 32GB of RAM for demanding apps like Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve increases the cost from $1,399 to $1,699. Nonetheless, for Windows users unwilling to compromise on performance, weight, or size, the Asus TUF Gaming A14 is an excellent MacBook Pro alternative.

5. Microsoft Surface Pro 11

Best 2-in-1 MacBook Alternative

### Microsoft Surface Pro 11

0The Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is an ideal 2-in-1 alternative to the MacBook, especially for artists, but also offers enough power and efficiency for daily use.See it at AmazonSee it at MicrosoftProduct SpecificationsDisplay13-inch OLED or LCD touchscreen (2,880 x 1,920)CPUSnapdragon X Plus or Snapdragon X EliteGPUIntegratedRAMUp to 64GBStorageUp to 1TB (expandable)Weight1.97 poundsDimensions11.3” x 8.2” x 0.37”PROSOLED display is excellentVery portable and easy to carry through the daySnappy performanceGreat accessories (including the Surface Pen)CONSSingle-day batteryApp compatibility is still expanding (though is fairly extensive already)For creative professionals, a traditional laptop might not suffice. The Microsoft Surface Pro 11 steps in as an excellent 2-in-1 alternative to the MacBook, offering versatility that's perfect for digital artists. Even for non-creatives, its design makes it a stellar choice for productivity and entertainment.

The Surface Pro 11 is powered by the latest Snapdragon X processors, similar to Apple's M-series chips. You can choose between the Snapdragon X Plus or X Elite, with options for 10 or 12 CPU cores. These processors deliver fast, efficient performance for creative apps like Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro. Battery life tops out at around 10 hours, enough for a full day's work, and fast charging replenishes about 80% in an hour.

This model is a powerhouse, with storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB (expandable) and RAM from 16GB to 64GB. The display comes in either LCD or OLED with a resolution of 2880x1920, offering crisp visuals for various tasks.

The primary challenge is app compatibility due to the use of ARM processors. While an emulation layer helps, not all applications are fully compatible. However, the library has grown to include most major creative and professional apps.

How to Choose the Best MacBook Alternative

Navigating the vast array of MacBook alternatives requires careful consideration to ensure you find a laptop that meets your specific needs. Here are key factors to consider:

Processor: The number of cores is more important than the brand. Aim for at least six cores, preferably eight, for a true MacBook alternative. Higher clock speeds are also crucial; opt for at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5, and avoid anything more than a generation old unless your needs are minimal.

Memory: At least 16GB of RAM is recommended to ensure smooth multitasking and future-proofing. While 8GB might suffice initially, it's the bare minimum and can lead to quicker obsolescence.

Storage: Depending on your usage, 256GB might be enough if you rely on cloud storage, but 512GB is a safer minimum, with 1TB preferred for large files or extensive media libraries.

Display: Aim for at least a 1080p resolution. Higher resolutions enhance visual quality but may demand more system resources. OLED panels offer superior picture quality but require care to prevent burn-in.

Form Factor: Consider the laptop's weight and screen size, as well as features like touch screens and 2-in-1 functionality, based on your daily needs and future requirements.

Macbook Alternatives FAQ

What is the best M3 and M4 competitor?

Apple's M3 and M4 chips set a high bar for efficiency and performance. While Intel's Core Ultra 7 and 9 CPUs and AMD's HX AI series offer strong competition, they still lag behind in efficiency and battery life.

Are MacBooks good for gaming?

MacBooks can handle some games, but their compatibility and optimization are limited compared to Windows gaming laptops. For serious gamers, a Windows laptop is the better choice.

Is a MacBook better than PC?

The answer depends on your specific needs and preferences. MacBooks excel in creative applications due to their processing power, efficiency, and portability, and some apps are exclusive to macOS. However, PCs offer a more open ecosystem with greater software availability and better gaming support.