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- Best overall: Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip, 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD
- Best budget: Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD
- Best premium: Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip, 12-core CPU, 16-core GPU, 24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD
- Best for a large Windows screen: Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display, Intel Core i7-13700H, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD
- Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip is a compact macOS choice with a 13.3-inch display and strong battery life.
- Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display offers a larger 17-inch screen and discrete graphics in a premium Windows laptop.
- Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip is a lighter everyday alternative to the MacBook Pro 13 M2.
- Choose by operating system, screen size, memory, and workload before comparing Black Friday 2026 offers.
- A 14-inch laptop balances portability and workspace; a 16- or 17-inch model suits users who prioritize a larger display.
The Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip and Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display suit different buyers: one favors a compact macOS setup, while the other brings a spacious Windows screen and optional discrete graphics. I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to identify where each model fits and which alternatives make sense for Black Friday 2026.
My pick for most people is the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip for a newer, lighter everyday Mac experience. Choose the Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display for a large screen and graphics options, or the Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip if you prefer its compact Pro design and familiar ports.
How We Picked
- Compared display size, resolution, and aspect ratio to clarify which laptops suit travel, creative work, and desk use.
- Reviewed processor, graphics, memory, and storage configurations to distinguish everyday systems from demanding-workload options.
- Considered portability, battery-life claims, connectivity, and operating-system preferences as practical buying factors.
- Researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback rather than relying on a single configuration or promotional claim.
- Selected products with distinct use cases, so the guide includes compact Macs, premium Windows laptops, and a business-focused option.
Comparison Table
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD
The Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD is the best compact Mac for students and everyday users who value portability. The 13.3-inch Retina display and 20-hour stated battery life make it a practical travel companion.
Best for: Compact macOS work and everyday portability
- Display
- 13.3-inch Retina, 2560 × 1600
- Processor
- Apple M2, 8-core CPU
- Graphics
- 10-core GPU
- Memory and storage
- 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD
- Compact 13.3-inch design
- Fan-cooled performance for sustained workloads
- Up to 20 hours of Apple-rated video playback
- Older design with a 720p camera
- 8GB memory and 256GB storage limit upgrade flexibility
Is the Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip is worth considering for buyers who want a compact Mac and do not need the newest processor. The Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD's 13.3-inch display and 10-core GPU suit daily work, school tasks, and light creative projects.
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#2
Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display, Intel Core i7-13700H, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD
The Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display, Intel Core i7-13700H, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD is the best large-screen Windows laptop for creators and desk-based users. The Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display, Intel Core i7-13700H, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD's 17-inch 3840 × 2400 display gives documents, timelines, and media generous working room.
Best for: Large-screen Windows work and media
- Display
- 17-inch UHD+, 3840 × 2400
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-13700H, 14 cores
- Memory and storage
- 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD
- Aspect ratio
- 16:10
- Large, high-resolution 17-inch screen
- 16GB memory supports multitasking
- Premium aluminum and carbon-fiber construction
- Large chassis is less convenient for frequent travel
- High-resolution display can use more battery
Is the Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display is a strong choice for Windows users who want a spacious screen for editing, spreadsheets, or entertainment. The Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display, Intel Core i7-13700H, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD's 17-inch UHD+ panel is the defining feature; the size is less suitable for commuters.
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#3 · Top pick
Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip, 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip, 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD is the best everyday Mac for students, travelers, and general home use. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip, 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD's 13.6-inch display and 16GB of memory offer a more current-feeling everyday setup.
Best for: Lightweight everyday Mac use
- Display
- 13.6-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor
- Apple M4, 10-core CPU
- Graphics
- 10-core GPU
- Memory and storage
- 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD
- Fanless, portable design
- 16GB unified memory in the listed configuration
- Modern Apple silicon platform
- Fewer ports than many Windows alternatives
- 256GB storage fills quickly with large media libraries
Is the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip is a sensible Black Friday 2026 pick for everyday Mac users who value low weight and a current processor. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip, 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD's 16GB unified memory supports multitasking, while the 13.6-inch screen keeps the laptop easy to carry.
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#4
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip, 12-core CPU, 16-core GPU, 24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD
The Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip, 12-core CPU, 16-core GPU, 24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD is the best premium Mac for demanding creative work. The Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip, 12-core CPU, 16-core GPU, 24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD's 24GB unified memory and 16-core GPU suit heavier editing and development workloads.
Best for: Mac-based creative and technical work
- Display
- 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR
- Processor
- Apple M4 Pro, 12-core CPU
- Graphics
- 16-core GPU
- Memory and storage
- 24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD
- Bright, high-contrast 14.2-inch display
- 24GB unified memory for demanding workflows
- More capable graphics than entry-level MacBook configurations
- Premium configuration exceeds basic productivity needs
- Compact display is smaller than the Dell XPS 17 panel
Is the Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip is worth choosing for creative professionals and developers who need stronger sustained performance than an everyday MacBook Air. The 12-core CPU, 16-core GPU, and 24GB memory provide room for demanding Mac workflows.
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#5
Dell XPS 16 9640 Laptop with 16.3-inch FHD+ Display, Intel Core Ultra 7, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD
The Dell XPS 16 9640 Laptop with 16.3-inch FHD+ Display, Intel Core Ultra 7, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD is the best middle ground for Windows buyers who want more screen than a 14-inch laptop without carrying a 17-inch system. The Dell XPS 16 9640 Laptop with 16.3-inch FHD+ Display, Intel Core Ultra 7, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD's 16.3-inch 16:10 display balances workspace and portability.
Best for: Windows productivity with a larger screen
- Display
- 16.3-inch FHD+, 1920 × 1200
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 7
- Memory and storage
- 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD
- Aspect ratio
- 16:10
- Roomy 16.3-inch screen
- 16:10 layout offers extra vertical workspace
- More portable than a 17-inch laptop
- FHD+ resolution is less sharp than the XPS 17 UHD+ panel
- Configuration details vary by seller
Is the Dell XPS 16 9640 Laptop with 16.3-inch FHD+ Display worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Dell XPS 16 9640 Laptop with 16.3-inch FHD+ Display is a good fit for Windows users who need a generous screen but do not want a 17-inch chassis. Check the listed processor, memory, and display configuration before choosing a specific retailer listing.
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#6
ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA Laptop with 14-inch 3K OLED Display, Intel Core Ultra 7, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD
The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA Laptop with 14-inch 3K OLED Display, Intel Core Ultra 7, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD is the best compact Windows option for frequent travelers and OLED fans. The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA Laptop with 14-inch 3K OLED Display, Intel Core Ultra 7, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD's 1TB SSD provides more built-in storage than the base MacBook configurations in this guide.
Best for: Travel-friendly Windows use and OLED viewing
- Display
- 14-inch 3K OLED, 2880 × 1800
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 7
- Memory and storage
- 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD
- Refresh rate
- 120Hz
- Compact 14-inch OLED screen
- 1TB SSD for local files and applications
- High-resolution display with 120Hz refresh rate
- OLED screens need sensible brightness settings for long static workloads
- Configuration availability differs across sellers
Is the ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA is worth considering for Windows shoppers who want a portable laptop with a sharp OLED screen and 1TB of storage. The 14-inch display makes the model easier to carry than either the Dell XPS 16 or Dell XPS 17.
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#7
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition Laptop with 14-inch 2.8K OLED Display, Intel Core Ultra 7, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition Laptop with 14-inch 2.8K OLED Display, Intel Core Ultra 7, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD is the best business laptop for mobile professionals who prioritize a light chassis and generous memory. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition Laptop with 14-inch 2.8K OLED Display, Intel Core Ultra 7, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD's 32GB RAM configuration supports substantial multitasking.
Best for: Business travel and heavy multitasking
- Display
- 14-inch 2.8K OLED, 2880 × 1800
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 7
- Memory and storage
- 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD
- Display refresh rate
- 120Hz
- 32GB memory for extensive multitasking
- 14-inch OLED display in a business-focused laptop
- ThinkPad keyboard design and business features
- Higher memory and OLED configuration is excessive for basic browsing
- OLED configuration can differ by region
Is the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition is a strong Black Friday 2026 choice for business travelers who need a light laptop with 32GB memory and 1TB storage. The 14-inch OLED configuration offers a premium display, while basic users can spend less on a simpler setup.
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Which is better, the MacBook Pro 13 M2 or Dell XPS 17?
The Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip offers compact macOS portability. The Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display provides a larger Windows workspace and optional discrete graphics.
Is the Dell XPS 17 better for creative work than the MacBook Pro 13 M2?
The Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display offers more room for creative layouts and timelines, plus configurations with discrete graphics.
Which laptop is the better value for Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip suits everyday use, while the Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip offers a compact MacBook Pro option. Compare configurations, including memory and storage.
Should you choose a 13-inch, 14-inch, 16-inch, or 17-inch laptop?
The Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip favors portability. The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA Laptop offers a portable Windows option, while the Dell XPS 16 9640 Laptop and Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop provide larger workspaces.
Consider bag and desk space, plus how often you work without an external display.
What should you check before buying a laptop on Black Friday 2026?
Verify processor, memory, storage, and display specifications. Configurations vary for the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip and Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display.
Match specifications to your needs, confirm details with the manufacturer, and review warranty and return terms.
Buying Guide
Match the laptop to your operating system
The Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip and Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip run macOS. The Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop, Dell XPS 16 9640 Laptop, ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA Laptop, and Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition Laptop run Windows. Choose a system that supports your apps and accessories.
Choose screen size for your routine
The Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip is compact. The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA Laptop and Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition Laptop balance screen space and portability. The Dell XPS 16 9640 Laptop and Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop offer larger workspaces.
Check memory and storage before checkout
The listed Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip has 8GB memory and 256GB storage. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition Laptop has 32GB memory and 1TB storage. Choose capacity based on multitasking and file storage needs.
Compare display and graphics configurations
The Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display offers a high-resolution screen and optional discrete graphics. The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA Laptop has a 3K OLED panel. The Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip suits demanding Mac workflows. Confirm the listed hardware.
Evaluate the full Black Friday listing
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M4 chip suits everyday use. Verify its configuration, warranty, returns, delivery timing, and included accessories before buying.
FAQ
Is the MacBook Pro 13 M2 still worth buying in 2026?
The Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip remains worth considering for buyers who want a compact Mac for everyday work, school, and light creative projects. Its 13.3-inch display and 10-core GPU provide a practical baseline, though the listed 8GB memory and 256GB SSD are modest.
Is the Dell XPS 17 good for students?
The Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop with 17-inch UHD+ Display suits students who want a large workspace for research, editing, and multitasking. Its 17-inch screen is less convenient to carry than a 13- or 14-inch laptop, so frequent commuters should weigh portability against display area.
Which is better for travel, the MacBook Pro 13 M2 or Dell XPS 17?
The Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip is the better travel fit because its 13.3-inch screen and compact chassis take less room than the Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop. Choose the Dell when a 17-inch workspace matters more than carrying comfort.
Which Black Friday 2026 laptop is best for creative professionals?
The Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip is the best Mac choice for demanding creative work, with a 12-core CPU, 16-core GPU, and 24GB unified memory. Windows creators who need a large display should compare the exact graphics configuration of the Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop.
What is a good Windows alternative to the MacBook Pro 13 M2?
The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED UX3405MA Laptop is a portable Windows alternative with a 14-inch 3K OLED display, 16GB RAM, and 1TB SSD. The Dell XPS 16 9640 Laptop is a better fit for buyers who prefer a larger 16.3-inch screen.
Should I buy a 13-inch or 17-inch laptop?
The Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch with M2 chip suits buyers who prioritize compact carry, while the Dell XPS 17 9730 Laptop suits buyers who want a large 17-inch workspace. Match the screen to daily use: commute often with a smaller model, or work mainly at a desk with a larger display.