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- Best overall: Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip
- Best budget: Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite
- Best premium: Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip
- Best for travel: Dell XPS 13 (9350) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V
- Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip is the strongest pick for sustained creative work, with a 16.2-inch display and up to 24 hours of video playback.
- Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite is a compact Windows choice with a 13.4-inch display and a thin, travel-friendly design.
- Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip delivers a large screen and fanless design for everyday work and study.
- Compare operating system, display size, memory and battery claims before choosing a Black Friday 2026 laptop.
The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip is the better fit for demanding creative workloads, while the Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite is the portable Windows alternative. The 16-inch MacBook Pro pairs a large Liquid Retina XDR display with substantial processing headroom; the XPS 13 prioritizes a smaller footprint and Windows compatibility.
I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to identify seven laptops worth considering for Black Friday 2026. My pick for most people is the Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip: its large screen and capable everyday performance make it a practical middle ground. Choose by workload, preferred operating system and screen size rather than headline claims alone.
How We Picked
- Compared processor, memory and display specifications against the needs of everyday work, travel and creative applications.
- Considered owner feedback and published reviews for keyboard comfort, battery life, portability and reliability themes.
- Prioritized clearly differentiated laptops that give shoppers useful alternatives to the 16-inch MacBook Pro and XPS 13.
- Selected products with specific configurations and identifiable model names, then checked that each recommendation suits a distinct buyer.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Display | Memory | Battery or storage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip | Creative workloads | 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR | 24GB | Up to 24 hours video playback |
| Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite | Portable Windows computing | 13.4-inch FHD+, 120Hz | 16GB | 55Wh battery |
| Dell XPS 13 (9350) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V | Compact Intel Windows work | 13.4-inch FHD+, 120Hz | 32GB | 1TB SSD |
| Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip | Everyday use and study | 15.3-inch Liquid Retina | 16GB | Up to 18 hours video playback |
| Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip | Portable creative work | 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR | 24GB | Up to 22 hours video playback |
| Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V | Business travel | 14-inch | 32GB | 1TB SSD |
| ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V | OLED screen quality | 14-inch 3K OLED, 120Hz | 32GB | 1TB SSD |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip
The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip is the best premium laptop for creators who need a large screen, with a 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display.
Best for: Video editing, software development and demanding creative work
- Display
- 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR
- Processor
- M4 Pro, 14-core CPU
- Memory
- 24GB unified memory
- Video playback
- Up to 24 hours
- Large, high-contrast screen suits detailed creative work.
- Powerful M4 Pro configuration handles demanding workloads.
- Long quoted video-playback battery life.
- Large chassis is less convenient for frequent travel.
- macOS is not a fit for Windows-only workflows.
Is the Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip is worth considering for creators who need strong performance and a large, color-rich screen. The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip's 16.2-inch display and up to 24 hours of video playback support long work sessions, while its larger size favors desk use.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#2
Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite
The Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite is the best Windows laptop for frequent travelers who want a compact premium computer, with a 13.4-inch display.
Best for: Windows users who travel often
- Display
- 13.4-inch FHD+, 120Hz
- Processor
- Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100
- Memory
- 16GB
- Battery
- 55Wh
- Compact screen size keeps the laptop easy to carry.
- High-refresh display supports smooth scrolling.
- Windows apps and services fit familiar workflows.
- Some specialized Windows applications need compatibility checks.
- The smaller screen gives less room for large timelines.
Is the Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite is worth considering for Windows users who prioritize portability and everyday responsiveness. The Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite's 13.4-inch 120Hz display and 55Wh battery suit travel and office tasks, while buyers should confirm their essential apps support its processor platform.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#3
Dell XPS 13 (9350) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V
The Dell XPS 13 (9350) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V is the best compact Windows pick for buyers who prefer an Intel platform, with 32GB of memory.
Best for: Intel-based Windows work in a compact laptop
- Display
- 13.4-inch FHD+, 120Hz
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 7 258V
- Memory
- 32GB
- Storage
- 1TB SSD
- 32GB memory gives multitaskers useful headroom.
- Compact build suits commuting and mobile work.
- Intel platform supports a broad range of Windows software.
- A 13.4-inch screen feels cramped for some creative workflows.
- Port selection is limited compared with larger laptops.
Is the Dell XPS 13 (9350) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Dell XPS 13 (9350) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V is worth considering for buyers who want a small Windows laptop with generous memory. The Dell XPS 13 (9350) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V's 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD suit multitasking and file storage, while the compact 13.4-inch screen favors portability over workspace.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#4 · Top pick
Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip is the best everyday laptop for students and home users who want a roomy screen, with a 15.3-inch display.
Best for: Everyday work, study and family use
- Display
- 15.3-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor
- M4, 10-core CPU
- Memory
- 16GB unified memory
- Video playback
- Up to 18 hours
- Large screen makes documents and side-by-side tasks easier.
- Fanless design keeps everyday work quiet.
- Lightweight alternative to a 16-inch Pro model.
- Not designed for sustained high-end rendering workloads.
- Fewer built-in ports than MacBook Pro models.
Is the Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip is worth considering for students and home users who want a spacious screen without a Pro-size laptop. The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip's 15.3-inch display, 16GB unified memory and up to 18 hours of video playback suit everyday work and study.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#5
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip
The Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip is the best portable Mac for creators who need Pro performance, with a 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display.
Best for: Creative professionals who travel with a Mac
- Display
- 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR
- Processor
- M4 Pro, 14-core CPU
- Memory
- 24GB unified memory
- Video playback
- Up to 22 hours
- Pro-tier processing in a smaller chassis than the 16-inch model.
- XDR screen suits color-focused work.
- Long quoted battery life supports mobile work.
- Screen offers less workspace than the 16-inch MacBook Pro.
- A demanding workload still benefits from a larger desk setup.
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 considering for creators who need strong Mac performance in a more portable form. The Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip's 14.2-inch XDR display and up to 22 hours of video playback support mobile editing, coding and design work.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V is the best business laptop for frequent travelers, with 32GB of memory.
Best for: Business travel and productivity
- Display
- 14-inch
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 7 258V
- Memory
- 32GB
- Storage
- 1TB SSD
- Lightweight carbon-fiber construction suits travel.
- 32GB memory supports demanding multitasking.
- ThinkPad keyboard is designed for sustained typing.
- Business-first design is less focused on entertainment.
- Display configurations vary, so verify the exact listing.
Is the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V is worth considering for mobile professionals who value a light build and comfortable typing. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V's 32GB memory and 1TB SSD support busy workdays; verify the display configuration before buying.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V
The ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V is the best OLED alternative for Windows buyers who value screen quality, with a 14-inch 3K display.
Best for: Windows entertainment and creative work
- Display
- 14-inch 3K OLED, 120Hz
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 7 258V
- Memory
- 32GB
- Storage
- 1TB SSD
- 3K OLED panel offers deep contrast and sharp detail.
- 120Hz refresh rate makes movement look smooth.
- 32GB memory supports intensive multitasking.
- OLED image characteristics are not essential for basic office work.
- A 14-inch screen is smaller than the 16-inch MacBook Pro.
Is the ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V is worth considering for Windows users who want a crisp, high-refresh OLED screen. The ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V's 14-inch 3K panel, 32GB memory and 1TB SSD balance visual quality with practical everyday productivity.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Which is better: MacBook Pro 16-inch or Dell XPS 13?
The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip is the better creative workstation, while the Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite is the more portable Windows laptop. A 16.2-inch display gives the MacBook room for editing timelines and large documents; the Dell's 13.4-inch display makes it easier to carry.
Choose the MacBook Pro for macOS, demanding media work and a large built-in workspace. Choose the XPS 13 for Windows apps, a smaller bag and routine productivity. The Dell XPS 13 (9350) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V is another XPS option for buyers who specifically want an Intel configuration. Neither operating system is universally better; match the computer to the software and workflow already in use.
Which laptop is better for travel and commuting?
The Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite is the most travel-focused choice here, with a 13.4-inch display and 55Wh battery. Its compact size suits commuting, airport work and small desks, while the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition also targets mobile professionals.
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip balances a larger 15.3-inch screen with a lighter everyday design than a 16-inch workstation. For frequent trips, compare the exact configuration's weight, charger and ports as well as battery claims. The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip gives more display area, but its larger body takes more room in a bag.
Which laptop gives the best screen for work and entertainment?
The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip offers the largest screen in this group at 16.2 inches, while the ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V has a 14-inch 3K OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate. Both are strong choices for buyers who put display quality high on their list.
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip is a sensible everyday option for spreadsheets, reading and streaming on a roomy screen. Screen size does not tell the whole story: check resolution, panel type, refresh rate and brightness for the specific listing. Buyers who edit color-critical content should also consider how the display fits their color workflow and external-monitor setup.
Which laptop is best for creative work and multitasking?
The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip is the strongest fit for demanding creative work, with a 14-core CPU and 24GB unified memory in this configuration. The Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch with M4 Pro chip offers a more portable version of the same broad Pro-class approach.
For Windows multitasking, the Dell XPS 13 (9350) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition each list 32GB memory. Memory needs depend on the applications, project size and number of tasks open at once. Shoppers should prioritize the apps they use most, then check their required operating system and memory recommendations.
What should I compare before choosing a Black Friday laptop?
The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip and Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite differ most in operating system, display size and portability. Those fundamental differences matter more than a short-term promotion or a single processor specification.
Confirm the exact processor, memory, storage, display and included charger in the product listing. Laptop names often cover several configurations, so verify that the model matches the specification you intend to buy. For Black Friday 2026, compare the complete configuration and retailer return terms before choosing. Skip it if the model lacks a required app, port or feature; a well-matched computer delivers better value over its useful life.
Buying Guide
Choose an operating system first
Pick macOS or Windows based on required software, work accounts and accessories. The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip serves macOS users; Dell XPS models and the Lenovo ThinkPad run Windows.
Match screen size to your workspace
A 16.2-inch screen suits detailed work at a desk, while 13.4-inch laptops are easier to carry. The 15.3-inch Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip sits between those options.
Buy enough memory and storage
Compare the exact laptop configuration with your workload. The listed Dell XPS 13 (9350) has 32GB memory and a 1TB SSD; the Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip lists 16GB unified memory.
Check ports, battery and return terms
Check the ports needed for monitors, drives and accessories, and read the battery claim for the chosen configuration. Review retailer return terms before ordering during Black Friday 2026.
FAQ
MacBook Pro 16 inch vs Dell XPS 13 Black Friday: which should I buy?
The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip is the better fit for demanding creative work and a large screen. The Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite suits Windows users who prioritize portability. Match the choice to your applications, operating system and travel needs.
Is the Dell XPS 13 better than the MacBook Pro 16-inch?
The Dell XPS 13 is better for shoppers who need a compact Windows laptop, while the Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip is better for macOS workflows and a spacious display. The right choice depends on software, portability and workload rather than one universal winner.
Which MacBook is best for students in Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M4 chip is a strong student choice for everyday coursework, web research and video calls. Its 15.3-inch display provides room for documents and study materials, while 16GB unified memory suits typical multitasking. Consider the MacBook Pro for demanding specialist applications.
Is the Dell XPS 13 good for travel?
The Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite is a good travel laptop for Windows users who value a compact 13.4-inch screen. Its 55Wh battery and small form factor suit mobile work. Check essential app compatibility before selecting the Snapdragon configuration.
Which laptop has the best screen for creative work?
The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch with M4 Pro chip pairs a 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with a large editing workspace. The ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) offers a 14-inch 3K OLED panel at 120Hz. Choose by screen size, operating system and the needs of your creative software.
Should I choose the Dell XPS 13 Snapdragon or Intel model?
The Dell XPS 13 (9345) with Snapdragon X Elite suits buyers seeking a compact Windows laptop with that processor platform. The Dell XPS 13 (9350) with Intel Core Ultra 7 258V is the Intel alternative and lists 32GB memory. Confirm app compatibility and the exact configuration before purchase.