Testing Methodology for Evaluating Laptops
When it comes to choosing the perfect laptop, there are numerous factors to consider. From build quality to performance, battery life, and overall value for money, it can be difficult to determine which laptop is the best fit for your needs. At Mashable, we understand the importance of providing thorough and reliable information to our readers, which is why our team of experts conducts extensive hands-on testing on a wide range of laptops. In this article, we will delve into the details of our testing methodology, explaining how we evaluate laptops and provide you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
Hands-On Testing
To ensure the accuracy and reliability of our reviews, we subject all the laptops on our list to rigorous hands-on testing. Our testing process involves various real-world tasks and scenarios that mimic everyday usage. We begin by inspecting the build quality of each laptop, examining its design, materials, and overall durability. A sturdy and well-built laptop is essential for longevity and a satisfying user experience.
After evaluating the build quality, we use the laptops for several weeks, engaging in different tasks such as document editing, email checking, video streaming, webcam usage for taking photos, video calls, music playback through Spotify, gaming (if applicable), and exploring unique software features or use cases claimed by the laptop manufacturers. This comprehensive testing approach allows us to assess the laptops’ performance in different scenarios, helping us understand their capabilities for various user needs.
Benchmark Testing
In addition to our hands-on testing, we employ industry-standard benchmark software to further evaluate the performance of the laptops. By using benchmarks, we can obtain objective and quantifiable data to compare different laptops and determine their relative performance levels.
To measure the overall performance of a laptop’s CPU, we utilize Primate Labs’ Geekbench 6. The appropriate version of Geekbench is selected based on the laptop’s operating system – macOS for MacBooks, Windows for Windows laptops (including gaming laptops), and Android for Chromebooks. Geekbench tests the CPU performance by simulating common tasks and generates a multi-core score. A higher score indicates better performance.
To assess the gaming laptops’ graphical prowess, we test them with Cyberpunk 2077, a graphically intense AAA title known for pushing systems to their limits. If a laptop features a discrete/dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics card, we play Cyberpunk with and without DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) technology, utilizing the High preset without ray tracing. This allows us to evaluate the machine’s raw GPU power and its performance with AI upscaling, respectively. Additionally, we employ 3DMark’s Time Spy benchmark, a widely recognized benchmark for gaming PCs, to further gauge their gaming capabilities.
Battery Life Testing
Battery life is a crucial consideration for many laptop users, as it determines the laptop’s portability and usage away from power outlets. To provide accurate information about battery life, we have different criteria based on the type of laptop being tested.
For MacBooks, we expect an average battery life of approximately 11 to 12 hours, with anything above 15 hours considered exceptional. In the case of Windows laptops, we aim for a battery life of around 9 to 10 hours, considering anything above 12 hours as an ideal result. Gaming laptops have different requirements, as they are intended for more power-hungry tasks. We consider a minimum of 2 hours per charge as acceptable, with extra praise given to laptops that can reach the 4-hour mark. Chromebooks, which are known for their efficient power consumption, should ideally provide 8 hours or more of battery life, with 9 to 10 hours being the best performers.
To standardize our battery life testing methodology, we conduct a video rundown test for MacBook and Windows laptops. This test involves playing a looped 1080p version of Tears of Steel, a short open-source Blender movie, at 50 percent brightness. By monitoring the battery drain during this test, we can accurately determine the laptops’ battery life performance.
For gaming laptops, we utilize PCMark 10’s battery life test, specifically designed to measure the battery life of gaming systems. This test covers a range of gaming workloads and provides valuable insights into how long the laptop can last during demanding gaming sessions.
For Chromebooks, we rely on CrXPRT 2, a battery life benchmark specifically designed for Chrome OS devices. This benchmark assesses various productivity and media playback tasks, enabling us to measure the battery life of Chromebooks accurately.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
After carefully evaluating each laptop’s hands-on performance and benchmark results, we provide our final recommendations based on the overall value they offer for the money. It is worth mentioning that an expensive laptop can still receive a positive assessment if we believe that its exceptional design and performance justify the higher price point. We understand that finding laptops on sale or during promotional periods can significantly impact their overall value, and we take this into consideration when making our recommendations.
It is important to note that the laptops featured in our list are not the only models we have tested. As technology constantly evolves, we continually assess new laptops across different categories. Our aim is to provide up-to-date and accurate information to help you make the best choice when purchasing a laptop. Therefore, you can expect our laptop guide to evolve continuously as we discover new and promising contenders in the market.
In conclusion, our testing methodology combines rigorous hands-on evaluations and benchmark testing to provide comprehensive insights into the build quality, performance, and battery life of various laptops. By following this methodology, we strive to equip our readers with reliable information that will guide them in making informed decisions when choosing the perfect laptop for their needs.
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