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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11The best MacBook alternative depends first on the apps you need: choose a Windows laptop if you rely on Windows desktop software, or a Chromebook if your everyday work happens mainly in a browser. For a compact Windows laptop, Tom’s Guide recommends the Dell XPS 13 (2026); for basic web tasks on a tighter budget, its roundup includes the ASUS Chromebook CX15. Neither is a universal winner, and Chromebook prices and configurations need checking with sellers before you buy.
Start with the software you need
Before comparing screen sizes or prices, make a list of the applications you use for work, school, or personal tasks. A laptop is only a practical alternative if it can run the software you depend on.
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Choose Windows when a desktop app is essential
If your work depends on Windows desktop programs, a Windows laptop is the safer direction. The Dell XPS 13 (2026) is the strongest named compact Windows option in the available recommendations: Tom’s Guide identifies it as a value pick for work, school, and everyday use. Microsoft’s Surface Laptop family is another Windows choice, positioned at higher listed starting prices and available in three screen sizes.
Choose ChromeOS when browser-based work is enough
A Chromebook can suit browsing, email, online documents, homework, streaming, and other tasks that work in a browser or supported Android apps. It is not a drop-in replacement for a Windows laptop: ChromeOS does not support the full range of installable Windows software. Check each essential application before buying, rather than assuming that a similar web service or Android app will provide all the same features.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
For demanding workloads, also look beyond the operating system name. Tom’s Guide describes the entry-level ASUS Chromebook CX15 as weak for power users, while RTINGS’ comparisons identify tradeoffs in sustained performance on some premium Windows alternatives. The precise processor, memory, storage, and software requirements matter.
Compare the main alternatives
The table combines product details and reviewer assessments available as of October 13, 2026. Prices are not directly comparable: Dell and Microsoft figures are manufacturer-listed U.S. starting prices, while Chromebook figures are price mentions in Tom’s Guide’s roundup, not verified current seller quotes.
| Model | Best fit | Price information | Relevant strengths and tradeoffs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dell XPS 13 (2026) | Compact everyday Windows laptop | Dell’s U.S. catalog listed a $699.99 starting price on October 13, 2026. Dell says the starting price reflects a preconfigured base model; customizations and support choices can change it. | Tom’s Guide calls it a value pick for work, school, and everyday use, citing price, portability, and tested all-day performance. Its compromises include two USB-C ports, no headphone jack, and a webcam the reviewer describes as merely passable. |
| Microsoft Surface Laptop, 13-inch | Premium Windows option in the smallest listed size | Microsoft’s U.S. Surface page listed a $1,149.99 starting price. | Microsoft lists a weight of 2.7 pounds and claims up to 23 hours of battery life. The battery figure is a manufacturer claim, not an independent test result. |
| Microsoft Surface Laptop, 13.8-inch | Premium Windows option with a larger screen than the 13-inch model | Microsoft’s U.S. Surface page listed a $1,599.99 starting price. | Microsoft lists a weight of 2.96 pounds and claims up to 20 hours of battery life. The listed price and battery figure apply to the page’s model and may change. |
| Microsoft Surface Laptop, 15-inch | Premium Windows option for a larger display | Microsoft’s U.S. Surface page listed a $1,699.99 starting price. | Microsoft lists a weight of 3.67 pounds and claims up to 19 hours of battery life. Expect more weight than the smaller Surface sizes. |
| ASUS Chromebook CX15 | Basic, browser-first tasks at a low reported price | Tom’s Guide reported $269; this was not verified as a current manufacturer or authorized-seller price. | The roundup lists an Intel Celeron N4500, up to 8 GB RAM, up to 128 GB eMMC storage, and a 15.6-inch FHD display. The reviewer notes weak performance for power users, limited ports, and a cheap-feeling touchpad. |
| Acer Chromebook Plus 515 | Browser-based productivity with stronger listed components than the CX15 | Tom’s Guide reported $399; confirm the current seller price and configuration. | The roundup lists an Intel Core i5-1235U, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB storage, and a 15.6-inch 1080p LCD. It remains a ChromeOS device, so Windows-app compatibility still needs checking. |
| Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 | Browser-based work where an OLED display is a priority | Tom’s Guide reported $649; confirm the current seller price and configuration. | The roundup describes it as productivity-focused and notes its OLED display. Its software fit is governed by ChromeOS, not Windows compatibility. |
| Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus | Browser-first use on a thin, lightweight 15.6-inch model | Tom’s Guide reported approximately $700; confirm the current seller price and configuration. | The roundup lists a 15.6-inch AMOLED display, 8 GB RAM, and 256 GB storage. Tom’s Guide reported more than 11 hours in its battery test; that result is a reviewer test, not a guaranteed runtime for every user. |
Prices and configurations can change, and an entry price is not a like-for-like comparison. Before purchasing, check the exact model generation and configuration—especially processor, memory, storage, and display—on the manufacturer or seller page. The listed Chromebook prices are roundup mentions rather than verified live quotes.
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- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Windows picks: compact portability or a premium family
Dell XPS 13 (2026): the compact everyday choice
The XPS 13 is the clearest fit if you want a conventional compact laptop and need Windows application support. Tom’s Guide’s recommendation reflects a mix of portability, price, and tested all-day performance, rather than a claim that it outperforms a MacBook in every category. Its listed $699.99 starting price came from Dell’s U.S. catalog, checked October 13, 2026; the actual price depends on the selected configuration and support options.
Its two USB-C ports are worth considering before buying. If you regularly connect several accessories, you may need an adapter or hub. The absence of a headphone jack matters if you use wired headphones without a USB-C connection. Tom’s Guide also describes the webcam as merely passable, a consideration if video calls are a frequent part of your day.
Microsoft Surface Laptop: choose by size and budget
Microsoft lists Surface Laptop models in 13-inch, 13.8-inch, and 15-inch sizes. The smaller models weigh less according to Microsoft’s specifications, while the 15-inch model offers a larger display at a higher listed starting price. That makes screen size and portability a practical choice, not just a cosmetic one: consider whether you carry the laptop often or spend more time working at a desk.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Microsoft presents Surface Laptop as a premium Windows family and lists a touchscreen. Its U.S. page’s starting prices and battery-life claims are model-specific: the 13-inch is listed at $1,149.99 with up to 23 hours, the 13.8-inch at $1,599.99 with up to 20 hours, and the 15-inch at $1,699.99 with up to 19 hours. The battery figures are manufacturer claims, not independently measured results. Confirm the page’s current model generation, configuration, and price before relying on any of these figures.
When a larger or more specialized Windows laptop makes sense
RTINGS describes the Dell XPS 14 (2026) as a premium Windows alternative to the MacBook Air 13 (M5, 2026). It offers configuration flexibility up to 64 GB RAM and a 120 Hz OLED touchscreen, but RTINGS notes higher cost, shorter battery life than the MacBook, and less consistent performance during sustained workloads. Those tradeoffs make it a candidate for someone who specifically wants its larger, high-refresh OLED configuration and Windows flexibility—not an automatic everyday upgrade over a smaller laptop.
RTINGS describes the Lenovo ThinkPad X9 15 Aura Edition (2025) as having a larger 120 Hz OLED display, an excellent keyboard and touchpad, and more ports. It is also more expensive and less portable. Consider it when typing comfort, screen area, and connectivity matter more than carrying a light machine; the available assessment does not establish a price or a direct ranking against every other model here.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Chromebooks: match the workload to ChromeOS
ASUS Chromebook CX15: keep expectations basic
The CX15 is for people whose essential tasks are web-based and who value a low reported entry price. Tom’s Guide’s listed specifications include an Intel Celeron N4500, up to 8 GB RAM, up to 128 GB eMMC storage, and a 15.6-inch FHD display. The reviewer identifies it as a basic Chromebook for browsing, email, online documents, homework, and video streaming—not a power-user laptop.
Its limited port selection can complicate connecting peripherals; Tom’s Guide suggests keeping a USB-C hub handy. The reviewer also calls out a touchpad that feels cheap. The $269 figure is a roundup price mention, not a verified current offer, so check the seller’s exact configuration and live price before treating it as a budget benchmark.
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Chromebook Plus: more capable hardware, same app boundary
The listed Chromebook Plus models provide different reasons to spend more than the CX15. The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 has the strongest processor specification stated in the roundup: an Intel Core i5-1235U, 8 GB RAM, and 256 GB storage, alongside a 15.6-inch 1080p LCD. The Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 is described as productivity-focused and has an OLED display. The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus combines a 15.6-inch AMOLED screen with 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
These specifications may make the models more comfortable choices for sustained browser-based productivity than an entry-level Chromebook, but they do not remove ChromeOS’s app limitations. A higher Chromebook price is not automatically better value than a Windows laptop if you need software ChromeOS cannot run. The roundup’s reported prices—$399 for the Acer, $649 for the Lenovo, and approximately $700 for the Samsung—need current seller verification.
Battery evidence also differs between models. Tom’s Guide reported more than 11 hours in its battery test for the Samsung; this is a result from that reviewer’s test, not a runtime promise for your workload. Microsoft’s Surface figures, by contrast, are manufacturer claims. Neither kind of number guarantees how long a specific configuration will last with your apps, screen settings, and usage.
Convertible and detachable options
RTINGS says the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 (2024) can suit someone who wants a convertible and whose work fits ChromeOS. A convertible form can be useful when you want a device that changes between laptop and tablet-style use, but the deciding question remains whether your applications work on ChromeOS.
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9 11 (2024) is a cheaper detachable aimed at light tasks and media, according to RTINGS. Its low-power processor and cramped keyboard limit its usefulness for heavier productivity. Treat a detachable as a portability and light-use choice, not a substitute for a full-sized keyboard and stronger processor when your day involves demanding work.
How to choose without comparing misleading prices
- Write down essential apps. Mark each one as a Windows desktop program, a macOS-only program, a browser service, or an Android app. If a required program is Windows-only, shortlist Windows laptops rather than assuming a Chromebook can replace it.
- Set a realistic workload. Separate basic browser tasks from sustained or demanding work. For the latter, verify that the exact processor, memory, and software combination meets the application’s requirements; a model name alone does not establish that.
- Choose a screen size and carrying weight. Microsoft’s listed Surface sizes range from 13 to 15 inches and weights from 2.7 to 3.67 pounds. For other models in this comparison, the stated display sizes are in the table; the available product details do not establish every weight.
- Check ports against your accessories. The XPS 13 has two USB-C ports and no headphone jack, while Tom’s Guide notes limited ports on the CX15. List the accessories you expect to connect and determine whether you will need a hub or adapter.
- Compare complete configurations, not headline prices. Check the generation, processor, RAM, storage, display, and any selected support options on the live listing. Dell says customization and support choices can change its starting price, and the Surface page is dynamic.
- Assess battery claims in context. Note whether a number is a manufacturer claim or a reviewer’s test result. The Surface figures are manufacturer claims; the Samsung figure is Tom’s Guide’s test result. Do not assume either will match your own pattern of use.
Which alternative is the best fit?
- For a compact Windows laptop: Start with the Dell XPS 13 (2026), while weighing its port and webcam compromises against its portability and Tom’s Guide’s everyday-use recommendation.
- For a premium Windows family with size options: Compare the Surface Laptop’s 13-inch, 13.8-inch, and 15-inch models by listed weight, current configuration, and live price.
- For basic web-first tasks on a low reported budget: Consider the ASUS Chromebook CX15 only if its performance and ChromeOS app range fit your needs.
- For browser-based productivity with a more capable listed configuration or display: Compare the Chromebook Plus 515, Chromebook Plus 14, and Galaxy Chromebook Plus, and verify the seller listing before purchase.
- For a convertible or detachable ChromeOS device: Consider the Spin 714 for convertible use or the Duet Gen 9 11 for light tasks and media, with their respective ChromeOS and productivity limitations in mind.
- For a larger Windows screen, more ports, or a specialized display: The XPS 14 and ThinkPad X9 15 Aura Edition offer distinct tradeoffs, including higher cost or reduced portability.
There is no single best alternative for every everyday user. If essential Windows programs determine the choice, start with Windows; if your work is browser-first, a Chromebook may be sufficient. Within either group, buy for the exact apps, configuration, screen, and connections you need—not the starting price or a battery figure in isolation.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
