How we test

We measure speed using a range of tests. PC Pro’s own benchmarks assess how quickly each system can process a set of image and video files, and handle multiple workloads while simultaneously playing high-definition video. We also test using the industry-standard PCMark 10 benchmark, and employ the synthetic Cinebench R23 and Geekbench 5 to assess the laptops’ single-core and multicore performance.

We determine the maximum sequential read and write speeds of the internal SSD using CrystalDiskMark 8.

We also test 3D performance, again using both real-world and synthetic software. In this case we run Shadow of the Tomb Raider at 1080p with High detail settings (and DLSS at Quality if offered), Civilization VI: Gathering Storm at 1080p with its default (medium) settings, plus the DirectX 12 benchmark 3DMark Time Spy.

Our next stop is the screen, where we use X-Rite colorimeter hardware to establish the screen’s maximum brightness, along with its effective contrast ratio, sRGB coverage and colour accuracy. The latter is expressed as a Delta E figure, with a score of 1.0 or below representing perfection as far as the human eye can discern.

Finally, we test each laptop’s battery life using PCMark 10’s tools. First, we set the screen to a standard brightness of 150cd/m2, keeping the Wi-Fi connection active. We then run the Video test, Modern Office and Idle tests. The first plays a 1080p video on loop, the second mimics a light-usage workload, and the third does nothing at all.

The key figures from the above tests are shown in our graphs; in addition, we factor in subjective judgments of design, features and usability, as discussed in our reviews on the previous pages, to arrive at a final star rating out of five for each laptop.