Top 10 Ultralight Laptops for Business Travelers

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Some laptops are meant to stay put, serving as portable desktop replacements that you can move from one room to another. But then, there are laptops designed with mobility in mind—lightweight enough to slip into your bag for daily commutes and frequent travel, letting you come home at the end of the day without a sore shoulder. The laptops in this selection are all about that easy portability, but it’s not just about being the smallest.

These are our top picks for lightweight laptops we’ve tested over the past year, offering a range of screen sizes from 13 to 16 inches. Whether you’re looking for the best lightweight MacBook or a sleek Windows laptop, we’ve got you covered. This includes the latest Copilot Plus PC from Microsoft, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X processor. Most of these laptops weigh less than three pounds, with the heaviest being a powerful 14-inch model designed for gaming and content creation, tipping the scales at just 3.3 pounds. We’ve also added a couple of business laptops for those who spend more time on the road than in the office.

OUR TOP PICKS

• Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon: Ideal for business travelers, $1,799.00
• HP Pavilion Plus 14: Lightweight 14-inch laptop, $809.99
• M3 MacBook Air: Lightweight MacBook, $890.00
• Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: Lightweight, long-running laptop, $1,999.99
• Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED: Lightweight 13-inch laptop, 1,399.99
• Acer Swift Edge 16: Lightweight 16-inch laptop, $1,139.00 
• ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (2024): High-end ultraportable laptop with a dedicated HDMI port, $1,199.00
• Lenovo Yoga 6 13 (2023): Cheaper alternative to the HP Pavilion Aero 13 (2024), $599.00
• Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1, 2020): Cheaper option than the Apple MacBook Air 15 (2024), $649.99
• Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra: best premium Ultrabook with an OLED screen, $999.99
• Asus ROG Zephyrus G14: Best lightweight laptop for gaming, $1,999.99

RELATED: 2024’s Best Laptop: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide You Can’t Miss

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Best Lightweight Laptop for Business Travelers: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon

For the business traveller the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon is durability and performance in a lightweight package. Weighs under 2.5 pounds it’s a breeze to lug around. Has an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM and 1TB SSD so multitasking and data management is a doddle. 14” display is crisp and battery life is good so you can get work done on long flights. The ThinkPad X1 Carbon has a solid build with carbon fibre reinforced chassis so it can take the travel knocks. But the premium price may be a barrier for budget conscious buyers.

Benefits:

• Efficient for travel: Lightweight design makes it easy to carry.
• Secure: Advanced security features protect sensitive data.
• All-day battery: Stay productive without needing frequent recharges.

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Best Lightweight 14-inch Laptop: HP Pavilion Plus 14

If you want a 14 inch laptop without the weight, the HP Pavilion Plus 14 is a great option. It’s slim, 3.1 pounds, so super portable. It’s got an Intel Core i5, 8GB of RAM and 512GB SSD so it’s got plenty of oomph for daily tasks. The display is bright and clear for work and play. It’s lightweight but still has a solid build. Just the battery life is average so you might need to carry the charger for long use.

Benefits:

• Easy to carry: Lightweight design for on-the-go use.
• Fast performance: Quick boot times and app launches.
• Great value: High performance at a reasonable price.

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Best Lightweight MacBook: M3 MacBook Air

The M3 MacBook Air is a stellar example of Apple’s dedication to sleek, powerful, and portable devices. Weighing just 2.8 pounds, it’s perfect for those who need a laptop that can handle demanding tasks without weighing them down. The M3 chip inside ensures fast performance, whether you’re editing videos, running multiple apps, or simply browsing the web. Its 13-inch Retina display offers vibrant colors and sharp text, making it a joy to use. The battery life is also outstanding, lasting up to 18 hours on a single charge. However, the limited port selection might require dongles for certain peripherals.

Benefits:

• Portable power: Take powerful computing with you anywhere.
• Stunning visuals: Enjoy a crisp, vibrant display.
• All-day use: Battery lasts through long work or study sessions.

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Best Lightweight, Long-Running Laptop: Microsoft Surface Laptop 7

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 is an excellent choice for those who prioritize both portability and battery life. Weighing just 2.79 pounds, it’s easy to carry, making it perfect for students or professionals on the move. The laptop is powered by an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, offering smooth performance for everyday tasks. Its battery can last up to 11.5 hours, ensuring it keeps up with your busy day. The 13.5-inch PixelSense display is bright and responsive, enhancing the user experience. However, the Surface Laptop 7 does have fewer ports compared to other laptops, which might require additional accessories for connectivity.

Benefits:

• Extended battery: Work longer without interruptions.
• Touch-enabled: Interact with your laptop more intuitively.
• Travel-friendly: Lightweight and easy to carry.

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Best Lightweight 13-inch Laptop: Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED

The Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED stands out as a top lightweight option for those who prefer a 13-inch laptop. Weighing just 2.2 pounds, it’s one of the lightest in its category. The laptop is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, providing excellent performance for various tasks. The 13.3-inch OLED display offers stunning visuals with deep blacks and vibrant colors, making it perfect for content creators and media consumption. The slim and elegant design also adds to its appeal. However, the keyboard may feel slightly cramped for users with larger hands, and the battery life, while decent, is not the best in its class.

Benefits:

• Vivid display: Enjoy stunning visuals with OLED technology.
• Highly portable: Ultra-light design for easy transport.
• Quick recharge: Fast charging for minimal downtime.

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Best Lightweight 16-inch Laptop: Acer Swift Edge 16

Balancing size with portability, the Acer Swift Edge 16 is the go-to for users who want a large screen without the bulk. Weighing just 2.7 pounds, this 16-inch laptop is surprisingly light, making it easy to carry despite its size. It’s powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, ensuring smooth performance across a range of tasks. The large display offers plenty of screen real estate for multitasking, and its Full HD resolution ensures clear and sharp visuals. However, the battery life is on the shorter side, which may require more frequent charging during the day.

Benefits:

• Spacious screen: Ideal for multitasking and creative work.
• Portable size: Surprisingly light for a 16-inch laptop.
• Powerful specs: Handles demanding tasks with ease.

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Best High-End Ultraportable Laptop with a Dedicated HDMI Port: ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (2024)

The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (2024) is a high-end ultraportable laptop that doesn’t skimp on connectivity. It’s designed for those who need a compact, powerful machine with the convenience of a dedicated HDMI port. Weighing in at just 2.5 pounds, it’s extremely portable yet packed with features. The 14-inch OLED display offers incredible color accuracy and deep contrasts, perfect for professionals who need precision. It’s powered by an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, ensuring top-notch performance. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge. However, the premium price might be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.

Benefits:

• Vivid display: OLED technology offers stunning visuals.
• Portable power: High performance in a slim package.
• Connectivity: Dedicated HDMI port for easy connections.

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Best Cheaper Alternative to the HP Pavilion Aero 13 (2024): Lenovo Yoga 6 13 (2023)

The Lenovo Yoga 6 13 (2023) offers a budget-friendly alternative to pricier ultraportables like the HP Pavilion Aero 13. This 2-in-1 laptop is designed for versatility, with a 360-degree hinge that allows it to be used as a tablet. It weighs just 3.02 pounds, making it easy to carry, and is powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. The 13.3-inch touchscreen is vibrant and responsive, adding to its versatility. However, the battery life is average, and the laptop’s plastic build doesn’t feel as premium as some other models.

Benefits:

• Great value: Affordable without sacrificing essential features.
• Portable: Easy to carry around due to its lightweight design.
• Long-lasting: Battery life that supports all-day use.

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Best Cheaper Option Than the Apple MacBook Air 15 (2024) or Its Smaller 13-inch Sibling: Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1, 2020)

For those who want the power of a MacBook without breaking the bank, the Apple MacBook Air 13 (M1, 2020) is an excellent choice. It’s powered by the M1 chip, offering outstanding performance while being energy-efficient. Weighing just 2.8 pounds, this laptop is easy to carry, making it perfect for students and professionals alike. The 13.3-inch Retina display delivers crisp and vibrant visuals, ideal for work or entertainment. Its battery life is exceptional, lasting up to 18 hours on a single charge. However, like other MacBooks, it comes with a limited number of ports, so you may need adapters for additional connectivity.

Benefits:

• Budget-friendly: Access the MacBook experience at a lower cost.
• Powerful: Handles everyday tasks with ease.
• All-day battery: Stay productive without recharging.

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best premium Ultrabook with an OLED screen: Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy Book3 Ultra stands out with its stunning 3K AMOLED screen, offering HDR support and 500 nits of brightness. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize display quality, whether for creative work or media consumption. Powered by an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, it delivers robust performance across the board. Weighing just 3.74 pounds, it’s relatively portable given its high-end specs. The battery life is decent, though not as long as some competitors. However, the premium price and slightly heavier weight might be considerations for those looking for a more portable option.

Benefits:

• Stunning display: 3K AMOLED screen delivers vibrant, sharp visuals.
• Performance: Powerful specs for smooth multitasking.
• Premium build: High-quality materials and design.

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Best lightweight laptop for gamers and creators: Asus ROG Zephyrus G14

The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 is a powerhouse in a compact form, making it the best lightweight gaming laptop for serious gamers on the go. It’s equipped with an AMD Ryzen 9 8000-series processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, ensuring top-tier gaming performance in a portable package. Weighing just 3.64 pounds, it’s significantly lighter than most gaming laptops. The 14-inch QHD display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers smooth visuals and an immersive gaming experience. The battery life is impressive for a gaming laptop, lasting up to 10 hours during moderate use. However, the price is on the higher side, and the laptop can get warm during extended gaming sessions.

Benefits:

• Portable gaming: Enjoy high-end gaming on the go.
• Strong performance: Handles demanding games with ease.
• Immersive visuals: Sharp display enhances your gaming experience.

RELATED: Best Laptops for College Students on a Budget 2024

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How We Tested the Ultralight Laptops for Business Travelers

To ensure our recommendations meet the needs of business travelers, we conducted a series of rigorous tests. We focused on key aspects such as portability, battery life, performance, and durability. Each laptop was evaluated in real-world scenarios, including long travel days, working from various locations, and handling multiple tasks simultaneously.

1. Portability Test: We assessed the ease of carrying each laptop, considering factors like weight, size, and how comfortably it fits in a standard laptop bag or backpack. We also tested the convenience of using these laptops in cramped spaces, such as airplane trays and small hotel desks.
2. Battery Life Test: We measured battery performance by running continuous tasks, including video streaming, document editing, and web browsing, to simulate a typical workday on the road. We also recorded the time it took for each laptop to fully recharge.
3. Performance Test: The laptops were put through a series of tasks, including running multiple applications, video conferencing, and light video editing. We paid close attention to how smoothly each device handled these tasks without overheating or lagging.
4. Durability Test: To simulate the rigors of travel, we tested each laptop’s build quality by subjecting it to minor drops, bumps, and vibrations. We also examined the materials used in construction to determine their resistance to wear and tear.
5. Connectivity Test: We evaluated the range and stability of wireless connections, as well as the availability and convenience of ports for connecting peripherals like external drives and projectors.

These tests provided us with a comprehensive understanding of each laptop’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing us to recommend the best options for business travelers.

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What to Consider When Choosing an Ultralight Laptop for Business Travelers

When selecting an ultralight laptop for business travel, several key factors should guide your decision:

1. Portability: The primary feature of an ultralight laptop is its weight and size. Look for a laptop that weighs around 3 pounds or less, with a slim profile that easily fits into your carry-on or briefcase.
2. Battery Life: A long-lasting battery is crucial for business travelers who may not have easy access to power outlets. Aim for a laptop with at least 8-10 hours of battery life to ensure it can last through a full day of work on the go.
3. Performance: While portability is important, the laptop still needs to perform well. Choose a model with at least an Intel Core i5 or equivalent processor, 8GB of RAM, and a solid-state drive (SSD) for smooth multitasking and quick boot times.
4. Durability: Business travelers need a laptop that can withstand the wear and tear of frequent travel. Consider laptops with a sturdy build, such as those made from aluminum or carbon fiber, and features like spill-resistant keyboards.
5. Display Quality: A high-quality display enhances productivity, especially for tasks like presentations or video conferencing. Look for a laptop with at least a Full HD (1080p) resolution and good brightness levels.
6. Connectivity: Ensure the laptop has enough ports for your needs, such as USB-C, HDMI, and a headphone jack. Good Wi-Fi connectivity and Bluetooth are also essential for staying connected while traveling.
7. Keyboard and Touchpad: Since you’ll likely be typing on the go, a comfortable and responsive keyboard is essential. A well-designed touchpad with multi-touch gestures can also enhance your productivity.

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Tips for Using Ultralight Laptops for Business Travelers

Maximizing the potential of your ultralight laptop can make your business travel more efficient and stress-free. Here are some tips:

1. Invest in a Quality Case: Protect your laptop from the rigors of travel with a sturdy, padded case. Consider one with additional pockets for accessories like chargers and cables.
2. Utilize Cloud Storage: Keep your important files accessible from anywhere by using cloud storage solutions like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. This also ensures your data is safe in case of theft or hardware failure.
3. Optimize Battery Life: Extend your laptop’s battery life by reducing screen brightness, closing unnecessary applications, and using battery-saving modes. Always carry a portable charger or power bank as a backup.
4. Secure Your Laptop: Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and install reputable antivirus software. Consider using a VPN to protect your data when connected to public Wi-Fi networks.
5. Travel-Friendly Accessories: Carry compact accessories like a portable mouse, a multi-port USB hub, and a travel adapter for charging in different countries. A lightweight external battery pack can also be invaluable during long trips.
6. Regular Maintenance: Keep your laptop in top shape by regularly updating software and drivers, cleaning the keyboard and screen, and ensuring the vents are free of dust.

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FAQ

What is the ideal weight for an ultralight laptop for business travelers?
The ideal weight for an ultralight laptop is typically around 2 to 3 pounds. This makes it easy to carry without sacrificing too much in terms of performance or durability.

How much battery life should I expect from an ultralight laptop?
Aim for at least 8 to 10 hours of battery life. This ensures that the laptop can last through a full day of work, including travel time, without needing to be recharged.

Are ultralight laptops durable enough for frequent travel?
Yes, many ultralight laptops are built with durable materials like carbon fiber or aluminum and are designed to withstand the bumps and knocks of frequent travel. Look for laptops with MIL-STD-810G certification for extra durability.

Do ultralight laptops have enough power for business tasks?
Most ultralight laptops come with powerful processors, ample RAM, and fast SSD storage, making them more than capable of handling typical business tasks such as document editing, video conferencing, and multitasking.

What should I do if my ultralight laptop doesn’t have enough ports?
If your ultralight laptop has limited ports, consider using a USB-C hub or docking station. These accessories can expand your laptop’s connectivity options, allowing you to connect multiple peripherals simultaneously.

Can ultralight laptops handle video conferencing?
Yes, ultralight laptops are typically equipped with good-quality webcams, microphones, and speakers, making them suitable for video conferencing. For the best experience, ensure you have a strong internet connection and use headphones to reduce background noise.