There was a time when 4K resolution was only available on high-end televisions… Today, such image quality is also available on laptops!
But if you can find a multitude of laptops that support this format, not all alternatives are necessarily good to take. Battery life, comfort of use, sound and camera quality... so many criteria that can leave something to be desired on certain models. We have devices that meet all the right criteria at the same time, but there are not that many of them.
This is why it is essential to do your homework before making your choice. Together we have compiled the best 4K laptop models!
Comparison of the best 4K laptops
1.Dell XPS 15
Features and Reviews
The Dell XPS 15 is a 15.6-inch laptop equipped with a 9th generation Intel Core i7 processor and 16 GB of DDR4 RAM. It also has an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card with 4 GB of dedicated video memory, capable of supporting the most demanding games. The 4K UHD screen offers a resolution of 3840×2160 pixels and features OLED technology for exceptional image quality.
2. HP Specter x360
Features and Reviews
The HP Specter x360 is a 15.6-inch convertible laptop PC equipped with a 10th generation Intel Core i7 processor and 16 GB of DDR4 RAM. It also has an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti graphics card with 4 GB of dedicated video memory, capable of supporting the most demanding games. The 4K IPS display offers a resolution of 3840×2160 pixels and features HP Sure View technology for better privacy.
3. ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo UX582LR-H2002R: a dual-screen laptop PC!
Features and Reviews
The Lenovo ThinkPad It also has an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti graphics card with 4 GB of dedicated video memory, capable of supporting mid-level gaming. The 4K IPS screen offers a resolution of 3840×2160 pixels and features Dolby Vision technology for exceptional image quality.
4. Acer Predator Triton 500
Features and Reviews
The Acer Predator Triton 500 is a 15.6-inch gaming laptop equipped with a 9th generation Intel Core i7 processor clocked at 2.6 GHz and 16 GB of DDR4 RAM. Its NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 graphics card offers exceptional processing power and 8 GB of dedicated video memory for a smooth and immersive gaming experience. The 15.6-inch 4K UHD display has a resolution of 3840×2160 pixels and uses IPS technology for exceptional picture quality with vivid, accurate colors.
This 4k PC has an elegant and robust design, with an anodized aluminum shell and a sliding hinge. It is equipped with a backlit keyboard for comfortable use even in the dark. The 4-cell battery provides 8 hours of battery life, which is useful for long gaming sessions. Additionally, the Triton 500 has plenty of connectivity ports, including HDMI, Thunderbolt 3, SD card reader and more .
5. Gigabyte Aero 15 OLED XD
Features and Reviews
The Gigabyte Aero 15 OLED XD is a premium laptop aimed at gamers and creative professionals. It has a 15.6-inch 4K OLED display, a flashy RGB keyboard and a fingerprint sensor in the trackpad, as well as a webcam awkwardly located under the screen. It's equipped with a selection of solid ports, including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1. Under the hood, the Aero 15 is equipped with the latest 11th Gen Intel processors and Nvidia's RTX 3070 graphics card, enabling it to deliver exceptional gaming and productivity performance. You can upgrade the RAM up to 64 GB.
When it comes to gaming performance, the Gigabyte Aero 15 OLED XD delivered solid results in tests of Red Dead Redemption 2 and Shadow of the Tomb Raider. In Red Dead Redemption 2, it averaged 80fps on the ultra preset at 1080p, which dropped to 37fps at 4K. Manually activating all sliders requires switching to the medium preset to achieve a playable 4K frame rate of 46fps.
The Gigabyte Aero 15 OLED XD isn't perfect. Battery life is a weak one. However, if you are looking for a laptop with a premium OLED display for work and gaming, this device is a great option to consider. With its exceptional gaming and productivity performance, its flashy RGB keyboard and its selection of solid ports, the Gigabyte Aero 15 OLED XD deserves its place in the podium of the best Oled laptops.
6. Asus ROG Zephyrus S
Features and Reviews
The Asus ROG Zephyrus S is a 15.6-inch laptop equipped with a 9th generation Intel Core i7 processor and 16 GB of DDR4 RAM. It also has an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 graphics card with 8 GB of dedicated video memory, capable of supporting the most demanding games. The 4K IPS display offers a resolution of 3840x2160 pixels and features Nvidia G-Sync technology for a smooth, flicker-free gaming experience.
7. Samsung Notebook 9 Pro
Features and Reviews
The Samsung Notebook 9 Pro is a 2-in-1 laptop. Available in 13- and 15-inch versions, it stands out from traditional laptops thanks to its unique configuration and its S-Pen and Air Command software. With its latest touchscreen and pen technology, the Samsung Notebook 9 Pro is a powerful and stylish Ultrabook.
The configuration of the 15-inch version we reviewed includes a 2.7GHz Intel Core i7-7500U processor, a 15-inch FHD LED display with touchscreen, an Intel HD Graphics 620, and an AMD Radeon graphics card. 540 with 2 GB GDDR5, 16 GB of DDR4 RAM, a 256 GB SSD and Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity. It also has 2 USB 3.0 ports, 1 USB-C port, HDMI, MicroSD, headphone/mic input and DC input, as well as a 720p HD camera with Windows Hello facial recognition. With its dimensions of 34.72 x 23.9 x 1.7 cm and its weight of 1.7 kg, it is easily transportable.
The Samsung Notebook 9 Pro has many advantages, such as efficient use of the S-Pen, above-average battery life. It also has fast charging, which comes in handy when you're in a hurry.
In terms of performance, the Samsung Notebook 9 Pro offers a smooth and fast experience thanks to its powerful processor and solid memory and storage. The touchscreen and S-Pen are high quality and provide an intuitive experience. However, the downward-firing speakers may be a disadvantage for some users.
4K laptops: things to know before buying
4K, what does that mean?
The term 4K refers to an image resolution.
Now you may be wondering what the term “resolution” means. It's very simple: it's actually the density of the pixels, the squares that make up the image on a digital screen. Individual pixels are only visible if you stand close to the screen. From a distance, they blend together to form a natural image, just like in reality. So, the more pixels, the higher the image resolution.
The letter K refers to the number “1000”. This means that for 4K there are around 4000 horizontal pixels on your screen. There are several types of 4K screens, with dimensions ranging from 3840 x 2160 to 4096 x 3112. But the dimensions considered standard are 3840 x 2160.
4K laptops: what else do they have?
As we have just seen, the number of pixels is directly correlated to image resolution. So, the more pixels we have, the more natural and realistic the image appears. 4K technology is a real leap forward from previous resolutions.
Let's take the example of a 1080p laptop. Considering the number of pixels, a 4K laptop offers four times the quality of a 1080p laptop!
Another advantage of 4K resolution is screen size. By opting for this option, you will have more space on the screen: whether for playing a game, video editing or simple word processing.
What are the criteria to take into account when choosing?
Intended use
How do you use your 4K computer? This is a question that needs to be asked because each type of laptop is designed for a specific use. While some are perfect for office use, others will be recommended for gamers. Considering these distinctions will make the purchasing process easier.
Good to know : If you plan to play on a 4k screen, consider choosing a graphics card for 4k !
Screen size
As stated previously, not all 4K screens are necessarily the same size. You will therefore have to ask yourself which size will suit your needs. Generally, with 4K resolution, it's better to focus on larger monitors. This screen diagonal will allow you to obtain an image with an optimal level of detail. The icons and details will not be too small, which will guarantee you optimal user comfort.
If you are a gamer, we invite you to watch our comparison of the latest 4K screens for gaming .
Image format
Screen proportions are a very important factor to consider. Most monitors offer a 16:9 format, but you can also opt for a 21:9 format. This is an important choice because it will directly affect your comfort of work or entertainment. The 16:9 format will be suitable for most applications, while 21:9 will be more interesting for more visual tasks such as gaming or editing.
Synchronization frequency
Another key consideration is the frame sync frequency. When opting for a 4K computer for gaming, for example, you should consider the synchronization frequency with the graphics card. 4K monitors don't always have this option, so you'll have to do your research.
Connectivity ports
It is important to know which ports are present on the laptop in order to know if they are compatible with the devices you would like to connect. You might want to connect your phone, for example, or a projector. So make sure there are the ports you need (like a USB or HDMI port).
Speakers and microphone
If you don't plan to buy separate speakers, it's worth choosing a laptop with built-in speakers. Most 4K monitors offer this solution, but you shouldn't expect very high quality sound. Same thing for the microphone: the quality of the integrated microphone is not always optimal.
Connection speed
Is your connection fast enough? This is especially important if you want to watch content or play video games. Today, it's not difficult to find content available in 4K. However, your connection must be sufficient to follow!
The price
The price of 4K monitors varies greatly: it depends on screen sizes, technical parameters and features. The price must therefore be considered through the prism of the whole, because sometimes a small difference in price allows you to get the equipment with better parameters.
The brand of the monitor
One of the key criteria is the choice of brand. Always favor equipment from major manufacturers who are leaders in the sector and whose reliability is verified. This will help you approach the purchase with more peace of mind if you know that many buyers have been satisfied!
Energy consumption
At a time when awareness is growing about the importance of ecology, it is appropriate to question the impact that using a 4K laptop will have. Compared to a 1080p screen, a 4K screen will contain more pixels. We will have a more powerful backlight, which will mean higher consumption. The impact will not only be seen at the ecological level, but also at the level of system resources and your electricity bill!
In summary, the ideal choice is at the intersection of your needs and what the product will offer you. Start by asking yourself what you are reserving your 4K computer for.
Now let's look at the possibilities available to you.
4K Laptops: Frequently Asked Questions
4K laptops: what are the alternatives?
4K isn't the only option on the market. There are computers with more or less high resolution. They all have their specificities but will not always be adapted to your needs and your means. Let's take a brief overview.
720p laptops
720p resolution (also called HD) is intended for 16:9 format. It contains 720 lines of pixels and the “p” indicates that the image is progressively scanned. In other words, the image is not interlaced.
1080p laptops
1080p resolution (also called Full HD) displays 1080 lines of pixels. In terms of total pixels, it's double that of 720p. 1080p is the standard for high definition displays.
5K Laptops
Even though 4K resolution for laptops represents the top of the line, manufacturers continue to go further. The most common resolution is 5120 x 2880. Overall, the number of pixels is 7 times that of 1080p resolution. But you have to take into account that laptops of this caliber are power hungry and there are few cases in which you will really need such a high resolution.
What is the difference between 4K and Ultra HD?
There is no difference. Ultra HD is simply another name given to 4K. Just like 720p resolution is HD and 1080p resolution is Full HD.
What are the benefits of a 4K laptop?
High resolution images
The first advantage of 4K resolution is obviously image quality. Thanks to the large quantity of pixels, we get into details easily and the rendering is very realistic.
Good conditions for gaming
Do you like video games? 4K resolution is for you. With such quality, you can benefit from an excellent gaming experience with total immersion in the universe. Same thing if you are a streaming fan: watching films and series is immediately more immersive. This does not match all content, however, as we will see in the next part of this article.
The right work tool
The large 4K resolution screens make it an excellent work tool. Whether you use your laptop for graphics or video editing, you will benefit from extreme precision which will only improve your working comfort. But it is also valid if you use your computer for low-energy tasks such as word processing or simple internet use. The 4K screen will offer you special comfort that will make your work enjoyable.
What are the downsides to a 4K laptop?
The price
Quality often rhymes with high price, and 4K resolution is no exception. Laptops with 4K resolution are much more expensive than those with lower resolutions like Full HD (which is very popular). This alternative is therefore not available for all budgets. However, it remains more affordable than the most recent releases.
The choice of screen size
4K resolution is not a good resolution for small screens. It should also be noted that for the cheapest computers, 4K resolution is not available.
Finally, you will only be able to appreciate the quality of the resolution when the content displayed on the screen corresponds to 4K. This can be the case with films, for example: a 720p film will not be displayed in 4K on a 4K screen. This restriction narrows your possibilities in a significant way.
Who is the 4K laptop for?
Laptops with 4K resolution will prove to be a good choice in many situations.
First, for gamers. The gaming experience in 4K will be excellent, provided that it is a game adapted to this high resolution. Because if you prefer retro games or classic games, 4K resolution doesn't really make sense.
Second, for people working in graphics, design or photography. The ability to work with high-resolution, highly detailed images facilitates professional graphic design and editing.
Finally, 4K resolution is a great choice for people working in video editing or animation. Just like people working in graphics, design and photography, those working with video will benefit from very high precision and quality to obtain excellent quality rendering.
The 4K laptop for everyday use?
Maybe you are neither a gamer nor an image professional. And therefore you will not use your 4K computer to play immersive games or process the details of a video or image. So you're missing out on the best parts of 4K resolution.
The question then arises: do you need a 4K laptop for everyday use?
It is true that if you do not fit into the boxes stated above, a 4K computer may not be a necessity. Instead, you could simply opt for a second screen for more space and flexibility. That being said, there's no doubt that even if you don't absolutely need top quality, it's always nice to have a great tool.
The 4K laptop, soon to be obsolete?
As we saw earlier, 4K resolution is not the highest on the market. So there may be a risk that after your purchase, your 4K laptop will become obsolete, and you will not be able to resell it later.
But one thing must be taken into account: 4K is above all an invention of television manufacturers. In a few months, they propelled it to such a level that it became a standard. We can note that other technologies like 3D which have not had such resounding success.
There is another factor to consider: monitors with 1080p resolution are still the standard on the market. So if you opt for a 4K laptop today, you have nothing to fear: you still have it for a very long time!
Do you need a 4K laptop?
4K resolution provides an unparalleled user experience that provides ideal comfort. So whether you want to use your laptop for professional purposes or for simple entertainment, the answer is “yes, absolutely!” »
Image professionals (graphics, video editing) will find a reliable tool and millimeter precision, while gamers will appreciate the immersive atmosphere that Ultra HD quality offers to their gaming experience.
Although expensive, 4K laptops are much more affordable than higher resolution laptops. Either way, this is a solid, long-term investment. In other words…go for it!
4K laptops, yes or no?
Throughout this article, we've explored the features of 4K laptops, looked at what makes them special, and how to choose one. The key criteria are intended use, screen size, aspect ratio, sync frequency, presence of suitable connectivity ports, presence of speakers and microphone, speed of connection , price, monitor brand and power consumption.
Next, we explored the different alternatives that we recommend.
And finally, we have listed the advantages (excellent image quality, ideal for gaming, excellent working tool for professionals) and disadvantages (high price and few options regarding screen size) to opting for a 4K laptop, we've seen who will benefit the most (i.e. imaging professionals and gamers), we've seen that it's a sustainable alternative and that most people will find something interesting there.
Now, if despite all these arguments you are hesitant and wondering if a 4K computer is really for you... try it! You could very easily get caught up in the game and before long...you'll never want to go back to a lower resolution device.
And you, have you opted for a 4K laptop? Which model did you choose, and how do you use it? Tell us in the comments!
