There was a time when 4K resolution was only available on high-end televisions… Today, such image quality is also available on laptops!
While there are many laptops that support this format, not all alternatives are necessarily good choices. Battery life, ease of use, sound and camera quality—these are just some of the criteria that can leave something to be desired on certain models. There are devices that meet all the right criteria, but they are not very numerous.
That's why it's essential to do your research before making a choice. Together, we've compiled a list of 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 16GB of DDR4 RAM. It also features an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card with 4GB of dedicated video memory, capable of handling the most demanding games. The 4K UHD display offers a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels and uses OLED technology for exceptional image quality.
2. HP Spectre x360
Features and Reviews
The HP Spectre x360 is a 15.6-inch convertible laptop equipped with a 10th-generation Intel Core i7 processor and 16 GB of DDR4 RAM. It also features an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti graphics card with 4 GB of dedicated video memory, capable of handling the most demanding games. The 4K IPS display offers a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels and includes HP Sure View technology for enhanced privacy.
3. ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo UX582LR-H2002R: a laptop with two screens!
Features and Reviews
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme is a 15.6-inch laptop equipped with an 8th-generation Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB of DDR4 RAM. It also features an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti graphics card with 4GB of dedicated video memory, capable of handling mid-range games. The 4K IPS display offers a resolution of 3840 x 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 delivers exceptional processing power and 8 GB of dedicated video memory for a smooth and immersive gaming experience. The 15.6-inch 4K UHD display boasts a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels and utilizes IPS technology for exceptional image quality with vibrant and accurate colors.
This 4K PC boasts a sleek and robust design, featuring an anodized aluminum chassis and a sliding hinge. It's equipped with a backlit keyboard for comfortable use even in the dark. The 4-cell battery provides up to 8 hours of battery life, ideal for extended gaming sessions. Furthermore, the Triton 500 offers a wide range of connectivity ports, including HDMI, Thunderbolt 3, an SD card reader, and more.
5. Gigabyte Aero 15 OLED XD
Features and Reviews
The Gigabyte Aero 15 OLED XD is a premium laptop designed for gamers and creative professionals. It features a 15.6-inch 4K OLED display, a vibrant RGB keyboard, and a fingerprint sensor integrated into the trackpad, along with a poorly positioned webcam below the screen. It boasts a solid selection of ports, including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1. Under the hood, the Aero 15 is equipped with the latest 11th-generation Intel processors and an Nvidia RTX 3070 graphics card, enabling it to deliver exceptional gaming and productivity performance. You can upgrade the RAM up to 64GB.
In terms of 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 80 fps on the ultra preset at 1080p, dropping to 37 fps in 4K. By manually adjusting all sliders, switching to the medium preset is necessary to achieve a playable 4K frame rate of 46 fps.
The Gigabyte Aero 15 OLED XD isn't perfect. Battery life is a weak point. However, if you're looking for a laptop with a premium OLED display for both work and play, this device is an excellent option to consider. With its exceptional gaming and productivity performance, vibrant RGB keyboard, and solid port selection, the Gigabyte Aero 15 OLED XD deserves its place among 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 16GB of DDR4 RAM. It also features an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 graphics card with 8GB of dedicated video memory, capable of handling the most demanding games. The 4K IPS display offers a resolution of 3840 x 2160 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-inch 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 stylus technology, the Samsung Notebook 9 Pro is a powerful and stylish Ultrabook.
The 15-inch version we reviewed features a 2.7GHz Intel Core i7-7500U processor, a 15-inch FHD LED touchscreen display, Intel HD Graphics 620 and AMD Radeon 540 graphics cards with 2GB of GDDR5 memory, 16GB of DDR4 RAM, a 256GB SSD, and 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity. It also includes two USB 3.0 ports, one USB-C port, HDMI, a microSD card slot, a headphone/microphone jack, a DC power input, and a 720p HD webcam with Windows Hello facial recognition. Measuring 34.72 x 23.9 x 1.7 cm and weighing 1.7 kg, it's easily portable.
The Samsung Notebook 9 Pro has many advantages, such as efficient use of the S-Pen and above-average battery life. It also features fast charging, which is convenient when you're in a hurry.
In terms of performance, the Samsung Notebook 9 Pro delivers a smooth and fast experience thanks to its powerful processor and ample memory and storage. The touchscreen and S-Pen stylus are high-quality and offer an intuitive experience. However, the downward-facing speakers may be a drawback 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 might be wondering what the term "resolution" means. It's quite simple: it refers to the density of pixels, those squares that make up the image on a digital screen. Individual pixels are only visible if you're standing close to the screen. From a distance, they blend together to form a natural image, just like in real life. So, the more pixels there are, the higher the image resolution.
The letter K refers to the number "1000." This means that for 4K, there are approximately 4000 horizontal pixels on your screen. There are several types of 4K screens, with dimensions ranging from 3840 x 2160 to 4096 x 3112. However, the standard size is considered to be 3840 x 2160.
4K laptops: what makes them special?
As we have just seen, the number of pixels is directly correlated to image resolution. Thus, the more pixels there are, the more natural and realistic the image appears. 4K technology is a real leap forward compared to previous resolutions.
Let's take the example of a 1080p laptop. Given 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'll have more screen space, whether for playing games, video editing, or simple word processing.
What criteria should be considered when making a choice?
Intended use
What will you be using your 4K computer for? This is an important question to ask because each type of laptop is designed for a specific purpose. While some are perfect for office work, others are recommended for gamers. Understanding these differences will make the buying process easier.
Good to know : If you plan to play on a 4k screen, remember to choose a graphics card for 4k !
The screen size
As mentioned earlier, not all 4K screens are the same size. You'll need to consider which size best suits your needs. Generally, with 4K resolution, it's best to focus on larger monitors. This screen size will allow you to obtain an image with optimal detail. Icons and details won't be too small, ensuring maximum user comfort.
If you are a gamer, we invite you to check out our comparison of the latest 4K gaming monitors .
Image format
The screen aspect ratio is 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 while working or playing. The 16:9 format will suit most applications, while 21:9 will be more suitable for more visual tasks such as gaming or video editing.
The synchronization frequency
The image sync frequency is another key element. When choosing a 4K computer for gaming, for example, it's important to consider the sync frequency with the graphics card. 4K monitors don't always have this option, so you'll need to do your research.
Connectivity ports
It's important to know which ports are on your laptop to ensure they're compatible with the devices you want to connect. You might want to connect your phone, for example, or a projector. So make sure it has the ports you need (like a USB or HDMI port).
The speakers and the microphone
If you don't plan on buying separate speakers, it's worth choosing a laptop with built-in speakers. Most 4K monitors offer this feature, but don't expect very high-quality sound. The same goes for the microphone: the quality of the integrated mic isn't always optimal.
Connection speed
Is your internet connection fast enough? This is especially important if you want to watch content or play video games. These days, it's not difficult to find content available in 4K. However, your connection needs to be fast enough to keep up!
The price
The price of 4K monitors varies considerably, depending on screen size, technical specifications, and features. Therefore, the price should be considered in the context of the overall package, as sometimes a small price difference allows you to get equipment with better specifications.
The monitor brand
One of the key criteria is brand choice. Always prioritize equipment from major manufacturers who are leaders in the sector and whose reliability is proven. Knowing that many other buyers have been satisfied will help you approach the purchase with greater peace of mind!
Energy consumption
With growing awareness of environmental issues, it's important to consider the impact of using a 4K laptop. Compared to a 1080p screen, a 4K screen contains more pixels. This results in a more powerful backlight, which in turn means higher power consumption. The impact will be felt not only in terms of the environment, but also in terms of system resources and your electricity bill!
In short, the ideal choice lies at the intersection of your needs and what the product will offer. Start by asking yourself what you intend to use your 4K computer for.
Let's now 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 varying resolutions. They each have their own specific features, but they won't always be suitable for your needs and budget. Let's take a brief look.
720p Laptops
The 720p resolution (also called HD) is designed for the 16:9 aspect ratio. It contains 720 lines of pixels, and the "p" indicates that the image undergoes progressive scanning. 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, this is double that of 720p. 1080p is the standard for high-definition screens.
5K Laptops:
Even though 4K resolution for laptops represents the pinnacle, manufacturers continue to push the boundaries. The most common resolution is 5120 x 2880. This translates to seven times the number of pixels compared to 1080p. However, it's important to consider that laptops of this caliber are power-hungry, and there are few situations where you'll truly need such a high resolution.
What is the difference between 4K and Ultra HD?
There is no difference. Ultra HD is simply another name for 4K. Just as 720p resolution is equivalent to HD and 1080p resolution is equivalent to Full HD.
What are the advantages of a 4K laptop?
High-resolution images
The primary advantage of 4K resolution is, of course, image quality. Thanks to the large number of pixels, details are easily discernible and the rendering is very realistic.
The right conditions for gaming
Do you love video games? 4K resolution is for you. With such quality, you can enjoy an excellent gaming experience, completely immersed in the game world. The same goes if you're a streaming enthusiast: watching movies and series becomes instantly more immersive. However, this isn't suitable for all content, as we'll see in the next part of this article.
The right work tool
Large 4K resolution screens make them an excellent work tool. Whether you use your laptop for graphic design or video editing, you'll benefit from exceptional precision that will only enhance your working comfort. But this also applies if you use your computer for less demanding tasks like word processing or simply browsing the internet. The 4K screen will offer you a unique level of comfort that will make your work enjoyable.
What are the disadvantages of a 4K laptop?
The price
High quality often comes at a price, and 4K resolution is no exception. Laptops with 4K resolution are significantly more expensive than those with lower resolutions like Full HD (which is very popular). This option is therefore not affordable for everyone. However, it remains more budget-friendly than the latest models.
Screen size selection
4K resolution is not a good resolution for small screens. It should also be noted that 4K resolution is not available on the cheapest computers.
Finally, you can only appreciate the resolution quality when the content displayed on the screen is 4K. This can be the case with movies, for example: a 720p movie will not be displayed in 4K on a 4K screen. This limitation significantly restricts your options.
Who is a 4K laptop for?
Laptops with 4K resolution will prove to be a good choice in many situations.
First, for gamers. The 4K gaming experience will be excellent, provided it's a game suited to this high resolution. Because if you prefer retro or classic games, 4K resolution doesn't really make sense.
Secondly, for people working in graphic design, design, or photography, the ability to work with high-resolution and highly detailed images facilitates graphic design and professional retouching.
Finally, 4K resolution is an excellent choice for those working in video editing or animation. Just like those working in graphic design, design, and photography, those working with video will benefit from the exceptional precision and quality required to achieve outstanding results.
A 4K laptop for everyday use?
Perhaps you're neither a gamer nor a professional image editor. Therefore, you won't be using your 4K computer for immersive gaming or for fine-tuning video or image details. As a result, you're missing out on the best aspects of 4K resolution.
The question then arises: do you need a 4K laptop for everyday use?
It's true that if you don't fall into the categories mentioned above, a 4K computer might not be necessary. Instead, you could simply opt for a second monitor for more screen space and flexibility. That being said, there's no doubt that even if you don't absolutely need top-of-the-line quality, it's always nice to have a great tool.
Is the 4K laptop becoming obsolete soon?
As we saw earlier, 4K resolution isn't the highest on the market. Therefore, there's a risk that after your purchase, your 4K laptop will become obsolete, and you won't be able to resell it later.
But one thing must be taken into account: 4K is primarily an invention of television manufacturers. In just a few months, they propelled it to such a level that it became a standard. It's worth noting that other technologies, like 3D, haven't achieved such resounding success.
There's another factor to consider: 1080p monitors are still the market standard. So if you opt for a 4K laptop today, you have nothing to worry about: you'll be able to use them for a very long time!
Do you need a 4K laptop?
4K resolution offers an unparalleled user experience with ideal comfort. So whether you want to use your laptop for professional purposes or simply for entertainment, the answer is "yes, absolutely!"
Image professionals (graphic design, video editing) will find it a reliable tool with 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 those with higher resolutions. In any case, it's a solid, long-term investment. In other words… go for it!
4K laptops, yes or no?
Throughout this article, we explored the features of 4K laptops, examining what makes them special and how to choose one. Key criteria include intended use, screen size, aspect ratio, refresh rate, availability of suitable connectivity ports, presence of speakers and a microphone, connection speed, price, monitor brand, and power consumption.
Next, we explored the different alternatives that we recommend.
Finally, we listed the advantages (excellent image quality, ideal for gaming, excellent work tool for professionals) and disadvantages (high price and limited screen size options) of opting for a 4K laptop, we saw who will benefit the most (namely, image professionals and gamers), we saw that it is a sustainable alternative and that most people will find something interesting in it.
Now, if despite all these arguments you're still hesitating and wondering if a 4K computer is really right for you… give it a try! You could very easily get hooked and in a little while… you'll never want to go back to a device with a lower resolution.
Have you opted for a 4K laptop? Which model did you choose, and how do you use it? Tell us in the comments!
