Best Lightweight Laptops with Long Battery Life: Top 3 Picks Compared
Choosing a lightweight laptop with long battery life is essential for students, travelers, and professionals who need reliable performance on the go. Here, we compare three of the top options for 2025: the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6, HP OmniBook X 14, and Apple MacBook Air (M4, 2025). Each model offers a unique balance of portability, endurance, and features.
Comparison Chart
Laptop Model | Weight | Battery Life | Display | Processor | Notable Features | Starting Price | Buy Now |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 | 2.72 lbs | Up to 24 hours | 14″ IPS, 1920×1200 | Snapdragon X Elite | Durable build, world-class keyboard | ~$1,400 | Buy Here |
HP OmniBook X 14 | 2.9 lbs | Up to 30 hours | 14″ 2.2K, touch | Snapdragon X Elite | All-metal, AI features, USB-A/C | ~$700 | Buy Here |
Apple MacBook Air (M4, 2025) | 2.7 lbs | Up to 12 hours* | 13″ Retina, 2560×1664 | Apple M4 | Premium build, Center Stage webcam | ~$850 | Buy Here |
*Battery life varies by usage; MacBook Air typically averages 12 hours of real-world use.
Detailed Descriptions, Pros, and Cons
Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6
Description:
The ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 is a business-class ultraportable that delivers exceptional battery life, a robust chassis, and a legendary ThinkPad keyboard. Powered by the Snapdragon X Elite processor and featuring up to 32GB RAM and 1TB storage, it’s ideal for productivity on the move.
Pros:
- Exceptional battery life (up to 24 hours), ideal for all-day work
- Lightweight and durable, thanks to carbon fiber, aluminum, and magnesium construction
- World-class keyboard and reliable TrackPoint for comfortable typing
- Ample port selection (USB-A, USB-C, HDMI), supporting versatile connectivity
- High-quality 5MP webcam and Dolby Atmos audio for clear calls and media
Cons:
- Display is limited to 1920×1200 resolution; no OLED or higher-res options
- Integrated graphics only; not suitable for gaming or heavy creative work
- RAM is soldered and not upgradeable after purchase
- Audio quality is adequate but not outstanding
HP OmniBook X 14
Description:
The HP OmniBook X 14 is one of the lightest and longest-lasting Windows laptops available. With a Snapdragon X Elite processor, a sharp 2.2K touch display, and a sturdy all-metal chassis, it’s designed for road warriors and anyone needing maximum mobility and battery life.
Pros:
- Record-setting battery life (up to 30 hours), perfect for extended travel or long workdays
- Sleek, all-metal build that feels solid and premium
- High-resolution 2.2K touch display for crisp visuals
- Good port selection, including both USB-A and USB-C
- Integrated AI features and Copilot+ support for enhanced productivity
- High-quality 5MP webcam with Windows Hello support for secure logins
Cons:
- Display is dimmer than some competitors, which may affect outdoor visibility
- Hinge can feel a bit wobbly, impacting perceived sturdiness
- Mechanical touchpad is less refined than some rivals
- Windows on Arm app compatibility can be hit or miss, depending on your software needs
- Design, while sturdy, is more minimalist and less “premium” than top-tier models
Apple MacBook Air (M4, 2025)
Description:
Apple’s MacBook Air (M4, 2025) continues the tradition of sleek, lightweight design paired with excellent performance and battery life. The new M4 chip brings performance gains and efficiency, while the Retina display and Center Stage webcam enhance usability for students and professionals alike
Pros:
- Lightweight and ultra-portable at just 2.7 pounds
- Strong performance and efficiency from the new M4 chip
- Premium build quality and attractive design
- Excellent keyboard, trackpad, and speakers for a great user experience
- Center Stage webcam and support for multiple external displays
- macOS ecosystem offers seamless integration with other Apple devices
Cons:
- Battery life, while solid, is lower than the best Windows competitors (around 12 hours in real-world use)
- Limited port selection (two USB-C, one MagSafe); no USB-A or HDMI
- Entry-level model has only 256GB SSD, which may fill up quickly
- Upgrades (RAM, storage) are expensive and must be configured at purchase
- No touch display option
Conclusion
Each of these lightweight laptops excels in portability and battery life, but they cater to slightly different needs:
- Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 is best for business users and professionals who prioritize durability, a great keyboard, and all-day battery life.
- HP OmniBook X 14 is the go-to for those who want the absolute longest battery life and a lightweight, feature-rich Windows laptop-ideal for travelers and students.
- Apple MacBook Air (M4, 2025) is perfect for users invested in the Apple ecosystem who want a premium, ultra-portable laptop with strong performance and a fantastic user experience.
Carefully consider your software needs, preferred operating system, and desired features to choose the best lightweight laptop with long battery life for your workflow.