As the countdown to the new school year begins, one back-to-school essential is more important than ever — a dependable laptop. With fluctuating tech prices and uncertainty over tariffs, Consumer Reports shares some top picks and insider advice on scoring the best laptop for any budget.

Consumer Reports Tech Reporter Nicholas De Leon says, “We tell folks to buy the laptop now if they have the money now because there is a very good chance that prices could rise pretty dramatically.”

For bigger budgets, the latest 15-inch Apple MacBook Air ranks near the top of CR’s laptop ratings for performance and reliability.To score one for less, choose a smaller model or one that’s a few years old.

Prefer a PC with Windows? This lightweight LG Gram offers great portability and battery life.

And if

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