Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Discover top-rated laptops that offer value, performance, and features to rival the MacBook Pro M3.
Many users seek alternatives to the MacBook Pro M3 due to its high price, specific feature preferences, or a desire to explore different ecosystems. When choosing an alternative, consider factors like performance, battery life, display quality, and operating system compatibility with your workflow. In this guide, we'll explore top recommendations that provide compelling alternatives across different budgets and use cases. From premium options that rival the MacBook Pro M3's power to budget-friendly laptops that offer excellent value, there's an alternative for every need.
The Dell XPS 15 stands out as a versatile alternative to the MacBook Pro M3, offering a blend of performance and design. It features a 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, up to 64GB of RAM, and a stunning 4K OLED display. Its lightweight carbon fiber build and InfinityEdge display provide a premium feel. The XPS 15 excels in multitasking and creative work, making it ideal for professionals and creatives. It offers better port selection with USB-C, Thunderbolt, and HDMI ports. At a starting price around $1,300, it provides significant value compared to the MacBook Pro M3.
Key Difference: Offers a wider range of ports and a 4K OLED display option.
Price: Starts at $1,300, significantly less than the MacBook Pro M3's starting price of $1,999.
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10 is a top choice for business users, offering robust security features and exceptional build quality. It's powered by 12th Gen Intel processors, with up to 32GB of RAM and a 14-inch display. Its renowned keyboard and TrackPoint, along with MIL-STD-810H durability, make it ideal for professionals on the go. The laptop includes a 1080p webcam with privacy shutter and supports rapid charging. Priced from $1,200, it's a cost-effective option for those needing a reliable business laptop.
Key Difference: Offers enhanced security features and MIL-STD-810H durability.
Price: Starts at $1,200, offering business-grade features at a lower price than the MacBook Pro M3.
The HP Spectre x360 14 is a versatile 2-in-1 laptop that appeals to creatives and those who value flexibility. It features a 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, up to 16GB of RAM, and a 3:2 aspect ratio OLED display for vibrant colors. Its convertible design allows for use as a tablet, perfect for drawing or note-taking. The Spectre x360 includes a stylus and offers excellent battery life. Priced around $1,400, it's a compelling choice for those needing a creative workstation.
Key Difference: Convertible 2-in-1 design with a 3:2 aspect ratio OLED display.
Price: Starts at $1,400, offering creative flexibility at a competitive price.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is an excellent choice for those deeply integrated into the Windows ecosystem. It features a 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, up to 32GB of RAM, and a PixelSense display. Its sleek design and comfortable keyboard make it ideal for daily use. The Surface Laptop 5 integrates well with Microsoft 365 and other Microsoft services, offering seamless productivity. At around $1,300, it's a strong contender for Windows enthusiasts.
Key Difference: Seamless integration with Microsoft ecosystem and services.
Price: Starts at $1,300, providing a premium Windows experience at a lower cost than the MacBook Pro M3.
The Acer Swift 3 offers impressive value for budget-conscious consumers. It's equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a Full HD display. Its lightweight design and long battery life make it suitable for everyday tasks and light productivity. While it doesn't match the MacBook Pro M3's power, it provides a solid performance for the price. Starting at just $700, the Acer Swift 3 is an affordable alternative for those on a tight budget.
Key Difference: Offers a budget-friendly option with solid performance for everyday tasks.
Price: Starts at $700, significantly more affordable than the MacBook Pro M3.
The Razer Blade 15 is a high-performance laptop designed for gamers and power users. It features an Intel Core i7 processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 series graphics, and up to 32GB of RAM. Its 15.6-inch display with a high refresh rate ensures smooth gameplay. The Razer Blade 15's sleek design and customizable RGB keyboard add to its appeal. Priced around $2,000, it's a premium choice for those needing gaming performance.
Key Difference: High-performance gaming with NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics.
Price: Starts at $2,000, similar in price to the MacBook Pro M3 but optimized for gaming.
The LG Gram 17 is renowned for its ultra-lightweight design, weighing just under 3 pounds despite its large 17-inch display. It's powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and offers up to 16GB of RAM. Its long battery life and slim profile make it ideal for users who prioritize portability. The LG Gram 17 is perfect for travelers and professionals who need a large screen on the go. Priced around $1,800, it offers a unique combination of size and mobility.
Key Difference: Ultra-lightweight with a large 17-inch display.
Price: Starts at $1,800, offering unique portability features at a slightly lower price than the MacBook Pro M3.
Compare key specs and features of all our recommendations side-by-side
| Product | Recommendation | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Dell XPS 15 9520 15.6" FHD+ (Intel 12th Gen 14-Core i7-12700H (Beat i9-11980HK), 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, RTX 3050) Business Laptop, Backlit, FP, Thunderbolt 4, Webcam, Win 11 Pro 32GB RAM|1TB SSD Rank #1 | 4.6 4.6 | ||
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10 Intel Core i7-1280P 14" WUXGA (1920x1200) IPS 400nits Anti-Glare, Touch, 32GB RAM, 1TB NVMe SSD, Backlit KYB Fingerprint Reader, Win11 Pro 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD Rank #2 | 3.8 3.8 | ||
HP Spectre x360 AI Powered 2-in-1 Laptop 14.0" Touchscreen OLED 2.8K Display (Intel Ultra 7-155H, 32GB LPDDR5X, 1TB PCIe SSD, Active Pen, Backlit KB, Fingerprint, Win 11 Pro) w/DKZ USB Port Expander 14inch|Slate Blue 32GB RAM|1TB SSD Win 11 Pro Rank #3 | 4.1 4.1 | ||
Microsoft Surface Laptop (2025), Windows 11 Copilot+ PC, 13" Touchscreen Display, Snapdragon X Plus (8 core), 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage, Platinum Snapdragon X Plus (8 core) 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD 13" Touchscreen Display Platinum Rank #4 | 4.3 4.3 | ||
Acer Swift 3 Intel Evo Thin & Light Laptop 14.0" Full HD IPS Intel Core i7-1165G7 Intel Iris Xe Graphics 16GB LPDDR4X 512GB NVMe SSD WiFi 6 Back-lit KB Windows 11 Home SF314-511-753K 2022 i7 14" FHD Rank #5 | 4.2 4.2 | ||
Razer Blade 15 Gaming Laptop: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti - 12th Gen Intel 14-Core i7 CPU - 15.6” QHD 240Hz - 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB PCIe SSD - Windows 11 - CNC Aluminum - Chroma RGB - Thunderbolt 4 Intel 12th Gen 32 GB 1 TB RTX 3080 Ti QHD 240Hz Rank #6 | 4.2 4.2 | ||
LG gram AI Powered Laptop 17.0" Touchscreen IPS WQXGA Display (Intel Ultra 9-288V, 32GB LPDDR5X, 1TB PCIe SSD, Intel Arc 140V, Backlit KB, Win 11 Pro) w/MS 365 Personal, DKZ USB Port Expander 32GB RAM|1TB SSD Win11Pro Rank #7 | N/A |
