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The best 17-inch laptops: Windows edition
Why you can trust ZDNET
ZDNET's reviewers spend weeks to months testing each laptop on this list, using it for both everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and gaming, to more performance-intensive work like photo and video editing. We aim to give you a view into how each laptop could actually fit into your life and workflow, and the pros and cons of their various features like performance, display, and battery life.
What to Consider
Design
Performance
Storage and RAM
Purpose
Value
Computers are available in a variety of different sizes these days. It is easy to find whatever size you are looking for, but what happens when you need a bigger screen for your work?
ZDNET Recommends
Whether you need a larger workspace or simply prefer a larger screen, the best 17-inch laptops can transform your experience and suddenly make the most minute details visible to the human eye. It is just a matter of which one to buy.
Also: Read more about the best computers
That is where we can help you make the right investment for your needs with these best 17-inch laptops for you.
Dell XPS 17
Best 17-inch laptop overall
Tech Specs: Hard disk: 1 TB | Ram memory: 32 GB | CPU model: Core i9 | Hard disk: SSD
When you want the best 17-inch laptop overall, the Dell XPS 17 delivers. With Windows 11 Pro installed, it uses the Core i9 operating system with 32 gigabytes of memory enclosed. It boasts a 12th Gen Intel Core i9-12900HK processor with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 6GB GDDR6 Graphics and 32GB of DDR5 memory. Sound is fantastic, too, with 3D soundscape and Waves Nx 3D Audio. Its UHD screen is also a touchscreen for easier use.
Read the review: Dell XPS 17
Alienware m17 R5
Best gaming 17-inch laptop
Tech specs: Hard disk: 1 TB | Ram memory: 32 GB | CPU model: Core i9 | Hard disk: SSD
The Alienware m17 R5 has a beautiful 17.3" display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution and an LED backlight for crystal-clear viewing. The laptop uses AMD Ryzen 6000 series processors that operate under the Microsoft Windows 11 system. The AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX Processor boasts machine intelligence to streamline user experience. Plus, there is a uniquely convenient Alienware Cryo-tech cooling feature that keeps your computer from getting too hot during use.
Asus Zenbook 17 Fold OLED
Best folding 17-inch laptop
Tech Specs: Hard disk: 1 TB | Ram memory: 16 GB | CPU model: Intel Core i7 | Hard disk: SSD
If you want the best foldable 17-inch laptop, the Asus Zenbook 17 Fold OLED laptop is it. With a high 2560 x 1920 resolution, the NanoEdge touchscreen offers a stellar picture, given its extra vivid colors with Pantone validation. It is foldable, so you can easily take it with you on the go. That means your laptop is also both tablet and PC compatible, giving you a wider range of use.
Read the review: More about the Asus ZenBook
LG Gram 17
Best lightweight 17-inch laptop
Tech Specs: Hard disk: 512 GB | Ram memory: 16 GB | CPU model: Core i7 | Hard disk: SSD
LG Gram 17 weighs less than three pounds and yet does not skimp on features. It offers a 2560 x 160 anti-glare, non-reflective display with 16 GB of memory and a 5200 Mhz clock speed. You also receive 1 TB of storage. It has an Intel Evo Platform Powered by 12th Gen Intel Core i7 Processor with Windows 11 Home already included. An extra plus is the built-in AI sound technology that provides noise filtering, so you are not distracted by background noise.
Read the review: LG Gram 17 review
Razer Blade 17
Best 17-inch laptop for creatives
Tech Specs: Hard disk: 1 TB | Ram memory: 32 GB | CPU model: Core i7 | Hard disk: SSD
The Razer Blade 17 is stacked with benefits, starting with its 12th Gen Intel® Core i7-12800H processor and NVIDIA® GeForce RTX 3080Ti graphics. Powering it all is 32 GB of RAM, but even with all its power, it still manages to be lightweight enough to transport wherever you need to go. Enjoy a beautiful QHD 240Hz display paired with NVIDIA® G-SYNC® technology to ensure a clear, steady picture when you are working or playing.
Read the review: Razer Blade 17 review
What is the best 17-inch laptop?
The Dell XPS 17 wins ZDNet's best 17-inch laptop overall with a powerful operating system, easy viewing, and terrific sound. Our expert suggestions can help you find the right 17-inch laptop for you.
Best 17-inch laptop | Cost | Touchscreen | Resolution |
Dell XPS 17 | $1,649.99 | ✔ | 3840 x 2400 |
Alienware m17 R5 | $2,299.99 | ✗ | 1920 x 1080 |
Asus Zenbook 17 Fold OLED | $3,499.99 | ✔ | 2560 x 1920 |
LG Gram 17 | $1,399.99 | ✗ | 2560x1600 |
Razer Blade 17 | $3,899.00 | ✗ | 1920 x 1080 |
Which is the right 17-inch laptop for you?
Here we offer our expert recommendations to help you find the best 17-inch laptop for your personal or professional needs.
Choose this best 17-inch laptop... | If you want... |
Dell XPS 17 | Value and performance all in one |
Alienware m17 R5 | A 17-inch laptop worthy of gaming |
Asus Zenbook 17 Fold OLED | A flexible laptop that is a tablet and computer in one |
LG Gram 17 | Want a laptop that is perfect for on the go |
Razer Blade 17 | Something worthy of the creative professional |
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In this section, break down a buying tree for readers based on their use cases. Make a two-column chart (see live example here or see below) to visually lay out the use cases.
How did we choose these 17-inch laptops?
There are several factors we consider when searching for the best 17" laptop.
- Size: Size is obviously one of the driving factors here since we only look at the best 17" laptops in this study.
- Processor: A computer's processor will help determine how efficiently and quickly it will work.
- Display: We consider both touchscreen and non-touchscreen options to find something for everyone.
- Cost: Price is always something we keep in mind to suit a variety of budgets. The best 17" laptops run from about $1,400 to $3,900 each.
What is the biggest laptop size to buy?
The largest laptop is 17.3 inches on our list. You may be able to find larger screens elsewhere but jeopardize losing the features and convenience of a mainstream laptop.
How much does the best 17-inch laptop cost?
The cost of 17-inch laptops can vary significantly, relying upon factors like the display, battery, and built-in storage. The best 17-inch laptops cost between $1,400 and $3,900, depending on the model you choose.
What is the best 17-inch laptop resolution?
There are two main types of displays that you receive with a 17-inch laptop. Many laptops come in Full HD with a 16:9 ratio and 1,920 x 10,80 resolution. For those laptops with upgraded graphics, you will also find UHD 17-inch laptops with a 16:10 ratio and 3,840 x 2,400 resolution.
Are there alternative 17-inch laptops worth considering?
In our search, we also found these fantastic options for the best 17-inch laptops.
Check out the best laptops, the best all-in-one computers, and the best Windows laptops!