Apple announced a price increase across its entire MacBook lineup on June 25, making the entry-level MacBook Neo jump from $599 to $699. Meanwhile, MacBook Air models with 512GB of storage now start at $1,299 (up from $1,099), and MacBook Pro configurations with 1TB of storage have climbed to $1,999 (up from $1,699).
This timing creates a unique window for Windows shoppers. Between the new Apple pricing and broader industry-wide component shortages driving up PC costs elsewhere, finding value is harder than usual. However, Prime Day sales at Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Newegg are currently offering discounts of up to 54% on Windows laptops equipped with modern DDR5 RAM.
#1 HP OmniBook 3 (14-inch)
This affordable option runs on the Snapdragon X processor, paired with 16GB LPDDR5x memory and a 512GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. It features a 2K touchscreen display and includes Qualcomm Adreno graphics.
It is a solid choice for students or everyday users who need reliable performance without breaking the bank, especially given the current market trends.
#2 Dell 16-inch Laptop
Dell’s 16-inch model offers a 2K anti-glare display, making it ideal for multitasking. Under the hood, it features an AMD Ryzen 7 250 CPU, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and a spacious 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD.
The combination of screen real estate and fast storage makes this a practical upgrade for users who keep many browser tabs or documents open simultaneously.
#3 HP OmniBook 7 (17.3-inch)
For those who prefer larger screens, the HP OmniBook 7 offers a massive 17.3-inch FHD touchscreen. It is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 5 226V processor with Intel Arc 130V graphics.
The system includes 16GB LPDDR5x memory and a 512GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. This deal represents a significant drop in price, making it one of the steepest discounts available for a large-format laptop.
#4 ASUS Zenbook A14
The ASUS Zenbook A14 is back down to $749, featuring a thin and light chassis with a 2K OLED display. It runs on the Snapdragon X Plus processor.
Specs include 16GB LPDDR5x RAM and a 512GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. The OLED panel provides vibrant colors, making it a strong contender for media consumption and general productivity.
#5 Microsoft Surface Pro 11 SE
The Surface Pro 11 SE remains one of the top 2-in-1 PCs available. This specific deal features the high-performance Snapdragon X Elite processor.
It comes with 16GB LPDDR5x memory and a 256GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. While the storage is on the lower end, the processing power ensures it handles demanding tasks efficiently.
#6 LG Gram Book 16
The LG Gram Book 16 combines portability with performance. It features a 16-inch 2K touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate and 400 nits of brightness.
Internally, it uses an AMD Ryzen AI 7 445 processor, 16GB LPDDR5x RAM, and a 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. The high refresh rate makes scrolling and window management feel smoother.
#7 Samsung Galaxy Book6 Pro
Samsung’s Galaxy Book6 Pro stands out with its 3K AMOLED touchscreen. It is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 356H processor and Intel Arc graphics.
The system includes 16GB LPDDR5x memory and a 512GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. The display quality is exceptional for creative work or entertainment, balancing power with energy efficiency.
#8 ASUS Vivobook S 16
The ASUS Vivobook S 16 offers high-end specifications at a reduced price. It features a 3K OLED display, an Intel Core Ultra 7 255H processor, and Intel Arc 140T graphics.
This model is equipped with a generous 32GB LPDDR5x RAM and a 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. The large amount of memory makes it suitable for heavy multitasking and demanding applications.
#9 HP Victus 15 (Intel)
For budget-conscious gamers, the HP Victus 15 with an Intel Core i5-13420H processor is a strong entry point. It features an NVIDIA RTX 3050 GPU.
The system comes with 8GB DDR4 RAM and a 512GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. While the RAM is limited, it is upgradeable, allowing you to expand capacity later for better gaming performance.
#10 HP Victus 15 (AMD)
The AMD variant of the HP Victus 15 offers more processing power with an AMD Ryzen 7 7445HS CPU. It pairs this with an NVIDIA RTX 4050 GPU.
This model includes 16GB DDR5 RAM and a 512GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD. The faster memory and stronger graphics card make it a more capable machine for modern titles compared to the Intel version.
#11 Acer Nitro V 16
The Acer Nitro V 16 is a powerful option featuring an AMD Ryzen 7 260 processor and an NVIDIA RTX 5060 GPU. It includes a 180Hz display for smooth gameplay.
With 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, this laptop is well-equipped for high-performance gaming and content creation at a discounted price.
#12 ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 is a thin-and-light gaming powerhouse. It features a 14-inch 3K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
It runs on an AMD Ryzen 9 270 processor and an NVIDIA RTX 5060 GPU, backed by 16GB LPDDR5x RAM and a 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. This deal offers significant savings on a premium portable gaming machine.
#13 ASUS TUF Gaming 18
The ASUS TUF Gaming 18 is a large-format rig with robust cooling. It features an AMD Ryzen 7 260 CPU and an NVIDIA RTX 5070 GPU.
The display offers a 2560×1600 resolution with a 240Hz refresh rate. It includes 16GB DDR5 RAM and a 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, making it suitable for high-refresh-rate gaming.
#14 ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 combines portability with top-tier performance. It features a 16-inch 2.5K OLED display with a 240Hz refresh rate.
Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor and an NVIDIA RTX 5070 GPU, it includes 16GB LPDDR5x RAM and a 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. This is one of the most powerful thin-and-light options available.
#15 HP Omen 16
The HP Omen 16 is a stacked gaming laptop with an AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX processor and an NVIDIA RTX 5070 GPU. It features a 2560×1600 display with a 240Hz refresh rate.
This model comes with 32GB DDR5 RAM and a massive 2TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, providing ample storage and memory for demanding workflows and games.
Accessories and Software Deals
Beyond laptops, there are notable deals on accessories and software. The Targus Octave III backpack is highly rated and fits laptops up to 15.6 inches. For input devices, the Logitech G305 Lightspeed wireless gaming mouse is discounted by 46%, while the Logitech MX Master 3S offers a productivity boost for touchpad users.
An Acer 27-inch FHD monitor with a 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time is available for under $100, suitable for both work and play. Additionally, Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions are each reduced by $30 for a one-year term via StackSocial.
What this means for you: If you were waiting to buy a Windows laptop, the combination of Apple’s price hikes and Prime Day discounts makes now an opportune time. You can secure modern hardware with DDR5 RAM and latest-gen CPUs/GPUs at prices that may not return soon.
Source: Windows Central
Over to you: Are you switching to Windows due to Apple’s price hikes, or sticking with your current device?
