In today’s world, where everything is becoming increasingly digital, the demand for laptops that can run web-based applications efficiently is on the rise. This is where OWS (Operating System Within a Web Browser) laptops come into play.
OWS laptops are designed to primarily run web-based applications, making them a popular choice for individuals who work, study, or use web-based applications frequently.
In this article, we will be discussing the best OWS laptops currently available in the market. Whether you’re a student, a remote worker, or someone who simply prefers web-based applications, this article will provide you with a comprehensive list of the best OWS laptops to help you make an informed decision.
What are OWS Laptops?
“Online workspace laptops” is not a specific brand or model of laptops but rather a concept related to the type of laptops or devices used for online work, remote work, or in a cloud-based workspace. These laptops are typically chosen for their ability to handle various online tasks, collaboration tools, and cloud-based applications efficiently.
Here are some general considerations when looking for laptops suitable for an online workspace:
- Performance: Ensure that the laptop has sufficient processing power and memory (RAM) to handle web-based applications, video conferencing, and multitasking smoothly. Look for at least an Intel Core i5 or equivalent AMD processor and 8GB or more of RAM.
- Connectivity: A laptop with a reliable internet connection is crucial for online work. Ensure that it supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for faster and more stable wireless connectivity.
- Battery Life: A laptop with good battery life is essential for working remotely. Look for a laptop that can last a full workday on a single charge.
- Display: A high-quality display with good resolution and color accuracy is important, especially if your work involves graphic design, video editing, or any visual tasks. Consider a laptop with an IPS or OLED screen.
- Webcam and Microphone: A built-in HD webcam and a good-quality microphone are crucial for video conferencing and online meetings.
- Keyboard and Touchpad: A comfortable keyboard and responsive touchpad are important for long typing sessions.
- Portability: Depending on your needs, consider the laptop’s size and weight. A lightweight, ultraportable laptop may be preferable if you need to carry it frequently.
- Security: Ensure that the laptop has security features such as a fingerprint scanner or facial recognition for secure logins. Additionally, consider using encryption and strong passwords for data security.
- Operating System: Choose an operating system that best suits your workflow. Windows, macOS, and various Linux distributions are commonly used options.
- Price and Budget: Determine your budget and look for laptops that offer the best value within that range.
- Brand and Model: Research reputable laptop brands and models known for their reliability and customer support.
- Upgradability: Some laptops allow for hardware upgrades, such as RAM and storage. Check if the laptop you choose can be easily upgraded to meet future needs.
Best OWS Laptops Listed
After researching and analyzing various models, we have compiled a list of the ten best OWS laptops available in the market. Our list includes laptops from well-known manufacturers such as Google, Acer, HP, and Lenovo, among others. Each laptop on our list has been selected based on its performance, battery life, display, and user experience, among other factors.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end OWS laptop, our list has something for everyone. So without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the 10 best OWS laptops available in the market.
| MacBook Pro M1 | Buy From Amazon |
| Dell XPS 13 | Buy From Amazon |
| HP Spectre x360 | Buy From Amazon |
| Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon | Buy From Amazon |
| ASUS ZenBook UX425 | Buy From Amazon |
| Acer Swift 5 | Buy From Amazon |
| Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 | Buy From Amazon |
| HP Envy x360 | Buy From Amazon |
| Lenovo Yoga C940 | Buy From Amazon |
| Dell XPS 15 | Buy From Amazon |
MacBook Pro M1
The MacBook Pro M1 is a high-performance laptop that is perfect for OWS. It is powered by the Apple M1 chip, which is incredibly fast and efficient. It also has a stunning 13-inch Retina display, which is perfect for working on detailed projects. The MacBook Pro M1 is also equipped with a backlit Magic Keyboard and a Touch Bar for easy access to your most-used functions.
The MacBook Pro M1 also has a long battery life, lasting up to 17 hours on a single charge. This is a great feature for those who need to work on the go. The MacBook Pro M1 also has a built-in FaceTime HD camera, which is perfect for video conferencing. Overall, the MacBook Pro M1 is a powerful and versatile laptop that is perfect for OWS.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Amazing battery life | Limited number of ports (only 2 USB-C Thunderbolt 3 ports) |
| Powerful performance thanks to the M1 chip | Limited upgradability (RAM and storage are not user-upgradable) |
| Runs cool and quiet | No support for eGPUs |
| Retina display with True Tone technology | Limited software compatibility with older apps |
| Lightweight and portable design | Price point may not be affordable for everyone |
| Improved webcam and microphone quality | No Face ID or Touch ID for login |
| Improved thermal management | No SD card slot |
| Runs macOS Big Sur smoothly | Limited customization options for hardware |
Dell XPS 13
The Dell XPS 13 is a sleek and powerful laptop that is perfect for OWS. It has a stunning 13.4-inch InfinityEdge display, which is almost borderless, making it perfect for multitasking. It is powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core processor and has a battery life of up to 18 hours, making it perfect for long workdays.
The Dell XPS 13 also has a high-quality webcam, which is perfect for video conferencing. It also has a built-in fingerprint reader for added security. The Dell XPS 13 is also very lightweight and portable, making it perfect for working on the go. Overall, the Dell XPS 13 is a great choice for those looking for a powerful and portable OWS laptop.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sleek and lightweight design | Limited upgradability (RAM and storage are not user-upgradable) |
| Powerful performance with 11th Gen Intel Core processors | No dedicated graphics card option |
| InfinityEdge display with slim bezels | No HDMI port |
| Great battery life | No SD card slot |
| Solid build quality with aluminum chassis | No Thunderbolt 4 support |
| Comfortable keyboard and touchpad | Higher price point compared to other laptops in its category |
| Good selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB-C 3.2, microSD card reader) | No dedicated Ethernet port |
| Good webcam and microphone quality | No cellular connectivity option |
HP Spectre x360
The HP Spectre x360 is a versatile and powerful OWS laptop that can transform into a tablet with ease. It has a 13.3-inch 4K display and is powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core processor. It also has a battery life of up to 22 hours, making it perfect for long work sessions. The HP Spectre x360 also comes with a built-in stylus, making it perfect for artists and designers.
The HP Spectre x360 is also very lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go. It also has a high-quality webcam and a built-in fingerprint reader for added security. Overall, the HP Spectre x360 is a great choice for those looking for a versatile and powerful OWS laptop.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Premium build quality and design | Higher price point compared to other laptops in its category |
| Powerful performance with 11th Gen Intel Core processors | Limited upgradability (RAM and storage are not user-upgradable) |
| 2-in-1 design with flexible hinge | No dedicated graphics card option |
| Long battery life | Limited selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB-C 3.2) |
| Bright and vivid display with touch support | No HDMI port |
| Comfortable keyboard and touchpad | No SD card slot |
| Good selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB-C 3.2, microSD card reader) | Can run hot under heavy loads |
| Good webcam and microphone quality | Bloatware pre-installed |
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon is a business-class OWS laptop that is perfect for professionals. It is powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core processor and has a battery life of up to 19.5 hours. It also has a stunning 14-inch 4K display and is built to be durable, with a carbon-fiber chassis.
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon also has a high-quality webcam and a built-in fingerprint reader for added security. It also has a great keyboard, which is perfect for typing long documents. Overall, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon is a great choice for professionals who need a powerful and durable OWS laptop.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and durable carbon fiber construction | Higher price point compared to other laptops in its category |
| Powerful performance with 11th Gen Intel Core processors | Limited upgradability (RAM is soldered and storage is not user-upgradable) |
| Comfortable keyboard and touchpad | No dedicated graphics card option |
| Long battery life | Limited selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 4, 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 2.0, RJ45, microSD card reader) |
| Bright and vivid display with touch support | No SD card slot |
| Fast and reliable fingerprint reader | Limited customization options for hardware |
| Good selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 4, 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 2.0, RJ45, microSD card reader) | No Wi-Fi 6E support |
| MIL-STD-810G certified for durability | No Thunderbolt 4 support |
| Good webcam and microphone quality | No cellular connectivity option |
ASUS ZenBook UX425
The ASUS ZenBook UX425 is a stylish and powerful OWS laptop that is perfect for working on the go. It has a stunning 14-inch NanoEdge display and is powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core processor. It also has a battery life of up to 22 hours, making it perfect for long work sessions.
The ASUS ZenBook UX425 also has a lightweight and portable design, making it easy to take with you on the go. It also has a high-quality webcam and a built-in fingerprint reader for added security. The keyboard is also backlit and comfortable for typing. Overall, the ASUS ZenBook UX425 is a great choice for those looking for a stylish and powerful OWS laptop.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and compact design | Limited selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB-A 3.2, HDMI, microSD card reader) |
| Excellent battery life | Limited upgradability (RAM and storage are not user-upgradable) |
| Bright and vivid display with slim bezels | No dedicated graphics card option |
| Good performance with 11th Gen Intel Core processors | No Wi-Fi 6E support |
| Fast and reliable fingerprint reader | No Thunderbolt 4 support |
| Comfortable keyboard and touchpad | No Ethernet port |
| Good selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB-A 3.2, HDMI, microSD card reader) | No cellular connectivity option |
| Good webcam and microphone quality | No option for touchscreen display |
Acer Swift 5
The Acer Swift 5 is a lightweight and powerful OWS laptop that is perfect for those who need to work on the go. It is powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core processor and has a stunning 14-inch Full HD IPS display. It also has a battery life of up to 17 hours, making it perfect for long work sessions.
The Acer Swift 5 also has a high-quality webcam and a built-in fingerprint reader for added security. It is also very lightweight, weighing in at just 2.31 pounds, making it easy to take with you on the go. The keyboard is also comfortable for typing. Overall, the Acer Swift 5 is a great choice for those looking for a lightweight and powerful OWS laptop.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and compact design | Limited selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB-A 3.2, HDMI, microSD card reader) |
| Good performance with 11th Gen Intel Core processors | No dedicated graphics card option |
| Bright and vivid display with slim bezels | Limited upgradability (RAM and storage are not user-upgradable) |
| Long battery life | No Ethernet port |
| Good selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB-A 3.2, HDMI, microSD card reader) | No option for touchscreen display |
| Comfortable keyboard and touchpad | No Wi-Fi 6E support |
| Good webcam and microphone quality | No Thunderbolt 4 support |
| Fast and reliable fingerprint reader | Limited customization options for hardware |
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 is a powerful and versatile OWS laptop that is perfect for professionals. It has a stunning 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen display and is powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core processor. It also has a battery life of up to 19 hours, making it perfect for long work sessions.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 also has a high-quality webcam and a built-in fingerprint reader for added security. It also has a great keyboard, which is perfect for typing long documents. The laptop is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go. Overall, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 is a great choice for professionals who need a versatile and powerful OWS laptop.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Slim and lightweight design | Limited selection of ports (1 USB-C, 1 USB-A, Surface Connect, headphone jack) |
| Good battery life | Limited upgradability (RAM and storage are not user-upgradable) |
| Bright and vivid display with touch support | No dedicated graphics card option |
| Comfortable keyboard and touchpad | No Wi-Fi 6E support |
| Good performance with 11th Gen Intel Core or AMD Ryzen processors | No Thunderbolt 4 support |
| Excellent webcam and microphone quality | No option for SD card slot |
| Good selection of ports (1 USB-C, 1 USB-A, Surface Connect, headphone jack) | No cellular connectivity option |
| Fast and reliable fingerprint reader | Limited customization options for hardware |
HP Envy x360
The HP Envy x360 is a versatile and powerful OWS laptop that can transform into a tablet with ease. It has a stunning 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreen display and is powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core processor. It also has a battery life of up to 12 hours, making it perfect for long work sessions.
The HP Envy x360 also has a high-quality webcam and a built-in fingerprint reader for added security. It also has a great keyboard, which is perfect for typing long documents. The laptop is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go. Overall, the HP Envy x360 is a great choice for those looking for a versatile and powerful OWS laptop.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Slim and lightweight design | Limited selection of ports (1 USB-C, 1 USB-A, Surface Connect, headphone jack) |
| Good battery life | Limited upgradability (RAM and storage are not user-upgradable) |
| Bright and vivid display with touch support | No dedicated graphics card option |
| Comfortable keyboard and touchpad | No Wi-Fi 6E support |
| Good performance with 11th Gen Intel Core or AMD Ryzen processors | No Thunderbolt 4 support |
| Excellent webcam and microphone quality | No option for SD card slot |
| Good selection of ports (1 USB-C, 1 USB-A, Surface Connect, headphone jack) | No cellular connectivity option |
| Fast and reliable fingerprint reader | Limited customization options for hardware |
Lenovo Yoga C940
The Lenovo Yoga C940 is a versatile and powerful OWS laptop that can transform into a tablet with ease. It has a stunning 14-inch 4K touchscreen display and is powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core processor. It also has a battery life of up to 10.5 hours, making it perfect for long work sessions.
The Lenovo Yoga C940 also has a high-quality webcam and a built-in fingerprint reader for added security. It also has a great keyboard, which is perfect for typing long documents. The laptop is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go. Overall, the Lenovo Yoga C940 is a great choice for those looking for a versatile and powerful OWS laptop.
Sure, here are some pros and cons of the Lenovo Yoga C940 in a tabular column:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flexible 2-in-1 design with touch support | Limited selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 3, 1 USB-A 3.1, headphone/mic combo jack) |
| Good performance with 10th Gen Intel Core processors | No dedicated graphics card option |
| Bright and vivid display with slim bezels | Limited upgradability (RAM and storage are not user-upgradable) |
| Long battery life | No Ethernet port |
| Good selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 3, 1 USB-A 3.1, headphone/mic combo jack) | No option for SD card slot |
| Comfortable keyboard and touchpad | No Wi-Fi 6E support |
| Good webcam and microphone quality | No option for cellular connectivity |
| Fast and reliable fingerprint reader | No option for 4K display |
Dell XPS 15
The Dell XPS 15 is a powerful and versatile OWS laptop that is perfect for professionals. It has a stunning 15.6-inch InfinityEdge touchscreen display and is powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core processor. It also has a battery life of up to 16 hours, making it perfect for long work sessions.
The Dell XPS 15 also has a high-quality webcam and a built-in fingerprint reader for added security. It also has a great keyboard, which is perfect for typing long documents. The laptop is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go. The XPS 15 also has great connectivity options, with Thunderbolt 4 ports and an SD card reader. Overall, the Dell XPS 15 is a great choice for professionals who need a powerful and versatile OWS laptop.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent performance with 11th Gen Intel Core or NVIDIA RTX graphics processors | Limited selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB-C 3.1, SD card reader, headphone jack) |
| Bright and vivid 4K OLED display with slim bezels | No Ethernet port |
| Good battery life | Limited upgradability (RAM and storage are not user-upgradable) |
| Good selection of ports (2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 USB-C 3.1, SD card reader, headphone jack) | No option for Wi-Fi 6E support |
| Comfortable keyboard and touchpad | No option for cellular connectivity |
| Solid build quality and sleek design | Expensive compared to other laptops |
| Good webcam and microphone quality | Can get hot under heavy use |
| Fast and reliable fingerprint reader |
Specifications of OWS laptops
The specifications of OWS laptops can vary greatly depending on the model and manufacturer. However, there are some key specifications that are important to consider when choosing an OWS laptop. Here are some of the most important specifications to look for:
- Processor: The processor is the brain of the computer and determines its overall performance. Look for an OWS laptop with at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor, but preferably an i7 or Ryzen 7 for optimal performance.
- RAM: Random Access Memory (RAM) determines how many programs can be run at the same time without slowing down the computer. Look for an OWS laptop with at least 8GB of RAM, but preferably 16GB or more for optimal multitasking.
- Storage: OWS laptops typically use Solid State Drives (SSDs) for storage, which are faster and more reliable than traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs). Look for an OWS laptop with at least 256GB of SSD storage, but preferably 512GB or more.
- Display: The display is an important factor to consider when choosing an OWS laptop. Look for a laptop with at least a Full HD (1920×1080) resolution, but preferably a higher resolution such as QHD (2560×1440) or 4K (3840×2160) for better clarity and detail.
- Graphics Card: If you plan to use your OWS laptop for gaming, video editing, or other graphics-intensive tasks, then you may want to look for a laptop with a dedicated graphics card. Look for a laptop with at least an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 or AMD Radeon RX 560X for good gaming performance.
- Battery Life: The battery life of an OWS laptop can vary greatly depending on usage and specifications. Look for a laptop with a battery life of at least 8 hours or more, but preferably 10-12 hours or more for all-day use.
- Connectivity: Look for an OWS laptop with at least two or three USB Type-C or Thunderbolt 4 ports, which can be used for charging, data transfer, and video output. Other important connectivity features to consider include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and an SD card reader.
- Security: Look for an OWS laptop with a built-in fingerprint reader, which can be used to quickly and securely log in to your laptop. Some laptops also come with facial recognition or IR cameras for added security.
Overall, the specifications of an OWS laptop will depend on your individual needs and usage requirements. It’s important to carefully consider each of these specifications and choose a laptop that meets your needs and budget.
Applications and user base for OWS Laptops
OWS (Operating System Within a Web Browser) laptops are designed to run applications that are entirely web-based. As such, the user base for OWS laptops is typically people who primarily use web-based applications for work, study, or personal use. Here are some of the most popular applications and user bases for OWS laptops:
- Google Workspace: OWS laptops are particularly well-suited for running Google Workspace applications, such as Gmail, Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. These applications are entirely web-based and can be accessed through a web browser, making them a popular choice for individuals and organizations that need to collaborate on documents and files.
- Online Learning: OWS laptops are also popular among students and educators who use web-based learning platforms such as Canvas, Blackboard, and Moodle. These platforms allow students to access course materials, submit assignments, and participate in online discussions through a web browser.
- Cloud Storage: OWS laptops are often used by individuals and organizations that rely on cloud storage services, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. These services allow users to store, access, and share files from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Video Conferencing: With the rise of remote work and online communication, OWS laptops have become popular for video conferencing applications such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams. These applications allow users to hold meetings, webinars, and virtual events from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Social Media: OWS laptops are also popular among individuals who primarily use social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. These platforms can be accessed through a web browser and allow users to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues.
Overall, the applications and user base for OWS laptops are primarily focused on web-based applications and services. While they may not be as powerful as traditional laptops, they offer a lightweight and portable option for individuals who primarily use web-based applications for work, study, or personal use.
Also read: Top Laptops for connecting multiple monitors – Ideal for programmers, Traders, Streamers
FAQs in OWS Laptops
What is an OWS laptop?
An OWS (Operating System Within a Web Browser) laptop is a type of laptop that runs on a web-based operating system that is designed to primarily run web-based applications.
What operating system do OWS laptops use?
OWS laptops typically use Chrome OS, which is a web-based operating system developed by Google. However, there are also other web-based operating systems available, such as CloudReady and Neverware.
What are the benefits of using an OWS laptop?
OWS laptops are lightweight, portable, and offer long battery life. They are also less expensive than traditional laptops and can run web-based applications quickly and efficiently.
Can I install Windows or macOS on an OWS laptop?
Most OWS laptops are not designed to run Windows or macOS. However, some OWS laptops can be set up to run dual-boot configurations, which allows users to run both Chrome OS and another operating system on the same laptop.
Can I use Microsoft Office on an OWS laptop?
Yes, Microsoft Office is available on OWS laptops through the web-based version of the software, which can be accessed through a web browser.
Are OWS laptops secure?
OWS laptops are generally considered to be secure, as they run on a web-based operating system that is designed to be resistant to viruses and malware. Additionally, Chrome OS is automatically updated with the latest security patches and updates.
Can I use an OWS laptop offline?
OWS laptops are designed to primarily run web-based applications, but some applications can be used offline. Chrome OS also includes a “guest mode” that allows users to use the laptop without signing in to an account, which can be useful for temporary or public use.
Are OWS laptops suitable for gaming?
OWS laptops are not generally recommended for gaming, as they are not designed to run graphics-intensive games. However, some OWS laptops may be able to run less demanding games through web-based gaming platforms.
Overall, OWS laptops offer a lightweight, portable, and affordable option for individuals who primarily use web-based applications for work, study, or personal use. While they may not be suitable for everyone, they are a viable option for those who value portability and efficiency over raw computing power.