Zamrznuti tonovi/Shutterstock We may receive a commission for purchases made through links. Consumer Reports hardware testing experts compared several laptop and Chromebook models on the market today based on metrics such as performance and versatility. However, when it comes to brand reliability, there is one name that consistently ranks above everyone else on CR’s current list, and it’s not Asus or even MSI. According to estimated problem rates derived from more than 75,000 Consumer Reports surveys, the most trusted laptop brand right now is Apple. It’s clear why Apple is one of the laptop brands with the best reputation for reliability when it holds a prestigious spot in so many categories. The MacBook Air 2026 ranks first for reliability in CR’s 12- to 13-inch laptop category. The 14-inch MacBook Pro is the most reliable option in the 14-inch laptop category. And the MacBook Pro MX2X3LL/A is rated as the most reliable laptop in the 15- to 16-inch category, plus it’s among Consumer Reports’ highest-rated laptops overall. It may be the 2024 model, but it remains a solid product that received top marks as a machine for work, multimedia, and overall productivity when reviewed by RTINGS’ experienced testers. User sentiment also tends to support the idea that MacBooks are incredibly reliable. Even when Reddit users report defects, it often comes with the caveat that their situations are very specific. Highly upvoted comments indicate that these scenarios do not represent the vast majority of MacBook Pro users. What other laptop brand ranks highly for reliability? Chikena/Shutterstock The biggest elephant in the room is the operating system. Depending on your preferences, experience, or work environment, purchasing an Apple laptop that runs macOS may not be a practical option for you. Fortunately, Consumer Reports also highlights some very reliable Windows machines in its laptop ranking list, including some models from popular brands like Asus or MSI. However, the LG Gram Copilot+ 17-inch PC sits at the top of CR’s 17- to 18-inch laptop category in terms of reliability and ergonomics. According to Consumer Reports surveys, LG has proven to be a consistent performer over time and is often recommended by repeat owners. When ranking the most popular laptop brands from best to worst, LG often finds itself in the top spot due to high average scores across all models across various scoring metrics, including reliability. LG laptops come with the Windows operating system installed, so they deserve the utmost consideration if that’s your preference. If you’re interested in switching to a brand that has an even bigger winning streak in terms of reliability, it might be time to stop falling for common macOS myths that keep you from trying Apple. Did you find this useful? Join our free weekly newsletter on smart tech shopping and products to avoid. Subscribe now
