The best new laptop might be an old one

PCWorld suggests that older, discounted laptops often provide better value than new models, as processor improvements have become incremental rather than revolutionary. The AI boom has driven up memory and storage costs for new laptops, while previous-generation models with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage remain highly capable. This approach matters because newer laptops frequently don't justify their higher prices with significant real-world performance improvements over well-specced older alternatives. The smartest laptop to buy in 2026 may not be a 2026 laptop. That's why PCWorld's laptop deals roundup has become one of the most useful things we publish. Now, more than ever, I'm convinced that the latest laptops -- and, heck, even the latest tech products -- simply don't offer enough real-world improvement to justify their higher prices. Indeed, cheaper laptops from previous years often deliver better alignment between performance and pricing. Some of this, you already know. Do the vast majority of PC users need the latest and greatest keyboard?