Apple MacBook Neo vs Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5

The MacBook Neo is the better pick for most students and casual users: it is lighter, has a brighter display, and lasts far longer on a charge. The ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 wins on ports, memory expansion, and a matte 14-inch screen, which suits office work and IT-managed fleets. Reviewers call the Neo a compact, well-built entry into Apple's platform, while the ThinkPad's 4.0 rating reflects a solid but unexciting business laptop.

• Choose the MacBook Neo if you want a light, quiet laptop for classes, writing, and photo edits, with all-day battery and a sharp Retina screen.
• Choose the Lenovo ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 if you need USB-A, Ethernet, a matte screen, and room to add RAM later for office or IT work.