After a succession of high-profile security breaches that make everyone’s data vulnerable to hackers, taking bigger steps to protect your privacy is no longer reserved for the paranoid. Taking greater control over the information you share isn’t reserved for software updates and strong password selection, either. Hardware can help you stay safe, too. Check out these four CNET-reviewed laptops that have unique security features you won’t find elsewhere.
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Dell XPS 13 (2018)
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/dell-xps-13-2018/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: The new XPS 13 body is smaller, with better internal cooling and a sharp-looking all-white interior. The nearly bezel-free screen still looks great and there’s a fingerprint reader hidden under the power button.
The bad: The system’s biggest quirk, a below-the-screen webcam, remains. Touch isn’t standard, and most of the ports have been replaced by USB-C.
The cost: $999.99
The bottom line: With a new design that catches up to the competition, Dell’s XPS 13 remains one of the best all-around 13-inch laptops, but everyone’s biggest gripe remains unchanged.
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HP Envy Curved All-in-One 34 (2017)
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/hp-envy-curved-aio-34-inch-2017/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: Artfully designed with a big curved display and a far better-than-average sound system, the 2017 edition of the computer also includes welcome touches like a Qi-compatible charging pad and a webcam that retracts into the top of the screen.
The bad: The display is big, but its quality can’t compare with smaller but better displays of competitors. HP also needs to reimagine the bundled keyboard and mouse as well.
The cost: $1,819.99 to $1,999.00
The bottom line: A winning design and unusually good sound system highlight HP’s first-rate reimagining of the HP Envy Curved AIO 34 for 2017.
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Apple MacBook Pro with Touch Bar (15-inch, 2017)
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/apple-macbook-pro-with-touch-bar-15-inch-2017/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 4.0 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: The 15-inch MacBook Pro may be a bit old, but its performance and battery life still fare well compared with newcomers. The giant touchpad is a pleasure to use and the display is excellent.
The bad: Having only USB-C ports can be a hassle, and the keyboard is at best an acquired taste — and at worst possibly defective. A lot of people may think it’s not worth paying a premium for the Touch Bar.
The cost: $2,239.00 to $2,399.00
The bottom line: For creative work, it’s still top-notch, but the 15-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar is no longer a no-brainer buy.
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HP EliteBook x360 1020 G2
Product Review: https://www.cnet.com/products/hp-elitebook-x360-1020-g2/review/#ftag=CAD187281f
CNET rating: 3.5 stars out of 5 (Very good)
The good: Includes HP SureView, a built-in privacy screen. Slim, 360-degree design with plenty of RAM and storage.
The bad: Battery life is merely OK, and the security screen leaves the display feeling a little muted. The processor is a last-gen model and the touchpad hitches occasionally.
The cost: $1,399.68 to $1,449.00
The bottom line: One of the best business/consumer crossover laptops, the HP EliteBook x360 takes the lead on security with a useful on-demand privacy filter.
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The following CNET staff contributed to this story: Section Editor Dan Ackerman, former CNET staff member Xiomara Blanco, Senior Editor Joshua Goldman, Senior Editor Lori Grunin and Senior Editor Laura K. Cucullu. For more reviews of personal technology products, please visit www.cnet.com.
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