Testing Reveals Fastest Business Laptops for Wi-Fi Speed

Kyle Kucharski

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Choosing the right laptop is crucial for businesses, as it can significantly affect productivity. Essential factors include sufficient storage for workplace data, portability for seamless transition between different locations, and optimal performance, particularly with Wi-Fi connectivity.

Also: The best laptops for small businesses 

In a recent analysis, ZDNET evaluated the Wi-Fi capabilities of seven business laptops from well-known manufacturers, including Apple, Microsoft, and Lenovo, in a controlled lab setting in Louisville. The objective was to gauge and compare the raw throughput of the Wi-Fi hardware of each device under various distances and interference conditions, ultimately identifying the fastest-performing business laptop.

The standout performer in terms of Wi-Fi speed was the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, which received a Lab Award along with the Editors’ Choice Award in June 2026.

Testing Methodology

To conduct the Wi-Fi speed tests, Schylar Breitenstein, an associate lab engineer, utilized automated Python scripts alongside the network testing tool iPerf3. The Netgear Nighthawk RS700S router, which was awarded for the widest coverage in July 2026.

The testing setup maintained a stable Local Area Network (LAN) by keeping the router in a fixed location while isolating it from the internet; this prevented ISP-related issues like bottlenecks and jitter. A high-performance computer (the MSI Vector 16 HX AI) served as the server, with the laptops functioning as clients throughout the tests.

Gianmarco Chumbe

The tests were conducted on seven laptops at three different physical locations for each test route, covering two routes and utilizing the 2.4 GHz, 5.0 GHz, and 6.0 GHz frequency bands. Each test lasted 120 seconds, with all devices running the latest firmware and drivers.

To analyze the results, averages were calculated for each band, and a weighted average was established, with the furthest and most interference-prone band (D&I Band 3) receiving the highest weight (40%) due to its challenging nature.

Some important notes on the testing process: the focus was primarily on the 5.0 GHz band, as it is commonly used in office environments and known for its high speed. Variability due to ambient radio-frequency interference could affect results and the weighting across D&I bands was a subjective editorial decision rather than based on a standardized methodology.

Test Results Overview

The testing revealed a clear frontrunner among the evaluated laptops in the 5.0 GHz band: the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 achieved the highest score across all three D&I bands, with a weighted average speed of 702.36 Mbps.

Review: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 14

In second place, the Microsoft Surface Laptop for Business scored 888.72 Mbps for D&I Band 1 and 472.49 Mbps for D&I Band 3, making it another strong contender.

Also: I test business laptops for a living: 5 features I’d pay more for – and what I’d skip

For the 5.0 GHz D&I Band 2, the Dell XPS 16 followed closely with a performance of 662.83 Mbps.

Interestingly, the MacBook Pro M5 performed the worst in the tests across all D&I bands. However, it excelled in the 2.4 GHz tests, which typically accommodate longer-range connections but at slower speeds, indicating it may be well-suited for larger open spaces where the router is farther away.

While these results provide a benchmark, actual performance may vary based on individual Wi-Fi conditions, router configurations, and other environmental factors. The testing serves as a valuable reference for understanding the Wi-Fi capabilities of different business laptops.

Key Considerations for Selecting a Business Laptop

• Build and Portability: Depending on whether employees work from a fixed location or are frequently on the move, the ideal laptop will vary significantly.
• Ergonomics: Comfort is paramount, especially for individuals who spend long hours at their computers. Investing in better ergonomics can impact productivity and overall employee satisfaction.
• Repairability and Longevity: Small business owners often prefer laptops that allow for easy repairs and upgrades, which extends the devices’ lifespan and adaptability for various users.
• Cost: Business laptops generally come with higher price tags compared to standard consumer models. Bulk purchasing discounts can alleviate some financial pressure, but budgeting for several thousand dollars per unit can still be a challenge for many small businesses.

Tips for Enhancing Wi-Fi Speed on Laptops

Here are several recommendations to improve Wi-Fi performance on business laptops:

• Utilize free services such as Ookla speed test or Fast.com to assess download and upload speeds.
• Restart your router regularly.
• Relocate your router or consider investing in a Wi-Fi extender to enhance coverage.
• Explore mesh networks for environments with multiple devices.
• Check server locations when using a VPN to ensure optimal connection speeds.

Also: Struggling with slow home internet? Here are three key checks to quickly regain fast Wi-Fi speeds.