ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form.

If you're shopping for a new laptop or PC, you've probably considered either a Dell or a Lenovo model. Both brands dominate the PC market with a wide range of devices, from budget-friendly machines to premium notebooks and powerful workstations. However, they take different approaches when designing their computers.

Having spent a lot of time with products from both companies, I see two distinct philosophies at work. Dell laptops tend to cater more toward creative professionals and consumers who value polished design. Lenovo, on the other hand, leans more into practicality, emphasizing broader configuration options and stronger overall value.

To explain what I mean, I'll break down where each brand excels and why you might choose one over the other.