The 5 Best 14-inch Ultrabooks for Q3 2024: Price Trajectory Analysis

Navigating the ultrabook market in 2024 requires a keen eye on the "AI PC" transition. As we look back at the Q3 2024 landscape from our current 2026 vantage point, the price trajectory was defined by the aggressive push of Intel Core Ultra (Series 1) and the disruption of the MacBook Air M3.

Here are the five definitive 14-inch ultrabooks that shaped the market, analyzed for their value evolution and current availability at major retailers like Best Buy.

1. Apple MacBook Air 13/14 (M3, 2024)

While technically a 13.6-inch form factor, the MacBook Air M3 set the performance-per-watt benchmark for all 14-inch competitors in Q3 2024.

• Trajectory: Launched at $1,099, it saw its first major "Back to School" cuts in Q3 2024.

• Status (Jan 2026): Now that the M4 and M5 models have stabilized, the M3 is the ultimate "value king." You can currently find 16GB RAM configurations at Best Buy for $899–$949.

2. Dell XPS 14 (9440)

The 2024 redesign introduced the controversial capacitive touch row and invisible haptic trackpad, positioning it as a futuristic premium flagship.

• Trajectory: Q3 2024 saw high MSRPs ($1,699+), but steep discounts began as Dell cleared inventory for the "Plus" branding transition.

• Status (Jan 2026): A "clearance" favorite. High-spec OLED models that once touched $2,000 are often spotted at Best Buy's Open-Box or Clearance sections for under $1,200.

3. HP Spectre x360 14 (2024)

Widely considered the best Windows 2-in-1 of 2024, featuring a stunning 2.8K OLED 120Hz display and an exceptional 9MP webcam.

• Trajectory: Maintained price stability throughout Q3 2024 due to high demand.

• Status (Jan 2026): It remains a sought-after legacy model. Current deals often bundle it with the tilt pen for around $999 at Best Buy and Amazon.

4. ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3405)

ASUS dominated the "Value-Premium" segment in Q3 2024 by offering Intel Core Ultra 7 chips and OLED screens at lower price points than Dell or Apple.

• Trajectory: Aggressive pricing ($799–$999) made it the top-selling 14-inch ultrabook of the quarter.

• Status (Jan 2026): Succeeded by the "S 14" series, the UX3405 is now a budget-friendly powerhouse usually priced around $699 in remaining retail stock.

5. Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i / Carbon (2024)

Lenovo’s Q3 2024 play was durability and keyboard comfort, targeting the "Dell XPS vs MacBook Air" crowd who wanted a more traditional typing experience.

• Trajectory: Frequent "Flash Sales" on the Lenovo site and Best Buy made this a fluctuating but high-value pick.

• Status (Jan 2026): Rebranded under the "Aura Edition" or "Slim" banners, 2024 units are excellent secondary market grabs.

Dell XPS vs MacBook Air: The 2024 Showdown

The primary battle of Q3 2024 was Innovation vs. Efficiency.