With so many laptops available on the market today, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs.
Whether you’re a student, professional, or just looking for a new device to surf the web, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase.
To ensure that you make an informed decision, we have put together a comprehensive laptop buying guide.
This guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make the best decision for your budget and lifestyle.
When buying a new laptop, there are several aspects to consider, including size, processing power, battery life, and storage capacity.
Additionally, you’ll need to decide on a brand, operating system, and additional features such as a touchscreen or a detachable keyboard. With so many options, it can be tough to decide which laptop is the right one for you.
This guide will help you navigate the various options available so that you can make an informed decision.
18 Essential Things to Check When Buying a New Laptop
Size Does Not Matter
Screen size is an essential factor to consider when buying a new laptop. If you’re always on the go, you may want a smaller, more portable laptop.
However, if you’re a graphic designer or video editor, a larger screen may be necessary.
Most mainstream brands offer laptops in sizes ranging from 13.3 inches to 17.3 inches, but some models may also be available in smaller sizes, such as 11.6 inches and 14 inches.
Keep in mind that smaller laptops usually have fewer ports and may not support high-end CPUs and GPUs.
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Laptop size includes more than just the screen; it also includes thickness and weight. The battery also plays a role in these factors, with larger batteries usually resulting in thicker devices. If portability is a priority, choose a laptop that’s both small and lightweight.
To Touch or Not to Touch, That is the Question
Touch screens are popular among laptop users, but their glossy finish can cause reflections, which may be undesirable for gamers, graphic designers, and video editors.
Check the laptop’s viewing angles to determine whether it’s comfortable to use. IPS screens currently have the widest viewing angles on the market.
Laptop Screen Bells and Whistles
When it comes to the laptop screen, the resolution is an important factor to consider.
Higher resolution screens are generally better, but brands may offer up to 4K resolution at a premium price.
Content creators may find a higher resolution screen useful for color accuracy and sharpness. Gamers may prefer a high refresh rate, with laptops offering up to 120Hz.
Keyboards
The keyboard is a critical component that’s often overlooked when buying a laptop.
A laptop is something you’ll likely use for hours, so it’s essential to choose one with a keyboard that won’t cause discomfort or fatigue. Ensure the keyboard is easy to use and responsive.
Touchpad
The touchpad is another crucial component of the laptop. It should be responsive, easy to use, and support multi-touch gestures. A larger touchpad is generally better, but it’s a matter of personal preference.
CPU
The CPU is the laptop’s brain and is responsible for its performance. The type of CPU you need will depend on your intended use.
For basic tasks like web browsing and word processing, an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 CPU should suffice.
For more demanding tasks like video editing and gaming, an Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 CPU may be necessary.
RAM
RAM, or Random Access Memory, is responsible for multitasking and running applications.
The more RAM a laptop has, the more applications it can run simultaneously. For basic use, 4GB of RAM should be sufficient, but for more demanding tasks, 8GB or 16GB of RAM may be necessary.
Storage
Storage is where you’ll save your files and applications. SSDs (Solid State Drives) are faster and more reliable than HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). For basic use, 128GB to 256GB of storage should suffice, but for more demanding tasks, you may need more.
Processor Performance
The processor is the brain of the laptop, responsible for its overall performance. When selecting a laptop, consider the type of work you plan to do with it.
If you are into basic tasks like browsing, word processing, and video conferencing, an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 processor should suffice.
For more demanding tasks like video editing, rendering, and gaming, you should opt for an Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 processor.
It is also worth noting that the number of cores on the processor impacts its performance.
A quad-core processor is more powerful than a dual-core one, and a hexa-core processor is more powerful than a quad-core one.
Graphics Card
The graphics card, also known as the GPU, is responsible for displaying images on your laptop screen.
If you are a gamer or a content creator, a dedicated graphics card is essential. Laptops with dedicated graphics cards are more expensive, but they provide better performance than those with integrated graphics cards.
Nvidia and AMD are the two primary manufacturers of dedicated graphics cards, and they offer different models with varying levels of performance.
The Nvidia GeForce GTX and AMD Radeon RX series are popular among gamers and content creators.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
RAM is the short-term memory of your laptop, where it stores data temporarily when you use it.
The more RAM your laptop has, the more applications it can run simultaneously without slowing down.
For basic tasks, 4GB of RAM should suffice, but for demanding tasks, you should opt for 8GB or 16GB of RAM.
Storage Options
The storage capacity of your laptop determines how much data you can store on it. There are two types of storage options available: solid-state drives (SSD) and hard disk drives (HDD). SSDs are faster, more durable, and more expensive than HDDs.
They are ideal for those who need to transfer large files quickly, such as content creators and gamers.
HDDs, on the other hand, are slower and less durable than SSDs but are cheaper and offer more storage capacity.
They are ideal for those who need to store a large amount of data, such as photographers and videographers.
Battery Life
Battery life is an essential consideration, especially if you plan to use your laptop on the go. A laptop with a longer battery life allows you to work for more extended periods without needing to recharge.
Look for laptops with a battery life of at least 8 hours.
Connectivity Options
The connectivity options on your laptop determine how you can connect to the internet and other devices. Look for laptops with a minimum of two USB ports, an HDMI port, and a headphone jack. Some laptops also come with Thunderbolt 3 ports, which allow you to connect to high-speed peripherals and displays.
Build Quality
The build quality of your laptop determines how durable and long-lasting it is. Look for laptops with sturdy construction, such as those made of metal or carbon fiber.
Avoid laptops with a plastic build, as they tend to be less durable and prone to breaking.
Brand Reputation
Brand reputation is another essential consideration when buying a new laptop. Stick with well-known brands that have a proven track record of quality, such as Dell, HP, Lenovo, Asus, and Apple.
Warranty and Customer Support
Finally, consider the warranty and customer support offered by the laptop manufacturer. Look for laptops with a minimum one-year warranty and responsive customer support.
You never know when you might encounter issues with your laptop, and having reliable customer support can save you a lot of trouble and headaches.
FAQ’s: Laptop Buying Guide
What is the best brand of laptop to buy?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. Some popular brands include Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Apple.
How much RAM do I need in a laptop?
It depends on your usage. For basic tasks such as web browsing and word processing, 4GB of RAM is sufficient. However, for more intensive tasks such as gaming or video editing, you may want to consider 8GB or more.
What’s the most important factor to consider when buying a laptop?
The most crucial factor to consider when buying a laptop is your intended use. This will help determine the specifications you need, such as the processor, RAM, and storage.
How much should I spend on a new laptop?
The price of a laptop depends on its specifications and brand. It’s essential to set a budget and find a laptop that meets your requirements within that budget.
Should I buy a laptop with a touch screen?
The decision to buy a laptop with a touch screen depends on personal preference and intended use. A touch screen can be useful for those who need to use their laptop as a tablet or for drawing purposes.
What should I look for in a laptop’s battery life?
Battery life is an essential factor to consider, especially for those who need to use their laptop on the go. Look for a laptop with at least six hours of battery life, and consider the battery’s capacity and technology.
What is the difference between SSD and HDD storage?
SSD (solid-state drive) storage is faster and more durable than HDD (hard disk drive) storage. However, SSDs are generally more expensive than HDDs and have less storage capacity. Consider your needs and budget when deciding between SSD and HDD storage.
Conclusion: Laptop Buying Guide
Buying a new laptop can be a daunting task, but with the right information, it can be an enjoyable experience.
Remember to consider all the factors, such as size, processing power, battery life, and storage capacity, when making your decision.
Additionally, think about your budget and the type of work you’ll be doing on your laptop. By following the tips and suggestions in this guide, you can find the perfect laptop to fit your needs and budget.
