Do you know that the global laptop market was valued at $18.94 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $34.75 billion by 2028?
Buying a new laptop should be exciting and fun. However, making up your mind on which model to purchase can spoil the fun, considering there are so many models to choose from.
Selecting the best laptop model for you doesn’t have to be difficult. Carrying out extensive research and determining what you need in a laptop is a smart move.
Still, have no clue how to buy a laptop? Don’t worry, below are 12 things you should consider to get the best deal.
1. Cost
Though you might desire to get a powerful laptop, money might be an issue. Luckily, there are basic budget laptops that are versatile and great in performance.
Depending on your budget, you are likely to settle for basic budget laptops, mid-tier laptops, or top-of-line laptops.
Basic budget laptops are normally designed for simple tasks like video streaming and creating documents. Most don’t support heavier applications and are ideal for everyday home use.
Mid-tier laptops, on the other hand, are designed for business use. Normally, they are equipped with high-performance features and capable of video editing and running complex business software.
Finally, there are the top-of-line laptops. These are upgraded high-performance laptops with monster hardware and superior features.
2. Operating System
The OS is one of the vital features you should consider when purchasing a new laptop. There are plenty of options to choose from when selecting an OS, but the most popular ones are windows and macOS. Chrome OS is also an option worth considering.
Normally, the questions to ask yourself are, how familiar are you with each operating system? Is there software you need that only runs on a specific OS? Is there an OS that is better than the rest?
Window-based laptops are preferred since they offer an easy-to-use interface. Additionally, there is a wide selection from the basic level to high-tier gaming laptops.
Next in line, there is the macOS. These laptops offer unrivaled system stability and outstanding protection against malware. On the downside, macOS laptops are more expensive compared to the rest.
3. Laptop Size
When you decide to shift from a desktop to a laptop, there is a high chance you are looking for portability and versatility. While a small laptop may seem like the best option since they are easy to carry around, the small display may negatively impact your productivity.
About size, ensure you consider the screen size and laptop size.
A decade ago, laptop systems were heavy, thick, and uncomfortable to carry around. However, with time, ultra-thin laptops have emerged capable of heavy tasks like gaming. Opt for a compact-sized laptop that is easy to carry around.
The screen size is also vital to consider when purchasing a laptop. The standard display size is 15.6″, but there are bigger and smaller variations.
4. The Keyboard Feature
Laptop keyboards vary in size, features, and format. Before deciding on the keyboard size, ask yourself whether a Numpad is necessary. Keyboards with a Numpad are normally big in size.
Individuals planning to spend the better part of their nights working with their laptops should also consider keyboards with backlit keys. Moreover, the best gaming laptops should have mechanical keyboards as an added feature.
When selecting an appropriate keyboard, consider how you will be using the laptop.
5. Screen Quality
Contemporary laptops are now designed to offer admirable image quality. However, several factors affect the image quality.
First, there is screen resolution- higher resolution decodes to sharper images. Most laptops’ screen resolutions normally range from 720p to 1080p.
Choose a laptop capable of producing at least 1080p for the best outcome. However, if your budget allows, a 1440 resolution is a game-changer.
Also, the panel type affects the image quality of a laptop. Most laptop screens have either vertical alignment (VA), twisted nematic (TN), or in-plane switching (IPS) panel types.
Note IPS offers superior quality in terms of display and should always be your first choice.
Under screen quality, consider whether a touchscreen is necessary or not. The touchscreen feature is only favorable in certain situations, such as photo editing and graphics designing.
Bear in mind you have to pay more for the touchscreen feature.
6. Processor (CPU)
Having considered several aesthetic features, it’s now time to look at the important components of laptops. Begin by checking the brain of the computer, the CPU.
Selecting the right processor for your laptop falls among the most important decisions you’ll have to make when purchasing a laptop. With the large set of options available in the market, it can be difficult to decide what is appropriate for you.
Both Intel and AMD provide a wide range of processors ideal for performing different tasks. The three major categories are entry-level CPU, mid-range CPU, and high-end CPU.
Entry-level CPUs are designed for buyers on a tight budget, while the high-end CPUs are intended for hardcore gamers and professionals. With a high-end CPU, it’s possible to run extensive applications without your laptop slowing down.
On the downside, high-end CPUs are expensive to obtain.
7. System Memory/ RAM
When selecting a laptop, never ignore the system memory. When choosing, base your decision on the tasks and types of application you intend to use. If you want to run business software, ensure you consider the manufacturer’s recommended specifications before purchasing.
Although 8 GB of RAM is enough, having 16 GB or more will allow you to run multiple applications smoothly.
8. Graphics
Graphics shouldn’t be a major concern when buying a laptop unless you intend to play games. Entry-level and mid-range laptops may not be ideal for gaming, considering they have integrated graphic cards.
For the ultimate gaming experience, only settle for laptops with dedicated graphic processing units. Opt for Lenovo laptops as they offer decent performance when gaming.
9. Storage
Laptop storage options include SSDs and traditional HDDs. Though most laptops come with a single hard disk drive or SSD car installed, you can always upgrade.
Buyers ask questions on the difference in speed and technology between SSDs and HDDs when purchasing. The truth is, under storage, your main concern should be on capacity. However, it’s worth noting SSDs are faster than traditional hard disks though they are expensive to obtain.
Before buying a laptop, decide how much storage space you need. If you will use the hard disk to save images, video, and documents, 500 GB SSD should be enough. But if you are a hardcore gamer or into video editing, an additional 2 TB HDD will be useful.
10. Battery Life
You are probably buying a laptop for the convenience and versatility it offers. Maybe you intend to prepare a few documents while traveling or finish tasks in a restaurant.
For maximum flexibility make sure you invest in a laptop with commendable battery life. Ensure you base your buying decision on how often you will be using the laptop without access to power.
A good low-budget laptop should offer you a runtime of 7 to 10 hours. Check the battery rating in Watt-hours to be certain your making the right decision. Moreover, consider purchasing laptops with an add-on battery feature.
This means you can buy an external battery to extend your laptop’s battery life. The add-on battery feature should be a must for professionals who are always on the move.
11. Ports
Buying a laptop with a broad set of ports will offer you flexibility. The best laptops should have a mix of old and new ports ranging from USB to HDMI ports.
USB ports are the most common and responsible for transferring data between laptop computers. These ports also serve as charging points for mobile phones.
The other port one should be on the lookout for is the Ethernet port. Although laptops have a Wi-Fi-enabled feature, you might require to connect to the internet through a cable. This is only possible through the Ethernet port.
You should look for additional ports include the HDMI port and the audio and mic jack.
12. Durability
If you travel a lot with your laptop, ensure you purchase a durable one. Common features that enhance the durability of a laptop include metal hinges and a lid made of magnesium allow.
But then again if you work in risky environments, let’s say in constructions sites, opt for rugged laptops. Rugged laptops are drop proof and ultra-resilient, a feature ordinary laptops don’t have.
Rugged laptops are, however, expensive and bulky to carry around.
Learn How to Buy a Laptop by Knowing Key Things to Check
Well, as you can see, there are many things to consider when buying a laptop. In fact, there is a lot more to consider, including available upgrade options and added security features such as fingerprint scanners.
To find the best laptop for your needs, define your needs and carry out research. Moreover, make use of this guide on how to buy a laptop for the best results.
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