Purchasing a laptop is a task in perplexity. Finding it can be challenging even if you know precisely what you want and what everything implies. Even visiting the manufacturers’ websites to find your desired model is time-consuming. Whether you’re planning to shop at an online computer store or at the mall, each key aspect you’ll want to know about while shopping for a laptop is detailed below.
Choose an Operating System
Before looking at laptops, you need to choose which operating system (OS) is appropriate for you. Thinking about what software you need to run and which operating systems it requires will assist you in determining the hardware you require. There are four major operating systems for computers. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a rundown of each:
Linux
You can install Linux on almost any laptop hardware manufactured if you don’t require MS Office and don’t mind a learning curve. The hitch is that popular applications such as Microsoft Office and Adobe’s Creative Suite do not support Linux.
However, there are free, open-source alternatives such as LibreOffice, Darktable (a replacement for Adobe Lightroom), and GIMP (a replacement for Adobe Photoshop).
Windows
Consider picking a Windows OS if you require Microsoft applications like Access, Outlook, or MS Office. There are also more Windows laptops available than any other operating system.
Chrome OS
Chrome OS is a good choice if you can accomplish most laptop tasks in a web browser. Chrome computers (dubbed Chromebooks) are among the least expensive (and least powerful) options. So, the OS is worth considering if you’re on a limited budget.
The drawback is that software like Adobe’s Creative Suite and Microsoft Office will not work. Other software, most notably Office, may offer an Android phone/tablet version that you can install on your Chromebook (or a web version). But, other Android apps frequently do not operate well.
macOS
Apple’s macOS offers a more user-friendly system than Windows but it’s tied to the company’s hardware ecosystem. You have only MacBooks to choose from. Because Apple employs its CPUs, Macbooks are truly in a different league.
Pick a Screen Size
Regarding size, it’s critical to balance mobility and usage. If you intend to use your laptop primarily on a desk at home, a large screen (14+ inches) is a good choice. A smaller, lighter laptop may be preferable if you intend to travel with your laptop.
Battery Life
Battery life and size should be a priority if you intend to travel with your laptop. After all, sitting on a train or in a café near a power outlet is not always possible. Small, light laptops typically outperform larger models in battery life, owing to less powerful low-voltage processors and a smaller screen.
Again, check evaluations to discover how long a laptop’s battery will last. A general-purpose 15-inch laptop’s battery should last five to seven hours, while a compact, extremely portable one should last eight to ten hours or more. Some high-performance laptops, however, are thirsty creatures that may only provide you with four to four and a half hours of unplugged use.
Budget
Create a budget. Laptops are costly, but they are an investment. As a result, you must first determine how much you can pay before narrowing down your alternatives. Less-priced models have low-spec Windows systems and slower processors, only suitable for basic functions.
A laptop with an Intel Core i3-i5 or AMD A8/Ryzen CPU, 4GB-8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD is a good starting point. If you want premium quality and performance, increase your budget and select powerful laptops with faster CPUs and graphics cards for the best gaming, graphic design, or programming experience.
Keyboard and Touchpad
If you intend to do a lot of typing on your computer, ensure the keyboard has good tactile feedback, enough key travel, and enough space between the keys. When purchasing a Windows laptop, ensure that it includes Precision touchpad drivers.
Look for a touchpad that responds consistently to multitouch movements such as pinch-to-zoom and doesn’t produce a jumpy cursor. Consider obtaining a business laptop with a pointing stick between the G and H keys so you can traverse the desktop without taking your fingertips off the keyboard’s home row.
Getting the Best Laptop Suitable for Your Lifestyle
You are not alone if you feel confused by purchasing a laptop computer. However, skipping some of the new product perks that have reached the market means you may miss out on incredible opportunities to connect, create, and produce. Don’t be scared to try out new product features you’re not sure about.
