Laptop Buying Guide: What to Consider Before Making a Purchase

9 min readFeb 11, 2024

Introduction

In today’s digital age, laptops have become an essential tool for both work and play. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply someone who enjoys browsing the web and streaming content, finding the perfect laptop can greatly enhance your overall experience. However, with the multitude of options available in the market, choosing the right laptop can be a daunting task. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together this comprehensive laptop buying guide. From determining your needs to considering different platforms and specifications, we’ll cover all the essential factors to consider before making a purchase.

Quick Tips for Choosing the Right Laptop

Before diving into the details, here are some quick tips to keep in mind when buying a laptop:

Screen Size: Consider the trade-off between usability and portability. 12.5 to 14-inch screens offer a good balance, while larger screens are suitable for stationary use and smaller models are great for kids.
Minimum Specs: If you’re spending over $700, aim for a laptop with at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 CPU, 1920 x 1080 screen resolution, 8GB RAM, and 128GB SSD storage.
Battery Life: Look for a laptop with 10+ hours of battery life if you’ll be frequently working away from an outlet.
2-in-1 Option: Consider a 2-in-1 laptop if you want the flexibility to use it as both a laptop and a tablet.
Platform: Choose between Windows, macOS, or ChromeOS based on your specific needs and preferences.
Budget: Determine your budget range to narrow down your options and prioritize features accordingly.
Brand and Support: Consider the reputation and customer support of the laptop brand you’re interested in.

Now, let’s delve deeper into each aspect of buying a laptop.

1. Pick a Platform: Windows vs. macOS vs. ChromeOS

Choosing the right platform is a crucial step in the laptop buying process. The three most common operating systems for laptops are Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS. Each platform has its strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to understand their differences before making a decision.

Windows 11 (or Windows 10)

Windows is the most flexible operating system, running on a wide range of laptop models. It offers a variety of features, from touch screens to fingerprint readers, and dual graphics chips. Windows 11, the latest version, brings improvements such as a revised interface, a new Microsoft Store, and convenient features like Snap View. Windows laptops are suitable for students, researchers, business users, and gamers.

Apple macOS

All MacBooks come with Apple’s latest desktop operating system, macOS Sonoma. While macOS offers similar functionality to Windows, it has a unique interface with an app dock at the bottom of the screen and Siri as the digital assistant. MacBooks do not have touch screens, but they integrate well with other Apple devices and offer features like Apple Pay and seamless connectivity. They are popular among creative professionals and users who prefer the Apple ecosystem.

ChromeOS

Google’s ChromeOS is a simple and secure operating system primarily focused on web browsing. Chromebooks are lightweight and affordable laptops that run on ChromeOS. They are excellent options for kids, students, or as secondary laptops. Chromebooks have expanded their functionality in recent years and can now run Android apps. They are popular in educational settings due to their resistance to malware and their ability to provide a laptop-like experience at a lower cost.

2. Decide if You Want a 2-in-1 Laptop

One important consideration is whether you want a traditional laptop or a 2-in-1 laptop. 2-in-1 laptops offer the flexibility to switch between different modes, such as laptop, tablet, tent, or stand modes. There are two types of 2-in-1 laptops: detachables and convertibles.

Detachables

Detachable 2-in-1 laptops have screens that can be completely detached from the keyboard, effectively turning them into tablets. This design provides a superior tablet experience but may sacrifice some performance compared to traditional laptops.

Convertibles

Convertible 2-in-1 laptops have hinges that allow the screen to rotate 360 degrees, enabling different modes. These laptops are primarily laptops first and offer a good balance between performance and versatility. However, if you don’t plan to use your laptop as a tablet frequently, a traditional clamshell laptop may offer better performance for your money.

3. Choose the Right Size

The size of your laptop plays a crucial role in its portability and usability. Laptops come in various sizes, and choosing the right size depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are the commonly available size categories:

11 to 12 inches: These laptops are highly portable and suitable for users who prioritize mobility. They are commonly found in budget-friendly options and detachable 2-in-1 laptops.
13 to 14 inches: This size category strikes a balance between screen real estate and portability. These laptops typically weigh around 3 pounds or less, making them easy to carry around.

Consider your usage scenarios and mobility requirements to determine the optimal size for your needs.

4. Check the Keyboard and Touchpad

The ergonomics of a laptop, especially the keyboard and touchpad, greatly impact your overall user experience. If you plan to do a lot of work on your laptop, make sure the keyboard offers solid tactile feedback, key travel (the distance the key goes down when pressed), and enough spacing between keys for comfortable typing. If you’re purchasing a Windows laptop, ensure that it has Precision touchpad drivers, which provide accurate and responsive touchpad gestures.

5. Pick Your Specifications

Laptop specifications can be overwhelming, but understanding the key components will help you make an informed decision. Here’s a breakdown of the main specifications to consider:

CPU (Processor)

The CPU, or central processing unit, is the brain of your laptop. It greatly influences performance and determines how well your laptop can handle tasks. The CPU market is dominated by Intel and AMD, each offering different processor models with varying performance levels.

For Windows laptops, Intel’s 14th Gen Meteor Lake processors and AMD’s Ryzen 7000 chips are the latest offerings. These processors provide excellent performance and efficiency.

RAM (Memory)

Random access memory (RAM) plays a crucial role in multitasking and overall system performance. A higher amount of RAM allows your laptop to run multiple programs simultaneously without slowing down. While 4GB of RAM is the minimum requirement for basic tasks, we recommend a minimum of 8GB for smooth multitasking. If you’re a power user or need to run resource-intensive applications, consider laptops with 16GB or more RAM.

Storage (SSD)

The storage drive of your laptop determines how quickly your files and applications load. Solid-state drives (SSDs) are the preferred choice due to their faster read and write speeds compared to traditional mechanical hard drives. When it comes to storage capacity, consider your usage requirements.

Display

The display is one of the most important components of a laptop, as it directly affects your visual experience. Displays come in different sizes, resolutions, and technologies. When choosing a display, consider the following factors:

Resolution: Higher resolutions, such as 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) or 2560 x 1600, provide sharper images and more screen real estate. Consider your usage scenarios and preferences when choosing a resolution.
Panel Type: Different panel types, such as IPS (In-Plane Switching) and OLED, offer varying levels of color accuracy, contrast, and viewing angles. IPS panels are common and provide good overall performance, while OLED panels offer deeper blacks and vibrant colors.
Brightness: Look for displays with a brightness rating of at least 300 nits for comfortable indoor use. Higher brightness is beneficial for outdoor or well-lit environments.
Touch Screen: Touch screens are useful for 2-in-1 laptops and certain applications. If you prioritize touch interaction, ensure that the laptop has a responsive and accurate touch screen.

Graphics Chip

The graphics chip, or GPU (graphics processing unit), determines the laptop’s ability to handle graphics-intensive tasks like gaming, video editing, or 3D modeling. Integrated GPUs, which share system memory, are sufficient for general tasks, but if you’re a gamer or a professional in creative fields, consider laptops with dedicated graphics chips from Nvidia or AMD. These discrete GPUs offer superior performance and are essential for demanding applications.

Ports and Connectivity

Consider the available ports and connectivity options on a laptop based on your specific needs. Common ports include USB Type-A, USB Type-C, HDMI, audio jack, and SD card reader. The absence of certain ports may require the use of dongles or adapters. Also, check for the latest connectivity standards, such as Wi-Fi 6e or Wi-Fi 7, for faster wireless performance. If you require mobile connectivity, some laptops offer built-in 4G LTE or 5G capabilities.

6. Battery Life

Battery life is an important consideration, especially if you plan to use your laptop on the go. Having sufficient battery life ensures that you can work or entertain yourself without constantly searching for a power outlet. Look for laptops with a battery life of at least 7 hours, with 9+ hours being ideal for extended usage away from an outlet. However, it’s important to note that advertised battery life may vary based on usage and settings. To get a more accurate estimate, refer to third-party reviews and battery life tests.

7. Plan Based on Your Budget

Determining your budget is crucial in the laptop buying process, as it helps narrow down your options and prioritize features. Laptops are available across a wide price range, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Here’s what you can expect within different budget ranges:

$150 to $250: In this price range, you’ll find entry-level laptops, including Chromebooks and low-end Windows systems. These laptops offer basic functionality and are suitable for light tasks or as secondary computers.
$350 to $600: Laptops within this range offer better performance and specifications. You can expect laptops with Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5000 CPUs, 4 to 8GB RAM, and 256GB SSD storage. Some outliers may offer premium features or unique designs.
Above $900: Laptops in this price range offer top-tier performance, portability, and features. They often come with high-resolution displays, faster processors, dedicated GPUs, and premium build materials. Ultraportables, gaming laptops, and mobile workstations fall into this category.

Consider your budget constraints and prioritize features based on your specific needs to find the best laptop within your price range.

8. Consider the Brand and Support

The brand and customer support of a laptop manufacturer are important factors to consider. A reputable brand often indicates quality products, reliable customer support, and a good track record. Look for brands that have positive reviews and a strong presence in the laptop market. Customer support is crucial in case you encounter any issues or need assistance with your laptop.

Stay Informed and Make the Right Choice

Buying a laptop is an investment, and it’s important to choose the right one that meets your needs and preferences. By considering the platform, size, specifications, keyboard and touchpad, battery life, and your budget, you can make an informed decision. Research different brands, read reviews, and compare options to find the perfect laptop that will enhance your productivity and enjoyment.

By following this comprehensive laptop buying guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge needed to make a confident purchase. Remember to stay informed with the latest trends and advancements in the laptop market to make the most informed decisions. Happy laptop shopping!