Walking in to an electronics store or shopping online can be very overwhelming. Choosing the right laptop is unnerving, but a little support and guidance, you can make the best decision for your needs and your budget. You do not have to be a technology expert or gadget savant to make a knowledgeable decision. Let us guide you so you can buy the right laptop for your specific needs!
1. Evaluate your laptop use
How will you be using the laptop? This first step will point you in the right direction and guide you through the rest of the process. Will the laptop be used lightly for online transactions, social media, checking email, and sharing photos? Average laptop use involves streaming media, storing files and photos, creating documents, and playing movies. More demanding use typically involves creating and editing music and videos, and performing tasks that require a high-resolution screen, faster download speeds, and more memory.
2. Consider mobility
Think of the places you will travel with your laptop in tow. Smaller laptops are easier to transport, while larger ones can be a little more bulky and often require a separate case.
3. Play with the keyboard
It may seem minor, but your keystroke comfort will have a lot to do with how happy you are when you are using the laptop.
4. Decide on the best screen
Screen sizes range from 11 inches to 17 inches, and the resolutions vary as well. Smaller screens with 1366 x 768 or 1600 x 900 resolution screens are good for surfing the web, playing games, schoolwork, and occasional DVD viewing. If you require a better HD view for Blu-Ray movies, professional editing and other tasks the resolutions climb higher to create a crisper image: 1920 x 1080; 2560 x 1600; and 2560 x 1440.
5. Get to know the operating systems
Think about the types of documents and files you work with on a daily basis. As you probably know, Microsoft and Apple are not very friendly with each other. The most common operating systems are Google Chrome, Apple OS X, and Microsoft Windows. If you create a do at home or work, will it be compatible with your laptop’s operating system.
6. Storage and memory needs
You will notice that RAM capacities vary from device to device. If you decide you only need basic laptop features, a 2GB to 4GB device will accommodate your needs. Many laptops offer anywhere from 4GB to 32GB, depending on the size, functions, and efficiency of the laptop.
7. Look at the ports
Nothing is more frustrating than buying a laptop and then discovering that you cannot plug anything in to it. Look at the number of ports installed on the laptop: USB, Ethernet, media-card, HDMI, and thunderbolt. Make sure the laptop can accommodate all of your additional devices.
8. Battery life
Battery life is huge. If you plan to use the device remotely, for business, or to stream movies, you need to make sure the battery life is sufficient for your tasks.
9. Pick it up
Once you have chosen the best few options, pick up the laptops. Is the laptop heavy, light, bulky, or awkward? To help you make your final decision, you will need to choose which laptop you would be comfortable carrying around with you or in a bag.
10. Are you supported?
The final step is reviewing the manufacturer’s warranty and software warranty. What are the parameters for coverage? Do not be stuck with a cheap 90-day warranty; choose a product that is backed by the best support and warranty coverage.
Overall, by considering each of these aspects, you should be able to buy the right laptop to meet your needs.
