Gone are the days when everyone would purchase personal computers. Although some still prefer computers, nowadays it is all about laptops. Since a laptop is portable and suitable for travelling, many prefer it. Additionally, they are versatile and can easily run various demanding applications. Whether you are into research or gaming, anything works excellent on a laptop. You can find it in many sizes, with varied features, and at different prices, and this makes the search for a laptop a real challenge. And to help you with that, check the following essential tips that will make your purchase hassle-free:
Table of Contents
1. Pick a Platform
Before selecting any one of the three operating systems like Windows, Chrome OS, or Mac OS (exclusive for MacBooks), you must know about each platform. Selecting a suitable laptop is your preference, but a quick overview will help you learn what each has to offer.
Windows 10: Windows 10 was launched in 2015, and currently, this operating system runs on many laptop models compared to Chrome OS or macOS due to its flexibility. Windows 10 provides several features, including a Start menu with Live Tiles, Cortana digital assistant, the ability to switch between tablet and desktop modes, and so forth. Students, researchers, businessmen, and gamers will find this operating system an excellent choice.
Apple macOS: You will find all MacBooks with the 2020 launched operating system of Apple called macOS Big Sur. Although the functionality of the macOS is similar to Windows 10, the interface is different as the apps dock is substituted at the bottom of the screen for the Microsoft Start menu. MacBook users have a digital assistant called Siri, equivalent to the digital assistant of Windows 10 called Cortana. In addition to that, if you have an apple watch, you will be able to unlock your macOS laptop with it. The latest macOS is launched with significant improvements to the Safari browser and Siri, but none of the MacBooks come with a touch screen.
Chrome OS: Chrome OS is found on economical Chromebooks like Samsung Chromebook 3. Their interface is similar to that of Windows 10, with an application menu and the ability to drag Windows around. Some of the web apps don’t work well in Chromebooks when in offline mode. But now, you will find it all changing as the new Chromebooks can run various Android apps. The best part about having a Chromebook is its portability and good battery life at less cost, which will allow you to surf or maybe even chat online and navigate social networks for a prolonged time. Since they are more functional and secure than most OS, school kids and parents can remain untroubled as the kids wouldn’t be able to infect it with malware.
2. Choose the Right Size
Laptops come in a variety of display sizes. So, let’s look at some of them:
11 to 12 inches: With 11 to 12 inches, it is the thinnest and lightest system and weighs approximately 2.5 to 3.5 pounds.
13 to 14 inches: Its weight being less than 4 pounds, a laptop of this size offers a balance between usability and portability.
15 to 16 inches: It is one of the most popular sizes and weighs 4 to 5.5 pounds. And, if you want a large screen and you don’t plan on carrying your laptop everywhere, you can consider this size.
17 to 18 inches: This laptop can give you the processing power for workstation-level productivity.
3. Pick Your Specifications
All laptops have processors, hard drives, graphic chips, and Random Access Memory (RAM). So, here are some things about the important components to keep in mind while buying a laptop:
Processors: Intel launched the 11th Generation Tiger Lake processors that offer up to 4.8 GHZ speed and Thunderbolt 4 support, whereas the Intel Core i9 is a step up from Intel Core i7, and it comes with faster performance than all the mobile chips. Intel processors are mainly installed in Windows and Chromebooks. On the other hand, the Apple M1 processor in the MacBook presents better endurance and performance.
RAM: If you don’t keep much data on your laptop, you can go ahead with at least 8 GB. But if you keep a huge amount of data, you should get a laptop with 64 GB RAM as it is reserved for power users.
Graphics Chip: If you enjoy playing games on your laptop or create 3D objects and edit high-resolution videos, you should look for a laptop with a discrete graphics processor. But, if you don’t have any of these needs, you can get an integrated graphics chip.