Top tips for searching for a new laptop

Looking for a new laptop is all about cutting through the raft of technical terms to fit your new device as closely as possible to your needs.

You may be looking for the performance of your PC as the top factor, or you may prioritize a lightweight design or large screen. Whatever your top priorities for your new laptop, this article helps you cut through the technical jargon to find the device that suits you best.

A device for everyone

Due to the rapid technological advancements of the laptop market, there are devices to suit all kinds of users. Laptops are great for occasional use and light tasks. In contrast, the more robust notebook-style laptops are designed for heavier processing tasks.

The type of activities you use your laptop for should determine your use case. Each type of laptop is designed for a slightly different use for students, professionals, or family use.

Everyone has a budget. Work to this – there is no need to break the bank and go all out on a laptop. The chances are that you will end up paying for features you do not need anyway. Decent laptops for sale can now be purchased for anything upwards of around $400, so there really is a model for everyone.

Pay attention to the ports

Even the lowest-end laptops can be enhanced by using a range of peripherals. Plug in a keyboard, mouse, and a larger screen to get the most from your device.

You can turn even the lowest spec laptop into a perfectly functional workspace for writing assignments, planning budgets in spreadsheets, or carrying out simple home administration management by adding this kind of accessories.

Shop around – online and offline

Remember, buying a laptop is a buyer’s market. This means you can take your time to find the best possible price for your new acquisition. Look around for a few weeks and compare prices. You may even be able to drive a bargain if you go into a store near the end of the year or month when sales reps may have targets to hit.

Online, you can shop around for bundle deals, including software or security features. These kinds of offers are often more readily available than price discounts.

If you have an old laptop that is being replaced, look for a manufacturer trade-in promotion. This helps generate a little cash from your old machine, as well as ensuring it is responsibly recycled to protect the environment. This option is also attractive to safeguard your data from your old device is disposed of appropriately.

Picking your operating system

Many people are either Windows or Mac loyalists. Whether you choose a Windows-style laptop or a MacBook will play a big part in this.

If you are more agnostic about your OS, Windows laptops can be great value for money. The Microsoft 365 personal package gives you every tool you need to get started with your new machine. You will also benefit from touchscreen functionalities that you do not get with Apple laptops.

Windows also benefits from patch updates to the software that closes any gaps with the program’s security. It also makes upgrades and adds popular features to enhance the user experience.

The macOS operating system also has many advantages. If you are an iPhone user, you will access all your files in iCloud from both devices. You can also monitor your health in conjunction with your Apple Watch and benefit from a high computing power for watching movies or listening to music.

Getting the best of both worlds

Modern users are demanding of their laptops. If you fall into this category, you may want to think about a popular 2-in-1 device. These offer a great compromise between a laptop and a tablet. The screen is detachable to serve as a tablet. At the same time, the keyboard can be re-attached for word processing tasks or writing business plans or assignments.

2-in-1s are also an excellent fit for regular travelers. Working in the confined space of an airplane or airport departure lounge can be a lot easier with a slick, modular device that can adapt to the situation you find yourself in.

Above all – do your research and enjoy your search for a new laptop!