Buying a new laptop can be a nerve-wracking process due to the myriad of options available today. While there is no ‘perfect’ laptop, you can pick one that suits your needs and budget, making it the ideal option for you. If you forgot windows 10 password after buying a new laptop the easiest way to get it back is reset the password of the Microsoft account.
Compare various brands and features such as the processor, storage, ergonomics, operating system, size, display, etc. to make an informed choice. Consider these tips when choosing a laptop that fits your budget.
Pick an Operating System
Begin by considering the types of operating systems available today. The type of operating system you pick often boils down to your personal preference. However, every operating system has its own strengths and weaknesses. You can pick a suitable operating system depending on your needs and profession
Let’s compare the three most common operating systems used today.
Apple macOS: This operating system is the base of all Macbooks and provides a range of different features. The interface is completely different from Windows and Chrome OS and it uses a virtual assistant called ‘Siri’. Even though the functionality is similar, the interface of this OS is often the deciding factor. Certain apps and software programs are exclusively available for macOS, so if you need to use such digital tools, a Macbook should be your top priority.
Windows: Another front runner in the line of operating systems is Windows. Compared to its counterparts, Windows runs on most laptops and is compatible with major brands such as Dell, HP, Asus, etc. With time, the new Windows 10 provides optimal user experience and allows the user to switch between desktop and tablet mode with ease. This operating system is ideal for businessmen, students, and researchers.
Chrome OS: This operating system is owned by Google and is found on Chromebooks and Samsung laptops. The Chrome browser is the main app on this OS and provides a secure browsing and usage experience. However, it is much more limited than its counterparts. Since they are secure and affordable, Chromebooks are preferred by students and within the teaching discipline.
Check the Size
The size of the laptop also matters, especially if you travel a lot. Carrying a huge laptop around can be a bit difficult, which is why it should be avoided by travelers and businessmen. The most common laptop sizes range from 11 inches and can go up to 18 inches. The thinnest models, which measure 11 to 12 inches lengthwise, are also the lightest. They weigh around 2.5 to 3.5 pounds, making it easy to carry around. Laptops with a screen size of 13 to 14 inches are also easy to carry, provided they are light in weight. If you need a laptop with an optimum screen size that is also light in weight, the Macbook Air 13” is the ideal system for you as it weighs only 2.75 pounds. For portability, find a system below 4 pounds and you are good to go.
Furthermore, bigger systems measuring 15 to 16 inches are comparatively heavier with a weight of 4 to 5.5 pounds. If you need a laptop with a better display that will not be carried around, consider getting a model that measures 15 inches lengthwise. Lastly, a 17 to 18-inch display size is the bulkiest and cannot be carried around. If you plan to work at the comfort of your home, consider getting an 18-inch laptop that will comfortably sit on your desk. Such systems also fulfill heavier processing power as preferred by gamers.
Choose the Right Processor
The type of processor integrated in a laptop can majorly affect its performance and speed. With time, processors have become faster and accommodate multitasking features. The dual- and quad-core processors of Intel, Intel i3, Intel i5, and Intel i7, are mainly used by major laptop brands. Apple has recently introduced its first processor, the ARM-based M1 chip that is taking the market by storm. Even though the laptops are pricey, the performance makes the investment worthwhile.
Systems powered with Intel i3 are the most affordable and used for day-to-day activities such as internet browsing, listening to music, and image editing. Intel i5 and Intel i7 offer a faster browsing experience. You can also choose between Ryzen 3 series, AMD A6, and A9 series. The professionals behind https://laptopschamp.com/6-best-laptops-under-300/ say that comparing the processor types and other integrated features is a must when searching for a new laptop. If you need one for gaming, you must focus on the processor as it determines the system’s speed and performance.
Examine the RAM
Random Access Memory, or RAM, is an integrated component that stores software and data for the system to function and retrieve it as needed. It is measured in GB and should be upgraded to achieve better performance. The range starts from 2 GB and goes up to 32 GB (and higher). However, a higher RAM capacity can only be accessed on a device with a 64-bit operating system.
While affordable laptops (within a price range of $250 to $400) accommodate only 4GB RAM, you can spend a few more bucks to upgrade it to 8GB or 16GB. It also depends on your usage; while a 4GB RAM notebook is ideal for individuals who need one for personal or modest use, designers and gamers will need at least 8GB or 16GB. Power users can upgrade it to 32 or 64 GB, which may take a significant part of their budget.
Get Adequate SSD
A Solid State Drive, or SSD, is a component that stores data on your laptop and is better than a hard drive. Even though you get several other types of storage, an SSD is preferable as it impacts the system speed and performance. The minimum SSD you get in a laptop is 128 GB, which is enough to conduct normal tasks. As compared to SATA drives, the PCIe x4 (aka NVME) units are three times faster.
SSDs are also lighter and operate silently. They clearly win against hard drives, which is why newer systems are built with integrated SSD storage. You can get a faster and powerful system that will help boot your system and access apps or programs within seconds. However, they are a bit more expensive than units with hard drivers; so if you are low on budget, think twice before choosing a laptop with an SSD storage.
Consider the Brand
Whether it’s value, design, technical support, or performance, the laptop manufacturer should ace in all criteria. You should also consider the storage, operating system, and processor preferred by each brand. Since the assembled components dictate a system’s performance, it is necessary to scrutinize this aspect. Compare reviews of various brands and check the credibility with different models and designs.
Apple, Razer, and Dell are the top three frontrunners among all. They fulfill almost every criteria that a powerful laptop should have and offer fantastic support to resolve technical issues. The additional features and warranty period are also quite impressive.
Check the Battery Life
With time, laptop manufacturers have focused on the battery life and improved their laptop’s performance for it to last long. While they provide an estimated quote of the battery life, the number of operating hours depends on your usage, number and type of applications used, and screen resolution. The battery life can also be affected by the active Bluetooth and Wifi connections. If you compare Chrome OS with Windows 10, you will notice that laptops with the former operating system comparatively have a longer battery life.
To pick a laptop based on its battery life, check the rating with the unit milliamp-hours (mAh) or Watt-hours (Wh). Larger figures indicate longer battery life. A rating range from 44Wh to 50Wh will provide a decent battery life for a 13-inch laptop. If needed, look for a ‘fast charging’ option, although it is not the most important thing on the list. Whether you are using your laptop on a desk or on the go, you need at least 7 to 8 hours of battery life to endure a task. Instead of sticking to the manufacturer’s word, check reviews based on your needs and usage to get an estimate of the real-world experience.
Compare the Screen Quality
Screens that accommodate more pixels produce sharper and clearer images. The best screen quality comes with a Full HD or 1080p resolution label, which runs a panel of 1920 x 1080 on the screen. Such laptops can be a bit expensive, so if you do not have the absolute need for high screen resolution, you can go for a laptop with a 1366 x 768 panel. If you have the luxury to go a bit beyond your budget, higher-end laptops with 3200 x 1800 or 3840 x 2160 (4K) are some other options. Animators, illustrators, and designers usually need a laptop with 4K resolution.
Apart from the resolution and pixel panels, look for other display options and features such as color contrast and brightness levels. The recommended display quality is 300 nits or more brightness and 100% or more sRGB color rating. OLED and miniLED are new and upcoming display technologies that provide better display but consume more power. Note that screens with higher resolution and better displays will consume more power, which can affect the battery life. Be wary of such contradictions and prioritize the features. Even though it is not really necessary, you can opt for a touchscreen laptop.
Mind the Keyboard and Mouse Quality
One of the most important aspects that most users neglect is the quality of the keyboard or mouse. This is particularly important if you need to do a lot of typing or browsing work. The keyboard and mouse form a significant part of a laptop’s design and represent the ergonomics of a model.
A laptop with a small keyboard and trackpad can be quite uncomfortable to use, unless you plan to use an external keyboard and mouse. When checking the keyboard, look for factors such as key travel, tactile feedback, and the placement of the keys (distance between keys). Trackpads should possess additional actions such as pinch-to-zoom and other multitouch gestures. The cursor should respond to real-time gestures and should not be jumpy. Some business laptops such as Thinkpad provide a nub or a pointing stick in the form of a red button placed between the G and H keys, which can be used to scroll and navigate with ease.
Consider Your Budget and Needs
In the end, it all boils down to your needs and budget. Consider the type of work you do and the need to upgrade to a new laptop. Different laptops are suitable for students, travelers, businessmen, gamers, designers, and normal usage. While gamers and designers should look for a laptop with a graphic card as it affects the picture quality, businessmen and travelers should purchase a laptop with decent battery life. The type of processor and RAM should also be deciding factors for gamers and designers as they usually use high-tech and heavy programs.
Certain laptops integrate additional features such as a touch bar, a separable drawing tablet, biometric security, and 360-degree screen rotation. While these features need not be prioritized, you can consider them as additional perks. For example, if you are a designer or an architect, a detachable screen can be used as a drawing tablet, thereby eliminating the need of purchasing an additional tablet. Lastly, keep your budget in mind. With a plethora of options available, you can easily find a laptop within your budget that suits all your specs. You can get a laptop for as low as $250; however, you may have to compromise on a few features. If you take enough time to research, you can get a powerful laptop that fits your budget. Just prioritize your needs and narrow down your options accordingly.
Buying a laptop is a heavy investment; it is necessary to take enough time and research before picking a suitable model. These tips and factors will help you make an informed decision and give you the best bang for your buck. When buying a laptop, you expect it to last at least 4 to 5 years, which is why you should take your time and learn more about the system of your choice before purchasing it.
