Laptops

Key factors to consider when shopping for a laptop

Identify your needs

Before delving into technical specifications, consider what you will be using the laptop for. This will help you focus on the most relevant features for your needs. Common laptop usage scenarios include:

a. Everyday use: Web browsing, emailing, streaming, and editing documents.
b. Gaming: Playing high-end games with smooth performance.
c. Professional tasks: Video editing, graphic design, or programming.
d. Student requirements: Taking notes, conducting research, and enjoying entertainment.

Set a budget

Establishing a budget will help you narrow down your options. Laptops span a wide range of prices, from affordable models to high-end machines. Consider the following price brackets and what you can expect in each category:

a. Budget (Under £400): Basic laptops suitable for web browsing, emailing and light multitasking.
b. Mid-range (£400 - £800): Capable of handling more demanding workloads with superior build quality and performance.
c. Premium (£800 - £1,600): High-performance laptops with top-tier features and materials.
d. Ultimate powerhouse (Above £1,600): Cutting-edge machines targeting professionals and gaming enthusiasts.

Operating system

The laptop’s operating system (OS) plays a crucial role, enabling you to use your laptop by managing programs and controlling the hardware, making it easier for you to get things done. Your choice of OS will impact the overall user experience you have with your laptop.

The three primary OS options are:

a. Windows: Widely used and compatible with most software, Windows laptops come in various configurations and price points with Windows 11 laptops currently the latest Windows machines available.
b. macOS: Exclusive to Apple's MacBook range, macOS provides a sleek, intuitive interface with seamless integration with other Apple devices.
c. Chrome OS: Found on Chromebooks, this lightweight OS is perfect for those primarily using web-based applications and Google services.

Processor (CPU)

The processor, or CPU, is the brain of the laptop, responsible for executing tasks and handling data. A more powerful processor ensures faster performance and better multitasking capabilities, directly influencing the overall laptop experience. Key aspects to consider include:

a. Brand: Intel and AMD are the two leading players, with Intel's Core series (i3, i5, i7, i9) and AMD's Ryzen series (3, 5, 7, 9) being the most popular.
b. Cores and Threads: More cores and threads result in better multitasking and faster performance. Aim for at least a quad-core processor for demanding tasks.
c. Clock Speed: Measured in GHz, higher clock speeds lead to quicker processing times.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

RAM affects your laptop's ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Consider the following guidelines:

a. 4 GB: Suitable for basic tasks such as web surfing, watching videos & social media.
b. 8 GB: Recommended for general use and moderate multitasking.
c. 16 GB or higher: Ideal for demanding tasks such as video editing, gaming and heavy multitasking.

Storage Options

The type and size of storage influence your laptop's speed, capacity and overall performance. The two main types are:

a. HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Slower and bulkier but offering larger storage capacity at a lower cost.
b. SSD (Solid State Drive): Faster and lighter but typically more expensive per gigabyte. Highly recommended for improved performance and quicker boot times.

Aim for at least 256 GB of storage for most users and consider external storage solutions if necessary.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

The graphics card is responsible for visual rendering and is particularly important for gaming, graphic design and video editing. There are two types of GPUs:

a. Integrated: Built into the processor, integrated GPUs share memory with the CPU and are suitable for basic tasks and casual gaming.
b. Dedicated: Separate from the CPU, dedicated GPUs have their own memory and offer better performance for demanding tasks and gaming.

For most users, an integrated GPU is sufficient, while gamers and professionals should opt for a dedicated GPU, such as NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon.

Display Quality

The laptop's display can significantly impact your user experience. Keep the following factors in mind:

a. Size: Laptop screen sizes typically range from 28 to 43 centimetres. Smaller screens are more portable, while larger screens provide a superior viewing experience.
b. Resolution: Higher resolutions result in sharper images. Aim for at least Full HD (1920x1080) for an enhanced visual experience.
c. Panel Type: IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels offer better colour reproduction and viewing angles compared to TN (Twisted Nematic) panels.
d. Refresh Rate: Higher refresh rates (measured in Hz) provide smoother motion, which is crucial for gaming.
e. Colour Gamut: A wider colour gamut allows for more accurate and vibrant colour reproduction, enhancing the visual experience for tasks such as photo editing and content consumption. Look for displays that cover a high percentage of sRGB or Adobe RGB colour spaces.

Battery Life

Battery life is a critical consideration, particularly for users on the move. Look for laptops with at least 6-8 hours of battery life for all-day use. Note that factors such as display brightness, processor and usage habits can impact battery life.

Portability and Build Quality

The weight and build quality of a laptop determine its portability and durability. Take the following into account:

a. Weight: Lighter laptops (under 1.4 kilograms) are more portable and suitable for frequent travellers or students. Heavier laptops (1.8-2.7 kilograms) may offer better performance but can be cumbersome to carry.
b. Build Material: Aluminium or magnesium alloy casings are more durable than plastic, though they can be more expensive.
c. Design: Consider factors like hinge quality, keyboard layout and the presence of cooling vents when assessing build quality.

Connectivity Features

A laptop's connectivity options are essential for connecting peripherals and external devices. Look for the following:

a. USB Ports: Ensure there are enough USB ports (USB-A and/or USB-C) for your needs. USB-C with Thunderbolt 3 support enables faster data transfer and charging capabilities.
b. HDMI or DisplayPort: These ports allow you to connect external monitors for enhanced productivity or entertainment experiences.
c. SD Card Reader: Useful for photographers or those who frequently transfer data from SD cards.
d. Ethernet Port: While Wi-Fi is standard, an Ethernet port can provide a more stable and faster internet connection for specific tasks.
e. Audio Jack: A 3.5mm audio jack is essential for connecting headphones or speakers.

Keyboard and Touchpad

A comfortable and responsive keyboard and touchpad are crucial for a satisfying user experience. Consider the following:

a. Key Travel: Look for a key travel of at least 1.5mm for a comfortable typing experience.
b. Backlight: A backlit keyboard is useful for typing in low-light conditions.
c. Touchpad: Ensure the touchpad is smooth, responsive, and supports multi-touch gestures.

Other features

In addition to the primary components, laptops often come with various additional features that can enhance the user experience. Consider the following when making your decision:

a. Webcams: Most laptops include built-in webcams, useful for video conferencing and online meetings. Assess the camera's resolution and quality for your needs.

b. Speakers and Audio Quality: Laptop audio quality can vary significantly. Look for laptops with high-quality speakers or audio technologies (e.g., Dolby Audio, DTS:X) for a better listening experience, especially if you frequently consume multimedia content.

c. Security Features: Laptops may come with security features such as fingerprint readers, facial recognition, or TPM (Trusted Platform Module) chips for enhanced data protection and user authentication.

d. Included Software: Some laptops come pre-loaded with useful software applications or offer trial subscriptions to productivity suites, antivirus programs, or cloud storage services. Be aware of any pre-installed bloatware that might slow down the system or take up valuable storage space.

e. Customisation Options: Some manufacturers offer customisable laptops, allowing you to select specific components or features to suit your needs. This can be a valuable option if you have unique requirements or want to future-proof your investment.

When considering these additional features, keep in mind your specific use cases and preferences to find the laptop that offers the best balance between performance, usability, and value for money.