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Mobile Work & Travel Laptops

When shopping for a laptop for mobile working or for travelling, you'll be evaluating different criteria than for a laptop you would typically use in the office or at home. Portability is likely to be top of your list; you'll be looking for a laptop that is lightweight and is easy to carry around. If you're working outside of an office environment for extended periods of time, a good battery life is also essential. At The IT Bay we carry an extensive range of compact, lightweight laptops perfect for people who are often on the move. Choose from the latest models from leading brands including Apple, Dell, HP and Lenovo. Order online for next day delivery across the UK.

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What laptops are ideal for travelling?

When looking for a laptop that's ideal for traveling, the main factors to consider include weight, battery life, durability, performance, and connectivity options. Here are some types of laptops that often fit the bill:

Ultrabook’s: Lightweight and streamlined, Ultrabook’s are engineered with portability at the forefront. They are very lightweight and ting, making them easy to carry around. An ideal weight is around 1.5kg.

Tablets: Devices like the Apple iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab are slimmer and weigh less than most laptops, making them even more portable. They're typically better suited for light productivity tasks. Some models even feature detachable keyboards, effectively transforming them into small, lightweight laptops.

2-in-1 Devices: This category represents a fusion between laptops and tablets. With a detachable keyboard or a 360-degree hinge, these machines can function as either a tablet or a laptop. Examples include the Microsoft Surface Pro and the Lenovo Yoga.

Chromebooks: Chromebooks are a unique type of laptop that utilise Google's Chrome OS. They're designed primarily for internet use, with most applications and files stored in the cloud. They're often chosen for their affordability, simplicity, and easy portability.

Choosing the right laptop for travel ultimately depends on your specific needs, including the type of work you will be doing, your budget and your personal preferences in terms of operating systems and brands.

Is an LTE laptop ideal for travelling?

An LTE-equipped laptop can be exceptionally ideal for travelling, especially for those who often find themselves needing to work or access the internet in areas where Wi-Fi connectivity is unreliable or non-existent. LTE, standing for Long-Term Evolution, provides broadband internet access over cellular networks, enabling you to stay connected in a wide variety of locations, from remote rural areas to bustling city centres.

The primary advantage of an LTE laptop is its capability to connect to the internet anywhere there is cellular service. This means you can work in transit, such as on trains or in cars, in outdoor settings, or in establishments without Wi-Fi. This connectivity can be more secure than public Wi-Fi networks, which are often unencrypted and could potentially expose your data to security risks.

However, there are considerations to keep in mind. LTE connectivity requires a data plan from a mobile network provider, which can add to your monthly expenses. Data plans and network coverage vary by provider and country, so it's important to choose a plan that suits your travel destinations and data usage needs. Additionally, using LTE can consume more battery power than Wi-Fi, potentially reducing your laptop's battery life between charges.

In summary, if your travel involves frequent movement and locations where Wi-Fi is scarce or untrustworthy, an LTE laptop could significantly enhance your productivity and convenience. Just be mindful of the additional costs and ensure it aligns with your data usage and mobility needs.

What size laptop is good for travelling?

When considering a laptop for travel, the ideal size often balances portability with usability.

Laptops with screen sizes between 11 and 13 inches are highly portable, making them an excellent choice for travellers looking to minimise weight and space. However, the compact screen might be less suitable for extended periods of work or for those accustomed to larger displays. A 14-inch laptop can offer an ideal compromise, providing a more comfortable viewing experience without significantly sacrificing portability. Laptops larger than 15 inches, while offering expansive screens, tend to be less practical for travel due to their size and weight.

Weight is another essential consideration; laptops that weigh between 2 to 3 pounds (approximately 0.9 to 1.36 kg) are preferable for travel to keep your baggage light. It’s also wise to look for models with a long battery life — at least 8 hours — to avoid the constant search for power outlets.

In essence, a laptop that combines lightness and compactness (preferably between 11 to 14 inches) with adequate battery life and the performance capabilities for your tasks is most likely to offer the optimal balance for travel. Your specific requirements and the nature of your work should guide your final choice.