While a brand-new laptop computer can last three to five years before it starts to feel old, that doesn’t mean you have to scrap the machine.
But at some point, a laptop that’s been in your possession for a long time will start to act its age. Performance might decline, the keyboard might act up, and the battery may not hold a charge. That’s when it’s time to start looking for a new laptop for home, work, or whatever else.
The good news is you won’t have to break the bank to upgrade since there are many laptop deals around. That said, you must know what to look for to get the right laptop for your needs.
The laptop penetration rate in the United Kingdom was 76% in 2021. That’s compared to 57% in 2020 and 60% in 2019. According to Statista, the demographic with the highest penetration rate is the group of 35-54 year olds. Whether or not you fall within that demographic, consider these five tips when seeking a new laptop computer.
1. Random Access Memory
Before spending your hard-earned money on a new laptop, ensure it has enough random access memory (RAM). RAM is an essential spec — especially if you multitask and do things like streaming, word processing, and photo editing simultaneously. With the right amount of RAM, your computer will run more seamlessly since the machine won’t have trouble accessing data.
Aim for RAM of 8GB for higher, and don’t buy a laptop that doesn’t have at least 4GB. Getting one with a ton of RAM will future-proof your machine. It won’t become outdated nearly as fast.
2. Size
Don’t overlook the size of the laptop. While some want one as big as possible, others prefer a smaller laptop that’s easier to take wherever they need to go. Remember that the size will relate to the screen, the keyboard, and the keys. Before deciding on the size, consider where you’ll be using the machine. You’ll want to ensure it meets your needs and is easy to take with you if you must take it to school or work.
3. Battery Life
The battery life is key. Assuming that all laptops have more or less the same battery life is a mistake because the battery life can differ widely.
While some laptops have batteries that can last a couple of hours, others can have several times that amount of power. If you take a laptop to school, you may want one with enough battery power to accommodate working on the bus or train. A machine with a relatively short battery life will be impossible to use when you’re not plugged into an electrical outlet.
4. Central Processing Unit
The central processing unit (CPU) is another vital spec to consider. It’s arguably the most important. If your budget allows for it, buy a laptop with Intel’s Core i7 CPU. It’s typically found in high-end machines. If cost is an issue, the Core i5 will do. You should probably steer clear of laptops with the Core i3 since such laptops are usually entry-level ones.
5. USB 3.0 Ports
It’s a good idea to get a laptop with USB 3.0 ports. You can differentiate a USB 3.0 port, which is blue inside, from a USB 2.0 port, which is black inside, by the color. It’s not wrong to get one with a USB 2.0 port, but the new standard, a USB 3.0 port, is better. Why is it worth prioritizing USB 3.0? The transfer rate or speed is greater with USB 3.0 than with USD 2.0.
If you’re in the market for a new laptop, consider these five tips. Doing so will help you get the right machine.
