How to choose a laptop

The question is legitimate: what do you need a laptop for? Find out how to choose a laptop according to your needs.

Want to learn how to choose a laptop? Some time ago we taught you how to choose a smartphone, today we explain how to choose a laptop. The principle is the same: tailor your choice to your needs.

Are you going to use it to read and write emails, browse the internet or use Office? Do you want to use your laptop for image, sound, video editing or to play games? We explain the most important features to you.

10 ASPECTS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A LAPTOP

1. Size

Size should be the first feature to take into account because it will influence portability (and beyond). On the market there are notebooks with screens from 11 to 18 inches. The size of the laptop will influence the size of the screen, the keyboard, the weight, the quantity and capacity of the hardware ... in short, in everything! So, what is the right size? It all depends on your needs. Think, first of all, if you will need to move it constantly or if it will be more fixed in one place.

2. Ergonomics

This strange and complicated word is explained by the user's ability to adapt to the notebook. Finding an ergonomic notebook is halfway to feeling perfectly comfortable and satisfied.

How do you like your touchpad? Are the "mouse" buttons comfortable? Are they separate from the touchpad? Do the keys have any space between them or does it become complicated to write on the notebook? If you usually write in places with less light then try to have a backlit keyboard.

3. Processor

Like us, machines also have a "brain". Start by looking for the seal, next to the laptop's keyboard, which tells you what type of processor the laptop has. Currently, the most common brand is Intel, which separates its processors by the i3, i5 and i7 ranges, which can greatly facilitate your choice.

If you need the notebook to perform simpler tasks, you can choose the i3 range. The i5 already allows for more demanding tasks and the i7 is for those who want to stay at the forefront of technology, who need the laptop for the heaviest programs. In principle, the bigger the better. But it will also "pull" more from your laptop, especially at the energy level.

4. RAM

RAM memory will directly influence your notebook's fluidity and speed. Applications need RAM to process. A very simple comparison: imagine that you want to make a calculation, take a sheet of paper, write, do the calculation and have the result, then you can throw the sheet of paper away because it already has the result.

The processor uses RAM to get results. Currently, with the amount of applications you have running on your computer at the same time, it might be better to think about 4 GB of RAM. This, of course, if you want to use the notebook for the simplest tasks. If you use it more demanding, the RAM should be higher.



5. Disk storage

Computer memory to store your results. First, know that you can choose an HDD or SSD. The seconds have a much faster reading and writing capacity and, although they start to be more common, they are still more expensive than the first ones.

If you want a heavy-duty laptop, why not get a computer with two discs? The HDD is only for storing data and the SSD for the system and applications.

6. Graphics card

Intel processors already have an integrated graphics card. But don't be fooled: it is a processor and not a graphics card, that is, it only serves to meet minimum requirements and for basic tasks.

If you want to play or work on image and video editing, you should look for an appropriate graphics card. There are two brands to choose from: ATI and NVIDIA. Then, try to understand the memory of the graphics card, being that 1GB fulfills, 2GB is enough for heavy tasks.

7. Connectivity

What peripherals do you need to connect to your laptop? Don't like using the touchpad and prefer to use a mouse? So, you need a USB port. Do you also need to have the printer turned on? There are already two. Do you still want to connect a pen without turning off these two? Continue to add ... That or buy a hub, that is, a usb hub. It's like having a triple for usb connections.

Do you also want to connect your laptop to the internet, via Wi-Fi or ethernet? Check if the notebook has this port. And television? Look for a laptop with an HDMI port.

8. Battery

The laptop needs the battery to function. If, on the one hand, the simplest tasks do not require a lot of battery power, the heavy ones can spend a lot. It all depends on whether you are going to spend a lot of time away from power sources in order to have your laptop plugged in or charging.

9. Brand

A reputable brand is usually a sign of good product quality. Find out about each brand and the technical support offered by it. It can make all the difference when buying a laptop.

10. Operating system

It comes in last place but it is the most important when choosing a notebook. What platform do you want: Windows, Mac, Chrome OS? Nowadays, there are loads of operating systems to choose from. Taking risks on more “alternative” systems like Linux can bring you several advantages. On the other hand, if you are a “simple” user, choose the most commercial system, Windows.

Think carefully before buying a laptop. Consider the pros and cons of each, but most important of all, think about your needs.

PORTABLE FOR ALL NEEDS

Price and ease of use

Source: Google

Have you heard of Chromebooks? These notebooks can be an excellent option, both for you and your wallet. The variety is huge and the offer is shared by renowned notebook manufacturers.

Versatility and portability

Source: Asus

Ultra-thin, light and a real two in one. The ASUS Transformer Mini is an ultraportable 2 in 1, 10.1 ”, with less than 800g and capacity for up to 11 hours of battery life. An excellent option for those looking for portability.

Size and performance

Source: Dell

The decision appears to be unanimous among all technology analysts. The Dell XPS 13 is a true “must-have” and the great proof that notebooks cannot be measured by hand. Impressive performance in an elegant body.

Gaming graphics card

Source: Razer

If you are looking for a good gaming option, the Razer Blade may be the right candidate. This notebook is very powerful and has components capable of "running" the most demanding video games on the market. And it is already prepared for Virtual Reality!

Brand and operating system

Source: Apple

We could not fail to mention the MacBook Pro, an excellent option if you are thinking about buying a notebook. The Apple seal of quality speaks for itself: very good products capable of achieving enviable performances