Laptop buying guide: 8 essential tips to know before you buy

Laptops are compact enough to carry with you, yet powerful enough to run demanding applications. Notebooks are the best tool for doing serious work or play whether you're at home, on the road, or in a college classroom. For those reasons, we've compiled lists of the best business laptops and best college laptops, not to mention our best laptops for most users.

While tablets and smartphones are always popular, most people realize that when it comes to tasks like typing a research paper or producing videos or gaming it all just works better on a laptop. So how do you know what to look for in a laptop? Well, we've put together this laptop buying guide to help answer that question for you.

Laptops come in a wide variety of sizes, features, and prices, which makes choosing the best laptop a challenge. That's why you need to figure out what your needs are.

Quick tips

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12.5 to 14-inch screens offer the best balance between usability and portability. Larger screens are fine if you don't travel much and smaller models are great for kids.

offer the best balance between usability and portability. Larger screens are fine if you don't travel much and smaller models are great for kids. If you're spending over $600, shoot for these minimum specs: CPU: Core i5 or Ryzen 5 Screen: 1920 x 1080 IPS RAM: 8GB Storage: SSD instead of a hard drive

9+ hours of battery life in our test is ideal if you plan to take your laptop anywhere.

in our test is ideal if you plan to take your laptop anywhere. Consider a 2-in-1 laptop (either a convertible or detachable) if you want to use your laptop as a tablet. If not, a standard clamshell notebook may be a better choice.

(either a convertible or detachable) if you want to use your laptop as a tablet. If not, a standard clamshell notebook may be a better choice. Chromebooks are ideal for kids and students or as secondary laptops, but their functionality keeps growing. Windows 11 laptops and MacBooks both offer plenty of functionality; which platform you prefer is a matter of personal taste.

1. Pick a platform: Windows 11 vs. macOS vs. Chrome OS?

Depending on your needs this could be an easy choice, but if you don't have any existing loyalties to a platform or specific software that you need this can be a challenging question to answer. If you are in that latter camp here's a quick overview of each platform’s strengths and weaknesses to help you decide.

Most laptops come with one of three operating systems: Windows, Chrome OS, or macOS (for MacBooks only).

Windows 11 (or Windows 10)

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The most flexible operating system, Windows 11, runs on more laptop models than Chrome OS or macOS. Windows notebooks range in price from under $150 to several thousand dollars and offer a wide array of features from touch screens to fingerprint readers to dual graphics chips. Windows 11, the latest version of Microsoft's flagship operating system, provides a number of improvements over Windows 10, including the revised interface, the new Microsoft Store, handy features like Snap View.

Since its launch in October 2021, Windows 11 has also added a host of improvements, including Focus Sessions and a Do Not Disturb mode. The 22H2 update also came with notable performance and battery optimization enhancements. Windows 11 laptops are great for students, researchers, and business users, and they're still the only gaming laptops anyone should consider.

Apple macOS

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All MacBooks come with Apple's latest desktop operating system, macOS Ventura. Overall, the operating system offers similar functionality to Windows 11, but with a different take on the interface that substitutes an apps dock at the bottom of the screen for Microsoft's Start menu and taskbar. Instead of the Cortana digital assistant, Mac users get Siri. They can also perform transactions with Apple Pay, take calls or texts from their phones, and unlock their laptops with an Apple Watch.

However, macOS isn't made for touch, because no MacBook comes with a touch screen. While Apple did bring iPad apps to its laptops starting with macOS Big Sur (iPad and iPadOS apps can run natively on M1 and M2 Macs), you have to rely on a touchpad or mouse to navigate them. Ventura also brought Apple's Stage Manager for handling multitasking, which is a useful feature, although it can take time to adjust to it.

Chrome OS

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Found on inexpensive Chromebooks such as the Samsung Chromebook 3. Google's OS is simple and secure, but more limited than Windows or macOS. The user interface looks a lot like Windows with an application menu, a desktop, and the ability to drag windows around, but the primary focus is still the Chrome browser. While newer Chromebooks, like the Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook can run Android apps, they still aren't always optimized for use in a laptop form factor.

If you need a device to surf the Web and check email, navigate social networks and chat online, Chromebooks are highly portable and tend to offer good battery life at low prices. They are also extremely popular with schools, parents, and increasingly businesses because they are hard to infect with malware. For educational use, they offer something closer to a full laptop experience and are more functional than most tablets. If you need a Chromebook, look for one with at least 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. A screen with a 1920 x 1080 resolution is preferred and you can now find 4K and OLED models, like the aforementioned IdeaPad Duet 5.

2. Decide if you want a 2-in-1

Many PC laptops fall into the category of 2-in-1 laptops, hybrid devices that can switch between traditional clamshell mode, tablet mode and other positions in between such as tent or stand modes. 2-in-1s generally come in two different styles: detachables with screens that come off the keyboard entirely and convertible laptops with hinges that bend back 360 degrees to change modes.

Most of these systems are much better at serving one purpose than the other, with convertibles being laptops first and detachables offering a superior tablet experience. However, if you don't see the need to use your notebook as a slate, you'll usually get more performance for your money with a traditional clamshell laptop.

3. Choose the right size

Before you look at specs or pricing, you need to figure out just how portable you need your laptop to be. Laptops are usually categorized by their display sizes:

11 to 12 inches: The thinnest and lightest systems around have 11- to 12-inch screens and typically weigh 2 to 3 pounds.

The thinnest and lightest systems around have 11- to 12-inch screens and typically weigh 2 to 3 pounds. 13 to 14 inches: Provides the best balance of portability and usability, particularly if you get a laptop that weighs under 3.5 pounds.

Provides the best balance of portability and usability, particularly if you get a laptop that weighs under 3.5 pounds. 15 to 16 inches: The most popular size, 15-inch laptops usually weigh 3.5 to 5.5 pounds. Consider this size if you want a larger screen and you're not planning to carry your notebook around often.

The most popular size, 15-inch laptops usually weigh 3.5 to 5.5 pounds. Consider this size if you want a larger screen and you're not planning to carry your notebook around often. 17 inches: If your laptop stays on your desk all day every day, a 17-inch laptop could provide you with the kind of processing power you need to play high-end games or do workstation-level productivity.

4. Check that keyboard and touchpad

The most impressive specs in the world don't mean diddly if the laptop you're shopping for doesn't have good ergonomics. If you plan to do a lot of work on your computer, make sure the keyboard offers solid tactile feedback, plenty of key travel (the distance the key goes down when pressed, usually 1 to 2mm) and enough space between the keys. If you're buying a Windows laptop, be sure it has Precision touchpad drivers.

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Look for an accurate touchpad that doesn't give you a jumpy cursor and responds consistently to multitouch gestures such as pinch-to-zoom. If you're buying a business laptop, consider getting one with a pointing stick (aka nub) between the G and H keys so you can navigate around the desktop without lifting your fingers off the keyboard's home row.

5. Pick your specs

Notebook components such as processor, hard drive, RAM, and graphics chip can confuse even notebook aficionados, so don't feel bad if spec sheets look like alphabet soup to you.

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Here are the main components to keep an eye on.

CPU: The "brains" of your computer, the processor has a huge influence on performance, but depending on what you want to do, even the least-expensive model may be good enough. Here's a rundown:

Intel 12th Gen CPUs : Intel's 12th Gen Alder Lake processors power the current generation of laptops. To summarize, Alder Lake — a 7-nanometer chip — offers updated integrated Iris Xe graphics with up to 5.5Ghz speeds as well as Thunderbolt 4 support. The Intel EVO brand sets parameters for top laptops, including a minimum of 9 hours of battery life.

: Intel's 12th Gen Alder Lake processors power the current generation of laptops. To summarize, Alder Lake — a 7-nanometer chip — offers updated integrated Iris Xe graphics with up to 5.5Ghz speeds as well as Thunderbolt 4 support. The Intel EVO brand sets parameters for top laptops, including a minimum of 9 hours of battery life. Intel Core i9: Core i9 processors provide faster performance than any other mobile chip. Available only on premium laptops, workstations and high-end gaming rigs, Core i9 CPUs are only worth their premium price if you're a power user who uses the most demanding programs and apps. Typically feature 14 total cores.

Core i9 processors provide faster performance than any other mobile chip. Available only on premium laptops, workstations and high-end gaming rigs, Core i9 CPUs are only worth their premium price if you're a power user who uses the most demanding programs and apps. Typically feature 14 total cores. Intel Core i7 : A step up from Core i5, models with numbers that end in H use higher wattage and have between 10 and 14 cores, allowing for even faster gaming and productivity. There are also Core i7 P and U series chips that have lower power and performance. Keep an eye out for CPUs that have a 12 in the model number because they are part of Intel's latest lineup.

: A step up from Core i5, models with numbers that end in H use higher wattage and have between 10 and 14 cores, allowing for even faster gaming and productivity. There are also Core i7 P and U series chips that have lower power and performance. Keep an eye out for CPUs that have a 12 in the model number because they are part of Intel's latest lineup. Intel Core i5 : If you're looking for a mainstream laptop with the best combination of price and performance, get one with an Intel Core i5 CPU. Models that end in U are the most common with lower power and performance to preserve battery life while models with a P use more wattage, while still offering better efficiency than the H-Series.

: If you're looking for a mainstream laptop with the best combination of price and performance, get one with an Intel Core i5 CPU. Models that end in U are the most common with lower power and performance to preserve battery life while models with a P use more wattage, while still offering better efficiency than the H-Series. Intel Core i3 : Performance is just a step below Core i5 and so is the price. If you can step up to a Core i5, we recommend it.

: Performance is just a step below Core i5 and so is the price. If you can step up to a Core i5, we recommend it. Intel Xeon: Extremely powerful and expensive processors for large mobile workstations. If you do professional-grade engineering, 3D modeling or video editing, you might want a Xeon, but you won't get good battery life or a light laptop.

Extremely powerful and expensive processors for large mobile workstations. If you do professional-grade engineering, 3D modeling or video editing, you might want a Xeon, but you won't get good battery life or a light laptop. Intel Pentium / Celeron : Still found in sub $400 laptops, these chips offer the slowest performance, but can do if your main tasks are web surfing and light document editing. If you can pay more to get a Core i3 or i5, you'd be better off.

: Still found in sub $400 laptops, these chips offer the slowest performance, but can do if your main tasks are web surfing and light document editing. If you can pay more to get a Core i3 or i5, you'd be better off. Intel Core m / Core i5 / i7 "Y Series:" Low-power and low heat allow systems with these processors to go fanless. Performance is better than Celeron, but a notch below regular Core U series.

Low-power and low heat allow systems with these processors to go fanless. Performance is better than Celeron, but a notch below regular Core U series. AMD Ryzen 5000 and 6000 : A new set of chips that are designed to compete with Intel Core i5 and Core i7. We've found Ryzen 5000 and 6000 chips to be equal to or better than their equivalent Intel Core competition. Not only do you get great performance and endurance but Ryzen-equipped laptops tend to be cheaper than their Intel counterparts.

: A new set of chips that are designed to compete with Intel Core i5 and Core i7. We've found Ryzen 5000 and 6000 chips to be equal to or better than their equivalent Intel Core competition. Not only do you get great performance and endurance but Ryzen-equipped laptops tend to be cheaper than their Intel counterparts. AMD A, FX or E Series : Found on low-cost laptops, AMD's processors -- the company calls them APUs rather than CPUs -- provide decent performance for the money that's good enough for web surfing, media viewing and productivity.

: Found on low-cost laptops, AMD's processors -- the company calls them APUs rather than CPUs -- provide decent performance for the money that's good enough for web surfing, media viewing and productivity. Apple M1 and M2: Apple's custom silicon, the ARM-based M1 and M2 chips crush the competition when it comes to a balance of raw performance and endurance.

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RAM: Some sub-$250 laptops come with only 4GB of RAM, but ideally you want at least 8GB on even a budget system and 16GB if you can spend just a little more. For 99% of users, 32GB is more than enough, while 64GB and above is reserved for professional power users or high-end gamers.

Storage (SSD): As important as the speed of your CPU is the performance of your storage drive. If you can afford it and don't need a ton of internal storage, get a laptop with a solid state drive (SSD) rather than a hard drive, because you'll see at least three times the speed and a much faster laptop overall.

Among SSDs, the newer PCIe x4 (aka NVME) units offer triple the speed of traditional SATA drives. Sub-$250 laptops use eMMC memory, which is technically solid-state but not faster than a mechanical hard drive.

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Display: The more pixels you have, the more content you can fit on-screen, and the sharper it will look. Sadly, some budget laptops still have 1366 x 768 displays, but if you can afford it, we recommend paying extra for a panel that runs at 1920 x 1080, also known as Full HD or 1080p. Higher-end laptops have screens that are 2560 x 1600, 3200 x 1800, or even 3840 x 2160 (4K), which all look sharp but consume more power, lowering your battery life.

Display quality is about much more than resolution. IPS panels range in color and brightness, so read our reviews to find out if the laptop you're considering has a good display. We typically look for a DCI-P3 color rating of over 85% and brightness great than 300 nits. If you want the very best picture quality consider an OLED display or miniLED, but read reviews of these models carefully as there can be battery trade-offs.

Touch Screen: If you're buying a regular clamshell laptop, rather than a 2-in-1, you won't get much benefit from a touch screen and you will get 1 to 2 hours less battery life. On 2-in-1s, touch screens come standard. If you still want a touch screen, check out our best touch screen laptops page.

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Graphics Chip: If you're not playing PC games, creating 3D objects or doing high-res video editing, an integrated graphics chip (one that shares system memory) will be fine, especially Intel's latest Iris Xe graphics. If you have any of the above needs, though, a discrete graphics processor from Nvidia or AMD is essential.

As with CPUs, there are both high- and low-end graphics chips. Low-end gaming or workstation systems today usually have Nvidia MX450 or GTX 1660 GPUs while mid-range models have RTX 3050 or RTX 3050 Ti and high-end models have 30-series chips like the RTX 3060 or above. Nvidia maintains a list (opens in new tab) of its graphics chips from low to high end.

Nvidia's rivals, AMD, is Apple's vendor of choice for graphics cards, although you really shouldn't buy a MacBook for gaming. AMD launched the Radeon RX 6000 GPUS at CES in January of 2022. AMD also keeps a list of its graphics cards.

Ports: While the absence of ports is usually not a deal-breaker when choosing a laptop, it's helpful to get the connections you need right on the system, rather than having to carry a slew of dongles. However, many mainstream laptops now only offer USB Type-C, Thunderbolt 4, or USB4 ports that are USB Type-C compatible. Having legacy USB 3.0 ports, an audio jack, an SD card reader, and HDMI can be useful, but depending on the type of laptop you are considering these features are growing harder to find.

With that said, USB Type-C is a definite plus because you can use it to connect to USB Type-C hubs or docking stations that can give you any combination of ports you might need.

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Connectivity: If you need to use your laptop on the go, consider buying a 4G LTE laptop or 5G laptop. You'll have to pay for a data subscription plan, but this will allow you to access the internet away from a router. If you want a laptop with the latest and greatest connectivity options, find one with Wi-Fi 6 support. Wi-Fi 6 offers increased theoretical throughputs and a more stable connection than 802.11ac.

We also suggest looking for a laptop with Bluetooth 5, the latest standard that offers improved connectivity with Bluetooth-enabled devices, like mice and headphones.

DVD/Blu-ray Drives: Very few laptops come with optical drives, because all software and movies are downloadable, though we've kept track of the laptops with DVD drives. However, if you really need to read/write discs we strongly recommend leaving this off the wish list for your laptop and buying an external DVD drive.

6. Don’t Skimp on Battery Life

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If you're buying a large, bulky notebook or a gaming rig that you'll use only on a desk near an outlet, you don't have to worry about battery life. However, if you plan to use the laptop on your lap, even if it's at home and or work, you'll want at least 7 hours of endurance, with 9+ hours being ideal. To determine a notebook's expected battery life, don't take the manufacturer's word for it. Instead, read third-party results from objective sources, such as our reviews.

MORE: Laptops with the Longest Battery Life

7. Plan Based on Your Budget

These days, you can buy a usable laptop for under $200, but if you can budget more, you'll get a system with better build quality, stronger performance and a better display. Here's what you can get for each price range.

$150 to $250: The least-expensive notebooks are either Chromebooks, which run Google's browser-centric OS, or low-end Windows systems with minimal storage and slower processors, such as the HP Stream 11 and the Lenovo Chromebook Duet. Use these as secondary computers only or give them to the kids.

The least-expensive notebooks are either Chromebooks, which run Google's browser-centric OS, or low-end Windows systems with minimal storage and slower processors, such as the HP Stream 11 and the Lenovo Chromebook Duet. Use these as secondary computers only or give them to the kids. $350 to $600: For under $600, you can get a notebook with an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5000 CPU, 4 to 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, all respectable specs. However, there are sure to be some trade-offs to hit that price. There are outliers like the Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook or the Samsung Galaxy Book.

For under $600, you can get a notebook with an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5000 CPU, 4 to 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, all respectable specs. However, there are sure to be some trade-offs to hit that price. There are outliers like the Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook or the Samsung Galaxy Book. $600 to $900: As you get above $600, you'll start to see more premium designs, such as metal finishes. Manufacturers also start to add in other features as you climb the price ladder, including higher-resolution displays and SSDs. The Apple MacBook Air M1 is typically in this price range along with Asus ZenBook 13 UX325EA.

As you get above $600, you'll start to see more premium designs, such as metal finishes. Manufacturers also start to add in other features as you climb the price ladder, including higher-resolution displays and SSDs. The Apple MacBook Air M1 is typically in this price range along with Asus ZenBook 13 UX325EA. Above $900: At this price range, expect notebooks that are more portable, more powerful or both. Expect higher-resolution screens, faster processors, and possibly discrete graphics. The lightest, longest-lasting ultraportables, like the Acer Swift 5, tend to cost more than $1,000. High-end gaming systems and mobile workstations usually cost upward of $1,500 or even as much as $2,500 or $3,000.

MORE: Best Laptops Under $500

8. Mind the Brand

Your laptop is only as good as the company that stands behind it. Accurate and timely technical support is paramount, which is why Laptop Mag evaluates every major brand in our annual Tech Support Showdown. This past year Razer came in first place, followed by Apple and Lenovo in a tie for second place, while Dell and Asus settled for a shared third-place finish.

Support is only part of what makes a notebook brand worth your money. You also have to consider how the manufacturer stacks up to the competition in terms of design, value and selection, review performance, and other criteria. In our 2020 Best and Worst Laptop Brands report, HP placed first, followed by Asus and Dell. We've also rated gaming laptop brands, with MSI taking first place and Acer and Alienware rounding out the top three. Look out for updated versions of those reports in the coming months.

Laptop buying guide: What to look for in 2022

Whether you’re loyal to Windows, a Mac fan, or willing to try something new, you should know what to look for in a laptop before making an investment. There’s more to consider than just the operating system. Does it have the screen you want? Are there ports that support your peripherals? Can it play games at 1080p – or higher? These are considerations you need to weigh.

In this guide, we explain what you should look for in 2022, and what you need to avoid. There are many options available to you for both Windows 11 and Chrome OS, whereas Apple limits its MacBooks to a limited number of configurations. Continue reading to find out which laptop is right for you, and be sure to check out our list of best laptop brands before you get started.

Mac, Windows, or something else?

The operating system should be your first major consideration. While traditionally that debate was dominated by Apple’s MacOS and Microsoft’s Windows, Google’s Chrome OS is now a very popular alternative typically offered on much more affordable laptops.

While there are certainly comparable hardware and features offered with these platforms, there are some stark differences between them that are important to consider.

Windows

Windows-based PCs are an incredibly diverse category. Dozens of manufacturers make them, and the quality and pricing can vary greatly depending on which model and brand you choose. The fastest models will surpass Macs in terms of performance, and many companies tailor their Windows PCs to a specific purpose, such as gaming or business.

Windows PCs come in a variety of shapes and sizes. A standard laptop with a clamshell design and a keyboard-mouse interface is easy to find, such as the lightweight Surface Laptop line. Windows touchscreen laptops can be found even in the lower price brackets, which is not something you’ll see on any Apple MacBook — unless you count a brief fling with the Touch Bar.

More elaborate designs include fold-back screens or even detachable tablet-keyboard combos, such as Microsoft’s Surface range. Meanwhile, Apple reserves the 2-in-1 design for its iPad Pro family combined with a Magic Keyboard, as you won’t see a convertible or detachable MacBook.

On the software side, Windows is far more open-ended than MacOS. It’s the standard for game development and many business-related programs, empowering a larger software library. Windows enjoys major updates with new features more frequently too: Biannually versus annually with Apple’s MacOS.

Unlike Apple’s more limited lineup of hardware, there is plenty of choice in the Windows laptop space. Whether you opt for a major manufacturer like Lenovo, Dell, or one of Microsoft’s own devices, you have a ton of options.

MacOS

Apple has always been protective of its brand, releasing products in very deliberate iterations. Any Apple product will follow its standards, whereas any manufacturer can make a Windows or Chrome OS-based PC with unique specs. As a result, Macs are very user-friendly and stable. And because they come from the same ecosystem, Apple’s resourceful support network can easily help with any problems that arise.

Quality design is one of the hallmarks of a Mac. They are built to look great, feel elegant, and have incredible displays, which translates to a much higher price tag than many of their Windows and Chrome OS counterparts, especially when configured with lots of storage. Apple computers aren’t known for being cheap.

Macs use fast hardware, but rarely sport the most powerful graphics chips as seen in Windows-based PCs — and unlike many PCs, it is nigh impossible to upgrade components, so you are stuck with the specs that you purchase on day one. Still, those who want a solid computer but do not know a lot about hardware can rest easy knowing their Mac will perform well during everyday use. Apple’s hardware also advanced significantly in late 2020 and 2021, when the company switched processors to their own in-house M1 chips, which worked out extremely well for MacBooks and similar devices. Today, the MacBook Pro is the fastest laptop for creative professionals that you can buy.

Apple’s strict design standards extend to the operating system, MacOS, which is straightforward and intuitive. Unlike Windows, the platform includes a suite of proprietary office and media-editing software, and each application is well-suited for its targeted task. It’s no surprise Apple is often the choice of designers and photographers (although models like Microsoft’s Studio Laptop Studio are putting up serious competition thanks to innovative designs and digital pen support).

Finally, while there are no touchscreens on Macs, you can use Apple’s Sidecar mode to add an iPad as a second wireless screen with touch support.

Chrome OS

Google’s Chrome OS is different from Windows and MacOS. Based on the Chrome browser, this platform initially focused on web-based apps and affordability. While the latter still holds true, Chrome OS has evolved over the years to support more traditional desktop software and mobile apps, similar to its rivals.

Chrome OS powers Chromebooks. These devices are typically more affordable than Windows-based PCs and MacBooks due to their lower hardware requirements. They’re ideal for schools and other institutions, and customers who just need a laptop to browse social media and make online purchases.

However, hardware choices are also much more varied today than in the past, with powerful offerings, like the Pixelbook Go, which perform and look very much like premium Windows and MacOS laptops. There are even 2-in-1 options like the HP Chromebook x360 14.

Overall, Chrome OS is quick and more versatile today than it’s ever been. Its foundation is still web-centric, but the platform now supports Google Play and Android apps, making it the ideal notebook companion if you have an Android phone. It even mimics Apple’s iMessage, allowing Chromebook owners to text from their laptops without picking up the phone.

Moreover, Chrome OS supports Linux, opening up the platform to traditional desktop software, like GIMP and Steam. The drawback is that the library isn’t as diverse as Windows or even MacOS, and Linux support is still in beta. Still, the maturity of Chrome OS has proven to be a strong contender in a market mostly dominated by Windows.

Overall, if Chrome OS fits the bill for what you need in a laptop, you can save a lot of money by going with a Chromebook.

The types of laptops

There are several laptop categories, manufactured with a certain use or audience in mind. When shopping for a laptop, decide what you primarily intend to use the laptop for and seek out a category that aligns with those interests. Here are some broad categories and a couple of our favorites for each.

Entry-level ($500 or less)

Laptops can be expensive, but manufacturers know that not everyone can afford a $2,000 machine. Buyers who need a laptop for the most basic purposes and want to save money can find great laptops that cost $500 or less.

In general, budget laptops are ideal for people who may not know a lot about computers and simply want a device that can carry out standard tasks. They’re built to last despite the low price, with competent construction and ergonomically sensible keyboards and touchpads.

These laptops are typically light on hardware, meaning you won’t find loads of RAM or high-performance graphics, making them less ideal for AAA games or keeping hundreds of browser tabs open. They’re not incapable of decent performance, just limited as to what you can do compared to higher-priced models.

This is a category where Chromebooks excel, as they ditch some of the fancier features of Windows and MacOS laptops, but there are options from Windows as well. You won’t find a MacOS laptop for under $500.

Mainstream ($500-$1,500)

This price range is arguably the best in terms of bang for your buck. These laptops are truly excellent. You get much better internal hardware than the entry-level offerings, but at the cost of premium features, high-powered graphics chips, and fancy materials.

The fact that this section is such a sweet spot for the industry means that you have plenty to choose from. There are laptops with great displays, laptops with powerful processors, beautiful laptops, and ones that are light and portable with great battery life. You may not find a system that ticks every one of those boxes, but the best laptops under $1,000 are some of our favorites. This is also where you’ll find your least expensive MacOS machine, the entry-level MacBook Air M1.

Premium ($1,500+)

This bracket contains some of the best laptops you can buy today. For a little extra money, you gain longer battery life, improved performance from more powerful internal hardware, larger and higher-resolution displays, and overall better build quality. If you’re a bit more of a power-user and can afford it, this is the class of laptop you should consider most.

Despite the inflated cost of the premium laptop category, there are still plenty of choices. You can pick up stellar laptops in the 13-inch form with plenty of general computing power and connectivity options. If you’re interested in gaming on the side or content creation, you’ll want to jump up to a 15-inch laptop with an eight-core (or more) processor and a dedicated graphics card.

This category even contains our favorite laptop of the past few years, the Dell XPS 13. If you want something a little heftier and more capable of content creation, the Dell XPS 15 is worth considering too. For gamers, the Razer Blade 14 is one of the best laptops we’ve come across for highly portable performance, while the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme offers real power in a supremely rugged and upgradeable chassis.

If you’re an Apple fan, we’d recommend a fully configured MacBook Air M1. The MacBook Pro is an option too, but that’s exclusively for creative professionals and power users and carries a stiff price.

2-in-1

The 2-in-1 laptop combines the convenience and ease of a tablet with the utility of a keyboard. This category includes two most common designs: Convertible and detachable. The convertible can serve as a tablet by flipping the keyboard under the screen. The detachable is essentially a tablet with a removable keyboard but looks and feels like an ultra-thin laptop when combined. There are other types of 2-in-1s, such as the pull-forward design epitomized by the Microsoft Surface Studio Laptop, the HP Elite Folio, and the Acer ConceptD 7 Ezel.

Two-in-ones can provide a lot of versatility but are not necessarily the best devices available. The uniqueness of their design can come with some notable drawbacks, such as weight (especially from the metal hinges on the keyboard) and price. These 2-in-1 laptops are often more expensive than clamshell laptops with comparable hardware.

When it comes to buying a 2-in-1, some are better laptops than they are tablets, and some are better tablets than they are laptops. Think hard about which “mode” you’re likely to use more before buying and do so accordingly.

Our favorite 2-in-1 laptops for 2021 include the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 and the HP Spectre X360 14, always a reliable line for professionals.

Ultrabooks

The term “ultrabook” is technically a specification that Intel used for extra-light, portable laptops designed to be easy to carry while still providing great battery life. They use SSDs, power-efficient Intel Core processors, and carefully designed clamshell bodies. This became a very popular type of computer, and many people began applying the name “ultrabook” to any compact, lightweight laptop that was designed for easy transport.

Today, any lightweight laptop with an SSD and Intel processor may be called an ultrabook, although that isn’t quite accurate (some are now referred to as ultraportables instead). You can find some good examples in our list of the best 13-inch laptops.

Business laptops

Business laptops offer some intriguing features for the average buyer despite targeting professionals. Sure, they might not always offer the looks of more mainstream systems, but they tend to pack exceptional battery life and have more rugged and tough shells.

The biggest downside to business laptops is that they’re usually on the expensive side. They typically offer slightly larger displays paired with great color accuracy, especially if they’re aimed more at video editors and photographers. They are also much more likely to offer better protective systems like biometric validation and professionally oriented software packages due to their greater emphasis on security and privacy.

One of the most iconic laptop lines in the business category is the Lenovo ThinkPad, and the latest ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 is a fantastic entry in that range. We also love the flagship ThinkPad X1 Extreme Gen 4 — it’s our favorite business laptop.

Gaming laptops

Gaming laptops must be built to keep up with the unceasing march of progress. The best tout high-end processors and graphics chips, as well as enough RAM to run modern games. Anything less can render the hottest titles unplayable.

High-tier gaming laptops tend to be bulky, typically to accommodate better desktop-like hardware and larger screens. Their power-gulping components mean that battery life isn’t great — especially on systems with 4K displays. But this isn’t always the case, as our favorite gaming laptops tend to offer a good middle ground or offer more stealth gaming ability.

What you need to know about hardware

As with any computer, hardware determines what a laptop can do. Better components will naturally be more expensive, so it is important to consider the laptop’s primary role and choose hardware suitable for that purpose. A laptop purchased to browse the internet or write documents, for example, doesn’t need a high-end processor or video card.

CPU/Processor

As with any computer, the CPU is the brains of the notebook and does most of the general work. When the computer needs to access or change data, the CPU executes that task. Better CPUs will be able to process more data at quicker speeds. However, keep in mind that a CPU’s pure clock speed doesn’t necessarily paint the whole picture. If you’re unsure about your options, copy its model number (such as “Core i7-11800H”) into a web search to compare your choices.

The current offerings from Intel are its Core i3, i5, i7, and i9 series in 11th-generation models. You can see the generation in the chip’s part number, shown immediately after the dash. For instance, the i7-11800H is an 11th-generation CPU. Meanwhile, AMD’s current notebook chips are its third-generation mobile Ryzen 5000 Series CPUs, though they are a bit more difficult to find in laptop offerings.

However, we’re in a transition period to Intel 12th-gen Alder Lake CPUs and AMD’s Ryzen 6000 lineup. Each of these upgrades is significant, although Intel’s version is the more impressive.

The new Intel 12th-gen chips are hybrid designs, similar to Apple’s M1 although not based on the ARM architecture as are Apple’s. There are more cores than in current Intel CPUs, with a mix of performance and efficiency cores that are meant to provide both faster and more efficient performance. They’re not yet in any shipping laptops, but tests have shown the highest-end 16-core Core i9-12900K to rival Apple’s M1 Max in CPU performance. Most laptops, especially midrange and premium machines, should make the transition to Intel’s 12th-gen architecture throughout 2022.

The Ryzen 6000 uses an updated version of the current architecture and so will be significantly faster than AMD’s existing offerings — up to 30% faster in some CPU tests. More important are the updates to the integrated Radeon graphics, with the implementation of the RDNA2 architecture that’s used in AMD’s discrete GPUs and should bring up to twice the performance in modern games. No laptops with Ryzen 6000 CPUs have shipped yet, but they’re on their way.

When it comes to picking a laptop based on its CPU, newer is almost always better. Try to avoid buying a laptop with a CPU that’s a few generations old. Unless you’re doing something intensive like video editing, don’t worry about buying a chip outside of the midrange. The four cores available in the Core i5-1135G7, for example, offer enough performance for almost anyone. Note that if you can wait for the release of Intel’s 12th-gen or AMD’s Ryzen 6000 lineup, then that might be a wise choice.

Graphics

A Graphics Processing Unit, or GPU, is a chip that generates all images you see on the screen. Most lower-end laptops ship with integrated graphics, which means the component is mounted inside the main processor. For instance, nearly all Intel laptop chips include integrated graphics, namely the Intel Iris Xe in higher-end models and Intel UHD graphics at the lower end. AMD produces Accelerated Processing Units, or APUs, that combine CPU and GPU cores on the same chip (die) in a similar fashion.

Other laptops have an additional graphics chip/module soldered into the motherboard. These chips are referred to as “discrete GPUs,” and typically can’t be removed by the typical laptop owner. Nvidia and AMD are the primary vendors of these chips.

Nvidia’s latest laptop GPU family is the GeForce RTX 3000 Series, including the RTX 3050, 3050 Ti, 3060, 3070, and 3080 — with some Max-Q versions which are cooler and quieter. These will be in the most expensive, most powerful gaming and business-class laptops, though some recent models may be using the GTX 1650 Series or the older GTX 1000 Series. Laptops based on the RTX 3000 Series are increasingly common and provide excellent gaming and creative application performance.

AMD discrete laptop graphics like the RX 5500M and 5600M offer vastly improved performance over integrated solutions, though they are far less common than Nvidia’s solutions. Again, AMD will be offering faster integrated graphics in its upcoming Ryzen 6000 line.

Audio

Although some laptops offer adequate sound right out of the box, such as the MacBook Pro, most laptops don’t have the room to fit decent speakers inside the casing. Most laptops provide ports to connect headphones or external speakers if you want a more immersive listening experience.

Memory

RAM, often referred to as system memory, refers to dedicated hardware for temporarily storing and accessing information for immediate use. All current tasks store data in RAM, like the web browser currently displaying this guide.

Essentially, the more RAM, the more information a computer can call up at any given time, and thus the more things it can do at any time. However, unlike storage (see below), RAM does not store data indefinitely. Once RAM loses power, all held data is lost.

How much RAM do you need? 8GB is the sweet spot for most. You’ll want to jump up to 16GB or more, though, if you’re running intensive applications or doing any kind of content creation.

Storage

The amount of storage space on a laptop’s internal drive(s) is how much data it can hold in total indefinitely. All data, from installed programs to downloaded music, reside on an internal storage device. These devices either rely on traditional platter-based hard drive technology or NAND Flash technology. Chromebooks tend to use the latter in small amounts.

In contrast to RAM, data in storage does not necessarily need to be in use. An installed program that is currently not active takes up storage space but not memory. Many modern laptops now use solid-state drives (SSDs) which are faster and more reliable than traditional hard drives, but more expensive when comparing identical capacities.

An SSD uses NAND Flash to store data, which doesn’t have moving parts. It offers a dramatic performance boost over a conventional hard drive – which does have moving parts — and can provide the most dramatic improvement in laptop usage when buying a new system.

Make sure your next purchase has an SSD as the primary drive. If you need more space, grab a big external drive too.

Ports

Ports can quickly become confusing on a laptop due to a complex labyrinth of terminology. Make sure to focus on the USB ports that you need.

Older laptops tend to offer USB-A ports to support legacy devices, like peripherals and external drives. They’re rectangular with squared corners and only works with a one-side-up connector. This interface supports USB 2.0 (480Mbps), USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps), or USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps), depending on the laptop manufacturer.

Thinner laptops like Ultrabooks and MacBooks generally do not offer USB-A ports due to their size. Instead, you’ll see one or more of the newer USB-C ports. This interface is smaller, narrower, and more rounded than USB-A. It’s generally used with several technologies including Thunderbolt 4 (40Gbps), USB 3.2 Gen 1, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and DisplayPort, depending on the laptop manufacturer. USB-C requires a different, thinner either-side-up connecter.

If you plan to connect a second external monitor for more large-screen work, make sure that the laptop has the right connections for that monitor, such as USB-C, DisplayPort, or HDMI. You may find VGA on old models, and video output is possible through USB-A using DisplayLink drivers and the appropriate adapter.

Displays

It used to be that you had a choice between IPS LED displays of various quality and resolution, mainly Full HD (1920 x 1080), WQHD (2560 x 1440), or 4K UHD (3840 x 2160). Most laptop displays were in the 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio except for Apple’s MacBook displays that were taller at 16:10 and Microsoft’s Surface line that standardized on the even taller 3:2. Both provide for better productivity thanks to displaying more vertical information.

Flash forward to 2022, and laptop displays have taken some serious leaps. Buying a laptop today involves a decision between a bunch of different display options, and they’re all for the better.

First, we have new technologies like organic light-emitting displays (OLED), Samsung’s quantum light-emitting diode (QLED), and Mini-LED (mainly used by Apple) that all provide incredibly deep contrast, tons of brightness, and dynamic and accurate colors. Even IPS displays have gotten better, with improved contrast, brightness, and colors that make them great options for creative professionals.

Next, the industry is transitioning to taller displays, 16:10 and the even taller 3:2. You can still buy 16:9 laptops, especially in gaming machines, but most new laptops have taller displays. As mentioned earlier, that’s a boon for productivity, providing more vertical space for documents and web pages. You get some letterboxing when watching video, but that’s a small price to pay for a more productive environment.

Finally, display resolutions are all over the map. For example, Dell has been using 3.5K (3456 x 2160) displays in its XPS 13 and XPS 15 OLED machines, and other manufacturers have their own resolutions as well. This is a mixed bag — if you want a true 4K display in an XPS then you need to pick an IPS version. There are tradeoffs, but that also means there are more power-efficient options that are higher resolution than Full HD but not quite as power-hungry as full 4K.

Touchscreen support

Touchscreens were once exclusive to high-end laptops mostly because the hardware was expensive and touch-based screens didn’t seem practical. What helped merge the two technologies was the tablet craze and the PC market’s need to regain its footing. Enter the touch-centric 2-in-1 PCs and the overall reduction in manufacturing costs. Touchscreens are now more common — even on some budget designs — unless you own a MacBook.

Windows 11 has gone a long way towards making these touchscreen and combination designs more viable. The interface and software are designed with touch in mind, including conventional programs like Office and the Edge browser. Third-party software, like Google’s popular Chrome browser, also offers great touch support.

While touch may seem to be an interesting feature given that you smudge up a smartphone every day, consider if it’s important on a laptop. Touch makes sense on a 2-in-1 device, and even on laptops that can lean back in Stand Mode. If you don’t think a touch screen on a clamshell design will be practical, however, don’t dump extra bucks into a feature you’ll never use.

Best time to buy your laptop

One of the most common questions about buying a new laptop is when to shop to get the best deals. There’s no strict rule for securing a cheap but good laptop. But there are a few different ways you can time your purchase window to find a good deal. Consider these timelines if you’re in the market for a new laptop.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday: These two dates in November are probably the most obvious ones for finding amazing deals. However, act fast, as laptop supplies tend to run out quickly. If you wait for the post-Thanksgiving rush, it may be hard to get the laptop you want, so you may not want to wait too long.

You can get ahead by heading online beforehand to see where the best deals — and shortest lines — will be. Doing your research in advance is a smart strategy.

Back-to-school season: Many retailers offer lower prices to help accommodate students who need new laptops for school. The fall is a great time to shop if you want to get a more affordable device with a steep discount, even if you aren’t a student heading back to class.

A couple of months after a big release: When a company is preparing to release a new model, they typically lower the price of older generations of laptops. Both manufacturers and retailers do this to deplete stock, so there is both physical space to display new releases and customer demand for it.

In reality, there are sometimes minimal differences between laptop generations. This makes it a good idea to watch tech news so you can get a laptop at a great price in the months before a newer model is released. One caveat is the switch from Intel 11th-gen to Intel 12th-gen machines, where the differences will be much more substantial.

Another tip is to search manufacturer websites to stay up-to-date on what’s in the queue and when these new devices will be released to the public. Signing up for their newsletter could be beneficial, ensuring that you never miss a deal. Once you snag the best deal, you can simply unsubscribe from the newsletter, so you don’t get the emails anymore.

Editors' Recommendations

6 Things to Consider Before Buying a Laptop

Price Range What You Can Expect Less than $200 Suitable for surfing the web, checking email, video chat, streaming video, and that's about it. $250-$1,000 Good for surfing the web, running productivity software, and simple games. $1,000-$2,000 Robust enough for video editing software, live streaming, and virtually all commercial software. $2,000+ Can handle graphics-intensive gaming and data processing programs that require a lot of resources.

What Kind of Laptop Do You Need?

Before deciding on the specs and design features, you’ll want to zoom out a little and figure out the form factor of the laptop you want. There are a few different kinds of laptops, and the one that you want may depend on what you want to use your computer for (are you a big gamer, a light user or do you use it primarily for business?). Here are the main types of laptops.

Basic Laptops

A basic laptop is essentially a laptop that doesn’t convert into a tablet, isn’t ultra-thin and powerful like an ultrabook, and doesn’t have features specifically for gaming.

Of course, just because basic laptops don’t offer any fancy features, that doesn’t mean that they’re not worth buying. If you don’t need special features like a detachable display, then buying a computer that can’t do that may well save you some cash.

Because basic laptops are a little less expensive than some of the other kinds of laptops on this list, basic laptops are a great choice for students, those buying a laptop as a secondary computer, or those that simply don’t want to drop much cash on a laptop.

Lifewire / Lance Ulanoff

2-In-1s

The 2-in-1 has fast become one of the more popular types of laptops, largely because of the fact that it's so versatile. 2-in-1s are devices that function as both laptops and as tablets, meaning they can be used for watching TV in bed, working at a desk, and everything in between.

By and large, there are two different kinds of 2-in-1s, each with critical differences. First is the detachable 2-in-1. With it, the display is removed from the keyboard, meaning you can use it as you would any other tablet. The downside is that space is limited for internal things like the processor and battery. As a result, detachable 2-in-1s are often lower-powered than convertible ones.

Sometimes, detachable 2-in-1s include two processors (one in the display, the other in the main body) to circumvent this shortcoming. Alternatively, a small battery is harbored in the display portion, while a larger one is available when the display and keyboard are attached.

The other kind of 2-in-1 is the convertible 2-in-1 which, while unable to split into two separate parts, can instead rotate all the way around—putting the keyboard behind the display, lending itself to a makeshift tablet design that never deviates from its unibody chassis. The resulting tablet is thicker than on a detachable 2-in-1 but often more powerful thanks to the extra space allotted for components.

2-in-1s are an excellent choice for those who like the idea of a device they can use to watch movies in bed just as comfortably as for work at a desk. They’re also convenient for those who frequently travel, as they fit comfortably into tight spaces, perfect for those ever-shrinking economy plane seats.

Lifewire / Jonno Hill

Ultrabooks

Generally considered to be the cutting edge of laptop design, Ultrabooks are often pretty powerful too. Typically slim, portable, and lightweight, this category best suits those who want a powerful device they can take on the go.

That said, Ultrabooks have to make a few trade-offs to keep a slim profile. For example, they almost never include things like DVD drives, and their low-power processors, which conserve battery life, aren't always the fastest. Intel’s mobile chips are increasingly stronger and capable of handling most things people will throw at them.

A lot of people who have more than a couple of hundred dollars to spend on a laptop probably either want a 2-in-1, or an ultrabook. These devices are built for versatility and performance and are probably the best choice for use beyond the absolute basics.

Gaming Laptops

Built for performance above all else, gaming laptops are a little thicker and bulkier than their consumer-focused counterparts, but with all that extra space, manufacturers are able to fit more powerful processors, larger batteries, and often even dedicated graphics processors, or GPUs. Gaming laptops also often have high-resolution displays and enough ports for external displays, gaming mice, and keyboards, and more.

As you might expect, a gaming laptop is best for those who play graphics-intensive games on the go. Those who game casually may not need to spend the cash on a dedicated gaming laptop because most everyday laptops will be able to handle basic gaming.

Business Laptops

While they may also double as Ultrabooks or 2-in-1s, business laptops usually try to strike a balance between performance and portability. If you’re someone who runs from meeting to meeting, you want a laptop that’s relatively light yet still able to weather the endless spreadsheets and PowerPoint. After all, time is money. At the same time, you probably want something that’s durable and able to handle life on the road.

What Operating System Do You Prefer?

A computer’s operating system (OS), essentially the software that runs on it, shapes the laptop user experience. Those in Apple’s ecosystem, and who use devices like the iPhone and Apple TV, are probably better suited to a computer with macOS on it. Others, especially those who have grown up using it, will prefer to stick with Windows. And those who need something basic and easy to use may like using Google’s Chrome OS.

Here’s a rundown of the different operating systems for computers and the main differences between them.

Windows

Microsoft Windows is by far the most popular operating system for computers, though that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily the best. The reason it’s so popular is not just because it's highly capable and because Microsoft licenses it out to third-party companies looking to make their own computers. The most recent version is Windows 11, which is updated regularly by Microsoft.

There are a few advantages to using Windows over other operating systems. Windows has the widest selection of apps and games available, for starters.

While there’s a pretty good selection of apps for other operating systems, those really into gaming will choose Windows for its exclusive libraries on client-based services like Steam, Origin, and the Epic Games Store.

The user interface of Windows is generally easy to use, even if some consider it not quite as simple as Apple’s macOS. If you’ve used Windows for a while, you should be able to get around it very easily. If you haven’t, getting a grasp on the operating system shouldn’t be too difficult.

Last but not least is security. While Windows has long been considered the weakest operating system when it comes to security, it is getting better, thanks largely to the fact that Microsoft has been updating Windows so frequently. Still, it might be useful to install antivirus software on your Windows computer.

macOS

Apple’s macOS is also very popular, though it may never reach the heights of Windows due to the fact that, as we said, Apple does not license macOS out to third-parties. Because of that, you can only find the macOS operating system on Apple-built devices — barring illegal hacks people have been made to get macOS working on other devices.

There are a number of advantages to using a macOS computer over other laptops. For starters, macOS is a little more user-friendly than Windows, plus it works very well in tandem with other Apple devices like the iPhone and iPad. The latest version, macOS Catalina, for example, lets you use your iPad as a second (or third) screen for your Mac, giving you at least one reason to dust off the aging tablet tucked inside your nightstand drawer.

Of course, that level of usability isn't without downsides. For starters, macOS has far fewer games available than a Windows computer does. On top of that, there aren’t currently any Macs that support touchscreens, so if that’s important to you, you’ll have to go for a different operating system.

Chrome OS

Google’s computer operating system, Chrome OS, has a few advantages of its own (and a few disadvantages, too). It's a little different than the other operating systems on this list in that it’s largely web-based. That’s to say, to use many of the features in Chrome OS, you’ll need to be connected to the Internet.

Thankfully, however, Google has been changing that a little in the past year or so.

These days, Chrome OS can even run many Android apps, opening the operating system up to a range of extra features that otherwise wouldn’t be available.

It’s likely to get better, too—Google regularly updates Chrome OS with new features and security and stability enhancements.

Still, considering its limitations, Chrome OS is perhaps the most accessible operating system to use, and most of the "apps" on Chrome OS are web launchers. That means that Chrome OS doesn't take much power to run well. It's also cheap to license and is open to third-party manufacturers, meaning that a range of Chrome OS devices is available.

Graphics and Display

Laptops generally do away with GPUs simply because of the fact that most CPUs have basic built-in graphics processing capabilities and because discrete GPUs take up a lot of room. Still, the likes of Nvidia and AMD have put a lot of resources into developing mobile GPUs over the past few years, and these days you can find some laptops with dedicated graphics processing.

Most people, however, don’t need one. If you’re a hardcore gamer or work in video or image editing, then it may be worth getting a laptop with a dedicated graphics card like the Nvidia GeForce MX150 built-in, but if you’re an average user who wants to browse the web and watch Netflix, then a GPU separate from the one built into your processor is simply unnecessary.

Daniel Sambraus / Getty Images

Laptop Displays

Laptop computers can have a display measuring up to 17-inches or as small as 11 inches. The sweet spot for most seems to be in the 13-inch range.

You’ll also want to consider display resolution. The higher the resolution, the clearer the image. At the lowest end, many laptops still have a resolution in the 1366x768-pixel range, but it’s worth investing in a computer with at least a 1920x1080 resolution if you can afford it. Though Apple will tell you the ideal resolution is around 2560x1600 for a 13-inch panel, many laptop makers have ventured into 4K Ultra HD (3840x2160) territory.

Touch screens are common among 2-in-1 laptops, but some laptops that aren’t 2-in-1s also have touch screens. If you like being able to interact with your content with your hands, then it’s worth checking whether a laptop has a touch screen.

Of course, there are downsides to these capacitive displays. Touch-screen computers are generally more expensive, for starters. On top of that, you’ll be limited to Windows or Chrome OS computers—no Apple computers currently offer touch-screen support.

Which Processor and RAM Should a Laptop Have?

The processor, or central processing unit (CPU), is the computer's brain. Everything you do on a computer is processed either by the CPU or, should the task demand heavy real-time image rendering, the graphics processing unit (GPU). All this to say, it's critical to buy a laptop with a decent processor.

We’re not going to dive deep into how processors work, but here are the basics.

Clock speed determines how quickly a processor runs—but a processor with a higher clock speed won’t always perform faster than one with a lower clock speed. That’s because some processors have more "cores." With two cores, a processor can process two tasks at a time. With four, it can process four things. And so on.

RAM, or Random Access Memory, essentially determines how much space the computer has to store files for immediate use. Apps and services on your computer are in RAM, where the processor can quickly get to them if needed.

By and large, more RAM is better, but there are caveats. Faster RAM, for instance, can hog battery life and gets pricey.

The sweet spot for most people seems to be around 8GB of RAM, though opinions vary depending on your use case and profession.

Any less than 8GB makes sense for budget computers focused on web browsing and passive media consumption. More intense activities like gaming and video editing might necessitate more RAM.

How Much Storage Do You Need?

When it comes to storing files like photos and documents, there is an endless list of alternatives to the traditional hard drive (see: the Cloud). But that's not to say local storage is no longer necessary, as you can probably tell from the thriving SSD market. These new flash storage devices are quieter, smaller, and more resilient than their spinning disk-based predecessors.

If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Although SSDs are objectively better than hard drives, they cost significantly more. Be that as it may, their prices are getting more reasonable with time, and we still think it's worth the premium to buy a laptop with an SSD built-in. If you want to cut down the cost, you can opt for a laptop with just enough local storage and purchase a cloud storage subscription to offset the deficit (iCloud, OneDrive, or Dropbox).

You'll probably want at least 1-2 TB of local storage space if you're a gamer, photographer, or video editor. If you need a laptop for browsing the web and watching YouTube, you can get away with as little as 32 GB.

What About Optical Drives?

Laptops have mostly done away with the optical disc drive since streaming has hit the mainstream. Still, some might prefer to play DVDs and CDs from their laptop. If that’s you, look for a computer with an integrated disc drive or buy an external optical drive that can plug into your computer through the USB port.

We feel most people can get away without a disc drive built into their laptops, and even those who need one can still buy an external one. Still, laptops with built-in disc drives exist, albeit in rare form.

Who Should Buy a Laptop?

In today's world, every household could benefit from a laptop.

Students of all ages . Students need laptops to write papers, complete assignments, and research online. Most college classes require access to a computer.

. Students need laptops to write papers, complete assignments, and research online. Most college classes require access to a computer. Office and home workers . Employers increasingly expect employees to use their personal computers for company business. Some people have a separate computer just for work.

. Employers increasingly expect employees to use their personal computers for company business. Some people have a separate computer just for work. Children . Kids can use laptops for playing games and streaming content. Learning how to use a computer at a young age will benefit them later.

. Kids can use laptops for playing games and streaming content. Learning how to use a computer at a young age will benefit them later. Retirees and older adults. A laptop can enable them to more easily keep in touch with friends, family, and the outside world with a laptop.

What Should I Do After I Buy a Laptop?

Once you unbox your new laptop, setup is easy.

Charge the battery, then set up your computer.

If you have a subscription for a game or program (like Minecraft or Photoshop), download the software and sign in with your account to access your subscription.

Connect a monitor. If you're planning to use your laptop at a desk, getting a separate monitor makes sense.

While laptops typically include a webcam and a keyboard and touchpad, using separate accessories can be more ergonomic. A separate webcam lets you place it where it's the most flattering and adjust the angle as needed.

Shopping for peripherals? We test a ton of them. These are our recommendations on the best: wireless mice

keyboards

webcams

More Tips for Buying a Laptop

Before you go out and buy, here are some questions you should keep in mind:

Do you need a numeric keyboard? Many laptops lack a numeric keypad, so knowing the keyboard layout is essential.

Many laptops lack a numeric keypad, so knowing the keyboard layout is essential. Do you need to worry about weight and portability? Consider if you want a bigger screen or a lighter load. A 17-inch laptop can weigh between 4 and 10 pounds, while a 13-inch laptop might weigh 1.5 to 2.5 pounds.

Consider if you want a bigger screen or a lighter load. A 17-inch laptop can weigh between 4 and 10 pounds, while a 13-inch laptop might weigh 1.5 to 2.5 pounds. What about battery life? Your usage habits affect battery life the most. Streaming from Netflix or YouTube (or Google Stadia) takes up more battery than simple Word processing. To check how long a laptop’s battery lasts, we recommend looking at reviews before buying a device.

Your usage habits affect battery life the most. Streaming from Netflix or YouTube (or Google Stadia) takes up more battery than simple Word processing. To check how long a laptop’s battery lasts, we recommend looking at reviews before buying a device. Which ports do you need? Most computer accessories connect through the USB port, whether classic USB Type-A or the newer USB-C. If you plan to connect a monitor, you might need an HDMI port or an adapter. Consider if you want a headphone jack or an SD card slot.