The laptop market has changed in the last decade. Not only limited to the business world, laptops have also begun to be widely used at home and at school. You can replace your regular computer with a laptop, use it to watch movies in bed, or take it with you to do homework at a friend's house. The number of choices when buying a laptop is sometimes confusing, especially for new buyers. With a little knowledge, you can become more confident in buying. See step 1 below to learn how to choose a laptop that fits your needs.
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Method 1 of 5: Determine what you need
Step 1. Consider the advantages of a laptop
If you've never owned a laptop before, it would be a good idea to start owning one now. Compared to ordinary computers, laptops have many advantages.
- You can take your laptop with you wherever you go as long as you bring an adapter.
- Many laptops can do what a regular computer can do. While you may not be able to play the latest games, most modern laptops can already do a variety of tasks.
- Laptops save space and are easy to move. It is suitable for those of you who live in an apartment or use a table in bed.
Step 2. Always remember the disadvantages of laptops
Although laptops can be carried anywhere, there are some drawbacks as well. This doesn't have to scare you into buying a laptop, but you need to know this too.
- Laptops are very easy to steal if you are not careful when traveling.
- Laptop battery life that is not too long can sometimes make you frustrated when you have to work without electricity for a long time, such as on an airplane. If you plan to travel a lot, battery life is very important.
- Unlike computers, laptops cannot be updated, so they are easily outdated. So sometimes you have to buy a new laptop in the next few years.
Step 3. Think about what you will use the laptop with
Since laptops have many uses, it is very useful if you have already determined a laptop usage plan when comparing different types of laptops. If you just want to browse the site, of course your laptop needs will be different from those who want to use it to produce music.
Step 4. Determine your budget
It is very important to determine your budget before starting to look for the laptop you need. There are too many options available, so setting a budget limit will make it easier for you. Determine what aspects are important from the laptop and according to your budget.
Method 2 of 5: Windows, Mac, or Linux?
Step 1. Know your options
The two main choices are Windows and Mac, along with Linux. Many of these options will depend on personal preference and something you are familiar with. However, there are a few things you should consider.
Continue with what you already know. If you are familiar with the OS, it will be easier to stick with the OS. But remember, always keep your mind open about other people's opinions and experiences when using other types
Step 2. Consider what programs you will need
If you use a lot of Microsoft Office products, of course you better choose Windows. Although at this time it is possible to open programs at other providers with a little more effort. On the other hand, if you frequently work on music-related or photo-editing tasks, a Mac would be a great choice.
- Windows accommodates a lot of games so far, although Mac and Linux have also seen a lot of improvements.
- If you are not very experienced with computers and will need someone else's help, buy a computer where your family members and friends can help you. Otherwise you will always have to deal with your laptop service center.
Step 3. Consider Linux
Some computers can be purchased with preinstalled Linux programs. You can try Linux with your current machine using the LiveCD. This allows you to run Linux without having it installed on your computer.
- Thousands of Linux operating system programs and applications are free. A program called WINE allows you to run Windows programs on Linux systems. You can install this app on Linux just like on Windows. Although WINE is still in the development stage, many people are already using WINE.
- Linux is the safest against viruses. Linux is a great choice for children because of its virus-free operating system. If your child accidentally messes up the Linux system, all you have to do is reset the operating system and start over. Linux Mint looks and works like Windows. Ubuntu Linux is the most popular.
- Linux requires the most technical experience. You need to be familiar with command lines in Linux. But almost all of that you can learn online.
- Not all hardware is compatible with Linux, and you may have difficulty finding suitable drivers.
Step 4. Know the advantages and disadvantages of Mac
Using a Mac is very different from Windows, so if you're transitioning to a Mac, you'll be in for a bit of trouble. Macs are known to be very user-friendly operating systems and the best when it comes to media production operating systems.
- Mac connects seamlessly with iPhones, iPods, iPads, other Apple products. Apple Support is also very comprehensive for new Apple products.
- Macs are more secure against viruses than Windows, but you should still be wary.
- Windows can be emulated on Mac computers using Boot Camp. You need a valid copy of Windows to do this.
- Macs are relatively more expensive than Windows and Linux.
Step 5. Take a look at modern Windows laptops
Windows computers or laptops can be affordable, and there are many options to suit your needs. If you haven't used Windows in a while, you'll notice that a lot has changed. Windows 8 has a front page that is not only filled with your programs, but also with the latest news unlike the old Windows look. Internet Explorer 10 also has a feature that can check data for possible viruses and malware before the user downloads.
- Unlike Mac, Windows is produced by many companies. This means that the quality of the goods may vary from one laptop to another. It's important to look at what each manufacturer has to offer in terms of price, features, support, as well as reviews from other users on how reliable the manufacturer is.
- Windows laptops usually offer more customization options than Macs.
Step 6. Try checking your Chromebook
Apart from the three options above, there are several other options available. One that is quite popular is the Chromebook. This laptop uses Google's ChromeOS which is very different from the other options. This laptop is designed to always be connected to the internet and connected to online storage, namely Google Drive.
- There is only a small selection of models from Chromebooks. HP, Samsung, and Acer make cheaper models whereas Google makes the more expensive Chromebook Pixel.
- ChromeOS is designed to run Google online apps like Chrome, Google Drive, Google Maps, and more. This laptop is very suitable for users who have often used Google.
- Chromebooks cannot run programs designed for other operating systems including games and other productive programs.
Step 7. Try the test
Try a different operating system at a shop or a friend's house. Then choose the one that best suits you..
Method 3 of 5: Find the contributing factors
Step 1. Think about the size of the laptop that fits you
There are three size options for laptops, namely netbooks, laptops, and computer replacements. While all of these fall into the broader concept of laptops, the differences in functionality can influence your choice.
- There are several things to consider when choosing a laptop, namely weight, screen size, performance, and battery life. You'll find that netbooks are the cheapest and the smallest, whereas a regular laptop has the balance of all the factors you need.
- Easy to carry is the main element of a laptop. Having a bigger laptop means sacrificing weight and being difficult to carry. Consider the size of your bag as well.
Step 2. Decide if you prefer a netbook
A netbook, also known as a Small Notebook, Ultrabook, or Ultraportable is a small laptop with a screen size of 7"-13"/17.79cm-33.3cm. It is small in size, light in weight, and perfect for sending emails and surfing the internet. Since notebooks usually don't have as much RAM as laptops, their ability to run large applications is very limited.
- A netbook keyboard will feel different than a regular keyboard. Make sure to try it first because it will feel weird at first.
- Many improvements to the tablet are now available. They are equipped with keyboards that can be folded or removed and usually have a touch screen. Consider this if it looks like you need a tablet but the iPad is too expensive.
Step 3. Look at the regular laptop
They have a screen size of 13"-15"/33.3cm-38.1cm. With a medium weight, thin and light, and has a standard memory. The decision about laptop capacity really depends on your own preferences regarding the size of the laptop and the amount of RAM you need (See Next Section).
Laptops come in many shapes and sizes. As technology advances, laptops become lighter and thinner. You'll find that Mac laptops don't always match the size description. If you've already decided on a Mac, consider the need for portability when looking at different models
Step 4. Consider a laptop computer replacement
They have a screen size of 17"-20"/43.8cm-50.8cm. It's bigger and heavier, full-featured, and more suitable for placing on a desk than carrying. While it may not be as easy to carry as the other two options, it can still be carried if needed and this added weight isn't a big issue for most people.
- Some laptop replacement computers have the ability to be updated to a certain extent such as installing a new graphics card.
- This type of laptop is perfect for computer game fans.
- Larger laptops usually have less battery life, especially if you run heavy programs like games and design programs.
Step 5. Consider your endurance needs
Decide if you prefer a metal or plastic exterior. Currently, the choice of the case is a personal matter for each person, where the weight of the case is almost the same, because a good metal laptop also weighs almost the same as a plastic one. In terms of durability, metal laptops are slightly better though you should still ask your seller for advice.
- If you do extreme field work or travel frequently with a laptop, there is a need to customize your laptop. Ask for a stronger screen or protection from water and dust.
- If you're a professional in the field and want to have a durable laptop, give Toughbooks a try. Although a bit expensive, this laptop will not be damaged even if it is run over by a vehicle or put in an oven.
- Laptops on the market usually don't consider durability. Try checking the company's laptop model for a laptop model that pays attention to durability.
Step 6. Always put style first
Laptops are public equipment. Like sunglasses, a watch, or a wallet, laptops have style. Make sure the laptop you want is a laptop that is not considered bad, because maybe you will be lazy to use it.
Method 4 of 5: Checking Specifications
Step 1. Spend a long time checking technical specifications
When you buy a laptop, you must be absolutely sure of the specifications that you need.
Step 2. Check the Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Good, fast-processing laptops will have multi-core CPUs like Intel, AMD, and ARM. This type will not be found in cheap models. This difference will have an effect on the speed of your laptop.
As technology advances, older processors will become increasingly obsolete. If you buy Intel, avoid Celeron, Atom, and Pentium Chips, as these are older models. Instead, take a look at the Core i3 and i5 CPU models. If you're buying AMD, avoid the C- or E-series processors and opt for the A6 or A8
Step 3. Check Memory (RAM)
Consider how much RAM you need. The amount of RAM will be important to consider. Often, this amount of memory limits the applications you can run. In general, the more memory you have, the faster your laptop will be.
- Standard laptops are usually equipped with 4 Gigabytes (GB) of RAM. This is more than enough for most users. Netbooks can only be equipped with RAM as small as 512 megabytes (MB), but this is very rare. You can find laptops with 16 GB of RAM or more, although this is not recommended for casual users.
- While it can be tempting to have a large amount of RAM, you have to be careful because manufacturers often provide a large amount of RAM to cover up the fact that other components are substandard. Installing RAM is an easy thing, don't look at big RAM as a luxury.
Step 4. Check graphics capabilities
If you like playing computer games, check the graphics memory. You must have a graphics card with video memory for 3D gaming, although this is not necessary for regular games. A good graphics card will consume more battery.
Step 5. Look at the available storage space
Although what is written is a bit ambiguous, because it does not consider the operating system and programs that have not been installed. Often you only have 40GB less space than it says.
Another option, Solid State Drives (SSDs) offer higher performance, quieter and longer battery life, but less capacity (usually from 30GB to 256GB) and cost more. But if you're looking for better performance, an SSD is a must
Step 6. Check the available ports
How many USB Ports are available? If you plan to use separate keyboard and mouse, you will need at least two USB Ports. You also need printers and many other things that require USB Ports.
If you want to connect your laptop to a TV, make sure your laptop has an HDMI port. You can also use a VGA port or a DVI port
Step 7. Check the DVD Drive
If you want to create CDs or install programs from CDs, you'll need a DVD Drive. If your laptop doesn't have it, you can buy it externally. If you want to be able to open Blu-ray movies, you'll need to buy a Blu-ray drive instead of a DVD drive.
Step 8. Check the correct screen resolution
The higher the screen resolution, the more content will fit on your screen. Most mid-range laptops come with a resolution of 1366 x 768. If you're looking for a clearer picture, look for a laptop with a resolution of 1600 x 900 or 1920 x 1080. These sizes are often available on larger laptops.
Ask the laptop's performance in the sun. Cheap laptops will look blurry when exposed to outside light which makes them a bit useless outdoors
Step 9. Check Wi-Fi
Your laptop must be able to connect to Wi-Fi. Almost any laptop can do this so it shouldn't be a problem for you.
Method 5 of 5: Go to the Shop
Step 1. Do Research
Whether you buy in a store or online, make sure you really know about the laptop you want. This will help you know important information when buying and prevent you from being scammed by sellers.
If you go to the store, have pictures and information of the laptop at your disposal. This will help you to stay focused on what you want
Step 2. Find a suitable seller
There are many places where you can buy a laptop. From small and large shops. They all offer prices and services that may vary.
Major stores are a great place to compare different types of laptops before you buy them. If you're planning to buy online, head to the store first to try and then make a note. Use those notes to buy online
Step 3. Check Warranty
Almost all laptop manufacturers offer a warranty. These warranties will vary, and some stores will also offer you to purchase additional warranties. On the other hand, if you buy a used laptop, there is usually no warranty.
Step 4. Know the risks of buying a used laptop
It is very important that the laptop comes with a warranty from a guaranteed seller. Laptops that are durable and good are suitable for buying second hand. The only risk is that the laptop is in a bad condition. If the price is right, and comes with a one-year warranty, that risk can be eliminated.
Do not buy a display laptop that is too cheap unless it comes with a guaranteed warranty. It is very possible that the laptop has been dirty or has been used by many different people, roughly speaking
Step 5. Take care of your new laptop
Although it also depends on the brand and type of laptop, a laptop that is properly cared for will last longer. Take a little time to clean it so your laptop can last longer.
Tips
- Good deals are usually online, but can also be found at stores that sell laptops in bulk.
- Go to a site like Consumer Reports to find out how computers in different categories compare.
- Do a little research on other user reviews. Learn from the mistakes of others.
- Almost all well-known brand laptops are equipped with a lot of built-in software known as Bloatware. This software is usually ordinary and common software. Too much bloatware will affect your system performance. If you feel that this bloatware is useless, you can get rid of it in the first place.
- Chromebooks are highly recommended if you are always connected to the internet, especially if the main function of your laptop is for work purposes.
Warning
- Make sure you are comfortable with the laptop you buy. In most stores, you cannot replace or return a laptop that has been purchased and used.
- Used laptops from online manufacturers are also relatively inexpensive. But again, the quality is not guaranteed.
- If you buy online, you have to pay shipping costs.
- If you're buying a used laptop through a site like eBay, read them all first. Take a look at the problem on the laptop and see comments from others. If the laptop is not new, only buy a laptop if the price is really good. You don't know what the previous owner of that laptop has done. Make sure you can return it if something happens.
- Often, attractive discounts are only available online.
