Laptop Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Laptop for You

I’ve decided to write this blog to provide a basic understanding of what to consider before buying a laptop. Every day, I receive numerous questions on Quora and Reddit asking for tips, so I thought it would be helpful to put everything into an article. In the first part, we’ll compare key hardware components such as the CPU, RAM, SSD, and graphic card. This will give you a better understanding of what to look for based on your needs. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of what suits you best. We’ll also touch on the topic of used and refurbished laptops, which can be a great way to get high-end hardware at more affordable prices.

If you’re considering buying one, it’s best to wait, read, and then decide. Once you make the purchase, reversing your decision won’t be possible. Here’s a list of factors you should consider before making your buying decision.

Understand Your Requirements

Personal vs. Professional Use

If you’re buying a laptop for personal use—like checking emails, working on Excel, or playing basic games—you can opt for a budget-friendly option with decent specs. However, if you’re using it for professional purposes, such as heavy gaming, coding, video editing, or YouTube video production, you’ll need to invest in higher-end hardware. Applications like Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Photoshop demand significant system resources to run smoothly. In the next paragraph, I’ll share some details about the hardware you should consider for these tasks

Performance Needs

For basic tasks like web browsing, document editing, and using Microsoft Word, a decent processor (such as an i3 from the latest generation) with 8GB of RAM and 250GB of storage, along with a 14-inch display, should be sufficient. If you run out of storage, you can easily move data to Google Drive or use external storage. This configuration will easily handle everyday tasks. However, if you’re into video editing, I recommend opting for an Intel i7 13th generation processor (or the latest available model in 2024), with at least 32GB of LPDDR5-4800 RAM and 1TB of storage. This will ensure ample space for your applications and videos. For storage, you can go for a hybrid setup—1TB SSD for the operating system and apps, plus a 2TB hard drive for data. Pair this with a dedicated Nvidia graphics card with at least 8GB of memory. Ideally, choose a full HD display, though a 2K or higher resolution is a great alternative. This configuration will handle most Full HD video editing needs. Also, make sure your laptop includes various ports like HDMI, USB-C, and USB-A for connecting external devices.

Portability & Custom Upgrade

If you’re frequently on the go, I recommend a 14-inch screen, as it’s more convenient to carry in a backpack compared to a 15.6-inch display. Always choose a laptop that allows for future upgrades, such as adding more memory or storage. This flexibility is useful if you encounter compatibility issues due to limited RAM or other resources. Keep in mind that all laptops support external monitors, so when you’re not traveling, you can easily connect to a larger screen using HDMI or DisplayPort cables.

Key Features to Consider When Buying a Laptop

1. Processor (CPU): The CPU is crucial for overall performance. Intel (i3, i5, i7, i9) and AMD (Ryzen) offer different options. Newer generations provide better speed and efficiency. For heavy tasks, opt for Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen 7.
2. RAM (Memory): More RAM allows for smoother multitasking. 8GB is sufficient for basic tasks, but 16GB or more is recommended for gaming, video editing, and heavy applications.
3. Storage (HDD vs SSD): SSDs are faster, more reliable, and consume less power than HDDs. SSDs are ideal for quick boot times and fast file access.
4. Graphics Card (GPU): A dedicated GPU is essential for gaming, video editing, or graphic design. It ensures smooth rendering and performance in resource-heavy tasks.
5. Display: Choose a screen size and resolution based on your needs. Full HD (1920×1080) is standard, while 4K offers higher clarity. IPS and OLED panels provide better color and viewing angles.
6. Keyboard and Trackpad: Look for ergonomic designs, especially for long typing sessions. A comfortable keyboard and responsive trackpad enhance overall usability.

Which Brand to Choose:

While most laptop brands use similar hardware—such as Intel or AMD processors—performance will generally be comparable, whether you choose a Dell, HP, or any other brand. The key factor to consider is after-sales service. Major brands like Dell, HP, Lenovo, Acer, and Asus typically have service centers in metro cities, but Dell stands out for its exceptional after-sales service, offering onsite repairs no matter how far you are from a service center. To ensure a good experience, it’s always a good idea to read reviews about the after-sales support before making your purchase.