Have you been looking for a new laptop that you would use mostly for work? If so, there are quite a few questions to answer before you make the ultimate decision. Besides, if you do not have that much experience and there is nobody to help you with the purchase, research will be necessary. Otherwise, you will end up with a suboptimal computer.
The more you dive into the specifics, the higher your odds are of ending up with the best possible choice you could make. To get started, let’s answer these common questions people ask when they are about to purchase a laptop for work.
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Which Platform Do You Want?
Picking a platform is the first thing to consider. This part is quite tricky because you have two different options that stand out the most – Windows and macOS.
The choice could come down to what you are the most comfortable with. For instance, if you had used Windows before, switching to macOS may seem like too much of a chore because you would need to learn new things, like the UI, keyboard shortcuts. There may also be more details about clearing scratch disk and temporary storage than you can handle at first.
On the other hand, one could also look at it from a different perspective and say that they would be interested in learning how to use a MacBook. Maybe a friend or a coworker recommended a Mac because they are happy with it?
Again, you get to decide this. Look at the pros and cons of both platforms. Consider how much time you would need to readjust. Look at specific built-in tools that may be useful. Also, find out how often these systems release new updates and add new features.
Would You Like a 2-in1?
The trend of picking a device that comes with a 2-in-1 package has been growing in popularity. You could get a laptop that is based on a hybrid model and turn it into a tablet, for example. Other positions like tent or stand modes may be useful as well.
Ask yourself whether this is something that you really need. More often than not, these hybrids fail to excel in two different things that they supposedly offer, meaning that you may not get your money’s worth.
After all, you are not looking to purchase a tablet, but a laptop, right? Going with a traditional clamshell-type should be the choice.
What About the Size?
Picking the right laptop size is important for a couple of reasons. The first is regarding your work. If you are a graphic designer or a video editor, you will likely need a larger screen to get a clearer view of what is happening while you work.
On the other hand, for someone who sticks mostly to emails or video calls, the size of the screen may not play a significant role.
Besides, a larger screen means that your laptop will be heavier and not as compact. Your work desk may not have enough room to put a large laptop, leading to an uncomfortable position.
Display sizes range from 11 to 18 inches. 13 to 14-inch models are known for their flexibility and portability and weigh just below 4 pounds. Meanwhile, picking a 15 to 16-inch model, which is the most popular size, would give you a solid overall option, though carrying it around often may seem like a bit of a chore at times.
Ideally, you should try different model sizes and see which one fits you the most. That is, if a salesperson is willing to help you by giving you this option.
Are You Comfortable With the Keyboard?
Speaking of trying a laptop before buying it, you should spend some time on a keyboard and a touchpad. For a work laptop, the keyboard should feel smooth and comfortable to use. Otherwise, you will find yourself in a situation of needing to purchase an external keyboard.
The same can be said about touchpads. If touching the pad gives a jumpy cursor or causes other problems, look elsewhere.
What Is Your Budget?
Specs are the last thing on the checklist. As you can expect, there are all kinds of specifications, and the pick usually comes down to one’s budget. If you have the money to spare, you can purchase a high-end laptop.
On the other hand, if you are on a tight budget, you will need to be more thorough to find an optimal device.
500 dollars should get you a decent computer with a solid processor and somewhere between 4 to 8 GB of memory as well as a 500-gigabyte hard drive.
Ranging from 600 to 900 dollars, the options open up a lot as there are a plethora of great choices that come with SSDs instead of HDDs, as well as extra RAM, higher-resolution displays, and faster processes.
