How to Choose a Laptop That Meets Your Needs

Are you looking to buy a new laptop, but aren’t sure which one to choose?

On average, a new laptop will cost you about $700. That’s a lot of money, so you want to make sure you choose a laptop that you like and that will last many years.

But, how do you know which laptop is right for you?

Check out this guide to learn how to choose a laptop.

Consider the Operating System

The operating system is the heart of the laptop. It manages all of the hardware and software, including connected devices, memory, and files. Most importantly, it allows you to interact with your screen in a visual way.

Without an operating system, you’d be stuck typing a bunch of computer code and getting nothing done. There are three main operating systems to choose from: macOS, Windows, and Chrome OS. Let’s take a look at what each one of these systems has to offer.

macOS: Pros

macOS is installed exclusively on Mac computers. This operating system is known for having an easy-to-use interface, sleek aesthetics, and an elegant design. Here are some of the other benefits of a macOS operating system:

Free Productivity Apps

One of the best things about macOS is that it comes with a bunch of free productivity apps. Many of these apps already come pre-installed on your device, or they can be downloaded through the app store.

Keynote, Numbers, and Pages are just a few of the productivity apps offered by macOS.

Clean User Interface

Mac’s user interface is very clean and simple. If you’re familiar with other iOS products such as iPhones or iPads, then you’ll have no trouble operating a Mac.

Apps are usually downloaded via the App store and they can be found in a central location known as the Launchpad.

Optimized Software and Hardware

Apple is both a software developer and hardware designer. Their third-party hardware components are chosen based on select criteria, and their third-party apps need to undergo extensive tests for security and compatibility.

Because of this superior integration, you’ll find fewer hiccups with macOS software and hardware.

Fewer Security Issues and Malware

Another major benefit of macOS is that it comes with fewer security issues and malware. While still susceptible, there are fewer types of malware designed specifically for Mac.

Apple also provides security updates on a regular basis for their operating systems and apps.

macOS: Cons

Of course, there are also some downsides to a macOS operating system. These include:

Limited App Availability

One of the biggest drawbacks to macOS is that there’s still a limited number of apps available. With Windows and other operating systems, you get a huge selection of apps from a wide variety of categories.

macOS also doesn’t come with a broad selection of games.

Price

It’s no secret that Apple products are very expensive. Of course, you get what you pay for in terms of quality and longevity, but if you’re just using your laptop occasionally, you may find that the high price tag isn’t worth it.

Also, keep in mind that macOS doesn’t worth with non-Apple devices. This means that if you buy a Mac laptop, you’ll likely want to switch your other smart devices to Mac as well so everything can be synced.

Limited Hardware Upgrades

Another downside to a macOS operating system is that it comes with a limited number of hardware upgrades. For example, the CPU of a Macbook cannot be easily replaced because the components are deeply integrated into the hardware system.

This means that if one hardware component begins to fail, you’ll likely need to replace your whole system.

Windows: Pros

If someone finds that macOS isn’t for them, they usually turn to Windows. Here are some of the biggest benefits of a Windows operating system:

Excellent Virus Protection

One of the best things about Windows is that it offers excellent virus protection. Over the years, the quality of Window’s anti-virus software has drastically improved.

For example, one of their new features, Windows Hello, allows you to unlock your laptop with your fingerprint or with facial recognition.

Games

If you’re big into PC gaming technology, then you need a Windows operating system. Windows offers a wide range of games, as well as special gaming hardware.

Ease of Use

Windows is also known for being incredibly easy to get the hang of. If you previously used Windows 7, then you’ll have no trouble migrating to Windows 10.

If you’re on the hunt for a quality Windows 10 laptop, you can check out these deals.

Plug and Play

Windows also comes with a plug and play feature that automatically detects hardware. This means you won’t need to manually install hardware. Rather, it’ll be ready to use as soon as it’s attached.

Windows: Cons

Of course, there are some downsides to Windows operating systems that need to be taken into consideration. Here are some of the drawbacks:

Virus Attacks

While their security has improved, Windows laptops still experience a large number of virus attacks. Hackers can easily break into Windows security, which means you’ll need to depend on anti-virus software for your laptop to effectively operate.

Of course, this anti-virus software is going to cost you extra money.

Technical Support

Windows is also a bit lacking in their technical support department. If you’re an everyday Windows user, you’ll likely have to search online forums to resolve your issue.

Generally, Windows only provides support for large corporations.

Privacy Concerns

Many people have privacy concerns with Windows. Microsoft is very mysterious about the way in which they collect and store sensitive user data. Windows comes with automatically installed applications that track computer behavior, which makes some people uncomfortable.

Chrome OS: Pros

Last but not least, you can opt for a laptop with a Chrome OS operating system. Chrome OS is known for being speedy, simple, and secure. Here are some of the biggest benefits of this operating system:

Price

To use the Chrome OS operating system, you’re going to need to purchase a Chromebook. One of the biggest benefits of a Chromebook is its price. Most Chromebooks cost between $300 and $400, but there are models you can find that are as cheap as $200.

When you consider that Macbooks typically cost a minimum of $1000, you can save some serious money by investing in a Chromebook.

Security

The Chrome OS operating system comes with a built-in platform that manages your passwords and protects your laptop against viruses. This system automatically updates on a continuous basis to ensure you never have to worry about being infected with viruses or malware.

Cloud-Based Storage

When you buy a Chromebook, you get two years of free access to 100 GB of Google Drive storage. This is a lot of cloud-based space that would normally cost you a lot of money.

Having all of your files synced means you’ll be able to easily access them from different workstations and you can easily collaborate with other remote workers.

Speed

Chromebooks can boot up in as few as eight seconds, and they can also be shut down incredibly fast. This is because they’re made from solid-state drives instead of hard drives.

SSDs are known for having exceptionally fast read and write speeds.

Chrome OS: Cons

While Chrome OS comes with a lot of benefits, there are also downsides that you need to consider before purchasing. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Small Storage Capacity

Most Chromebooks only come with about 32 GB of local storage. This is part of the reason why Chromebooks are so affordable and lightweight.

Considering that you get 100 GB of cloud storage in your first two years, 32 GB doesn’t seem all that bad, but it’s still a drawback for some people.

No Microsoft Office

Many people are required to use Microsoft Office for work and school assignments. But, because Chrome comes with its own Office-like products like Google Sheets and Google Docs, it’s not compatible with Microsoft.

If you work with Microsoft regularly, this can be very limiting. Chrome OS also doesn’t come with Adobe Suite, so if you’re an illustrator or graphic designer, this is a major loss.

Gaming Limitations

Chrome OS does not have a powerful graphics processor, so any type of high-end gaming is out of the question. While there are some games you can download via Google Play, these are the same types of games you can just as easily play on your mobile phone.

How to Choose a Laptop: Are You Ready to Decide?

Now that you know how to choose a laptop, it’s time to start shopping for your new device. Before you know, you’ll have the right laptop to suit your needs.

For more laptop buying advice, be sure to peruse our blog.