Laptop Deals & Offers

Things to Consider Before You Buy A Laptop

• Operating System (OS)

  While this is largely a matter of preference, there are certain users who simply have to use either a Windows or Macbook device. With some manufacturers now developing their own operating systems (such as Google's Chrome OS), you'll want to double-check what OS the machine you want to buy is running.

• CPU

  Most new laptops feature Intel Core-based CPUs all of which offer good performance for multimedia and working tasks. For the hardest working performance, stretch your budget to include Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7 processors. If you are prepared to pay a premium price for real power use especially if you are a gamer, then stretch your budget even further and purchase a laptop with a Core i9 processor.

• Graphics Card

  Gamers need to pay close attention to what graphics card their desired machine has. If you're not planning to game, then don't waste your money on a laptop with a powerful graphics card, unless you want those spreadsheets cell to look extra sharp.

• RAM

  The amount of RAM you need depends on what you plan to use your laptop for. 8GB is the barest minimum for basic working, 16GB is fine for media and multitasking use while serious gamers need to push it up to 32GB (or even 64GB) for the best experience.

• Storage

  Storage can be even more important than CPU for performance. If you have the money, invest in a laptop with an SSD (Solid State Drive) over one with a hard drive. You will get three times the speed whatever you are doing.

• Ports, Drives and Connectivity

  While it may seem like an afterthought, not having a particular port or connection option can make for a frustrating experience. For example, some laptops still don't support Bluetooth, which can make for an unwanted surprise when you try to connect your brand-new Bluetooth speaker or headphones for the first time. A modern laptop should have Wi-Fi & Bluetooth connectivity, as well as HDMI and USB-C ports.

• Display & Resolution

  The higher the pixels the sharper and clearer the screen and the more content it will hold. Budget laptops generally have 1366 x 768-pixel displays but try and aim for at least 1920 x 1080 pixels (Full HD / 1080p). For serious money, you can even get 3840 x 2160 pixels (4K). Remember though, that the higher the resolution, the quicker the battery will drain.

• Battery Life

  If you are going to be using your laptop on the go, look for one that has more than eight hours of battery life. Unfortunately, laptop batteries do gradually lose their staying power.