A quick guide for buying a LAPTOP - 2023 (WINDOWS/macOS/chromeOS)

[AlchemyPinoy]

When it comes to choosing the right laptop, there are three main factors that you should consider: performance, operating system, and design. Each of these factors can have a significant impact on your overall user experience, so it's important to understand what you're looking for before making a purchase.

Performance is often the most important consideration when selecting a laptop. It determines how fast the computer can complete tasks and how well it can handle multitasking. There are three key components that influence performance: the processor, RAM, and storage.

The processor acts as the brain of the computer, and it's responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations. Most laptops use processors from either Intel or AMD, and the higher the model number, the better the performance. For light use, processors like Intel Celeron, Pentium, or i3, or AMD A Series are sufficient. For medium use, Intel i5 or i7, AMD Ryzen 5 or Ryzen 7, or Apple M1 or M2 are recommended. For heavy use, Intel i7 or i9, Xeon, AMD Ryzen 7 or Ryzen 9, or Apple M1 Pro, M1 Max, or M1 Ultra are necessary.

RAM, or random access memory, is the short-term memory of the computer, and it determines how many programs you can run simultaneously. 4GB is sufficient for light use, while 8GB is adequate for medium use. Heavy users should opt for 16GB or more.

Storage refers to the long-term memory of the computer. HDD provides more capacity on a budget, while SSD is faster. SSHD combines the two and offers both speed and storage capacity. For light use, an HDD is sufficient. For medium use, an HDD or SSD will do. For heavy use, an SSD or SSHD is necessary.

Another important factor to consider is the operating system. The three major choices are Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS. Windows is the most common OS and supports the widest range of software. macOS is proprietary to Apple and is recommended for programmers and other Apple product users. ChromeOS is found on Chromebooks and is best for school students.

Design also plays a role in your laptop selection. The four main categories are 2-in-1s, thin and lightweight laptops, regular clamshells, and gaming laptops. 2-in-1s are versatile devices that can function as both a laptop and a tablet. Thin and lightweight laptops are easy to carry around and usually focus on longer battery life. Regular clamshell laptops have a traditional design with a screen that folds down onto the keyboard and mousepad. Gaming laptops are heavier and equipped with powerful hardware and dedicated graphics cards, making them best suited for stationary use.

Ultimately, the right laptop for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. By considering factors like performance, operating system, and design, you can make an informed decision and select a laptop that will serve you well for years to come.