Choosing your next laptop might feel overwhelming, but don’t worry, we’re here to help.
Introduction
Choosing the perfect laptop has never been straightforward, and recent advancements have only added to the complexity. Today’s laptops are incredibly versatile, available in various form factors, and boast performance capabilities that far exceed those of just a few years ago. This article aims to unravel these complexities and highlight the key factors to consider when making a laptop purchase.
At Starhifi, we rigorously test dozens of laptops each year, providing us with deep insights into what sets different models apart. Armed with this knowledge, you can make an informed decision to ensure you get the best value for your investment.
So, without further delay, here’s what you need to consider when selecting your next mobile companion.
Operating System
Choosing the right operating system (OS) for your laptop is crucial, but it’s not about taking sides in old OS wars. Today, Windows 10 and macOS dominate the consumer and professional markets, while Linux offers a plethora of flavors for developers and open-source enthusiasts. Chrome OS has also gained popularity for its simplicity and focus on online tasks and light gaming.
macOS offers a seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, ease of use across experience levels, and a consistent user experience. Windows 10, preferred by many business professionals for its compatibility with organizational IT infrastructures, provides extensive versatility and input options. For gamers, Windows 10 remains the top choice, though gaming on Linux is rapidly improving.
Ultimately, understanding your workflow and preferences will help you choose the right OS. Whether you stick with what you know or explore new options later, there’s an OS that fits your needs.
Build quality
You’ll definitely want to steer clear of this.
Regardless of your budget, your chosen laptop should be capable of enduring the rigors of daily use. Even the most impressive internal specifications won’t provide a satisfying experience if the laptop has a shaky screen, gaps in its construction, or squeaky hinges. Build quality encompasses not just the materials used but also the overall stability and craftsmanship.
The Asus TUF FX505DT features an aluminum-coated lid paired with a plastic chassis.
The Apple MacBook Air is entirely constructed from aluminum.
The quality of the hinge is crucial as it undergoes the most mechanical stress and is prone to wear and tear over time. A low-quality hinge can lead to a wobbly display and potentially loose connections to the panel. Ideally, you should be able to open the laptop with one hand without the base unit shifting position, although this might be challenging with large gaming laptops due to their size.
When the lid is closed, there should be no gap between the display and the base unit, except in cases like the Microsoft Surface Book 3, which features a unique hinge mechanism for convertibility. Cheap laptops may sometimes allow the keyboard to press against the display when closed, leaving key impressions on the screenโsomething to avoid.
Additionally, consider the weight of the laptop, especially if mobility is a priority. Unless you’re looking for a desktop replacement, opt for a lightweight and portable device. Visiting a physical store to test the laptop’s feel firsthand can also be helpful in making your decision.
The quality of the hinge is particularly crucial for convertible laptops.
The quality of the hinge matters a lot as well. The hinge is the place which suffers the most mechanical movement and hence is prone to wear and tear over time. A poor quality hinge means that you end up with a wobbling display and sometimes even loose connections to the panel. Ideally, you should be able to open the laptop’s hinge with one hand without the base unit shifting its position. This may not be the case with gaming laptops with a large chassis, though.
There should not be any gap between the display and the base unit once the lid is closed. This may be an exception in devices such as the Microsoft Surface Book 3 wherein the hinge mechanism is completely unique to aid in its convertibility. In some cheap laptops, the keyboard often hits the display when closed resulting in key impressions all over the screen. Ensure that such constructions are avoided.
Finally, it is important that the weight of the laptop is also taken into account. Unless you wish to opt for a desktop replacement notebook, a laptop is primarily a mobile device and therefore should be lightweight and portable. Whenever possible, try one at a physical store so that you can get a feel of the device for yourself
The Surface Book 3 features a gap between the lid and the base due to its unique fulcrum hinge design.
Size
Yes. Size does matter! As discussed above, a laptop has to be portable enough to be easily lugged around for work or play. A vast majority of laptops sport a 15.6-inch display and with newer bezel-less designs it is now possible to cram in a 15.6-inch panel into what is essentially a 14-inch chassis. There are 11-inch, 12.5-inch, 13.3-inch, 14-inch, and 17.3-inch laptops on offer as well. Keep in mind that an increase in display size also often means an increase in chassis size and weight.
The Dell XPS 17 sports a very slim chassis for the components on offer.
14-inch and 15-inch laptops offer the best trade-off between mobility and available screen estate. With high resolution FHD and even 4K displays becoming the norm these days, a typical 15.6-inch screen can show quite a lot of information compared to the standard 1366×768 resolution that was still the norm until not so long ago.
17.3-inch displays can be quite useful for gamers and content creators as it allows them to use a larger canvas and have more viewing area. However, laptops with these displays are usually bulky and may not be very portable. They also tend to sport more powerful components, which means that you may have to always carry the charging brick. That being said, there are new content creator-focused laptops such as the Dell XPS 17 9700 and the Gigabyte Aero 17 HDR XB that feature a 17-inch screen but are relatively slim.
Ultimately, the screen size would depend on your workflow and there is no one-size-fits-all option here. But ensure that you are getting the maximum size that would benefit your productivity or gaming needs and is allowed by your budget.
Connectivity and port selection
Being a mobile device, it is important that the laptop offers enough connectivity options. First, we will talk about network connectivity and then move on to the ports.
Wired and wireless internet
The Lenovo ThinkPad T490’s Wi-Fi 6 module is soldered onto the motherboard.
Also important is the WLAN chip that the laptop uses. Most OEMs use Intel, Broadcom, Realtek, or Atheros WLAN modules. While basic surfing needs are met by all, those who desire full control and maximum performance out of their WLAN modules may need to take a selective approach. The placement of the antenna wires within the chassis is important as well. Most users hardly ever have a need to upgrade their Wi-Fi module. But if you do find the need to do it down the line, it is important that the laptop offers a swappable Wi-Fi card instead of having it soldered onto the motherboard.
Ultrabooks such as the Acer Swift 5 completely forego a dedicated Gigabit Ethernet port.
Ultrabooks often forego the Ethernet port in pursuit of a slim design. Gamers, however, will find the presence of a Gigabit Ethernet port particularly useful as wired internet rules out potential latency and signal attenuation problems characteristic of wireless connections.
Business professionals often need to be connected 24/7 even in places without a Wi-Fi hotspot. While it is possible to simply tether your phone’s internet with your laptop, some carriers place restrictions for the same. If you do need untethered internet access at all times, look for a laptop with a built-in WWAN module and a SIM slot or the ability to use an eSIM.
The networking and Wi-Fi tests in our reviews are a good place to compare communication speeds of various laptops.
Port selection
With OEMs increasingly focusing on offering the thinnest possible designs, the number of ports that a typical notebook offers has started to come down. It all started with Apple going with a lone USB Type-C port in the 2015 MacBook. Since then, we have seen Apple offering only Thunderbolt 3 ports on all MacBooks.
In the Windows world, however, you still get a fairly decent port selection. But even newer Windows-based laptops such as the Dell XPS 15 9500 are now increasingly looking at culling all surfeit ports for an integrated Thunderbolt 3 or USB 3.1 Type-C-based solution that can be used for both charging as well as for data transfer.
The USB standards conundrum
USB ports come in several standards, which can get quickly confusing. Often, OEMs just advertise the port as USB 3.2, but knowing the generation of USB 3.2 is essential to understand what would be its throughput. There are several types of USB connectors out there, and it is important that you know which connector types your device supports. Keeping pace with the changing times, you may want to look into laptops that offer Thunderbolt 3 (Intel systems) or USB 3.1 and above Type-C (for AMD systems). USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 are now official and we can expect to see them in laptops soon.
Common USB connector types – left to right: Micro-B (small), Type-C, Type-A, Micro-B (wide), Mini-USB
The following table illustrates basic differences between the various USB formats in vogue.
| USB standard | Max. data transfer speed | Connector type | Max. power |
|---|---|---|---|
| USB 1.1 | 12 Mbps | A and B | 2.5 W |
| USB 2.0 | 480 Mbps | A, B, Micro-A, Micro-B, Mini-A, Mini-B | 2.5 W |
| USB 3.2 Gen1 (USB 3.0, USB 3.1 Gen1) | 5 Gbps | A, B, Micro-B, C | 4.5 W |
| USB 3.2 Gen2 (USB 3.1, USB 3.1 Gen2) | 10 Gbps | A, B, Micro-B, C | 100 W |
| USB 3.2 Gen2x2 (USB 3.2) | 20 Gbps | C | 100 W |
| Thunderbolt 2 | 20 Gbps | Mini DisplayPort | 10 W |
| Thunderbolt 3 | 20 Gbps and 40 Gbps (Passive), 40 Gbps (Active) | C | 100 W |
| USB4 | 10 Gbps, 20 Gbps, and 40 Gbps | C | 100 W |
| Thunderbolt 4 | 40 Gbps | C | 100 W |
Audio outputs
laptops come with at least a 3.5 mm combo headphone and audio jack. While this is great for casual listening or Skype calls, creators would want something more. Till recently, we have been seeing laptops with three audio jacks for mic, line-in, and line-out each, which could be easily reconfigured to allow directly hooking up 5.1-channel systems. Of late, most laptops, including the gaming variety, are offering just the combo audio jack with few models generously offering separate mic-in and audio-out jacks.
Laptops nowadays are foregoing additional audio jacks.
The quality of the audio output directly depends on the DAC used. Realtek chips are the most commonly used internal digital signal processors (DSPs). Some gaming laptops offer additional enhancements such as ESS Sabre or Creative Sound Blaster DACs that further enhance sound quality and allow for additional customization. Audiophiles would want to look out for gold-plated jacks for minimal signal loss. If you find that the onboard sound isn’t really capable of driving your high-impedance headphones, consider opting for an external DAC solution.
Video outputs
When it comes to outputting video to an external monitor, the commonly used connectors are HDMI and DisplayPort. Most laptops, even those with integrated graphics, now allow for connecting at least one external 4K display. While HDMI-out is fairly common, high-end gaming laptops also additionally offer a mini DisplayPort-out. With Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3 Type-C supporting DisplayPort Alt-mode, it is now possible to directly connect a laptop to a compatible display via the USB Type-C port without having to use any dock.
Gaming laptops such as the HP Omen 17 offer both HDMI and mini DisplayPort outputs.
That being said, just like USB, there are several HDMI and DisplayPort versions that you need to be aware of to ensure that you are able to get the desired resolution, refresh rate, and audio output.
The following table illustrates some of the basic differences between various HDMI and DisplayPort standards. For a more comprehensive comparison between DisplayPort and HDMI.
| Video standard | Max. data bandwidth (Gbps) | Supported resolution and refresh rate (24 bits per pixel) |
|---|---|---|
| HDMI 1.0-1.2a | 3.96 | 1080p @ 60 Hz |
| HDMI 1.31-1.4b | 8.16 | 1080p @ 144 Hz 1440p @75 Hz 4K@ 30 Hz 4K 4:2:0 @ 60 Hz |
| HDMI 2.0-2.0b | 14.4 | 1080p @ 240 H 4K @ 60 Hz 8K 4:2:0 @ 30 Hz |
| HDMI 2.1 | 42.6 | 4K @ 144 Hz (240 Hz with Display Stream Compression (DSC)) 8K @ 30 Hz (120 Hz with DSC) |
| DisplayPort 1.0-1.1a | 8.64 | 1080p @ 144 Hz 4K @ 30 Hz |
| DisplayPort 1.2-1.2a | 17.28 | 1080p @ 240 Hz 4K @ 75 Hz 5K @ 30 Hz |
| DisplayPort 1.3 | 25.92 | 1080p @ 360 Hz 4K @ 120 Hz 5K @ 60 Hz 8K @ 30 Hz |
| DisplayPort 1.4-1.4a | 25.92 | 8K @ 120 Hz with DSC |
| DisplayPort 2 | 77.37 | 4K @ 240 Hz 8K @ 85 Hz |
Input devices
A laptop may have powerful specs, but the quality of the input devices such as the keyboard and the trackpad can make or mar your experience of using the device.
Keyboard
Lenovo ThinkPads often sport the best notebook keyboards.
Keyboards vary significantly between different types of laptops. Gaming laptops, for example, often feature keys with longer travel distances compared to ultrabooks, which prioritize thinness and portability. Some notebooks incorporate keyboards with concave key surfaces, enhancing comfort during prolonged typing sessions.
Innovative advancements include mechanical keys or optical switches, resembling the tactile feel of traditional mechanical keyboards, offering improved responsiveness and durability. Basic backlighting with adjustable brightness is a common feature, facilitating easier typing in low-light environments. Enthusiasts of RGB lighting may seek additional customization options such as per-key RGB lighting and the ability to create custom lighting profiles tailored to specific tasks or games.
Gaming laptops offer keyboards with decent travel and per-key RGB backlighting.
Lastly, consider the overall build quality of the keyboard deck. It’s essential to avoid any rattling, bending, or flexing while typing, ensuring a stable and consistent typing experience. Additionally, keys should be designed to resist dust ingress to prevent typing errors or unresponsive keys over time.
Trackpad
The trackpad controls the mouse pointer and plays a crucial role in providing a smooth navigation experience. When choosing a laptop, ensure that the trackpad is large, responsive, allows for easy gliding of fingers with minimal friction, and features clickable buttons that are easy to use.
While MacBooks have traditionally been praised for their excellent trackpads, modern Windows laptops equipped with Windows Precision trackpads, often with glass surfaces, offer comparable performance. These trackpads typically provide precise tracking and support multi-touch gestures in Windows 10.
Consider the placement of the trackpad as well. Ideally, it should be centered just below the spacebar for optimal ergonomic use. In laptops that include a numeric keypad, the trackpad may be slightly off-center. Ensure that its placement allows for comfortable use without requiring you to stretch your hand too far from the keyboard.
Apple MacBooks continue to feature some of the best trackpads in the industry.
Display
The display serves as your window to all tasks and media on your laptop. A higher-quality display directly enhances productivity and provides a more immersive experience for media consumption. Since display quality often correlates with the laptop’s price, it’s crucial to ensure you’re getting value for your investment. Our reviews cover a range of display measurements, but here are some essential considerations to keep in mind:
1. Resolution and Clarity: Higher resolutions like Full HD (1920×1080) or higher (4K) offer sharper visuals, ideal for detailed work and enjoying high-definition content.
2. Color Accuracy and Gamut:ย Look for displays with accurate color reproduction and wide color gamuts (like sRGB or AdobeRGB) for tasks like photo editing or graphic design.
3. Brightness and Contrast: A bright screen with good contrast enhances visibility in different lighting conditions, ensuring clarity in both bright and dark areas of the screen.
4. Panel Type: IPS panels typically offer better viewing angles and color accuracy compared to TN panels, making them preferable for most users.
5. Refresh Rate: Important for gamers, a higher refresh rate (e.g., 120Hz or 144Hz) results in smoother motion and gameplay.
Important display considerations
Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating the display of a laptop:
Dead Pixels: Dead or stuck pixels can detract from the viewing experience. Most laptop manufacturers allow for a certain number of dead pixels (typically up to two) before considering a replacement under warranty. It’s advisable to physically inspect the screen using an online monitor test tool if possible to check for any dead pixels.
You would want to avoid this many dead pixels. (Image Source: Dell Community)
Brightness: Higher brightness levels enhance the clarity of finer details in images and improve visibility outdoors. Matte displays are preferable to glossy ones to minimize reflections. For HDR content, a minimum brightness of 400 nits is recommended.
Glossy displays can hamper outdoor viewing without adequate brightness.
Resolution:
– 1920×1080 (FHD):Standard resolution for most laptops; suitable for general use and gaming.
– 2560×1440 (QHD) and 3840×2160 (UHD): Higher resolutions offer sharper visuals, ideal for creative professionals, though they may impact battery life significantly, especially on smaller screens.
IPS panels offer the best possible viewing angles.
Viewing Angles:Wide viewing angles, particularly on IPS panels, ensure consistent image quality from various perspectives. TN panels suffer from poorer viewing angles, especially when viewed off-center.
Touchscreens: Touchscreens are popular, particularly in convertible or 2-in-1 laptops, for their versatility with pen and touch input in Windows 10. Ensure the touchscreen is responsive and supports active or passive styluses with adequate pressure sensitivity for drawing or note-taking.
Refresh Rate: Higher refresh rates, such as 120Hz or 144Hz, offer smoother motion and are beneficial for gaming and multimedia tasks. For optimal performance, ensure the display panel and GPU support technologies like AMD FreeSync or NVIDIA G-Sync to minimize screen-tearing. Low response times are also important for maximizing the benefits of high refresh rates.
Considering these factors will help you choose a laptop with a display that meets your specific needs, whether for everyday use, creative work, or gaming.
The video illustrate how refresh rates can impact gaming:
Response Time: Response time refers to how quickly a panel can change from one color to another, typically measured in milliseconds (ms) for transitions like gray-to-gray (GtG) or black-to-white (BtW). Lower response times reduce ghosting and motion blur, making them beneficial for fast-paced gaming and multimedia content.
Contrast Ratio:Contrast ratio measures the difference in brightness between the brightest white and the darkest black that a display can produce. A higher contrast ratio indicates better detail resolution in darker areas of the image, which is particularly advantageous in low-light conditions. Here are typical contrast ratios for different panel types:
– TN Panels:Approximately 700:1 to 900:1.
– IPS Panels:Around 1000:1.
– VA Panels:Typically 3000:1, offering a compromise between TN and IPS.
– OLED Displays: Infinite contrast ratio, achieving true blacks by completely turning off pixels.
Color gamut and color accuracy are crucial aspects to consider when evaluating the quality of a laptop display:
Color Gamut:
Color saturation comparison between sRGB and Adobe RGB. (Image Source: Viewsonic)
– Definition: Color gamut refers to the range of colors that a display can reproduce.
– Importance: A wider color gamut means the display can show more colors, enhancing the visual experience, especially for tasks like photo editing, graphic design, and watching high-definition content.
– sRGB: Most content today, including games, movies, and general productivity applications, is designed within the sRGB color space. A laptop that covers the sRGB spectrum adequately should provide a satisfactory viewing experience for these purposes.
– Adobe RGB: Professionals in fields like design and photography may require a laptop that can accurately reproduce the broader Adobe RGB color space, which includes more saturated colors than sRGB.
Color Accuracy:
Nearly 100% Adobe RGB coverage and low delta E in an MSI laptop.
– Delta E Value:Color accuracy is quantified using the delta E (ฮE) value, which measures the difference between the color displayed on the screen and the actual color as perceived by the human eye.
– Calibration: Well-calibrated displays typically have delta E values of 2 or less. Lower delta E values indicate more accurate color representation.
–Professional Use:For tasks that demand precise color reproduction, such as professional photo-editing and video color correction, low delta E values are essential to ensure accurate and consistent colors across different devices and media.
Understanding these factors helps in selecting a laptop display that meets your specific requirements, whether for casual use, creative work, or professional applications that demand high color fidelity and accuracy.
Performance
Having a laptop that can handle your workload smoothly is crucial. When choosing one, make sure it’s equipped with components like the processor, graphics card, RAM, and storage that meet or exceed your current needs. Unlike desktops, laptops usually can’t be upgraded much later on, so it’s wise to pick the right configuration from the start.
The processor (CPU) is especially important for overall performance. Depending on what you doโwhether it’s everyday tasks, gaming, creative work, or professional applicationsโyou’ll want a CPU that can handle it without slowing down. If you need to run graphics-intensive programs or play games, consider getting a laptop with a dedicated graphics card (GPU). For multitasking and responsiveness, having enough RAM is crucial; 8GB is usually fine for most people, but 16GB or more is better for heavier tasks.
When it comes to storage, SSDs are faster than traditional hard drives (HDDs) and are better for quick boot-ups and loading applications. Think about how much storage you needโ256GB to 512GB is standard for SSDs, but you might need more if you store a lot of files or large programs.
Lastly, good cooling is important to keep your laptop running smoothly. Look for laptops with effective cooling systems, especially if you’re going to use it for demanding tasks or gaming. Taking these factors into account will help you choose a laptop that can handle your needs now and in the future.
CPU
The CPU is the heart of your laptop, responsible for handling all tasks. It’s crucial to choose one that meets your specific needs. Intel has historically dominated the laptop CPU market, but AMD is rapidly gaining ground. The latest Ryzen 4000 series processors from AMD are notable for their strong multi-core performance and integrated Radeon Vega graphics, making them a compelling choice for both everyday use and more demanding tasks like gaming and content creation.
Intel processors are common across all notebook categories. (Image Source: Intel)
Regardless of whether you choose Intel or AMD, it’s important to understand the two main classes of laptop CPUs.
Firstly, there are the U-series chips, typically ranging from 15 to 25 watts in terms of their thermal design power (TDP). These CPUs are designed for ultrabooks and thinner laptops, balancing performance and power efficiency for longer battery life.
Secondly, there are the H-series chips, which have a higher TDP of 35 to 45 watts. These processors are found in gaming laptops and workstations, prioritizing performance over battery life and capable of handling more intensive tasks.
Both Intel and AMD have their own approaches to TDP values, but detailed comparisons are beyond the scope here. Understanding these classifications helps in choosing a laptop CPU that best suits your performance and battery life needs.
AMD Ryzen 4000 series CPUs have brought back some much needed competition in the mobile space.
When choosing a laptop, it’s essential to consider the type of CPU it uses, which dictates its performance and power efficiency. U-series chips, with TDPs of 15-25 watts, are designed for ultrabooks and thin notebooks, emphasizing mobility and long battery life over raw power, making them ideal for everyday tasks but less suited for gaming or intensive professional use. In contrast, H-series chips, with TDPs of 35-45 watts, cater to mobile gamers and content creators, offering higher performance capabilities. Intel’s Y-series processors operate at 4.5-7 watts, focusing on extreme power efficiency in ultra-portable devices. Additionally, some laptops now feature Qualcomm Snapdragon chips originally from smartphones, offering always-on connectivity and extended battery life, appealing to users needing constant connectivity without frequent charging. Choosing the right CPU type ensures your laptop meets your specific needs, whether it’s for mobility, performance, or specialized tasks.
Snapdragon 8cx brings smartphone features to laptops. (Image Source: Qualcomm)
Note that many OEMs do not explicitly state the class of processor being used; instead, they simply mention “Core i5” or “Core i7”. Do your homework to ensure you are getting the right processor class for your needs.
A good place to start would be our Mobile Processor Benchmark comparison tool that allows you compare all the processors we’ve tested and their performance in various benchmarks.
GPU
Most laptops today come equipped with integrated GPUs, which are built directly into the processor. These integrated graphics are cost-effective and help conserve battery life, making them ideal for everyday tasks like office work and web browsing. However, for more demanding applications such as gaming, video editing, or 3D design, a dedicated GPU (dGPU) is essential. Unlike integrated GPUs that share system memory, dedicated GPUs have their own dedicated video memory (VRAM) and are capable of handling intensive graphical tasks more efficiently. NVIDIA and AMD are the main providers of dedicated GPUs for laptops, offering various models tailored to different performance needs. These GPUs accelerate tasks like video rendering and complex visual effects processing, making them indispensable for professionals who rely on graphical performance. While integrated graphics have improved significantly and can handle moderate tasks well, the decision between integrated and dedicated graphics ultimately depends on your specific usage requirements. For basic productivity, integrated graphics suffice, but for tasks demanding heavy graphical processing, a laptop with a dedicated GPU ensures smooth and efficient performance.
Discrete mobile GPUs allow for processing intense graphics workloads such as 3D modeling and gaming. (Image Source: NVIDIA)
Thermals
Even with top-tier CPU and GPU configurations, the true performance of your laptop can be significantly impacted by an often-overlooked factor: heat management. Excessive heat, if not effectively dispersed, can cause the CPU and GPU to throttle their clock speeds, reducing overall performance. This situation can necessitate solutions like undervolting or applying new thermal paste to mitigate heat buildup.
Even premium laptops aren’t immune to thermal issues. It’s crucial to ensure that your laptop’s cooling system is robust enough to handle the demands of intensive tasks. A well-designed cooling solution with sufficient ventilation and effective heat dissipation mechanisms can maintain optimal performance over extended periods of use.
When choosing a laptop, especially if you intend to use it for gaming, video editing, or other demanding applications, consider reviews and specifications that detail the thermal performance under load. A laptop with superior cooling capabilities will not only deliver better sustained performance but also extend the lifespan of your hardware by reducing thermal stress.
Ultimately, while CPU and GPU power are essential, a well-engineered cooling system is equally critical in maximizing the overall performance and longevity of your laptop. Always factor in thermal management when making your purchasing decision to ensure you get the most out of your investment in high-performance computing.
CPU and GPU cooling assembly in the Asus ROG Strix Scar 17.
RAM
Choosing the right amount and configuration of memory is crucial for optimizing the performance of your new laptop. When purchasing, ideally, you should select the amount of RAM you anticipate needing upfront. If budget constraints are a concern, starting with a minimum of 8 GB is recommended for basic multitasking and everyday use. However, for more demanding tasks like video editing or gaming, opting for 16 GB or more is advisable.
Dual-channel memory configuration offers significant performance benefits by allowing the CPU to access data more quickly. This setup requires installing memory modules in pairs (e.g., two 4 GB sticks instead of one 8 GB stick) to take full advantage of the memory controller’s capabilities.
Most modern Intel and AMD laptops utilize DDR4 RAM, though variations in frequencies and memory timings may exist among different models. Some laptops come with soldered memory, meaning the RAM is permanently attached to the motherboard, which limits upgrade options. In such cases, ensuring sufficient RAM at the time of purchase becomes more critical.
For laptops with upgradeable memory, having at least one vacant memory slot allows for future expansion. This flexibility is advantageous if your needs change or if you want to extend the lifespan of your laptop by increasing its memory capacity.
In summary, when selecting a laptop, consider the RAM configuration that best suits your current and future needs. Opt for dual-channel memory if possible, ensure compatibility with DDR4 standards, and if upgrades are essential to you, prioritize models with swappable memory modules. These considerations will help you maximize the performance and longevity of your laptop investment.
The Lenovo ThinkPad T490s comes with soldered RAM.
Storage
Solid state drives (SSDs) have become the preferred choice over traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) due to their lack of mechanical parts, which results in faster read and write speeds and improved power efficiency. Even the slowest SSDs outperform most HDDs by a significant margin. However, HDDs still maintain an advantage in terms of price per GB of storage.
For optimal performance and storage capacity, it’s ideal to choose a laptop configuration that includes both an SSD and an HDD. This combination provides the best of both worlds: the speed and responsiveness of an SSD for your operating system and frequently used applications, and the cost-effective storage capacity of an HDD for larger files and data.
Many modern laptops are equipped with PCIe M.2 NVMe SSDs, which utilize high-bandwidth PCIe lanes to deliver exceptional read and write speeds. These SSDs are particularly beneficial for tasks like video editing, where fast access to data is crucial. Typically, laptops come with either a 256 GB or 512 GB NVMe SSD as the primary drive for the operating system, with an additional slot available for adding a 2.5-inch SATA SSD or HDD for supplementary storage.
Premium laptops may feature soldered SSDs for compactness and durability, while some models provide multiple M.2 slots for adding additional NVMe SSDs. These slots can be configured in RAID setups to further enhance storage performance.
For detailed comparisons and benchmarks of SSDs and HDDs, you can refer to dedicated resources like laptop hard drive benchmark pages, which provide insights into performance metrics and help you make informed decisions based on your specific needs and budget.
Samsung 970 EVO Plus NVMe SSD
Emissions
Emissions are often not accorded high consideration on a purchase list, but they can impact the overall experience. High surface temperatures, loud fan noise, and tinny sound output can all offset the benefits of having an otherwise capable configuration.
Temperature
Ensuring your laptop doesn’t run too hot is crucial for both comfort and performance. Typically, laptops generate heat around the middle and upper keyboard deck under heavy use, as this is where the CPU and GPU, the primary heat sources, are located. However, even during intense tasks, these areas should maintain manageable temperatures to prevent discomfort or performance issues.
It’s particularly important that the area near the trackpad and the bottom rear half of the laptop remain cool, ideally close to room temperature. Excessive heat in these regions can indicate poor heat dissipation or inadequate cooling, which may lead to discomfort during use and potentially affect the longevity of the laptop components.
When selecting a laptop, consider reviews and specifications that discuss thermal management and cooling effectiveness. A well-designed cooling system with sufficient ventilation and heat dissipation capabilities will help maintain comfortable temperatures across the laptop’s surface, even under heavy workloads.
Regular maintenance, such as keeping air vents clear of dust and debris, can also contribute to optimal cooling performance. By ensuring your laptop operates within safe temperature ranges, you not only enhance user comfort but also help prolong the lifespan and reliability of your device.
The keyboard deck usually gets warm under load.
Fan noise
Fan noise can be a significant consideration depending on how you use your laptop. In quiet environments, such as offices or libraries, having near-inaudible fan noise during light tasks like web browsing or using Office applications is ideal. For most users, this ensures a distraction-free experience without the constant hum of fans.
Under heavier loads, like gaming or intensive software tasks, some laptopsโespecially larger gaming modelsโcan become noticeably noisy due to their powerful components generating more heat. This can lead to fan noise resembling that of a jet engine, which may be disruptive in quieter settings.
To mitigate fan noise, choosing a laptop with a well-designed chassis that allows for efficient ventilation is crucial. Adequate space for airflow helps in dissipating heat effectively, reducing the need for fans to operate at high speeds and thus lowering noise levels. Modern laptops often include fan control features that adjust fan speeds based on workload, ensuring quieter operation during lighter tasks and ramping up only when necessary.
Passively cooled laptops, which operate without fans, completely eliminate fan noise but may be limited in performance or suitable for specific use cases where cooling demands are minimal.
Ultimately, when selecting a laptop, consider your usage environment and preferences regarding noise levels. A laptop with thoughtful chassis construction, effective cooling mechanisms, and adjustable fan settings can provide a balance between performance and quiet operation, enhancing your overall user experience.
The CPU/GPU fan should ideally be inaudible while idling or performing less heavy-duty tasks.
Onboard speakers
Onboard speakers in laptops have historically been overlooked in terms of quality due to space limitations. These constraints often prevent speakers from producing sufficient air movement for adequate bass response. Additionally, many laptops feature downward-firing speaker designs, which can further diminish sound clarity and richness.
However, recent advancements are addressing these challenges. Some modern laptops, like the Apple MacBook Pro 16 and the Dell XPS 15 9500, are adopting upward-firing speaker configurations. This setup helps in directing sound towards the user, potentially improving audio clarity and providing a better overall listening experience. The MacBook Pro, in particular, is noted for offering decent bass response compared to other notebooks.
Gaming laptops, benefiting from larger chassis and more robust designs, often incorporate larger speaker drivers and sometimes even include multiple speakers and a dedicated woofer. This setup enhances audio performance, making them suitable for immersive gaming and multimedia experiences where sound quality matters.
When choosing a laptop, especially if audio quality is important to you, consider reviews that specifically evaluate onboard speakers. Look for laptops that prioritize audio performance through innovative speaker designs or include features like enhanced bass response or directional audio output. These considerations can significantly enhance your enjoyment of multimedia content and gaming on your laptop.
Gaming laptops such as the MSI GE75 Raider 9SG offer enough room to accommodate multiple speakers.
When evaluating laptop audio quality, remember it’s influenced by both hardware and software enhancements. Most laptops offer audio enhancements that can significantly improve sound quality. For tasks like music production, ensure your laptop components and software are capable of handling low latency for recording and playback. Choose laptops with quality audio hardware and compatible software to meet your specific audio needs effectively.
Battery life
Battery life is a critical consideration for laptops, but it varies greatly based on usage. Manufacturer-advertised battery durations should be taken cautiously, as they’re often tested under controlled conditions. For better mobility, opt for laptops with U-series or lower processors, which are more battery-efficient. Factors like display brightness, GPU usage, and wireless connectivity can significantly affect battery performance.
Road warriors should aim for laptops with at least a 56 Wh battery capacity for extended use away from power outlets. While modern lithium-ion batteries are more durable, they still degrade over time. Laptops today offer power-saving features like hibernation and standby modes to conserve battery, though replacing the battery itself can be challenging.
To maximize battery life, consider implementing tips and tricks outlined in guides focused on saving power on Windows laptops. These strategies can help prolong usage between charges and optimize your laptop’s battery performance.
A 57 Wh Li-Ion battery should be able to offer decent backup for a typical workday.A 57 Wh Li-Ion battery should be able to offer decent backup for a typical workday.
Warranty and after-sales service
When purchasing a laptop, ensure it comes with a reliable warranty and after-sales service for peace of mind. Look for trusted sellers who offer a robust returns policy, allowing you to return the laptop within a reasonable window if it doesn’t meet your expectations. Buying directly from the manufacturer often allows you to opt-in for additional warranty coverage or care plans for added protection.
Check the warranty terms beforehand as they can vary by country and retailer. Consumer laptops typically come with a standard one-year warranty, sometimes extended to two years. Business and workstation models often offer more comprehensive support, including 24/7 customer service and faster repair turnaround times.
Be aware of any additional benefits such as free accessories or software discounts that may accompany your purchase. This approach ensures you make an informed decision and avoid disappointment later on.
conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right laptop involves considering several key factors to match your specific needs and preferences. Focus on aspects such as performance, battery life, audio quality, and thermal management. Ensure the laptop’s configuration suits your intended use, whether it’s for everyday tasks, gaming, content creation, or professional work.
Pay attention to critical details like warranty coverage and after-sales service to safeguard your investment and provide peace of mind. Purchase from reputable sellers or directly from manufacturers to benefit from reliable returns policies and additional support options. By evaluating these factors carefully, you can select a laptop that not only meets your current requirements but also serves you well into the future.
