From researching your next holiday to Skyping with your family across the pond, laptops can quite literally change your life. They unlock access to the world wide web, and with it comes a host of opportunities.
But just like smartphones, the market is saturated. There’s so much to choose from, which means you might feel a little overwhelmed when you start looking at what makes and models to buy. So, to help you out we’ve put together a guide covering all the bases you’ll need to consider.
Your needs
The absolute first thing to consider when buying a laptop is your own personal needs. Every machine has its own specs, with prices ranging accordingly. For example, if you’ll mostly be using your laptop to browse the internet or type up your memoirs, you definitely won’t need a fancy gaming machine with high-end graphics.
Screen size
Screen size is measured in inches, spanning diagonally from corner to corner. 15 inches is the most popular size, though if your sight isn’t what it used to be it’s probably best to opt for a larger screen. Bigger laptops are generally bulkier, but if you’ll mostly be using on a desk or at the kitchen table this isn’t an issue. Everything will be bigger, which means you won’t need to squint, enlarge the page size or lean in close to the screen and strain your eyes.
Insurance and extended warranty
Often, retailers will offer you the option of adding on insurance. Whether or not you accept is entirely up to you. If you already have home and contents insurance, laptops and other pricey electronics are generally included. Insurance is more for things like dropping your laptop and cracking your screen, or spilling a glass of orange juice all over the keyboard over breakfast! If you’re clumsy, insurance could be a good bet. Some manufacturers also offer an extended warranty, which is essentially a prolonged service contract that gives you the peace of mind that if your laptop malfunctions after a year or so, you’re covered.
Weight
If you plan on travelling with your laptop you may want to consider opting for a thin, ultra-lightweight laptop. MacBook Airs are one of the most popular models, with a wafer-thin body. Ultrabooks are also popular, with Business Insider doing a great countdown of some of the best models on the market.
Ports
Not all laptops are made equal, with some having different ports. Depending on your needs, you should always check what ports are included. For example, if you want to transfer photos from your digital camera you’ll need a USB port. If you want to plug your laptop into your TV you’ll need HDMI. You can always chat to your sales consultant about your needs, and they’ll be more than happy to help.
Online Reviews
One of the best ways to suss out a new laptop is online. The internet is packed full of reviews, with CNET one of the best platforms. You can also simply type the name of the model into Google, followed by ‘reviews’ to pull up even more insight.
Buying second hand
If you’re in search of a bargain, second-hand laptops can be a great alternative to shiny new models. You can still conduct the same research, then use platforms like TradeMe, eBay and Locanto to track down a second-hand model. If you’re thinking about this option, don’t miss our handy guide on how to buy second-hand electronics [insert internal link]
Ask for help
Chances are, you’ve got a tech-savvy son in law or a millennial granddaughter who will be more than happy to help you out in your quest to buy a new laptop. Store assistants can also be a goldmine of information, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Instore or online
Which leads to the questions… Will you buy in store or online? Retailers like Harvey Norman and JB HiFi offer a huge range and personalised help. Meanwhile, online retailers like PriceMe and Kogan generally offer an even bigger selection, often at discounted prices. The only catch is you won’t receive in-store assistance, which means you’ll need to do all the research yourself.
Ready to get started with your laptop purchase? With these tips in mind, you should be able to hone in on the ideal laptop for your needs, at a price that matches your budget.
