Joybuy Insights

Buying a laptop: how to choose a model for studying, work or gaming

Buying a laptop seems straightforward until you start comparing specifications. Is 16GB RAM more important than a faster processor? Do you need a 512GB SSD? And is an English QWERTY keyboard suited to your everyday use?

Many disappointing purchases are not caused by a lack of features, but by unclear product information and unrealistic expectations. Use these checkpoints to compare a Lenovo laptop, Acer laptop, gaming laptop or portable laptop based on practical features.

Common pitfalls when buying a laptop

1. Looking only at the processor name

A Ryzen 7 laptop sounds powerful, but the exact processor, number of cores and graphics chip determine how it performs in practice. An AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS with 8 cores and 16 threads is built differently from a Ryzen 7 model from another series. The same applies to an Intel Core laptop: always check the full model number, rather than just “Core 5” or “Core i7”.

For word processing, video calls and browsing the internet, mid-range processors are often sufficient. For video editing, programming with demanding development environments or gaming, a more powerful processor and dedicated graphics card are more relevant.

2. Confusing memory and storage

16GB RAM determines how many programmes and browser tabs you can use at the same time. A 512GB SSD mainly determines how much space you have for Windows, programmes, documents, photos and games. A large SSD does not automatically make a laptop faster at multitasking if it has very little RAM.

For a laptop for studying and work, 16GB RAM is a practical starting point. Gamers and creative users should also pay attention to the graphics card and whether the storage or memory can be upgraded later.

3. Overlooking the keyboard layout and charger

A laptop with a QWERTY keyboard can be useful for programming and international work, but check that the layout matches your preference. Some models have an English or US International layout and may include a numeric keypad.

Also check what is included in the box. Several models in this overview do not come with a charger as standard. This means a suitable adapter may need to be purchased separately. Only use an adapter that the manufacturer confirms is compatible with the laptop.

Which specifications should you check?

Processor and graphics performance

For everyday use, processors from the AMD Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7 and Intel Core series are common choices. Pay attention to:

  • Number of cores and threads: relevant for multitasking and demanding software.
  • Integrated or dedicated graphics card: integrated graphics are suitable for office work, streaming and light creative applications. A dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics card is intended for more demanding 3D applications and gaming.
  • Cooling and power adapter: powerful hardware can generate more heat and consume more power.

A gaming laptop such as the MSI Cyborg 15 has an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 with 8GB GDDR7 video memory. According to the product information, the Lenovo LOQ 15AHP11 uses an RTX 5070 with 8GB GDDR7. These are verifiable hardware specifications, but actual performance varies depending on the game, settings and software version.

Screen size, aspect ratio and refresh rate

A 14-inch laptop is easier to carry on the train, to lectures or to the office. A 15.3- or 15.6-inch screen provides more workspace. In addition to the diagonal measurement, look at:

  • Resolution: WUXGA is 1920 × 1200; Full HD is 1920 × 1080.
  • Aspect ratio: 16:10 displays more vertical space in documents and web pages than 16:9.
  • Panel type and finish: IPS and a matt or anti-glare finish can be more comfortable in changing light conditions.
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz is suitable for office work. 144Hz or 165Hz is mainly relevant for gaming and fast-moving images.

A portable monitor can provide extra screen space while you are on the move, but check beforehand whether the laptop can connect via USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode or HDMI. According to the product information, the TECLAST V16H has two USB-C ports and mini-HDMI.

Weight, ports and upgradeability

A portable laptop weighing around 1.4 to 1.6 kilograms is practical for everyday travel. A gaming laptop often weighs more because of its dedicated GPU and cooling system. Also check for:

  • USB-C with Power Delivery and, where applicable, DisplayPort;
  • HDMI for an external screen;
  • USB-A for older accessories;
  • Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth for wireless connections;
  • SD or microSD card reader for photo and video files;
  • whether the RAM and SSD can be upgraded.

Pay particular attention to soldered memory. The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5 15ARP10 has 16GB LPDDR5X memory which, according to the product information, cannot be upgraded. This is important if you want to use the laptop for several years.

Recommended models by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Acer Aspire Go 15 AG15-72P-58MP laptop

Acer Aspire Go 15 AG15-72P-58MP 15.6" Laptop

Why it suits this profile: This Acer laptop combines an Intel Core 5 120U, 16GB DDR4 memory and a 512GB SSD for studying, office work and everyday internet use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists the screen resolution, RAM, storage and keyboard layout separately. Do check that the included 65W adapter is part of your retailer’s package.

Key benefit & highlights

15.6-inch IPS screen, numeric keypad, Wi-Fi 6 and 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 14AHP10 laptop

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 14AHP10 R7 16G 512G 11H Laptop

Why it suits this profile: The 14-inch format, starting weight of 1.39 kilograms and Ryzen 7 8840HS are ideal for users who want to combine performance and portability.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The combination of 16GB DDR5 and 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe makes the memory and storage capacity easy to verify, rather than relying solely on the Ryzen 7 name.

Key benefit & highlights

14-inch WUXGA IPS screen with a 16:10 aspect ratio, USB-C, HDMI, SD card reader and Windows 11 Home.

Suitable for: Specialist use & demanding users
MSI Cyborg 15 gaming laptop

MSI Cyborg 15 B13WFKG-804NL 16G 512GB SSD

Why it suits this profile: This gaming laptop is designed for demanding games and graphics applications, thanks to its Intel Core i7-13620H and RTX 5060.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dedicated graphics card is clearly listed alongside the processor, RAM and screen refresh rate. Bear in mind the weight of around 2.1 kilograms and check the charger.

Key benefit & highlights

RTX 5060 with 8GB GDDR7, 144Hz Full HD screen, 16GB DDR5 and Ethernet alongside Wi-Fi 6E.

Accessories to enhance everyday use

A laptop backpack needs to fit more than just the screen size. Check the dimensions of the laptop compartment, the shoulder straps and the protection around the corners. The vintage canvas laptop backpack is designed for laptops up to 15.6 inches. Alternatively, the water-repellent roll-top laptop backpack is suitable for commuting, cycling and travelling.

If you work from home or often work with multiple windows, you could consider a TECLAST V16H portable monitor. Check your laptop’s connection options and use the monitor on a flat, stable surface with sufficient ventilation.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about buying a laptop

Is 16GB RAM enough for studying and work?

For word processing, video calls, spreadsheets and multiple browser tabs, 16GB RAM is generally a practical amount. For intensive video editing, virtual machines or large 3D projects, more memory may be preferable. Check whether the memory can be upgraded; in some slim laptops, it is soldered to the motherboard.

How long does a laptop last on average?

Lifespan depends on battery wear, software, available storage and how you use the laptop. A model with a current processor, SSD and sufficient RAM will generally remain useful for everyday tasks for longer. Protect the laptop from moisture, blocked ventilation openings and heat. Have a damaged or swollen battery inspected by a qualified professional.

What does a laptop cost to use beyond the purchase price?

In addition to the purchase price, a charger, protective sleeve, laptop backpack, monitor and any storage upgrade may incur extra costs. A gaming laptop typically uses more electricity under heavy load than a lightweight office laptop. Before checking out, therefore, check which accessories are included and which connections you already have.