Buying a laptop: how to choose a model that really suits the way you use it

Buying a laptop seems simple until you start comparing the specifications. Many models look very similar on paper, yet the difference in everyday use can be significant. A lightweight laptop for university has different requirements from a gaming laptop for modern games. A laptop for work or home use does not automatically need the most expensive processor either.

Pay particular attention to these three common pitfalls:

• A low price without a complete package: several models in the range do not include a charger. Check whether you need a suitable power adapter and how much extra it costs.
• Plenty of memory, but no upgrade option: 8GB RAM may be sufficient for basic use, but onboard memory cannot be replaced later.
• A powerful processor without a suitable graphics card: a fast CPU is not the same as a laptop with an RTX graphics card. For gaming, 3D work and certain creative programmes, a dedicated GPU is more important than the processor name alone.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Processor, RAM and storage

For browsing, email, word processing and online lessons, a laptop with a modern entry-level or mid-range processor is often a good fit. A laptop with a Ryzen processor, such as the AMD Ryzen 5 7520U, is designed for everyday use. For intensive multitasking, video editing or gaming, processors from higher ranges are more suitable.

Also look out for:

• 8GB RAM: suitable for basic work, but less flexible when running lots of programmes and browser tabs.
• 16GB RAM: a practical choice for studying, office work, programming and multitasking.
• 512GB SSD: provides space for Windows, programmes and documents. The actual available capacity will be lower because of system and recovery files.
• Upgradable memory: check whether the RAM is soldered. With onboard memory, you cannot easily upgrade it later.

An SSD will generally launch programmes more quickly than a traditional hard drive. If you store large video files, games or photo libraries, you may also need external or cloud storage.

2. Screen size and portability

The size affects how comfortable the laptop is to work on and how easy it is to carry with you.

• A 14-inch laptop is suitable for students, train commuters and home workers who regularly change workspaces.
• A 15-inch laptop offers more working space without immediately becoming as large as a desktop replacement.
• A 16-inch laptop is appealing for creative applications and gaming, especially with a 16:10 aspect ratio.
• A 17-inch laptop provides plenty of screen space for spreadsheets, side-by-side windows and entertainment, but is less portable.

Do not only consider the diagonal measurement. A resolution of 1920 × 1200 provides more vertical space than 1920 × 1080 thanks to the 16:10 aspect ratio. Refresh rate is also relevant for gaming. 144Hz or 240Hz can display movement more smoothly than 60Hz, but the graphics card must also be able to produce the images at that rate.

A laptop with a touchscreen or a 2-in-1 model is useful for finger-based controls and presentations. Do check whether a stylus is included, however. With some models, it is available separately.

3. Operating system, keyboard and connections

A Windows laptop works with a wide range of business software, peripherals and games. If you want to buy a MacBook, you will be choosing macOS, so check in advance whether specific Windows software, plug-ins or peripherals are compatible.

In the Netherlands, also check the keyboard layout. A QWERTY laptop is common, but there are differences between Dutch, international, British and American layouts. If you enter lots of figures, you may benefit from a numeric keypad.

Also look for USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, a headphone socket and, where relevant, Ethernet. USB-C does not automatically mean that every port supports charging, display output and high data-transfer speeds. Check the exact functions for each model.

Our recommendations for different usage profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

HP OmniBook 3 14-hy0058ndx 14-inch laptop

Why it suits this profile: This compact Windows laptop is designed for documents, online lessons, video calls and everyday internet use. Weighing approximately 1.42 kg, it is easier to carry than larger models.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states that the 8GB memory is onboard and that a charger is required separately. This means you can factor in these costs and limitations before buying.

Key benefit & highlights

14-inch IPS display with 1920 × 1200 resolution, 512GB NVMe SSD, Full HD webcam and Wi-Fi 6.

Suitable for: Buyers seeking premium quality

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 - 15"

Why it suits this profile: The 15-inch touchscreen, 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD are well suited to business users and professionals who work with lots of applications and files at the same time.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The combination of 32GB memory and 1TB storage means you are not focusing solely on processor performance. Do check that specific Windows programmes are compatible with the Snapdragon architecture.

Key benefit & highlights

2496 × 1664 touchscreen, 32GB LPDDR5X, 1TB SSD and Windows 11 Pro.

Suitable for: Specialist use & intensive users

ASUS ROG Strix G18 G814PM-S9012W

Why it suits this profile: This gaming laptop combines a Ryzen 9 8940HX, RTX 5060 with 8GB GDDR7 and a large 18-inch display. It is a good fit for gamers and users running graphically demanding applications.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dedicated RTX graphics card makes the graphics capability clear. Bear in mind that it weighs approximately 3 kg and, according to the product information, does not include a standard charger.

Key benefit & highlights

18-inch WQXGA display with 240Hz, 16GB DDR5, 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD and two SO-DIMM slots.

Frequently asked questions about buying a laptop

How long does a laptop typically last?

Its lifespan depends on build quality, battery, software updates and the type of work you do. A model used for internet browsing and documents may remain practically useful for longer than a laptop that runs demanding games or video editing software every day. Choose enough RAM and storage for your expected usage, and check the warranty conditions.

Do you need 16GB RAM for studying or work?

For word processing, browsing, video calls and standard office software, 8GB can be sufficient. 16GB RAM provides more room for running multiple programmes, large spreadsheets, programming environments and extended multitasking. If the memory is onboard, you will not be able to expand it later.

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

Allow for a charger that may not be included, a protective case, mouse, docking station and additional storage. Gaming laptops generally use more power under load than lightweight models. Before making your choice, check the charging requirements, battery capacity and weight.