Joybuy Insights

Buying a laptop: how to choose a model that suits your everyday use

Buying a laptop seems straightforward until you start comparing the specifications. A low price may look appealing, but a model with limited RAM, an unsuitable keyboard or no charger could end up costing more in the long run. Terms such as AI, fast processor and long battery life do not always tell you enough about how the laptop will perform for your specific needs.

Pay particular attention to these three pitfalls:

  • An appealing processor name without enough RAM: 8GB RAM may be sufficient for email and word processing, but it becomes limiting more quickly when you use lots of browser tabs, video calls and demanding programmes.
  • A large screen that turns out to be less portable: a 17-inch laptop offers plenty of workspace, but is less practical for train journeys, lectures or working flexibly.
  • A laptop without a charger: several models in this selection require you to purchase a suitable USB-C or mains adapter separately. Check this before placing your order.

Which specifications are important?

1. Processor and RAM

For a laptop for studying or a laptop for work, 16GB RAM combined with a modern processor is a practical choice. You can generally use several documents, browser windows and communication apps side by side. A laptop with Ryzen 7 is worth considering if you multitask regularly or use light creative applications.

For simple tasks such as email, online lessons and word processing, an AMD Ryzen 5 with 8GB RAM may be sufficient. However, check whether the memory can be upgraded. On several compact models, the RAM is permanently soldered to the motherboard.

For gaming, video editing and 3D applications, a dedicated graphics card is particularly important alongside the processor. An integrated graphics chip is aimed more at everyday use and light graphics tasks.

2. Screen size and aspect ratio

A 14-inch laptop is usually easy to carry around. A 15-inch laptop provides a more spacious working area without being as large as a desktop replacement. A 16-inch laptop often combines additional screen space with a 16:10 aspect ratio, which can be useful for documents and spreadsheets. A 17-inch laptop is mainly suitable for use at home or at a permanent workstation.

Do not just look at the diagonal measurement. Also check:

  • Resolution: Full HD or 1920 × 1200 is suitable for everyday work; higher resolutions display more detail.
  • Aspect ratio: 16:10 provides more vertical space than 16:9.
  • Brightness: 300 nits is mainly suitable for indoor use.
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz is suitable for office work and streaming; 240Hz is aimed at gaming.
  • Touch functionality: a touchscreen is not standard. For tablet use, you need a 2-in-1 laptop.

3. Storage, keyboard and power supply

A laptop with a 512GB SSD provides room for Windows, programmes, documents and photos. An SSD starts up faster than a traditional hard drive. If you store lots of video files, games or large photo libraries, you may also need external storage.

Also check the keyboard layout. A laptop with a QWERTY keyboard is generally suitable for Dutch users, but there are differences between Dutch, international, British and US QWERTY layouts. If you are used to AZERTY, take extra care when checking the specification.

Finally, check whether the product includes an adapter. A laptop without a charger may be supplied with only a USB-C cable or without an adapter altogether. Check the required wattage and support for USB Power Delivery. Do not use a random phone charger if it does not provide enough power.

Recommended laptops by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
HP OmniBook 3 14-hy0058ndx 14-inch laptop

HP OmniBook 3 14-hy0058ndx 14-Inch Laptop

Why it suits this profile: A compact model for browsing, documents, online lessons and video calls. It weighs approximately 1.42 kg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications clearly state 8GB RAM, a 512GB SSD and a non-touchscreen display. The charger must be purchased separately.

Key benefit & highlights

14-inch IPS display with 1920 × 1200 pixels, webcam with privacy shutter and QWERTY keyboard.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Apple MacBook Air 15-inch M5 16GB 512GB

Apple MacBook Air 15-inch M5 16GB 512GB

Why it suits this profile: For users looking for a spacious display, macOS and a quiet working environment for productivity and creative applications.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The configuration includes 16GB memory and a 512GB SSD. Please note: the power adapter is not included, although a MagSafe cable is listed.

Key benefit & highlights

15.3-inch Liquid Retina display, Apple M5 chip, two Thunderbolt 4 ports and a weight of approximately 1.51 kg.

Suitable for: Specialised use & demanding users
MSI Vector A16 HX A8WHG-023NL gaming laptop

MSI Vector A16 HX A8WHG-023NL

Why it suits this profile: A gaming laptop for users who need high graphics performance for games, 3D software or demanding applications.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti graphics card means that graphics work does not rely entirely on integrated graphics. However, the laptop weighs approximately 2.7 kg and is supplied without a charger.

Key benefit & highlights

Ryzen 9 8940HX, 16GB DDR5, 1TB SSD, 16-inch WQXGA display with 240Hz and expandable memory.

Suitable for: Mobile students and hybrid workers
ASUS Zenbook A14 Copilot+ PC

ASUS Zenbook A14 Copilot+ PC

Why it suits this profile: Weighing approximately 0.98 kg, this model is designed for people who regularly travel between home, lectures, the office and flexible workspaces.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists 16GB RAM, a 512GB SSD, a Dutch QWERTY keyboard and a required 65W USB-C charger. The charger is not included.

Key benefit & highlights

14-inch OLED display, Snapdragon X platform, NPU up to 45 TOPS, Wi-Fi 6E and a 70Wh battery.

Looking for more options?

We have put together 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

How much RAM do I need for studying and office work?

For word processing, browsing, video calls and spreadsheets, 8GB RAM is suitable when you are using a limited number of programmes. 16GB RAM gives you more room for multitasking and is a sensible choice if you want to use the laptop for several years.

Is a touchscreen or 2-in-1 laptop worth the extra cost?

That depends on how you work. A touchscreen is useful for annotations, presentations and tablet mode. If you mainly use a keyboard and mouse, you may be paying for a feature you rarely use. Also check whether a stylus is included, as this is not guaranteed.

How much does a laptop without a charger ultimately cost?

Add the price of a suitable adapter to the purchase price. Check the required power output, such as 45W or 65W USB-C Power Delivery. A suitable charger means you will not have to search for a compatible one after delivery.