Joybuy Insights

Buying a laptop or tablet: how to choose the right model for you

Buying a laptop or tablet seems straightforward, until you have to choose between a 2-in-1 laptop, an AI laptop, an Android tablet or a drawing tablet. Marketing terms such as Copilot+ PC, OLED and “professional performance” only mean something when you consider how you’ll use the device.

The most common buying mistakes come down to three pitfalls:

  • Mistaking an attractive screen for a suitable one: OLED can deliver strong contrast, but a glossy screen can cause distracting reflections.
  • Overestimating AI features: an NPU and Copilot+ PC label support certain features, but they’re no substitute for a powerful graphics card when it comes to demanding 3D or video editing.
  • Overlooking extra costs: some models don’t include a charger as standard. If you’re buying a tablet with a pen, check whether the pen is actually included.

Which specifications matter?

1. Processor, RAM and software compatibility

For a laptop for study and work, 16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB SSD are practical starting points. With 8 GB of RAM, you can browse, work with documents and stream content comfortably, but you’ll have less room to run lots of programmes at once. Check whether the memory can be upgraded, too. That isn’t possible on several slim laptops, including models with onboard LPDDR memory.

An AI laptop often includes an NPU for running AI calculations locally. According to HP, certain Ryzen AI models deliver up to 50 TOPS, while Microsoft quotes up to 45 TOPS for Surface models. These are manufacturers’ specifications; how well they work in practice depends on Windows, updates and compatible software.

If you’re considering a Snapdragon laptop running Windows, it’s worth checking that your most important programmes are compatible beforehand. Older drivers, specialist business software and certain peripherals may work differently than they do on a traditional Windows laptop with an Intel or AMD processor.

2. Screen size, resolution and input

A 13- or 14-inch model is usually easier to carry around. A 16- or 17-inch laptop gives you more room to work, but takes up more space in your bag.

Look out for these features:

  • 16:10 or 3:2: gives you more vertical space for documents and websites than 16:9.
  • OLED: each pixel produces its own light, which, according to the product specifications, supports deep blacks and high contrast.
  • Touchscreen: useful on a 2-in-1 laptop, but not every touchscreen model comes with a stylus.
  • Refresh rate: 60 Hz is suitable for office work and video; 120 Hz can feel smoother when scrolling and playing compatible games.
  • Colour coverage: 100% DCI-P3 can be useful for photo and video work, but check the calibration and the software you use, too.

If you want to draw directly on the screen, you’ll need a touchscreen laptop or a standalone drawing tablet. A graphics tablet such as a Wacom Intuos doesn’t have a built-in screen: you draw on its surface and view the result on your computer.

3. Portability, connections and accessories

A lightweight laptop is handy for students, rail commuters and people working from home who regularly change where they work. As well as checking the weight, look at the ports. USB-C can handle data, video and charging, but not every USB-C port supports all these functions.

So, check the following:

  1. Is a charger included?
  2. Does USB-C support Power Delivery?
  3. Is there an HDMI port if you use a monitor or projector?
  4. Are the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth specifications suitable for your network and accessories?
  5. Is there a card slot, or will you need external storage?

If a model has non-upgradeable memory, it’s worth choosing the right RAM configuration from the outset. For creative work, a larger active drawing area may matter more than an especially compact design.

Product picks for different types of user

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Lenovo Idea Tab 256 GB 11-inch Wi-Fi Android 15 with stylus

Lenovo Idea Tab 256 GB 11-inch Wi-Fi Android 15 with stylus

Why it suits this type of user: With 8 GB of RAM, 256 GB of storage and a Tab Pen included, this tablet is a practical choice for note-taking, streaming, studying and light creative work.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The pen is explicitly listed in the product information. However, check what’s in the box and the charging requirements beforehand, as accessories may vary between offers.

Key benefit & features

11-inch IPS screen with 2560 × 1600 pixels, 256 GB of storage and Android 15, according to the product listing.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 15-inch Snapdragon X Elite

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 - 15-inch - Snapdragon X Elite - 16 GB - 512 GB

Why it suits this type of user: This model combines a large touchscreen with Windows 11 Pro, 16 GB of memory and Wi-Fi 7, making it suitable for work, business applications and multitasking.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

The screen size, resolution and weight are clearly listed. Be sure to check that any specific Windows programmes you use are compatible with the Snapdragon platform.

Key benefit & features

15-inch PixelSense Flow touchscreen, 3:2 aspect ratio, 120 Hz and Snapdragon X Elite with an NPU of up to 45 TOPS, according to Microsoft.

Suitable for: Specialist use & demanding users
Wacom Intuos Pro Large pen tablet

Wacom Intuos Pro Large Pen Tablet – Pro Pen 3

Why it suits this type of user: Illustrators and graphic designers who already work on a computer get a large active area and programmable controls.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

This is clearly a pen tablet without a built-in screen. You’ll know in advance that you need a computer and won’t be drawing directly on the tablet’s display.

Key benefit & features

Active area of 349 × 195 mm, 8,192 pressure levels, USB-C and Bluetooth, according to the product information.

Suitable for: Creative users on the move
Wacom MovinkPad 11 standalone drawing tablet

Wacom MovinkPad 11 Standalone Drawing Tablet

Why it suits this type of user: This Android tablet is designed for drawing and taking notes on the go, without having to carry a laptop around all the time.

How this product avoids the pitfalls

It’s a standalone model with Android 14, storage and a pen included. So you don’t automatically need to buy a separate computer or screen.

Key benefit & features

11.4-inch IPS touchscreen, 8 GB of RAM, 128 GB of storage, microSD support and a stated battery life of up to 10 hours.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about buying laptops and tablets

Is a 2-in-1 laptop suitable for study and work?

It can be, especially if you type regularly and sometimes want to use touchscreen controls. Check the weight, keyboard layout, screen brightness and whether a stylus is included. A convertible with a 360-degree hinge is flexible, but often heavier than a standard tablet.

How long does a laptop or tablet usually last?

How long it lasts depends on software updates, battery wear, storage and how you use the device. If you multitask heavily, it’s best to choose enough RAM and storage from the outset, as the memory in many models can’t be upgraded. Check the stated update and warranty information, too.

What are the costs beyond the purchase price?

Remember to allow for a separate USB-C charger, stylus, protective case, docking station, external storage and any software subscriptions. A drawing tablet may also require a computer with suitable drawing software. So, always check which accessories are included and what connections are available before you order.