How to choose a laptop in 2023

What you need to know about the ideal modern laptop 

With all the variety of laptops on the market, a good device can be identified by the following characteristics:

• The built-in video card is a budget option that consumes little energy, but does not offer high performance. Laptops equipped with such devices are compact and more autonomous. Quite suitable for watching movies, office work and undemanding games;
• Discrete video cards can be removable or soldered. They have their own video memory, thereby saving laptop RAM and speeding up its operation. Of course, the dimensions of such devices are somewhat larger than those of built-in video cards, since they are equipped with a power supply and cooling system. However, manufacturers regularly upgrade their designs, so gaming laptops equipped with discrete graphics cards can also be compact and lightweight. Thanks to this design, you can play demanding games at high graphics settings, do 3D design and serious projects in Adobe.

Productive laptops in 2023 combine two types of video cards: built-in and discrete. This variability allows the laptop to connect the most suitable type of device to work. For example, when powered from the network, the gadget activates a discrete card, and when using a laptop “in the fields” it selects the built-in one so that the battery retains its charge longer. Also, “smart” switching of a laptop depends on the user’s tasks: if you play, the discrete video card works, while at the same time you listen to music, the built-in one works.

Conclusion

If you are going to use a laptop as a gaming device or a work unit for solving complex tasks, you need to take care of finding a good video card. At the same time, modern models of video cards for laptops have similar properties as devices on desktop computers. Therefore, finding a high-quality new generation device in a fairly compact version will not be difficult.

Storage device

The hard drive is where almost all of your data is stored. Today there are two types of storage devices: HDD and SSD. Depending on their characteristics, the safety of information on the laptop depends: photos, videos, music, documents and applications.

The only thing that is no longer stored on removable media in new laptop models is the operating system code, software platforms and drivers. Manufacturers install built-in memory under them for security.

HDD

The traditional version of a hard drive is HDD. It is a metal plate with a magnetic coating and non-volatile storage. When the computer starts, the magnetic head reads information or, conversely, writes it. This bulky design is more often used today on budget laptop models.

Due to the moving mechanisms and complex design, the HDD is considered short-lived. The likelihood of losing files when using it is higher than with an SSD. And yet, in order to store a large amount of information, it is easier to use a HDD, the memory of which is several times cheaper.

SSD

Or solid state drives – an improved type of hard drive that modern laptops are equipped with. The same drives are installed in smartphones and tablets.

They work on the principle of a removable USB drive. Another way to call them is simply “flash drive”. That is, in such a hard drive there is no complex system of interaction between the spinning disk and the reading mechanism. SSDs use semiconductors that store data by changing the electrical state of circuits.

Until recently, this type of hard drive was expensive to produce, but is now rapidly becoming cheaper. It is widely used due to its compactness, reliability and speed of operation. When using an SSD, the laptop turns on in almost seconds, transfers files and launches applications. SSD sizes are also being upgraded, becoming more compact. The new M.2 drives come in lengths as short as 42mm, 60mm, 80mm and 120mm.

But it has several drawbacks: some budget SSD options store only 128 or 256 GB, while drives with more than 1 TB of memory are rare. In addition, SSDs have a limited lifespan, so they are considered short-lived. Although new systems still let the user know when the device’s service life is coming to an end.

Conclusion

For the modern user, there are several factors to consider when choosing a drive: how often he works, whether he prefers the speed of the device or large storage, and what he will do. Demanding users should opt for an SSD drive because of its convenience, but, perhaps, it is more rational to store information not only on solid drives, but also use cloud servers and removable storage.

operating system

This is a set of programs that maintain the computer, continuously launch and regulate processes for its normal operation. Computers can be equipped with different sets of such applications, called an operating system. Existing operating systems may differ in security systems, code, or program compatibility. Each of them has its pros and cons:

Windows

A family of proprietary operating systems from Microsoft. Most computers today are equipped with this OS.

• Windows supports most programs and games, making it a good choice for gamers and business users;
• Has a large community of users, which makes it easier to get help and solve problems;
• The Windows interface is familiar and easy to learn;
• Easy to install yourself due to intuitive settings.

However, this OS cannot boast of good security. The company has to pay for its popularity with constant updates to its security system, which has recently become the most vulnerable. In addition, the price for a licensed basic version of Windows 11 has become expensive.

MacOS

The operating system is closed source and based on Unix. MacOS is developed by Apple for its company’s computers and laptops. Other devices are not allowed to use it. Currently the system only supports Intel processors.

• Known for stability and security thanks to Apple’s strong control over hardware and software;
• Optimized for Mac hardware for superior performance;
• If you have other Apple devices, such as iPhone and iPad, macOS integrates with them.

Although MacOS is positioned as a free system, due to the price segment of Apple devices, the price for it will be higher than for similar laptops with Windows. The main disadvantage of using MacOS is its limited compatibility with different types of software, as well as games.

Linux and other options

It is an open source Unix-like operating system. You can find dozens of similar variations or distributions on the market. For example, the Russian development of Astra Linux.

• Many of its distributions (such as Ubuntu) are free;
• The OS allows you to customize the system to suit your needs and provides access to many free applications and development tools.

Linux OS has become widespread mainly on smartphones and tablets. And although many programs continue to be actively adapted for this OS, a limited number of people use Linux.

Conclusion

The choice of operating system depends on individual preferences. Fans of Apple technology will most likely choose MacOS due to the compatibility of the devices. If you need more advanced use of the operating system, it is better to consider the latest version of Windows. If you want to experiment, Linux will do – it’s a flexible, free and secure system.

Screen

The choice of screen determines the health of your eyes and the comfort of using your laptop. Glare, poor viewing angle, low detail and dimness – these are the things that should not be present in a modern device. In-depth settings and the ability to use a laptop without additional protection, such as computer glasses, on the contrary, are important aspects that are worth paying attention to.

Diagonal

A laptop screen of 13-15 inches is a more optimal and universal size. They are easy to use without straining your eyesight and easy to carry with you. Such models are suitable for study and portable work.

A screen of 15-17 inches or more is suitable for multimedia and entertainment, for example, comfortable watching a movie. Together with a good matrix, professional work will be comfortable. This size can be convenient for creating videos, doing 3D modeling, where a large working space is important.

Conclusion: Choosing a screen size depends on your personal preferences and specific needs. If you carry your laptop frequently and value portability, then the medium size may be the ideal choice. If a large workspace is important to you or you want to get the most out of multimedia content, then a large screen is better.

Technology

IPS is the choice for those who value color accuracy and the ability to comfortably view from different angles. Such screens provide good image quality. Despite the higher cost compared to alternatives such as TN and VA, IPS is the best choice among budget options.

VA is a matrix with outstanding contrast and deep color reproduction, but it is inferior to IPS in color accuracy. Suitable for those looking for a balance between image quality and budget, as they usually cost a little less than IPS.

OLED/AMOLED – premium and high-quality matrix. These screens are renowned for their natural blacks and powerful low-light performance. OLED screens provide bright, clear images and more energy efficiency. However, the cost of laptops with OLED screens will be significantly higher.

Conclusion

The laptop screen may also have specialized options, such as high brightness, technology for increasing contrast in films, TV series and games, and HDR. Focus on your needs and the availability of different options in the models. If you plan to spend a lot of time on your laptop, look for the Flicker-free mark (flicker reduction technology), if you like to control touches, choose a laptop with a touch screen.

Additional options

To make using your laptop more comfortable, you need to pay attention to additional options:

Interfaces

USB-C: Supports fast charging and data transfer.

HDMI: For connecting to an external monitor or projector.

USB-A: For connecting standard devices.

Communication protocols

Wi-Fi 6 – this version of a wireless Internet connection provides high Internet speed. This standard technology provides speeds of up to 1148 Mbit/s in the 2.4 GHz band, and up to 4804 Mbit/s in the 5 GHz band.

Bluetooth 5.0 – supports the connection of wireless devices, has high capacity and speed of information transfer, as well as a high-quality signal.

Battery and power supply

Most modern laptops have built-in lithium-ion batteries. Apple products are equipped with lithium polymer batteries. The main parameter that is worth paying attention to is the battery capacity. The battery life of the device depends on it. The higher the capacity, the larger it is. It is also worth paying attention to the presence of a fast charging mode so that the laptop can quickly charge if necessary.

Housing materials

Aluminum and plastic are mainly used in the production of laptops. Each material has its pros and cons:

• Plastic is usually a mixture of ABS and polycarbonate. This is a lightweight and relatively durable material, but it heats up quickly and squeaks in some assemblies;
• Aluminum is strong, dissipates heat, and is lighter than plastic. The downside is that laptops in this version are produced much less frequently and are usually more expensive.

• Fingerprint login and facial recognition

  Biometric authentication ensures the security of your data and ease of login. Its presence is a sign of a modern laptop.

  Water and dust protection

  The IP rating indicates the degree of protection from external factors. This is important for laptops used in environments where there may be contact with liquid or dust.

  Conclusion

  These seemingly little things are these additional options, but they play a decisive role when purchasing a device. The presence of useful options in modern gadgets is about comfort. But sometimes just high-quality material can please you.

  Features of choosing a laptop for various use scenarios

  The laptop must also be selected based on usage scenarios:

  To kid

  • The laptop must be strong so that it does not break during a fall;
  • You will need a loud speaker to watch videos and cartoons;
  • Have an unusual design and color.

  For an adult for work and the Internet

  • You will need a powerful processor for multitasking;
  • Comfortable keyboard and touchpad;
  • Built-in high-resolution camera and microphone for online business meetings.

  For schoolchildren and students to study

  • The laptop should be light and compact for easy portability;
  • The screen is equipped with vision saving functions;
  • For abstracts and presentations, an integrated video card and a simple processor are suitable;
  • There is a fingerprint sensor, a good camera and a microphone for remote classes.

  To an elderly person

  • Ease of use and clear interface;
  • Intuitive OS and easy access to basic functions;
  • Bright and high-quality screen for easy reading and viewing photos.

  For games

  • Powerful processor and discrete graphics card to run modern games;
  • Fast screen with high refresh rate for smooth display of quick actions;
  • High-quality cooling system to prevent overheating.

  For design, graphics and video work

  • Powerful processor and discrete graphics card;
  • Working with resource-intensive programs;
  • Large and high quality screen;
  • High resolution and accurate color reproduction.

Expert review on choosing a laptop

Alexander Vorfolomeev , head of technical support at Selecty Group, and Evgeniy Rybkin , product marketing manager for the TECNO brand, share recommendations for choosing a laptop .

Alexander Vorfolomeev:

“When choosing a gadget for standard tasks – undemanding games and programs like Photoshop or Microsoft – a mid-priced laptop is suitable. First of all, there must be a sufficient amount of RAM from 16 GB and a fast processor, for example, Intel Core i5 1135G7 2.4 GHz. Another important point is the presence of an SSD, this increases the speed of working with data.

As for the screen resolution and matrix, in this case these parameters are secondary and are selected based on the user’s preferences. But you should still give priority to IPS, since it is more convenient and modern.”

Evgeny Rybkin:

“The first thing I pay attention to when choosing a device is the processor and RAM. Some actions require good performance from the laptop; it’s even trivial to open and keep 30-40 tabs open. An Intel i7 and 16GB of RAM are standard for me, although an Intel i5 processor will do just fine for most day-to-day tasks.

Next are the dimensions and weight, which are influenced by the screen size and case material. On the one hand, you need a larger screen to comfortably work with documents and several tabs at once. On the other hand, I want a laptop that is not too big and heavy, so that it can be easily carried with you. The 15.6-inch screen was a compromise, and my current laptop weighs less than 1.5 kg because it is made of light metal (magnesium alloy).”

Popular questions and answers

Popular questions from readers about choosing a laptop are answered by Alexander Vorfolomeev , head of technical support at Selecty Group, and Evgeny Rybkin , product marketing manager of the TECNO brand.