Laptop buying guide: 5 things to know before investing

Thinking of investing in a new laptop? I assume you are if you clicked through to read this article. They come in a variety of sizes, features and prices, making choosing the best a challenge.

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That’s why you need to understand what your needs are. I’ve put together this laptop buying guide to help narrow down your options.

No matter what model you get, laptops are expensive. (Kurt Knutsson)

1. Don’t let price be the deciding factor

No matter what model you get, laptops are expensive. With this in mind, some people will immediately choose the cheapest option. Conversely, others may do the opposite and go for the most expensive model, assuming that anything this expensive must be the best.

No matter which side of the coin you may be on, choosing a laptop based on price alone is almost guaranteed to end in disappointment.

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Budget laptops come with minimal space and, without some features needed for your work, may not be the right fit.

While the more expensive ones often include features you will never have, as well as an abundance of memory that will remain unfilled.

Instead of choosing less or more expensive, you should instead:

Set a maximum budget Evaluate your current needs and the things you hope your new model will have Find a device that handles all or most of your needs and is still within your budget

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2. Always try before you buy

Whether you’re a first-time laptop owner or just upgrading to a newer device, giving your new computer a test drive is always a good idea before you decide to buy it.

It’s important to note that almost all brick-and-mortar tech stores, including the Apple Store, Microsoft Store, and Best Buy allow you to test their devices. This will enable you to:

See if the features are to your liking Get a feel for the keyboard, touchpad and interface Make sure it’s the size and weight you’re looking for

If the store, for some reason, won’t let you try it on, or if you buy it online, double check the return policy before you buy and make sure it’s reasonable.

3. Be careful about compatibility

One of the more common mistakes when buying a laptop is not double checking port compatibility. Today, most laptops use USB-C ports, while you may still have some devices that use USB-A ports.

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True, this incompatibility problem can be solved by buying a dongle. However, instead of spending more money, it’s a good idea to check that your computer’s ports are compatible with most of the devices you know you’ll be using.

It’s a good idea to check that your computer’s ports are compatible with most devices you know you’ll be using. (Kurt Knutsson)

4. Plan for the long term

Just like making a decision based purely on price, don’t rush into buying a laptop based on your current needs because you’ll want your computer to last at least a few years. So, before making the purchase, it is always wise to:

Take a look at your current device’s storage and features Determine how much of its apps and services you’re using.

You don’t necessarily need to get the most advanced and updated model; however, you should always buy one that will at least be an upgrade over your current device and allow you to grow for all your future needs.

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5. Size matters

You should always think about Goldilocks when choosing a laptop. Depending on your taste, some may be too big, others too small, leaving you wanting the “right” model for you.

This can be determined very quickly by several factors:

Whether you’ll be using it more on the go or at home Where you plan to use it and/or what you plan to carry Your visibility and writing requirements.

Suppose you plan to use your laptop almost exclusively at home. In that case, a rugged device measuring 15 inches or larger will likely suit your needs better, as long as you have space on your desk or wherever you plan to work.

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These devices may not fit in your backpack or carrier of choice, and if they weigh around 10 pounds, your shoulders won’t thank you.

If you work on the go more often, a smaller device, measuring around 11 inches or larger, may be more desirable. However, as said before you buy, it’s best to try it out first, as you may find yourself having trouble typing on the smaller keyboard; Making a device lying somewhere in the middle is the best way.

If you work on the go more often, a smaller device, measuring around 11 inches or larger, may be more desirable. (Kurt Knutsson)

Of course, the most significant overall mistake someone can make when buying a new laptop is to decide based on just one factor. It is essential to consider your multiple needs and reasons for purchasing before making your final decision. By considering these five factors, you’re guaranteed to bring home a device that will keep you happy for the foreseeable future.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning technology journalist who has a deep love for technology, gadgets and gadgets that make life better with his contributions to Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends”. Have a tech question? Get Kurt’s CyberGuy newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.