This million-dollar question is asked by students at the start of every new semester. What kind of laptop should you buy? Technology has evolved from early room-sized and desktop computers to laptops, but it does not stop there: there are now different technical specifications under different operating systems under different brands. Not every computer suits everyone. Here are some tips to choose a laptop wisely in terms of cost, practicality, and your own intended usage.
General laptop tips
The first aspect to take into consideration is portability: weight and size. A common complaint from students relates to the impracticality of carrying a large and/or heavy computer around with them. Generally there is little need for a large laptop unless it is primarily used for graphic or visual arts, work which involves the need for viewing multiple windows at a time, extensive gaming, or an extensive battery life (larger laptops will often allow for a larger physical battery). The same circumstances apply to storage and memory: [i] if the laptop is primarily used for graphic design or filmmaking, stronger core specifications or upgrading to a MacBook may be worth the investment. Otherwise, the standard laptop features can be found in a broad spectrum of costs.
Chromebooks
A Chromebook runs on Chrome OS (Google’s operating system) so it relies heavily on the internet in order to run. Generally, Chromebooks have limited technical specs and hardware capabilities compared to typical laptops, but the benefits include longer battery life, the familiarity and security of the new operating system itself, and a lower cost. The operating system is like having the Google Chrome browser as the desktop, and, since that itself is already a web application, Chromebooks need to have access to the internet in order to have optimal use. There are very few applications that can be used without Wi-Fi, but the purpose of a Chromebook is not for extensive software use. The battery life for these computers averages around 8.5 hours– all for a starting cost of $250 [ii].
Apple products
Apple products are known for their longevity and productivity when they are used wisely and carefully. Since there are so many brands of PCs to choose from, Apple computers are a good place to start anew, with the Mac operating system (OS), different software, and freedom of personalization. Even though the Mac OS is a different environment from the traditional Windows OS, procedures such as installing/uninstalling programs, taking screenshots, and handling document settings are made to be intuitive and easy to understand. Apple assembles their own hardware, has unique software, and also offers customer service for all their products [iii]. Owning multiple Apple products (e.g. a MacBook and an iPhone/iPad) can make life easier, too, as the devices work together to sync files, email and even music for optimal compatibility. For students, if you own both an iPad and a MacBook, you can work on assignments and papers on both devices to increase productivity.
Hybrids
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 is an example of a hybrid device: it is both a laptop and a tablet with all the functionality of each [iv]. When compared to a MacBook, the technical specs and cost are around the same [v] but with the added flexibility and portability of a tablet. It is a well-balanced machine to use for home and school. While MacBooks have splendid graphics for videos, games and design, the hybrid features of the Surface Pro 4 make it a more even match.
Final advice
There is a laptop out there for everyone, but not every laptop is a fit for everybody. Students are advised to assess why they need a laptop and what are they going to use it for. Perhaps you need it for something as intensive as graphic design and coding, or as simple as writing papers and theses on a word processor. Convenience, comprehensiveness, and compatibility are all important things to consider to find the ideal solution for your success. For any other questions and concerns you have, you can always make use of the customer service at every computer store or brand, whether it be Apple, Dell or another company, to get help before making the final decision.
[i] “Laptops Buying Guide.” Laptop Buying Guide. Best Buy. Web. October 15. 2015. <http://www.bestbuy.com/site/buying-guides/laptop-buying-guide/pcmcat310900050007.c?id=pcmcat310900050007>
[ii] “Meet Chromebook.” Chrome. Google. Web. October 16. 2015. <http://www.google.ca/intl/en/chrome/devices/features/>
[iii] “Sync your iPhone, iPad and iPod touch with iTunes using Wi-Fi.” Apple (Canada). Apple. Web. October 16. 2015. <https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT203075>
[iv] “Surface Pro 4.” Microsoft Store. Microsoft. Web. October 20. 2015 <http://www.microsoftstore.com/store/msusa/en_US/pdp/productID.325711500?icid=en_US_SurfaceP4_cat_modF_100615>
[v] “Compare Mac Models.” Apple (Canada). Apple. Web. October 20. 2015 <http://www.apple.com/mac/compare/>
[vi] [4 Laptops]. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://cnet2.cbsistatic.com/img/C3RPtt8a_n1be4azT8jokd9vhsM=/1600x900/2016/07/21/d90577a0-8dc3-426a-889f-b3c29bbc9b17/4-laptops-dan-02.jpg
