Most people shop for a laptop the wrong way round. They start with processors and model numbers and end up lost. Start with how you will use it, and the choice gets short quickly.
Step 1: Set a budget
Laptops fall into rough price bands.
| Budget | What you get |
|---|---|
| Under $500 | Chromebooks and basic Windows laptops for browsing, documents and video |
| $500 to $1,000 | Good everyday laptops with 16 GB of memory and all-day batteries |
| $1,000 to $1,800 | Premium thin laptops and capable gaming laptops |
| Over $1,800 | High-end gaming laptops and machines for video and 3D work |
Prices rose during 2026 because memory and storage became more expensive, so expect a little less for your money than a year ago.
Step 2: Pick a size
- 13 to 14 inches. The best choice if you carry the laptop every day. Usually 1.1 to 1.5 kg.
- 15 to 16 inches. More screen for spreadsheets, editing and games. Usually 1.6 to 2.4 kg.
- 17 to 18 inches. Desk machines that move occasionally.
Step 3: Choose an operating system
- Windows runs the widest range of software and games, on laptops at every price.
- macOS runs only on Apple laptops. It is polished and efficient, with fewer games.
- ChromeOS is simple and cheap, and works best when most of what you do is in a browser.
Check that the software you need runs on the system you choose. This matters most for specialist tools in engineering, accounting and some university courses.
Step 4: Check the six parts
These are the same six parts we score in every review.
- Processor performance. A current mid-range chip is enough for office work and study.
- Graphics. Only pay for a dedicated graphics chip if you play games, edit video or do 3D work.
- Display. Look for IPS or OLED, at least 300 nits, and a resolution of 1920 x 1200 or higher.
- Battery life. Trust independent tests over the manufacturer’s claim.
- Build quality. Metal bodies, a firm hinge and a comfortable keyboard make a laptop pleasant to keep for years.
- Ports and upgrades. Count the ports you actually use and check whether memory and storage can be replaced.
For exact numbers, see the specifications of a good laptop and how much RAM you need.
Step 5: Read the review and the score that fits you
Every review on Laptop1 gives an overall score and separate scores for gaming, work and students, plus a value score that takes price into account. Use the one that matches your reason for buying. The methodology page explains how they are calculated.
Common mistakes
- Buying 8 GB of memory in a Windows laptop to save a little money.
- Paying for a powerful graphics chip you will never use.
- Ignoring weight, then leaving the laptop at home.
- Assuming you can add memory later without checking.
- Trusting the battery figure on the box.