Finding the right laptop is no easy challenge. With so many models on the market, it’s easy to get bogged down in technical jargon. There’s no single model that will suit everyone, because we all have different priorities. What’s important is finding a laptop that works for you. A new laptop can be a major investment, so you won’t want to make any mistakes, but being such a personal decision, you’ll want to find the laptop with the right specifications. Ask yourself, what are your priorities and go from there. Once you have established what is important to your needs, you are a step closer to finding that perfect laptop. Here are a selected number of top picks to get you started.
Budget – HP Pavilion 15 TouchSmart
If money is an issue, you can still get a fantastic machine at a reasonable price. Most of us don’t need a massive amount of processing power, so a simple machine with a mid-range processor can offer enough power for the average user on a budget. HP’s Pavilion 15 TouchSmart is a good all-rounder that offers good value for money.
Portable – Lenovo ThinkPad S431 Touch
If you’re on the move and like to take your laptop with you, you’ll need a lightweight model that’s easy to carry. Laptops don’t necessarily have to be heavy and cumbersome. In fact, many newer models are putting convenience and weight over processing power. Ultrabooks are lighter, low powered versions of a full sized laptop. A model like the Lenovo ThinkPad S431 Touch is an excellent combination of value and performance and the perfect choice for any commuter.
Big screen – Dell XPS 15
Laptop screens have got a lot bigger in recent years and that’s great news for any movie fanatic. If you love watching movies, you’ll love the huge screen of the Dell XPS 15, a slim notebook with a stunning 3,200 x 1,800 touch screen.
Gaming – Alienware 18
If you’re a serious gamer and money is no object, you’ll need a high-end laptop connected to broadband that has the capability to handle high performance. Fortunately, the Alienware 18 from Dell is an exciting machine for any gamer. Despite its bulky frame and hefty price tag, this laptop is the gamer’s dream, offering smooth graphics and flawless gameplay.
Speed – Apple MacBook Pro
Anyone who works with video or graphics will know that performance is essential for professionals. With its spectacular screen and high performing processor, graphics and battery, the Apple MacBook Pro stands head and shoulders above the rest for being the laptop that delivers on speed and design.
Battery life – Lenovo Thinkpad X240
There’s nothing worse than your laptop battery going dead on a long flight, but you can buy some models that can compensate for lengthy journeys with a long battery life. The Lenovo Thinkpad X240 has an astonishing 20 hour battery life that makes it a reliable and convenient choice for business users.
Touchscreen – Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 2
If you’re looking for a laptop with the added convenience of touch screen capabilities, then you’ll love the new hybrid laptops. With a lid that can fold back to turn it into a tablet, the Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 2 is a step ahead of the rest, with its high resolution touch screen at an affordable price.