Since the coronavirus outbreak, laptop has been more important than ever for students. Aside from completing assignments, the laptop is used to handle various hobbies, such as streaming movies, playing video games, and being connected to social media. With so many options, deciding which one to buy might be tricky, but it will be a lot easier if you identify what is needed from the laptop. We have listed some of the specifications you will need, which could make or break your study.
Operating System
First, you must decide which operating system will work best for you. There are four main operating systems with Windows being one of the most common nowadays. With the newly released Windows 11, there are new features that are both exciting and easier to use. This is the best option if you require Microsoft applications such as Microsoft Office. In addition, more Windows laptops are available than any other operating system.
If you do not require Microsoft Office, you can install Linux on almost every laptop hardware ever built. The drawback is that popular software such as Microsoft Office and Adobe’s Creative Suite will not work. However, there are free and open-source alternatives, such as LibreOffice and Darktable. Apple’s macOS is also worth a try since it is easier to use than Windows. In fact, if you own an iPhone or iPad, it is the best option because you’ll receive many benefits from the ecosystem. Your final option is Chrome OS, which can do most of your tasks in a web browser.
Processor and RAM
After you decide on the operating system, check out the processor. Often known as the chip or the CPU, laptop processors are primarily manufactured by two companies: Intel and AMD. The Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, and Core i9 processors are the most popular from Intel. The Core i3 processor is the least powerful, while the Core i9 processor is the most powerful. The AMD Ryzen 5000 and Ryzen 7000 series are enough for basic tasks if you want to try AMD. If you intend to use your laptop for school and light gaming, an Intel Core i3 or AMD A-series A6 would suffice. Laptops with Intel Core i5, Intel Core i7, or AMD A10 CPUs are only suitable if you do a lot of programming or use visual software.
On the other hand, RAM or random-access memory, is used to store data while the processor is running. If you run out of RAM, you will not be able to open any more browser tabs or finish your job. Your laptop will eventually freeze and need to be restarted. Most laptops now include 4GB of RAM, which is enough for regular use of Microsoft Office and web browsing. If you have an extra budget, consider 8GB of RAM because, with more RAM, multitasking between demanding apps become easier. Other than that, check to see if the RAM is connected to the motherboard before purchase. If this occurs, you will be unable to upgrade the RAM.
Storage
From presentation slides to final reports, students have a lot to store which is why you need to think carefully about how much storage space you require. Of course, you can always keep all the necessary files on cloud storage or web apps. However, having plenty of local storage space to match your needs is crucial too. You will need 500GB or more if you want to install a large number of programmes or keep a huge number of large media files.
Additionally, you will need more space if you want to install graphically demanding games. It is also worth noting that storage has an impact on performance. If you choose a hard drive because it offers more storage for less money, keep in mind that it will be substantially slower than a snappy-feeling solid-state drive (SSD). The good news is that you can always purchase an external hard drive with a higher storage capacity.
Battery
A laptop’s battery is just as necessary as its processor and RAM. To determine the capacity of the laptop’s battery, take a look at the rating. Most of the time, it is labelled as a 3-cell, 6-cell, or 9-cell, and this information is usually available on the manufacturer’s website. Laptops like Asus and Dell, for example, use a 9-cell battery that may last between four to seven hours.
As a student, you will not always have the chance to recharge your laptop once you leave for class. Therefore, it is best to opt for a laptop that boasts eight hours of battery life or more. If detachable batteries are available, consider purchasing two of them so you may swap them if the first one fails. However, if you have enough time during the day to charge the laptop, battery life should not be an issue for you. Simply keep the screen brightness as low as possible and avoid gaming until you have completed all your tasks for the day.