Buying a laptop can be as easy as picking a popular model from a top brand. However, that laptop may not fulfill all the purposes for which it was bought. The right device can help one meet one’s productivity and entertainment expectations. Whether one is a student, a professional, or a gamer, buying a laptop needs a lot of thought and consideration. This includes avoiding some of the common mistakes when buying a new laptop.

Paying too much for the laptop
It is easy to assume that the higher the price tag on a laptop, the better will be its quality. However, having an expensive laptop is not always necessary to get the best experience. Often, high-end laptops have expensive components that a user may not need. So they may end up paying a lot for something they eventually don’t need. To avoid this mistake, determine the purpose for which the laptop is needed. Make a list of things for which the laptop will be used. Then, set up an approximate budget and stick to it.

Buying the cheapest laptop
Just like buying an overpriced laptop would be a mistake, opting for the most low-priced one is also a blunder that must be avoided. A laptop with the lowest price can be too basic for several functions. It may seem like a bargain initially, but once the laptop starts working, it may not meet one’s daily expectations. To avoid this mistake, avoid falling for offers and sales that drastically cut the price. Make sure to do proper research regarding the performance of the laptop, user reviews, and price points from several competing retailers.

Overlooking the size of the laptop
Potential laptop buyers often neglect the size of the laptop. Smaller laptops are usually preferred since they are more portable and lightweight. However, smaller laptops have smaller screens, keyboards, and touchpads. This means it can be quite cumbersome to do day-to-day work for long hours on such laptops. For those who have to do a lot of data-based work or need to use the keyboard most of the time for their work, a smaller keyboard would be an incorrect choice.

On the contrary, buying a large-screen laptop is not advisable for those who tend to move around a lot. So, before buying a laptop, pay attention to its size. Check whether the keyboard, screen, touchpad, and weight of the laptop are suitable for daily use and work.

Ignoring the battery capacity
Unlike desktop computers, a laptop is meant to be portable and cordless. The only time it needs to be connected is when charging the battery. This means the less it needs to be wired, the better. However, if the laptop’s battery capacity is not adequate for the system, it won’t charge quickly. Besides this, one must ensure the battery doesn’t need frequent charging. This can be quite inconvenient and disrupt work and productivity. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid the mistake of ignoring the charging and discharging capacity of the battery.

Not checking if there are enough ports
One may come across a laptop with good features at a comparatively low price, but closer inspection shows a need for more ports on the device. Some manufacturers provide just a couple of ports to cut down the size and cost of the laptop. While these may seem easier on the pocket, they aren’t adequate for individuals who simultaneously connect multiple devices to the laptop. Therefore, to avoid this blunder, check the number of ports available on the laptop. Determine whether these many ports will be sufficient to carry out the tasks for which the laptop is being purchased. Generally, a laptop must have at least three USB ports, one ethernet port, one video output port, and combination ports for microphone and headphone jacks.

Ignoring customer feedback and user reviews
Potential laptop buyers may simply rely on the manufacturer’s marketing to make a decision. However, this is a mistake that can lead to buying the wrong laptop. To get a comprehensive and honest opinion about a laptop, it is important to know what other users have experienced. These reviews on impartial platforms will give a better understanding of whether the manufacturer’s claims really stand the ground.

Skipping on testing the laptop
While it is important to research various options by looking at online reviews, customer feedback, and buyer’s guides, depending on them alone would be a mistake. Along with thorough research, testing out the laptop before purchasing it is crucial. A hands-on experience with the laptop will give a lot of clarity regarding its functionalities, features, keyboard comfort, screen quality, touchpad responsiveness, battery life, and weight. This will help one make an informed decision while buying the right laptop.

Aside from avoiding these mistakes, one must also ensure the laptop is bought from a reputed website or brick-and-mortar shop for reliable service.