At one point or the other, there will be the need to use a laptop, and like any other asset, the decision as to which one to get is not an easy one.
Most often than not, when someone asks me which laptop is best them, I always do not know which answer to give them.
There are too many different types of laptops, and different price categories to suit them. However, we do give people a checklist that they should consider before splurging on a new device.
The truth is that there are too many different types of laptops (MacBooks are excluded in this discussion), coupled with different price categories to suit them.
However, we do give people a checklist that they should consider before splurging on a new device. If you intend to buy from Tonaton or OLX, read this guide on how to remain safe in the process.
However, I am of the view that your choice of a laptop should largely depend on your immediate and future needs.
When you clearly know what your needs are (what you will be using the laptop for), you just have to check them against available choices and see which one works best for you.
Let’s look at the 3 Key Performance Indices I always consider before buying a laptop for myself or someone else
Performance is key! The RAM, CPU and Battery Power of your laptop will make you love or hate it.
RAM
You need at least 4GB of RAM or more to get the best out of your laptop. A lot of RAM means that your PC can run more applications without facing problems. For designers and photo editors and all other “heavy users”, at least 8 Gig of RAM is recommended.
CPU
CPUs are probably the first thing I would look out for. The least you should opt for, no matter what your needs are is a Core i3. There are Core i5, and Core i7 CPUs too. The higher the CPU, the better the performance when it comes to multitasking and multimedia tasks and processing your stuff.
Battery Life
Finally is the battery life of the laptop. A normal Laptop, under normal usage and 50% brightness level should be able to last for at least 3 hours. A low battery life is a compromise when dealing with a used laptop (I don’t believe in slightly used). Remember, a laptop is supposed to be portable. Without a good battery, you might as well refer to it as a lightweight desktop.
Recommendations for buying a laptop in Ghana
I make these recommendations based on needs. Let’s take four categories of people: a University Student, an Accountant, a Designer and a Gamer
A University Student
For a student at the University, who would be dealing with assignments, there is not the need for a much “monster” laptop. A Core-i3 processor laptop with 4GB Ram would be perfect. Don’t be tricked into buying anything less than an i3.
An Accountant
Accountants and other regular workers normally run customised software. A Core i5 with 4GB or 6GB ram is best for optimal performance.
A Designer
Photo and Video Editors, Animators, need an i7 and 16 GB of Ram. It’s non-negotiable!
