How to buy the best laptop

When you're shopping for a laptop, it's important to remember that it's more than just the size or speed that counts.

Finding the right model to suit your needs and price range involves a whole lot of other considerations too, which is where we come in.

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Different types of laptop

The terms laptop and notebook tend to be used interchangeably as a general description. But you can break these down into smaller sub-categories, though they're not always mutually exclusive.

For example, an ultraportable can also be a convertible (2-in-1) which works as both a laptop and a tablet. Also, many devices that are designed as tablets can also work as laptops if you add a keyboard. Some are specifically designed for this, such as several models in Microsoft's Surface range.

Notebook (aka laptop)

The general term for a full-sized laptop that strikes a balance between portability and functionality. These can vary greatly in overall size and specification – processor speed, storage capacity, memory (RAM) and screen size. They range in price from low-cost budget models to high-performance productivity and gaming models.

Ultraportable

Thin, light laptops designed for mobility are often described as ultraportable (also sometimes called a sub-notebook). Maintaining a super-slim profile means they have to cut out some features such as larger connection ports and reduce the number of connection ports. The smallest models weigh about a kilogram.

Ultrabook

Ultrabook is a term coined by computer chipmaker Intel for a special type of ultraportable notebook (hence Ultrabook). Ultrabooks must meet specific criteria for various things such as size/weight, battery life, type of chipset (including built-in security features). Among their strong points is strong security and anti-theft protection built in at the hardware level. Although the original MacBook Air is regarded as the inspiration for the Ultrabook class, it's not actually an Ultrabook.

Chromebook

Chromebooks run the ChromeOS (which is based on Linux) operating system. These are designed to work primarily with web apps and data being saved to the Cloud rather than on the laptop itself. Apps need to be downloaded from the Chrome Web Store. Recent model Chromebooks can also run Android apps. Chromebooks are popular in some schools, and even corporate groups, as many cheaper models are available and their minimal configuration offers easier centralised administration and security.

MacBook

Apple's laptop computers come in two families – the ultra-thin 13-inch MacBook Air, and the MacBook Pro in 13-inch, 14-inch and 16-inch sizes). They all run the macOS operating system. The latest versions of the MacBook have abandoned Intel's platform and now run on Apple's own M1 chipset (as does the Mac Mini), which integrates everything on a single chip. This gives Apple total control of tight integration of hardware and software, which has resulted in significant boosts in speed and battery life.

Convertible (2-in-1)

These combine the features of a laptop and a tablet. They're also known as 2-in-1 laptops or hybrids. They can quickly switch between touchscreen tablet mode and traditional keyboard mode, transforming in a variety of ways, including detaching, sliding, twisting and fold-back mechanisms. Most models now use the fold-back method, though a few still have detachable screens.

Tablet as a laptop

Just as convertible laptops can do double-duty as a tablet, some tablets can be used as a laptop with the addition of a detachable keyboard. Most notable for this are Windows-based tablets such as Microsoft's own Surface Pro series and smaller Surface Go, which really benefit from having a keyboard as they use the Windows operating system. However, unlike a 2-in-1, they can quickly be used in tablet mode without the added weight and bulk of a keyboard. Tablets such as the iPad and iPad Pro also have optional detachable keyboards and can be used as a laptop, though they use Apple's iPadOS operating system and work best with apps that support laptop functionality. Samsung also has several tablets that can add an optional keyboard to work as a laptop, using either Windows or Android OS depending on the model.

Netbook

Netbook was the name of a class of small and cheap laptop PCs designed for internet-connected computing (hence the name "netbook"). These small laptops were for several years very popular because they were relatively cheap, but the trade-off was they were also slow and the cost-cutting showed in many ways, particularly in low RAM, CPU-speed and storage. They used Intel's low-powered Intel Atom processor. These days you'll find more-capable replacements in tablets, Ultrabooks and ultraportables, particularly Chromebooks.

Looking for laptops and tablets? We've tested to find you the best. See laptops and tablets review

Entry-level, mid-range or high-end laptop?

Entry-level

If you want a cheap laptop for basic tasks and occasional or lighter use and aren't overly concerned about performance, weight or battery life, you can find sub-$500 "budget" models that will do the job.

These low-cost laptops are relatively low-powered, but capable of general computing tasks such as web browsing, email and general word processing. They can handle most basic multimedia tasks (e.g. standard definition video streaming) and are best suited to casual users and younger students.

Mid-range

If you want to take your laptop with you on-the-go a lot, you'll want something thin, light and easy to carry. Look for an ultraportable (including Ultrabooks).

Mid-range laptops are aimed at regular computer users, families, students and business people, and can run most software and games, but may struggle a bit with high-end work such as intensive video editing and games that require exceptionally fast graphics processing.

High-end

If you want something to give you the processing power of a desktop computer while being transportable with relative ease, look for a powerful (preferably latest-generation) processor and plenty of RAM (at least 16GB). Some high-end models are "gaming laptops" which have a particularly powerful graphics capabilities and a very fast high-resolution screen.

High-end laptops are for serious computer enthusiasts and professionals that like to push their systems with intensive computing tasks including editing video and audio, programming, 3D rendering and high-end games.

Read more: The most reliable laptop brands

Windows, Mac, Linux, Android or Chrome OS?

Operating systems tend to polarise opinion. Ask a room of techies whether you should go with a Windows, Mac, Linux, Android or Chrome OS laptop or tablet and you'll start a heated debate that will go for a long time but nobody will win (though everyone will maintain that they're right).

All systems have their good and bad points, but it's important for you to choose a side, because it affects your software choices and possibly your hardware decisions too. This is definitely the case with Apple products and Chrome OS in particular.

Apple's macOS (formerly called OS X) only runs on Apple's family of computers, while iPadOS only runs on iPads, but they're designed to work seamlessly with Apple's other operating systems: iOS (iPhones), tvOS (Apple TV) and watchOS (Apple Watch).

Chrome OS runs on laptops, mini PC desktops and PC sticks that are specifically designed for it, usually of a relatively lightweight configuration that is meant to be internet-connected most of the time.

Even outside enterprise users, Microsoft's Windows has several versions, with Home being the consumer version, Pro for more serious users and Windows in S mode for lightweight laptops aimed at being an alternative to Chromebooks.

These days Windows and Chrome OS have a much greater degree of interoperability with Android, though not to the same degree as Apple's tightly integrated hardware-software ecosystems.

Android is also outgrowing its phone-centric roots to also be seen as a stand-alone OS for tablets, most notably by Samsung and Lenovo.

Windows

Windows software has the lion's share of the market, with the widest range of programs available. New Windows computers will either come with Windows 10 or the new Windows 11, released in October 2021 and rolling out to PCs across the workd into 2022. Both versions of Windows are designed to work across a wide range of devices including tablets and which comes with touchscreen support built-in. Many older computers that could run Windows 10 are not able to run Windows 11 due to some strict hardware requirements. However, Windows 10 will be supported well into 2025. Windows 11 also includes built-in support for Linux (see below) and Android apps.

macOS

macOS is designed to work specifically with Apple hardware, providing tight integration that offers advantages in ease of use and consistency across programs and other Apple devices such as iPhone and iPad, and the new Apple Silicon-based Macs. Many programs for Windows have macOS versions and many macOS-only programs offer file-format compatibility with Windows programs (so you can open the Mac version of the file using the Windows version of the program that created it). You can install Windows on Intel-based Macs using macOS's built-in installer utility, Boot Camp. This will let you run Windows natively on the Mac hardware without any software emulation, to give you full performance. Intel-based Macs (but not Apple Silicon-based Macs) also let you run Windows OS and programs using virtualisation software such as Parallels Desktop for Mac, VMware's Fusion or Oracle's Virtual Box. These programs also let you install other operating systems such as Linux. Whether you use Boot Camp or a virtualisation program, you'll need to purchase the Windows operating system separately.

Linux

Linux is generally free, as are most Linux programs, and it can run on a wide range of PCs as an alternative to Windows. There are many flavours of Linux, with the most popular being Mint and Ubuntu. While Linux is the top choice of OS for servers, mainframes and supercomputers, it's only on around 2% of desktop PCs and laptops. You can install various flavours of Linux on any decent Windows PC, though few manufacturers and retailers make this option available. For the most part, it's a DIY activity, but it's something that can be done by anybody with a moderate amount of technical knowledge. See our guide on how to get started. There are numerous Linux distributions (popularly called distros) available for Linux free, including several popular ones that have a reputation for being easy to use, such as Mint and Ubuntu in particular. Also, some Linux distros are particularly lightweight and useful for running on older PCs, such as Puppy Linux and Lubuntu. Some are also designed for privacy. Traditionally, you would install Linux on a separate drive or partition, but the Windows now includes a real Linux kernel, rather than just a compatibility layer, called Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). This allows the use of Linux distros available through the Microsoft Store online.

Chrome OS

ChromeOS is the operating system of Chromebooks (laptops and tablets), Chromeboxes (Chrome OS desktop PCs) and Chromebits (USB dongle PCs). Chrome OS is based on Linux and is designed to work primarily with Cloud storage, though some on-device storage can be used for offline work. Perhaps the main limitation is that apps need to be available from the Chrome Web Store, though recent model Chromebooks can also run Android apps, adding an extra layer of versatility. Chrome OS devices are known for simplicity and security (no backup or malware worries), relatively low hardware overhead (CPU etc) and long battery life. Just log in to your Chrome OS device with your Google account and everything is synchronised with the cloud. Chromebooks are popular in some schools, as many cheaper models are available and their minimal configuration offers easier centralised administration and security. Chrome OS laptops can do pretty much everything that most people want to do, without being weighed down by the complexity and excessive add-ons and bundled software that often comes with Windows devices. For more information, go to Google's official Chromebook info page.

What to look for in a laptop

CPU (central processing unit)

This is the brain of your computer. The number of cores, processing power and price range is a good indicator of the overall level of CPU power on offer.

Laptops generally use low-power-consumption CPUs for better battery life.

Be careful in comparing the Intel family of CPUs with those from AMD – their main competitor – as quoted speed figures aren't directly comparable.

The same goes for the sub-families of each brand – for example, Intel Core i3, i5, i7 and i9 are increasingly high performance, even at the same quoted frequency figure in GHz; likewise with the M series processors designed for highly mobile computers. The same goes for AMD's Ryzen series of processors.

Each new generation of processors is usually faster than the previous generation, even at the same chip frequency. Thus, you can expect a 2.4GHz 10th-generation CPU to be faster (and likely more energy efficient) than a 2.4GHz 9th-generation CPU, or earlier generation.

RAM (random access memory)

A lack of RAM will slow your computer when running multiple programs, using a lot of web browser tabs or performing labour-intensive tasks, such as image processing.

Expect a minimum of 4GB (gigabytes) even in a budget Windows system, but ideally aim for at least 8GB for most general-use laptops and 16GB or more for high-end models. Don't skimp on RAM at purchase time as it's likely you may not be able to upgrade/increase it later.

Screen quality

A small screen means a smaller laptop that's generally going to be lighter, but larger (and particularly higher resolution) screens are better for graphics, gaming or watching movies. Regardless of physical size, many lower-cost laptops only have relatively low-resolution screens of 1366 x 768 pixels. Check before buying.

More laptops aimed at the mid-range market have a screen with at least full-HD (1080p, or 1920 x 1080 pixels), but higher resolution screens are available in high-end laptops.

CHOICE tip: Choose a larger screen if you're planning on regularly watching TV or movies on your laptop.

Storage space

Don't underestimate how much space you'll need. Unless you intend to make extensive use of Cloud-only storage, make sure you have enough room for all your current programs and files, as well as the fast-growing collection of videos and music that most people now tend to accumulate.

Laptop memory and storage can be difficult or impossible to upgrade after purchase, so choose a model with enough RAM and SSD storage capacity to last you a long time

These days the solid-state drive (SSD) has replaced hard drives as the preferred storage medium in most laptops, due to falling SSD prices which have made this super-fast storage medium more affordable. Laptops with a traditional hard disk drive (HDD) can still be found in some, usually cheaper, models.

However, an SSD is much faster than a hard drive and having one can lift the overall performance of a laptop considerably, and thus extend its useful working life. For a general-use laptop 128GB is the starting point for an SSD, but we recommend 256GB or more for most users. Also, check if the laptop or tablet can be expanded via a microSD card, which can add up to an additional 1TB of solid-state storage.

CHOICE tip: If you need extra storage, you can always plug in an external portable drive or a high-capacity external hard drive. Many laptops, especially slimline ultraportable models, come with either a 128GB or 256GB SSD, though we consider 256GB the better starting point for a laptop these days.

Many laptops, especially slim-and-light ultraportables, may not allow you to upgrade internal components later, which means it's best not to skimp on RAM (memory) or storage capacity upfront. Look for upgrade options at the time of ordering and spend a bit extra upfront on RAM to give the laptop a longer useful lifetime.

Cooling

Computer components can run hot, especially within the confines of a compact laptop case.

Check for hot spots under the laptop after it's been on for a while, as these can get annoying if you're using your laptop where the name would suggest. Also check for vents under the laptop and make sure you don't block them if using it on your lap, as this could cause it to overheat.

Graphics card

Many laptops will have the graphics processor built into the motherboard (called "on-board graphics"), rather than on a separate ("dedicated") graphics card.

High-end models may have a dedicated graphics card which has its own video RAM.

Power supply

Often called "the brick", this is the block and cord that you use to plug your laptop into a standard wall socket. If your laptop battery won't last long enough for you to leave the brick at home, you'll have to take it with you for recharging, and this can add considerably to the overall weight you have to carry around.

Battery life

Having a long working time between charges is particularly important for an ultraportable. After all, they lose portability points if you have to also carry the power supply unit and cable with you to charge them.

Ideally you want to have a full day of working on-the-go without having to plug it in, but this will depend on what else you have plugged into the laptop drawing power from it.

If you intend to be on the move much of the time, don't get weighed down by having to lug your laptop's power supply unit and cable with you. Look for a model with a long battery life and quick recharge time

You really don't want to have to to carry the external power supply unit and cable with you. Our battery life tests look at a heavy-usage scenario, to give you an idea of the worst results you're likely to get, though for most people the average daily use will give better life.

If you intend to be mobile much of the time, then a long battery life and quick recharge time is important. We also record two charging times for each laptop, with the laptop switched on – up to 80% capacity and to 100% capacity. It's useful to note that charging speed usually drops considerably once you get past 80%. In some cases it can take as long or longer to get the extra 20% top-up as it does to get to 80%.

Looking for portable storage? We've tested to find you the best. See portable storage review

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi speed is important because fewer laptops come with a built-in ethernet port for plugging into your local wired network.

If this is the case, you may be able to purchase a USB-to-ethernet adapter of the same brand or a third-party alternative.

In either case, look for a laptop that supports the current Wi-Fi standard, 802.11ac, now rebranded as Wi-Fi 5. This is backwards-compatible with previous standards including the previously most popular 802.11n, but is much faster.

The emerging standard for newer laptops is Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) which is faster and designed to support more devices than Wi-Fi 5.

USB-C connectivity

Connectivity on laptops these days is all about USB-C, the new low-profile standard that's becoming common on more models. A USB-C plug is slimline and easy to use (there's no "right way up"), but its appearance can be deceptive, as the same-shaped plug is used for several different standards – USB 3.1 Gen-1 and Gen-2 and Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4 and USB 4.

Most USB-C ports will be either USB 3.1 Gen-1 (recently rebranded as USB 3.2 Gen-1) – which is rated at 5Gbps (gigabits per second), the same speed as USB 3.0. The faster (10Gbps) version of this is USB 3.1 Gen-2 (recently rebranded as USB 3.2 Gen-2). There's also USB 3.2 Gen-2x2 (20Gbps). Then there's the blazingly fast (40Gbps) Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4 and USB 4.

Most models will have the slower USB-C ports, but high-performance laptops may have Thunderbolt 3 or the latest Thunderboltt 4 or USB 4. You can plug a USB-C device into a Thunderbolt 3/4, port but don't expect any increase in speed. Plug in a Thunderbolt device, such as an external SSD, and you have the fastest connection in town.

Avoid cheap third-party cables and chargers or you may risk damaging your computer or worse

Even if you don't have a Thunderbolt / USB 4 version of this connection, USB-C is still preferable to the old USB 3.0, because it's becoming widely adopted on computers and plug-in devices and expected to soon become the dominant connection port, eventually replacing the familiar rectangular USB 3.0 (Type-A) ports.

One of the keys to USB-C's swift adoption is its versatility – the same port can transfer both power and data at the same time and it can also mimic a whole range of other ports – including USB 2.0/3.0, SD card, HDMI, ethernet and more – using a USB-C adapter.

However, stick with the manufacturer's cables and avoid cheap third-party cables and chargers or you may risk damaging your computer and peripherals or worse. Use only certified USB-C and Thunderbolt cables.

Read more: How we test laptops and tablets

Australia's best laptop brand

So which brand of laptop should you buy? We've identified the best laptop brand based on our test results for laptops and feedback from our members on their experience with the brand.

As well as testing more than 106 laptops since 2019, we surveyed our members about the laptops they own. We use this data to determine which brands are the most reliable, and which have the best customer satisfaction. This feedback, and our test results, are combined to determine the best laptop brand of 2021.

Best laptop brand for 2021: Apple

Apple is the best laptop brand for the past 12 months. The tech giant beat out the likes of Microsoft, ASUS, Acer, Lenovo, HP and Dell for the top spot, with strong scores in our test results in addition to being a reliable brand with highly satisfied customers.

To find out which specific laptop models we recommend based on our test results, and to make sure you buy the best, click on the 'Recommended' box in the filters section of our laptop reviews.

Best laptop brand 2021 scores

1. Apple – 84%

2. Microsoft – 78%

3. ASUS – 75%

4. Acer – 74%

5. Dell and HP – 71%

5. Lenovo – 70%

It's important to note that the performance of specific product models may vary quite significantly, so don't assume that one brand's products are the best across the many different features, functions and price points.

For comprehensive details on every laptop we've tested, see our laptop reviews.

What are CHOICE Best Brand recommendations?

The Best Brand recommendation for laptops is based on our test results for laptops over the past two years, as well as customer satisfaction and reliability information submitted by CHOICE members on their experience with the brand. The recommendation is given to companies with a clear lead over their competitors during the test period, and no more than two recommendations are given during each period. Best Brand eligibility is tough – to be considered, we must have tested a minimum of five models, and a brand must have received a minimum of 50 responses to the CHOICE member survey. Additionally, brands must score a minimum of 60% and be above the average score for average test score, reliability and satisfaction for consideration. We've named Australia's best brands: Fridges, washing machines, coffee machines, air conditioners, vacuums, ovens and more.

How we calculate the Best Brand laptop

The following criteria determines the Best Brand recommendation. Average test score – 40%

Brand reliability – 30%

Customer satisfaction – 20%

Recommended ratio – 10% Average test score This measures the average score for all laptop models tested in the CHOICE labs for each brand. Our testers assess: how easy it is to use the laptop

how good its battery life is

its performance

the quality of the display screen and audio. For more details, see how we test laptops. Brand reliability More than 6000 CHOICE members took part in our 2020 product reliability survey, and this year, 2817 people told us about their laptops. The brand reliability score is determined based on the proportion of respondents who reported a problem with their laptop in the last 12 months. Customer satisfaction Our survey also asks how satisfied members are with their laptop. So even if a laptop has a fault after six months, it's still possible for it to have a high satisfaction score – perhaps the company has customer service that goes beyond expectations, or the product is simply too good, despite some performance quirks. Recommended ratio In order to be recommended, a laptop must earn a test score of at least 75% overall, with the score made up of ease of use (35%), battery life (20%), performance (20%), display (20%) and audio (5%). We then calculate the percentage of laptops that CHOICE recommends for each brand. The greater the number of models that earn a recommendation in relation to the number of models tested, the higher the recommended ratio score.

Text-only accessible version

Best laptop brand 2021: Apple

Best brand score

Apple 84%

Microsoft 78%

ASUS 75%

Acer 74%

Dell 71%

HP 71%

Lenovo 70%

Average test score

Apple 76%

Microsoft 75%

Acer 74%

ASUS 73%

Dell 73%

HP 71%

Lenovo 70%

Reliability score

Apple 84%

ASUS 75%

HP 75%

Acer 74%

Lenovo 74%

Microsoft 71%

Dell 68%

Customer satisfaction score

Apple 91%

Microsoft 87%

ASUS 82%

HP 82%

Dell 81%

Lenovo 80%

Acer 76%

Recommended ratio

Apple 100%

Microsoft 88%

Acer 69%

ASUS 63%

Dell 56%

Lenovo 33%

HP 38%

Number of models tested (alphabetical)

Acer 13

Apple 11

ASUS 16

Dell 16

HP 16

Lenovo 12

Microsoft 8

Recommended models

Apple 11

ASUS 10

Dell 9

Acer 9

Microsoft 7

HP 6

Lenovo 4

Laptops vs desktop computers

Total computing portability is enticing enough, but what other benefits can a laptop offer?

Energy use

Laptops typically use much less power than a desktop PC. They have a low annual running cost.

Size

A laptop takes up much less space in your home or office than a desktop PC.

Range

Laptops can loosely be classified into several unofficial categories of laptop to suit a variety of needs, though these categories aren't clearly defined. So-called categories can be referred to as ultraportables, all-rounders, multimedia powerhouses, student/budget and gaming laptops.

Performance

Many laptops can match the power of mid-range desktop computers, even in the ultraportable category.

There are several key performance factors you should consider:

CPU (central processing unit) brand and family (e.g. Intel Core i9, or AMD Ryzen chipsets). Also note the generation of the processor family, more recent generations are usually faster.

(central processing unit) brand and family (e.g. Intel Core i9, or AMD Ryzen chipsets). Also note the generation of the processor family, more recent generations are usually faster. CPU frequency (known generally as speed, measured in gigahertz, e.g. 3.2GHz).

(known generally as speed, measured in gigahertz, e.g. 3.2GHz). Storage type – SSD (solid-state drive) is the fastest kind of drive. Unlike a HDD (hard disk drive) it has no moving parts. It is sometimes referred to as Flash storage. As with hard drives, the capacity and speed of SSDs can vary greatly.

– SSD (solid-state drive) is the fastest kind of drive. Unlike a HDD (hard disk drive) it has no moving parts. It is sometimes referred to as Flash storage. As with hard drives, the capacity and speed of SSDs can vary greatly. Memory – RAM, or random access memory, is the temporary storage used by programs when they're running. Generally, 4GB (gigabytes) of RAM is considered a low starting point for a laptop or desktop computer, but these days at least 8GB is considered a normal amount. Having more memory may be useful for programs that can make use of larger amounts of memory, or for running more programs at the same time. Tablets and other mobile devices are a different story due to the way they're engineered and they may use much less RAM if they're running on mobile operating systems such as Android or iOS or iPadOS.

– RAM, or random access memory, is the temporary storage used by programs when they're running. Generally, 4GB (gigabytes) of RAM is considered a low starting point for a laptop or desktop computer, but these days at least 8GB is considered a normal amount. Having more memory may be useful for programs that can make use of larger amounts of memory, or for running more programs at the same time. Tablets and other mobile devices are a different story due to the way they're engineered and they may use much less RAM if they're running on mobile operating systems such as Android or iOS or iPadOS. GPU (graphics processing unit) – this handles much of the computational load in creating and displaying images, reducing the load on the main CPU. Some larger laptops will have a separate (discrete) graphics processor or card, while others will have a graphics chip incorporated on the motherboard with the CPU (onboard graphics).

(graphics processing unit) – this handles much of the computational load in creating and displaying images, reducing the load on the main CPU. Some larger laptops will have a separate (discrete) graphics processor or card, while others will have a graphics chip incorporated on the motherboard with the CPU (onboard graphics). Display screen – mid-range to high-end laptops will usually have a high-resolution screen with at least full-HD specification (1080p – 1920 x 1080 pixels) or higher.

Peripherals

Laptops come with a screen, keyboard and trackpad built in, though you can usually plug in external devices to use the laptop as a desktop computer. If you want to regularly use your laptop as a desktop PC then plugging in an external display monitor, keyboard and mouse may improve usability.

Software

Most laptops can run the full version of Microsoft's Windows and some may have the option of using Linux (or you might download and install it yourself).

Apple laptops run macOS (formerly OS X) and Intel-based models can also be set up to run Windows (using Apple's bootcamp utility to help with the installation). This gives you the ability to run either macOS or Windows each time you reboot the computer.

Alternatively, Intel-based Macs can use a virtualisation program such as Parallels Desktop for Mac, VMware's Fusion or Oracle's Virtual Box software, to run one or more versions of Windows or Linux as 'virtual machines', in addition to the native operating system.

Some Microsoft laptops and tablets run Windows in S mode, which is an optimised mode of Windows designed to be more secure and power-efficient.

However, it can only load programs that are available on the Microsoft Store online. Windows in S mode can be upgraded at no cost to the full Windows Home (or Pro at extra cost) but only once. If you do it, there's no going back. Most tablets run iOS or Android, which may not include your preferred programs.

Upgrading

Laptops have one notable drawback. Upgrading most laptop components is difficult (and in most cases impossible for the average person), as the slim body leaves no room for adding extra components. Plus, many parts are built in permanently and not designed to be replaced.

Some ultra slim models don't let you add RAM later on, as the original RAM is soldered onto the motherboard. You can usually upgrade the storage though, but that could involve a trip to the maker's workshop.

So once you're ready to buy, go for all the RAM and storage that you think you may need, or can afford. The easiest way to upgrade/expand the capabilities of a laptop is to add devices to it externally, such as extra storage, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi adapter plug-ins.

If your laptop has USB-C, you may be able to add various devices via a USB-C adapter or hub.

Looking for laptops and tablets? We've tested to find you the best. See laptops and tablets review