I recently purchased two new laptops: one for my work and another for school for my son. I am also planning to buy my daughter a laptop soon. But there’s something I need to share.
You should avoid some mistakes when buying a laptop, whether it's for work, school, or home. This article guides you through the 15 laptop-buying mistakes you should avoid.
15 Mistakes You Must Avoid When Buying a Laptop
Laptop buying can be a daunting task with so many options available in the market. However, making the wrong choice can lead to a frustrating and unsatisfactory experience.
To avoid such pitfalls, we have compiled a list of the 15 most common laptop-buying mistakes to avoid when shopping for a new laptop in 2025.
#1. Overlooking Ergonomics
Laptops are inherently flawed in design because the screen and keyboard are fixed together, forcing you to compromise on posture. This can lead to neck pain, wrist strain, and long-term health issues like repetitive strain injuries (RSIs).
If you’re constantly hunching over a low screen or struggling with a cramped keyboard, it’s uncomfortable and bad for your productivity and well-being. Eye strain is another common issue, especially with smaller displays or low resolutions.
The fix? Invest in ergonomic accessories like a laptop stand, external keyboard, and mouse. These simple additions can transform your setup, helping you maintain good posture and work comfortably for longer periods. Don’t let poor ergonomics ruin your experience. Your body will thank you!
#2. Buying the Cheapest Laptop
It’s easy to be tempted by the low price tag of a budget laptop, but going for the cheapest option often leads to more frustration than savings. Manufacturers cut costs by using outdated processors, minimal RAM, and low-quality components, which means these laptops struggle with even basic tasks like web browsing or video playback. You’ll quickly notice sluggish performance, limited multitasking capabilities, and painfully slow boot-up times.
Cheap laptops also tend to have poor build quality with flimsy plastic cases, unresponsive trackpads, and spongy keyboards that make typing a chore. Screens are often dim with washed-out colors and low resolutions, causing eye strain during extended use. Their shorter lifespans mean you’ll likely replace that “bargain” laptop sooner than expected.
Instead of chasing the lowest price, aim for a laptop that balances affordability with decent specs. Spending more upfront can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. After all, you get what you pay for.
#3. Overlooking Portability
When choosing a laptop for travel or frequent mobility, portability is key. Look for a laptop that:
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Weighs Under 3 Pounds: A lightweight laptop is easier to carry without adding strain to your bag.
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Has a Durable Build: Materials like aluminum or magnesium alloy are better suited for handling the bumps and knocks of travel.
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Offers Long Battery Life: Aim for at least 8–10 hours of battery life to work or stream without constantly searching for an outlet.
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Is Compact in Size: A smaller screen size (13-14 inches) makes the laptop more portable while still offering enough screen space to work comfortably.
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Has a Bright Display: A high-brightness screen (300 nits or more) ensures visibility in outdoor or brightly lit environments.
By focusing on these features, you’ll find a laptop that’s easy to carry, practical for travel, and ready to meet your on-the-go needs.
#4. Ports
Ports might not be the flashiest feature, but they make your laptop work seamlessly with your other devices. Before buying, take a moment to think about what you’ll need now and in the future.
Do you regularly connect to an external monitor or projector? Look for a laptop with an HDMI port or DisplayPort. Need fast data transfers or charging? USB-C is a must-have, and Thunderbolt 4 support is even better if you want top-tier speed and versatility. If you still use older peripherals, ensure the laptop has at least one USB-A port.
For photographers or videographers, an SD card reader can save you from carrying extra dongles. Gamers or creatives should check for dedicated ports for external GPUs or other high-performance accessories.
Laptops with too few ports often force you to rely on adapters and hubs, which can be inconvenient and add clutter to your setup. By choosing a laptop with the right ports upfront, you’ll ensure it fits your workflow now and as your needs evolve.
#5. Storage
Storage is a crucial factor to consider when buying a laptop, as it determines how much data you can keep on your device. If you work with large files, like videos or high-resolution photos, or plan to store a lot of apps, games, or media, you’ll want a laptop with plenty of storage space.
Solid-state drives (SSDs) are the standard these days, offering faster performance and reliability compared to traditional hard drives (HDDs). Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
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256GB: A good starting point for most users who primarily use their laptops for web browsing, light work, and streaming.
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512GB: Ideal if you store moderate amounts of files, apps, or games locally.
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1TB or More: Best for professionals working with large files (like video editors) or anyone needing significant local storage.
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Less Than 256GB: Only consider this if you rely heavily on cloud storage or external drives.
Also, check if the laptop allows for storage upgrades down the line. Some models let you add more storage later, while others have everything soldered in place. By choosing the right amount of storage now—or ensuring expandability—you’ll avoid running out of space when you need it most.
#6. Obsessed with One Spec
Focusing too much on a single spec (processor speed, RAM, display resolution, battery, etc.) can lead to a laptop that falls short in other important areas. While it’s great to prioritize what matters most to you, obsessing over one feature often means ignoring the bigger picture of how the laptop performs as a whole.
For example, you might be drawn to a laptop with a powerful processor, but if it skimps on storage or has poor battery life, it could limit your overall experience. Similarly, a high-resolution 4K display might look stunning, but if the laptop lacks a good GPU or enough RAM, it could struggle with demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.
A balanced laptop is key. Instead of zeroing in on one spec, consider how all the components work together for your needs. By evaluating the full package, you’ll end up with a laptop that truly fits your lifestyle rather than one that excels in just one area while falling short in others.
#7. Not Buying Enough Power
Underestimating the power you need in a laptop can lead to frustration, inefficiency, and even the need for an earlier upgrade. A laptop that lacks sufficient processing power, RAM, or GPU performance might struggle to keep up with your tasks, especially as software and applications become more demanding over time.
Here’s why buying a laptop with enough power is crucial:
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Processor (CPU): The CPU is the brain of your laptop. A low-power processor might handle basic tasks like web browsing or word processing, but it will struggle with multitasking, video editing, or running resource-intensive programs.
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Memory (RAM): Insufficient RAM can cause slowdowns when running multiple applications. While 8GB is fine for light use, 16GB or more is better for intense tasks.
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Graphics (GPU): A weak GPU limits performance in gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering. Even if you don’t need a high-end GPU now, future software updates might require more graphics power than you expect.
Laptops with underpowered specs may seem like a good deal initially, but they often fail to keep up with evolving needs. Investing in a machine with enough power ensures smoother performance today and keeps your laptop relevant for years to come. Don’t let short-term savings cost you long-term usability!
#8. Size Doesn’t Matter
Many people assume that bigger laptops are better for performance or smaller ones are always more convenient, but size alone doesn’t determine a laptop’s quality. A large laptop might offer a bigger screen, but it can be bulky and hard to carry. Meanwhile, smaller laptops are portable but may feel cramped for demanding tasks.
Instead of focusing solely on size, think about how you’ll use the laptop. If you’re always on the go, portability is key. If you need a productivity powerhouse, a larger screen might be worth the extra weight. Choose based on your needs, not just the dimensions.
#9. Forgetting the Future
When buying a laptop, it’s easy to focus on what you need right now and forget about what you might need later. Technology evolves quickly, and a laptop that feels adequate today could struggle to keep up in just a couple of years.
For example, opting for minimal RAM or storage might save money upfront, but it could leave you frustrated when your needs grow. Similarly, skipping features like USB-C or Thunderbolt ports could limit compatibility with future devices. Even processing power matters—choosing an older or low-end CPU might mean your laptop can’t handle new software updates or demanding applications down the line.
To avoid this mistake, think long-term. Invest in a laptop with some room to grow—whether that’s extra RAM, sufficient storage, or modern connectivity options. A little foresight now can save you from needing an upgrade sooner than expected.
#10. 2-in-1 is Not Laptop
2-in-1 laptops are marketed as the “ultimate device combining the flexibility of a tablet with the functionality of a laptop.” But before you jump in, it’s important to know that these hybrids often come with trade-offs.
Because they’re designed to be lightweight and portable, many 2-in-1s sacrifice performance. They might not have the processing power or cooling systems of traditional laptops, making them less suited for demanding tasks like video editing or gaming. The detachable or foldable designs can also result in less comfortable keyboards and smaller trackpads, which might not be ideal if you type a lot.
That’s not to say 2-in-1s aren’t great for certain users, but you won’t get much performance out of them.
#11. Not Checking Reviews
Buying a laptop without checking reviews is like buying a car without taking it for a test drive. Specs and marketing materials only tell part of the story, and reviews provide real-world insights you won’t find on a product page.
For example, a laptop might look great on paper but suffer from issues like poor thermal management, subpar battery life, or an uncomfortable keyboard. Reviews from tech experts and everyday users can reveal these hidden flaws and help you avoid buyer’s remorse. They also highlight strengths you might not have considered, like build quality, display performance, or long-term reliability.
Taking the time to watch or read reviews ensures you’re making an informed decision. It’s the best way to know if a laptop truly delivers on its promises—or if it’s all hype.
#12. Brand Loyalty
Being loyal to one laptop brand might feel like a safe bet, but it can actually limit your options and lead to a less-than-ideal purchase. No single brand is perfect, and each manufacturer has its strengths and weaknesses. For example, a brand known for premium designs might cut corners on performance, while another could offer better specs or features for the same price.
Here’s why sticking to one brand might not work in your favor:
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Other brands may offer better performance or features at a similar price point.
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Even trusted brands can release models with flaws or compromises.
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You might end up paying more just for the brand name, not the actual performance.
Instead of relying solely on brand loyalty, take the time to research and compare laptops from multiple manufacturers. By focusing on what you need—rather than who makes it—you’re more likely to find a laptop that truly fits your budget and requirements.
#13. Glossy Display
A glossy display might look stunning with its vibrant colors and sharp visuals, but it can quickly become a headache in bright environments. The reflective surface often catches glare from sunlight or overhead lighting, making it harder to see what’s on the screen and causing unnecessary eye strain.
If you plan to use your laptop outdoors or in well-lit spaces, consider opting for a matte display instead. Matte screens reduce reflections and provide a more comfortable viewing experience, especially during long work sessions.
#14. High Resolution
A high-resolution display can make everything look sharper and more detailed, but it’s not without its trade-offs. Higher resolutions, like 4K, demand more power from your laptop’s processor and graphics card, which can lead to reduced performance and shorter battery life, especially on laptops with less powerful hardware.
Most users will find that Full HD (1080p) strikes the perfect balance between clarity, performance, and battery efficiency.
#15. (BONUS) Other People’s Needs
If you’re buying a laptop for someone else, it’s important to focus on their specific needs—not what you think is best or what you’d choose for yourself. A student might need a lightweight laptop with long battery life for portability, while a graphic designer will prioritize a high-resolution display and powerful hardware. Gamers, on the other hand, will need a dedicated GPU and fast refresh rates. Buying the wrong laptop can lead to frustration and wasted money if it doesn’t suit their tasks or lifestyle.
To make the right choice, ask questions like:
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What will they use the laptop for?
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Do they need portability or will it mostly stay in one place?
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How much storage space will they require?
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Are there any specific features they want (touchscreen, backlit keyboard, etc.)?
By tailoring the purchase to their needs, you’ll ensure the laptop is a perfect fit for their daily life and tasks.
How to Choose the Perfect Laptop for You
Buying the right laptop can feel overwhelming. There are all these mistakes you can make while browsing thousands of possible options. Luckily, just focusing on your specific needs and understanding key factors can help you make an informed decision. Here are some essential considerations to guide you:
Purpose and Use Case
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Light Use: If you primarily browse the web, stream videos, or handle emails, a basic laptop should suffice.
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Average Use: For tasks like document creation, light photo editing, or streaming music and movies, aim for a mid-range laptop.
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Demanding Use: If you're into gaming, video editing, or graphic design, prioritize a high-performance laptop.
Portability
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Screen Size:
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11–13 inches: Ideal for portability and light tasks.
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14–15 inches: A balance between usability and portability.
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16–18 inches: Best for multitasking, gaming, or creative work but less portable.
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Weight:
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Under 4 lbs: Great for frequent travelers.
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Over 6 lbs: Suitable for stationary use with higher performance needs.
Performance
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Processor (CPU):
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Entry-level: Intel Core i3/Ryzen 3 for basic tasks.
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Mid-range: Intel Core i5/Ryzen 5 for general use.
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High-end: Intel Core i7/i9 or Ryzen 7/9 for demanding applications like gaming or video editing.
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RAM:
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Minimum of 4GB for basic use.
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Aim for at least 8GB for multitasking.
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Professionals should consider 16GB or more.
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Storage:
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SSDs are faster and more reliable than traditional HDDs.
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Look for at least 256GB SSD. Larger capacities are better for heavy users.
Display
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Resolution:
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Full HD (1920x1080) is standard for most tasks.
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Higher resolutions (e.g., QHD or 4K) are ideal for creative professionals but consume more battery life.
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Screen Quality:
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IPS panels offer better color accuracy and viewing angles.
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OLED displays provide vibrant colors but are more expensive.
Battery Life
If you need portability, look for laptops with at least 8–10 hours of battery life. Keep in mind that high-performance laptops may have shorter battery life due to their power demands.
Operating System
- Windows: Versatile and supports most software.
- macOS: Best for Apple ecosystem users and creative professionals.
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ChromeOS: Lightweight OS ideal for web-based tasks and students.
Watch Video: Laptop Buying Mistakes
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, when buying a laptop, it’s important to consider your needs, usage, and budget. Avoiding these common laptop-buying mistakes can help you make an informed and satisfying purchase. Take your time and research, and you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect laptop.
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