Laptops / Notebooks

Surfing, Mailing, Office applications

For office applications and for surfing, the requirements are significantly lower than for gaming or image editing. If you want to use your laptop primarily for surfing and office applications such as Word or Excel, then a notebook with an inexpensive entry-level processor such as the Intel Core i3 or an AMD Ryzen 3 will suffice. Such laptops are already available from around 300 Euros. Alternatively, a tablet comes into question if you are looking for a device primarily for media playback. Tablet PCs are already available from around 100 euros.

Image editing, video editing, gaming

If you edit images or even play games with your laptop, you will need more powerful hardware - at least an i5 or Ryzen 5 processor and 8 GB of memory. For elaborate 3D games it should even be an i7, i9 or Ryzen 7 processor, and for video editing, such a processor combined with a large amount of RAM is also recommended. 8 GB of RAM is the minimum here, with 16 GB everything goes a bit smoother and faster, and the laptop isn't immediately overtaxed when several applications are running in parallel. The right graphics card is also important. A graphics chip integrated on the processor is not sufficient for gaming and video editing. So make sure that the laptop you choose has a separate graphics card. It should have at least 4 GB graphics memory and be a GDDR5 graphics card.

Graphics card - integrated or dedicated?

When choosing a notebook, a suitable graphics card is also crucial. Especially entry-level laptops often have graphics integrated into the processor. It is sufficient for simple office applications. If you want to edit videos or use the laptop for gaming, you need a dedicated graphics card with its own video memory. A powerful graphics card is especially important for video editing. For gaming, it depends on the type of games. For 2D and retro games, a midrange graphics card, such as the Nvidia GTX 1050 with 4 GB RAM is sufficient. For high-end games with high resolution (UHD/4K) and edge smoothing as well as VR games, graphics cards like the Nvidia GTX 1070 or higher with 8 or even 16 GB RAM are necessary. These graphics cards are also suitable for video editing as well as CAD and 3D applications.

 

When buying a notebook, the operating system also plays a role. Some laptops are offered without an operating system, with these you must install the operating system yourself or at least buy it separately. Devices without operating system are usually cheaper. So if you know your way around a bit and want to save a few euros, this would be a conceivable option.

Most notebooks come with Windows 10, but there are different versions for different needs. Windows 10 Home is the basic version, but it's sufficient for many home users. Windows 10 Pro is the version for more ambitious home users and small businesses. If you're looking for a little more security, Windows 10 Pro comes with BitLocker hard disk encryption and Windows Information Protection. However, most of the additional features of Windows 10 Pro compared to the home version are aimed primarily at small businesses.

Linux, Android und Chrom-OS

Another alternative is the Linux operating system. It is more suitable for more experienced users, although standard programs also run under Linux. However, gamers should rely on Windows, as many games do not run under Linux. Also those who want to use Photoshop to its full extent are better off with Windows. With Linux, however, office applications and an image editing program are already available. So if you don't necessarily want to go for the usual, Linux offers an interesting alternative. Linux is also ahead in terms of security, as there is hardly any malware for Linux systems.

Noble alternative: Apple MacBooks

MacBooks from Apple are also an alternative to Windows notebooks. They are usually a little more expensive, but they also come with a lot of software. Office applications as well as programs for image editing and video editing are already included in laptops running Mac OS X. MacBooks come with a sleek user interface, the operating system is a little more stable than Windows, and is more secure than malware-prone Windows. But the software offering is greatest for Windows laptops.

Notebooks are available from numerous manufacturers. The following table gives an overview of which manufacturers have excelled in certain categories or offer special products for the respective requirements.

Table 1: Notebook manufacturers and categories

Beginner and simple office notebooks are characterized above all by low prices and easy handling. Dell laptops in particular have made a name for themselves in the business sector, as the manufacturer distinguishes itself with user-friendliness, security and support. Moreover, Dell doesn't only offer individual products, but also complete solutions for businesses. Apple's MacBooks are now also being used more frequently in companies, not only in the creative sector, because they offer advantages comparable to those of Dell devices (security, support, ease of use).

For example, Gigabyte and MSI notebooks are specifically designed to meet the needs of gamers; they rely on powerful hardware and a cool design. Multimedia laptops are available from many manufacturers in a wide range of equipment and price categories.

Find the right screen size

Screen size is one of the most obvious features of a laptop. Again, it depends on the usage, which size is advisable. If you want a device that is as mobile as possible, you can opt for a smaller 13, 14 or 15 inch screen. If you want to work with it as comfortably as possible, or if it should be a gaming notebook, the larger models with 17 inches are recommendable.

Table 2: Advantages of smaller and larger notebooks

Laptops with a 15 inch screen diagonal are not only smaller but also lighter than 17 inch laptops. Also pay attention to the weight! If you use the laptop as a space-saving replacement for a desktop PC, size and weight are less important. If you want to work on the move, however, this is an important factor. The larger the screen, the more comfortable it is to work and surf, but the larger the screen size, the heavier the laptop becomes.

Touch screen - yes or no?

Since Windows 8, the Microsoft operating system also supports touchscreens. Convertibles in particular - laptops with detachable or foldable keyboards that can also be used as tablets - are equipped with a touch-sensitive screen. However, conventional notebooks are also increasingly relying on touch screens.

Before buying a laptop, you should consider whether you need a touch screen or not. With a convertible, the touch screen is of course essential. For a normal laptop a touch sensitive screen is less important. However, it can be useful if you work on the road a lot and don't always have a mouse with you. The touchscreen is then usually more comfortable and more accurate than the touchpad.

DVD drive - is that still necessary?

Many current notebook models come without a DVD drive. Since most of the software is available for download today, this is not a problem. However, if you still have older programs on CD or DVD that you want to continue using, a DVD drive is useful. If this is not the case, you can also do without it and save both the price and the weight of the notebook. If you later find that you do need a DVD drive or burner, you can also use an external device. External DVD burners are available from around 30 euros.

Which connections are important?

Which ports are important? when making a purchase decision, you should also consider the ports that your notebook needs. The most important thing is that there are enough USB ports. How many ports you actually need depends on how many devices you want to connect. While you can use a USB hub to provide additional connections, a laptop should have at least two. USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 provide fast data transfer, but USB 2.0 also provides smooth transfer, but takes a little longer.

A USB 2.0 device will usually connect easily to a USB 3.0 port and vice versa. For printers (USB B-Type) and for mobile phones and digital cameras (Mini-USB), things look a little different: Devices with USB 2.0 plugs can be connected to USB 3.0 sockets. However, this does not work the other way round.

If you want to connect your laptop to a larger monitor or TV, you'll need an HDMI connection. If your monitor or TV still has a VGA port, you can still connect it to the HDMI output of the notebook using an adapter.

MacBooks from Apple have a Thunderbolt interface. It bundles all of the transmission channels for picture, sound, power, and data into a single port.

Cheap entry-level laptops are already available from about 200 euros. If you're looking for a notebook for surfing and office applications and don't have any demands on storage space and speed, such a low-priced device is sufficient for you. However, be aware that you will have to make sacrifices in terms of equipment and comfort as well as speed.

An alternative for small budgets are used or refurbished laptops or B-goods offers. Here you can often get a really good device for little money.

For the somewhat higher demands such as image editing, more memory and a faster speed, most mid-range notebooks from 500 Euros are suitable. A price comparison as well as a close look at the equipment is worthwhile especially for the beginner and middle class laptops.

If you want full power and gaming fun, you'll have to dig much deeper into your pocket: Gaming notebooks and laptops that are also suitable for video editing and CAD applications, for example, are available from around 1,000 euros upwards. The same applies to Apple's MacBooks.

Notebooks in comparison - prices, features and user needs

Table 3: Notebook price categories

The table gives an overview of all price categories and shows the notebooks with the best price-performance ratio. It is also important to take a close look at the equipment to see if it fits your requirements.

Most users are likely to find themselves in the two middle price classes - between 300 and 1,000 Euros. With the cheaper models, you'll have to make sacrifices, especially in terms of memory, but also in terms of speed and comfort. The models in the upper price range above 1,000 euros are, on the other hand, more special and are aimed at gamers or those who have high expectations in terms of requirements or comfort.

With desktop PCs, it is quite common to assemble the device of your choice yourself. With notebooks it looks different. Because assembling a laptop yourself is usually more expensive than buying a ready-made device. Although it is possible, we recommend using the filter function to search for notebooks that match your expectations and requirements.

There are many accessories for notebooks that make your life and work easier. The most common are:

• Bags and rucksacks
• Mouse
• Mouse pad
• Powerbank
• Laptop lock
• Display protection film
• Docking station
• Car power supply unit
• Stylus/pen for touchscreens
• Cooling Pad
• USB Lamp
• Keyboard

Bags and rucksacks are particularly useful for transporting and storing the Notebook safely. A mouse can also be a helpful extra, as the input via mouse is easier and more precise than with the integrated touchpad.

If you are on the road a lot and want to use your laptop, it is worth thinking about an additional battery or a power bank. Because there isn't always a power outlet nearby where you can charge your laptop.

If you work at least occasionally in public places (library, café, hotel, train etc.) a laptop lock is also a sensible purchase. This will protect your notebook against theft.

A clean laptop lives longer

To ensure the longevity of a laptop, you need to clean it occasionally. When cleaning, make sure that the laptop is switched off and disconnected from the power cord. A fine brush is recommended for cleaning the keyboard.

Use laptop as hotspot

You can use your laptop as a WLAN hotspot. It requires an active Internet connection. To set up a hotspot, go to the Windows Start menu and click on Settings (the gear symbol). Now click on "Network and Internet" and select the option "Mobile Hotspot" in the left column. Set the slider to "On".

Under "Edit" you can change the hotspot name and assign a password. Make sure that you select a secure password.

Notebook becomes slow

Common causes of laptop problems are clogged or dusty fans and defective components. If the laptop becomes slow or hangs up more often, a new installation of the operating system is recommended. You should first perform a disk cleanup. If this does not bring any improvement, a new installation of the operating system is necessary.

Laptop gets hot

If the laptop gets hot, a dusty fan is often the cause. If you've already cleaned the fan and the laptop still gets hot, you can use a cooling pad to help. But always keep an eye on the temperature. The surface on which the laptop is placed can also be a cause of heat build-up. Soft surfaces such as tablecloths and duvets, your own lap, etc. are not good for regulating heat. It is best to place the laptop on a special notebook stand or cooling pad. This ensures that the fan can work properly.

Problems with the laptop screen

If the display remains black, first connect the laptop to an external monitor or TV set. This will help you find out whether the problem is with the screen or not. A possible error could also be a broken cable. Opening and closing the notebook puts a lot of strain on the cables over time. In this case it may be worthwhile to replace the cables. If the screen is actually defective, you should calculate exactly whether a repair is worthwhile.