Laptops: how to choose one and not overpay
Start with how you will use it
A laptop for office work, online classes and browsing needs far less than one for video editing, coding with heavy tools or gaming. Decide the main job first, then the budget. Paying for a powerful graphics card you never use is the most common way to overspend.
What to look at
- Processor and RAM. For everyday use, 8 GB of RAM is the minimum and 16 GB is more comfortable for many browser tabs or editing.
- Storage. An SSD makes a laptop feel much faster than an old hard disk. 512 GB is a sensible size for most people.
- Screen. Full HD is the usual choice. Check brightness if you work near a window, and look for an anti-glare finish.
- Weight and battery. If you carry it daily, a light model with a long battery life matters more than raw power. Power cuts make this even more useful.
- Ports and keyboard. Check USB, HDMI and a numeric keypad if you work with figures.
What to put in your request
- Main use: office, study, design, gaming.
- Screen size and weight limits.
- RAM and SSD you want, or the model if you have chosen one, for example a ThinkPad, MacBook Air or HP Pavilion.
- New or refurbished.
- Warranty and tax invoice, if you are buying for a business.
- Delivery to your city and your budget.
Example: “I need a new 14-inch laptop with 16 GB RAM and a 512 GB SSD for office work and video calls. Light, with a good battery. Brand warranty and a tax invoice, delivery to Central. Budget up to HK$5,600.”
How to compare offers
Put the offers side by side by exact configuration, not just by model name: the same name can hide a different processor or less RAM. Check whether the operating system is included, whether the warranty is from the brand or only from the shop, and where the nearest service centre is. Compare the total with delivery, not the base price.
How it works on BlaBlaPrice
You write one request on BlaBlaPrice. It checks the request and suggests which details are missing, then looks through sellers' price lists and websites to find what you are looking for. Sellers answer in the chat with a price or with what the price depends on. The most suitable offers come first, and your phone number stays hidden until you choose. It is free for buyers. More on the page “How it works”.
Common mistakes
- Choosing by screen size and brand only, without checking RAM and storage.
- Buying a refurbished laptop without asking about battery health and the return period.
- Forgetting the warranty card and the invoice.
If you need a bigger screen and more power at a desk, look at desktop computers, and for a second display see monitors. All related categories are in the section Computers & components.
Questions and answers
How much RAM do I need?
For office work and browsing, 8 GB is the minimum. Take 16 GB if you keep many tabs open, edit photos or video, or want the laptop to last longer.
Is a refurbished laptop a good idea?
It can save money if the seller states the condition, battery health and warranty. Ask for photos and a return period.
Do I need a dedicated graphics card?
Only for gaming, 3D work and heavy video editing. For office work and study the built-in graphics are enough.
What should I check when the laptop arrives?
Open the box with the seller's invoice in hand, switch it on, check the screen, keyboard and ports, and keep the warranty card.
