Which Laptop Should I Buy?
We all want a laptop that is optimised for work and play but with so many features and specs to choose from it can be hard to know where to begin. Whether you're a student heading back to college, the owner of a small business or simply enjoying the flexibility of working from home, we’ve compiled a handy checklist and our top Samsung Galaxy Book recommendations to help you decide which laptop is best for you.
What features to consider when buying a laptop?
Buying a laptop is an exciting, if not a little daunting experience. You’ll be faced with choices such as which processor, how much memory, the best display size… and the list goes on! To help, here are the top 10 features to consider when buying a laptop:
• Budget
• Screen Size
• Display technology
• Processor
• Memory
• Ports
• Connectivity
• Portability
• Battery life
• Windows or Chrome OS
You’ll find more details on each of these features and what to look for below.
1. Budget
One of the biggest decisions will be how much you want to spend. For a rough guide entry level models begin from a few hundred pounds, mid-range laptops around £600-£1,000 and premium laptops £1,000+. Looking for an excellent mid-range laptop? Check out the slim and sleek Galaxy Book4 (15.6", Core 3, 8GB).
2. What laptop screen size do I need?
Most laptop screens are around 13 to 16-inches. A smaller screen is more portable but may not be as easy to work on for many hours. A larger, 16-inch+ screen is a replacement desktop and is not designed to be moved around as often. Looking for the best of both? Check out laptops with a 14-inch screen such as the stylish Galaxy Book4 Pro.
3. Which is best display resolution in laptop?
Screen technology has come a long way and you can now choose from HD, Full HD, Quad HD and even 4K. There’s also 2-in-1 touchscreen functionality to consider which can add even more versatility to your laptop. Keep in mind that the better the screen technology, the higher the price you pay. While 4K resolution will give you stunning colour clarity, it requires more power and laptops with 4K resolution tend to be higher in price. For most users, laptops with Full HD (also know as 1920 x 1080, or 1080p) displays allow you to see all the details without the graininess on lower resolution screens, as well as being able to fit two full size windows side by side.
If you plan to have a standalone screen as well, the laptop display technology may not be as important to you.
4. What type of processor is best in a laptop?
Unless you’re going to run demanding software or plan to use your laptop for heavy gaming, you’re unlikely to need a top spec processor. Entry level laptops are likely to offer Intel® Core® i3/3 processors. For mid-range laptops, it's Core™ i5/5 and for premium models you’re looking for Core™ i7/7. You’ll find only the highest performing Intel® Core™ processors in the Samsung Galaxy laptop range.
5. What is a good memory size for a laptop?
This is where programs and files are stored on your laptop but only while you’re using them. You can typically choose from 4GB, 8GB, 16GB or even 32GB of RAM. For an average user 8-16GB should be enough to support your work and entertainment needs.
6. What laptop ports do I need?
Sometimes overlooked but as laptops get thinner and lighter connection ports are becoming scarcer. Some modern laptops now only have 1 USB port and no HDMI port for example. If HDMI or USB-A is important to you, make sure the laptop you’re considering has them. Samsung Galaxy laptops come with a wide range of ports for easy connection to all your favourite devices.
7. Do I need Wifi, 4G or 5G on a laptop?
Wi-Fi, 4G or even 5G? Premium laptops such as the Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 360 5G now have 5G connectivity which makes them an excellent choice for working on-the-go. If you plan to use your laptop mainly at home or in the office Wi-Fi connectivity may be sufficient.
8. Portability
This is really down to personal preference and how you plan to use your laptop. You might want an ultraportable laptop that’s light and fits into your bag with ease. Or maybe one that’s powerful and can handle demanding applications mainly at home or in the office. Looking for the latest and lightest? Check out the Galaxy Book4 Pro 14” which weighs in at just 1.23kg.
9. How much battery do I need in a laptop?
Battery size is measured in milliamp-hours (mAh) and in theory the bigger the battery the longer it will last. In reality, it all depends on how much power the display and software inside the laptop uses. A budget laptop with a small battery size may last longer than a premium notebook with a huge battery because its internal hardware isn’t as demanding. All Samsung Galaxy laptops have optimised batteries that are designed to last throughout the day.
10. Is Chrome OS or Windows Better?
Most laptops including the Samsung Galaxy Books run on the Windows operating system. If you’re considering a Chromebook for working from home, it will use Google's Chrome operating system. Chromebooks provide less functionality than a laptop but offer exceptional value for money.
What Samsung laptop should I buy?
The Samsung Laptop computer range offers plenty of options for you to choose from, with a wide range of stunning features to meet your needs. From 2-in-1
laptops laptops with productivity-boosting features, to smaller models perfect for kids, there’s a laptop for everyone in our range.
We’ve pulled out the key differences between our laptops in the comparison table below, as well as outlined the key features to look out for in a laptop for specific purposes like studying below.
You can also get more guidance on what to look for when shopping for a laptop in our ‘What to look for when buying a laptop’ guide.
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Screen Size
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Battery
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Weight
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Display
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2-in-1 functionality
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S Pen compatible
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Touchscreen
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Audio
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Processor
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Memory (RAM)
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Storage
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Ports
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Connectivity
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Windows or Chrome OS
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Colours
What is the fastest laptop?
One thing everyone can agree on when purchasing a new laptop is the importance of fast processing speeds. No matter what your needs may be, a laptop with quick response times and snappy performance is essential for getting things done efficiently and effectively.
The initial aspect to consider is the laptop's CPU processor and RAM, as these components significantly impact its speed. RAM, short for random-access memory, acts as the laptop's short-term memory, storing data for the processor to execute applications and open files. A higher-speed RAM facilitates faster information transfer to other components, which enables the processor to operate more swiftly, resulting in a highly efficient laptop.
The processor, also known as the CPU, provides the necessary instructions and processing power for the computer to function. Combining a faster RAM with your laptop enhances the rate at which memory transfers data to other components, enabling the processor to work at an accelerated pace and ensuring optimal efficiency.
As a general rule, higher numbers indicate faster speeds. For instance, a laptop with 16GB of RAM found on the Galaxy Book4 Pro, will run faster than a laptop with 8GB. Processor speed is measured in gigahertz, and the same principle applies: a 2GHz laptop operates faster than a 1GHz laptop.
Another factor to consider is the number of "cores" in the laptop's processor. For example, if you come across a laptop with "dual" or "quad" cores, it typically indicates a faster performance. When it comes to the fastest, the latest Galaxy Book4 Ultra has an impressive Intel® Core™ Ultra processor with 16 cores, 22 threads, and a max turbo frequency of 5.1GHz, making it exceptionally quick and powerful.
What are the highest-performing laptops?
The highest-performing laptops boast features that are tailored to meet the demands of professionals, content creators, and gamers alike. At the heart of these devices lie cutting-edge processors, boasting multiple cores and high clock speeds, and ample amounts of RAM. Our most premium laptop, the Galaxy Book4 Ultra, has the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processor. It combines 16 sensational cores, 5.1 GHz, 24MB Intel® Smart Cache and a NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 40 series graphics card, to achieve supercharged performance whatever you are working on.
Exceptional display quality and long-lasting battery life is also a significant aspect of high-performing laptops. A high-quality display with vibrant colours and high resolution can greatly enhance your productivity and creativity. Galaxy Book4 Pro models all have superior 3K quality Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays that optimise what you are viewing so you can complete even highly demanding projects with ease. Plus, with up to 21 hours of video runtime¹ the 76Wh (typical)² battery has no problem keeping up with your workload. Professionals and content creators may require high-performing laptops, such as the Galaxy Book4 Pro 360, for tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or running resource-intensive software. In these cases, a powerful processor, ample RAM, and fast storage solutions, such as SSDs, are critical for efficient workflow and multitasking.
- ¹Video runtime for the Galaxy Book4 Pro 360 model. Based on results from internal lab tests for local video playback time conducted by Samsung. Tested with results from a pre-release version of the device using inbox 65W charger under settings (1080p video playback from video files stored on the device's local storage, player-Windows video players (Media Player, Movies & TV, Films & TV) with full screen, brightness-150 nits, wired earphone with default volume, aeroplane mode on, keyboard backlight off) without connection to Wi-Fi or mobile network, measuring the time until the device is discharged to 2%. Battery life varies significantly depending on settings, network environment, usage patterns and other factors. Actual charging speed may also vary depending on the actual usage, charging conditions and other factors.
- ²Typical value of battery capacity tested under third-party laboratory conditions. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated (minimum) capacity is 73.9Wh
What is the best laptop for general home use?
The Galaxy Book4 is an exceptional everyday laptop that offers next-level performance and stylish design features. With the latest Intel® Core™ processors, it keeps multi-tasking fuss-free. Whether you’re logging onto an online class or losing yourself in the latest bingeable series, it all looks superb on the 15.6-inch, high-definition display. The anti-glare coating makes sure you’ve got a great view from any angle, and with a slim bezel there’s nothing to distract from what’s happening on screen.
The Galaxy Book4 is built for life on the move. When folded closed, it measures just 15.4mm and weighs under 1.6kg, meaning it can easily be slipped into a bag or backpack without weighing you down. With a premium aluminium chassis available in Grey or Silver, it’s one good looking workhorse. There are a full range of ports available, including one HDMI, two USB-Cs, two USB-As, an RJ45 for direct ethernet connection, and even space for a microSD card¹. It has Wi-Fi 6 technology, the latest generation of connectivity, for fast and reliable speeds. And despite its compact build, there’s still space for an ample 54Wh (typical) battery, which can be charged up in a flash using the Super Fast USB-C Charger.
¹microSD card sold separately
What features to look for in a student laptop?
If you're off to university, college or back to school, a laptop is an invaluable device that can help you achieve the best results. Whether you're typing up lecture notes, bossing essays or watching lessons remotely, a Samsung laptop can do all that and a whole lot more!
These are our recommended laptop specs to look for when it comes to buying a great student laptop:
• 2-in-1 display for greater flexibility. These laptops are multifunctional as they can be used as both a laptop and tablet - that’s a win-win in our eyes
• Intel® Core™ 3/i3 or 5/i5 processor.
• Windows operating system for greatest compatibility with school, college and university software.
• 13 inch to 15 inch screen to balance portability and productivity
• 8GB to efficiently handle multiple programs at the same time
• Long lasting battery for being out and about all day
What is the best Samsung laptop for students?
When it comes to the best Samsung laptop for students you can’t go wrong with the Galaxy Book4 360. This 2-in-1 productivity powerhouse takes work and play to the next level. The flexible 2-in-1 design features a brilliantly immersive FHD Super AMOLED display, opening up a world of amazing colour and clarity. With brilliant whites, deep blacks and rapid response times, streaming movies, playing games and even replying to emails looks great. With the new Intel® Core™ processor you’ll enjoy blazing fast performance ideal for gamers and creators. There’s Wi-Fi 6E¹ for super-fast data speeds and the 68Wh (typical) battery is compact but powerful. You’ll find a wide range of ports, six in fact! If that’s still not enough Samsung’s Multiport Adapter brings with it even greater connectivity. And with its sturdy aluminium casing, available in Moonstone Grey, staying productive – no matter what life has in store – has never looked so good.
For more student laptop inspiration, check out our 'Best Samsung laptop for students' guide.
¹Router required and sold separately.
What features to look for in a kid’s laptop?
With flexible hybrid working now commonplace, having a great laptop that supports your working from home is a priority. The best laptops can handle intense workloads with ease, helping you work smarter not harder. They should include tools that make you look and sound professional on video calls and feature security settings that keeps your data private.
If you’re looking for a laptop for a child or teen, consider a laptop or Chromebook with the following specs:
• A 2-in-1 display doubles as a tablet which is ideal when it comes to watching videos or interacting with games.
• Windows or Chrome OS operating system
• 12 inch to 14 inch screen
• 4GB is usually sufficient for normal day-to-day tasks.
• Tough exterior that can withstand slight knocks throughout the day
What is the best Samsung laptop for kids?
If you’re looking for a great laptop for children, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 360 (12.4", Celeron, 4GB) is a fantastic option. The clever 2-in-1 design is optimised for learning and creativity and the 12.4” touchscreen display has plenty of room for both work and play. The rugged exterior is specially designed to be tough, passing several MIL-STD 810H tests to withstand slight drops and falls throughout the day. It even features a spill-resistant keyboard for when those little accidents happen. Since Chromebooks run on Chrome OS, they are optimised for web based applications and only have full functionality when connected to the internet.
As children turn into teens, they are likely to need greater functionality and software support provided by a laptop. The Galaxy Book2 Go (14”, 7C, 4GB) is an all-round excellent device which allows for offline working with the Windows 11 Home operating system. Priced at under £500 this exceptional laptop offers incredible value for money. It has a generous 14-inch screen with a flexible 180-degree hinge, ideal when it comes to flexing up the angles on video calls with friends. It’s slim yet sturdy weighing in at just 1.44kg. It boasts superior Dolby Atmos® supported sound and with 20 hours¹ of video playback the long-lasting battery can easily withstand the demands of the day.
You can find out more about how Chromebooks and laptops differ on our ‘Samsung laptop series explained’ page. Considering a tablet for your child instead? We’ve got the low down in this laptop vs tablet guide.
¹Based on results from internal lab tests for local video playback time conducted by Samsung. Test Results from a pre-release version of the device under settings (Local 1080p movie playback, Player-Movies & TV with full screen, Brightness-150nits, Earphone (default volume), discharged to 2%", Airplane On, KBD Backlight Off) without connection to Wi-Fi or mobile network. Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage, and other factors.
What features to look for in a laptop for working from home?
With flexible hybrid working now commonplace, having a great laptop that supports your working from home is a priority. The best laptops can handle intense workloads with ease and make you work smarter, not harder. They should include tools that make you look and sound professional on video calls and feature security settings that keeps your data private.
Here’s what to look out for when it comes to the best laptop for working from home:
• High-end display such as a Dynamic AMOLED 2X touchscreen
• Intel® Core™ 7 or Ultra 7 processor. Opt for Ultra 7 if you do a lot of advanced multitasking, graphic intensive or creative work
• Windows 11 operating system for optimised productivity on and offline
• 15+ inch screen to maximise productivity and optimise screen space
• 8GB or 16GB to efficiently handle multiple programs at the same time
• High resolution camera (for video calls) and noise cancelling mic technology
• Advanced security features for keeping critical information secure
• Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
What is the best Samsung laptop for working from home?
When it comes to the best laptop for working from home, check out the sensational Galaxy Book4 Pro 360. This incredible 2-in-1 laptop has a stunning 16-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X touchscreen display that brings out the finest details in all your work. With a colour volume of 120%, you’ll enjoy vivid hues and deep contrasts whether you’re working, creating or relaxing at the end of a long day.
Boasting the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor and Intel® Arc™ graphics. The latest platform combines a powerful 76Wh battery (typical), 16GB of superfast RAM and an advanced cooling system. The processor has been optimised to keep the device cool and quiet while you blast through heavy workloads.
When it comes to getting things done this laptop works seamlessly with the Galaxy S Pen Pro so you can write and draw as smoothly as you would with a real pen. Use it to take handwritten notes during a work meeting or bring out your inner artist with impressively detailed and colourful designs.
What’s more the Galaxy Book4 Pro 360 enables smarter living with full integration in the Samsung Galaxy Ecosystem. Whether you use the Quick Share feature to conveniently send files across Galaxy devices or bring your mobile apps to your Galaxy Book4 Pro 360 for a seamless inter-device experience you can stay in charge of your workflow.
Concerned about getting set up? Don’t be! We’ve taken away the hassle with Galaxy Book Smart Switch and Single Sign-On - onboarding your new laptop has never been easier. Smart Switch transfers all your files and settings from your old device and Single Sign-On gets you into your favourite apps with just one log-in.
What features to look for in a business laptop?
As a small business, every minute counts. The last thing you need is to be dealing with a cruddy old computer that can’t keep up with your work demands. Whether you're visiting clients, brainstorming with employees or pitching for new contracts, your laptop should demonstrate just how much you mean business!
Here are the top specs and features to look out for when choosing laptop for your small business:
• High-end display for professional pitching and presentations
• Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 or Ultra 9 processor for advanced multitasking
• Windows 11 operating system for next level productivity
• Large screen to maximise productivity
• 16GB or to efficiently handle multiple programs at the same time
• High spec camera and noise cancelling mic technology for meetings
• Advanced security features for keeping critical business information secure
• Powerful battery
• Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
What is the best Samsung laptop for small businesses?
When it comes to the best laptop for a small business check out the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Ultra; it’s our most powerful professional laptop to date. Sacrificing nothing on performance it is powered by the latest Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processor¹ and has an advanced NPU for next-level AI performance. Together with the NVIDIA® GeForce™ RTX™ graphics turning your big ideas into reality has never been easier. The impressive 16-inch WQXGA+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display has plenty of room so you can see the smallest of details clearly and accurately. It also has a 120% colour volume DCI-P3 rating, meaning you’ll enjoy dynamic, intense colours that intelligently adapt to what you’re working on.
The Galaxy Book4 Ultra has an ultra-thin and light design. Weighing in at just 1.86kg, it’s exceptionally portable, making it perfect for taking out to clients or into the office. The impressive 76Wh battery (typical)² can last long enough for 21 hours of video runtime³ so you’ll have plenty of power to get you through your work day. When it’s time to recharge the Super-Fast Charger will get you back up to 55% in just 30 minutes⁴.
You’ll no longer need to worry about looking and sounding professional during video calls, thanks to the FHD wide-angle webcam and studio quality mics with AI noise cancelling. Combined with features such as Auto Framing and eye contact correction in Studio effects, you’ll look sharp and sound clear on every video call. The powerful quad speakers also deliver high frequencies and rich bass sounds so there will be no trouble hearing what’s being discussed during remote meetings.
The Galaxy Book4 Ultra also has enterprise-level security so you can rest safe in the knowledge that your business documents are secure. Its innovative software safeguards firmware from attacks and keeps malicious code out of the Windows 11 operating system with ID and biometric technology.
Integrated seamlessly into the Galaxy Ecosystem, the Galaxy Book4 Ultra can duplicate, extend and instantly work across Galaxy devices thanks to Samsung Multi Control, giving you more flexibility to work how you want. Pair it with the Smart Keyboard Trio 500 for example, and you can connect it with up to three different devices at once so you can easily switch typing between your Galaxy Tab, smartphone and laptop.
Visit our Samsung Laptop Series Explained guide to find out more about the incredible range of laptops available from Samsung.
- ¹Galaxy Book4 Ultra is also available with Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor.
- ²Typical value of battery capacity tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated (minimum) capacity is 73.8Wh.
- ³Based on results from internal lab tests for local video playback time conducted by Samsung. Tested with results from a pre-release version of the device using inbox 140W charger under settings (1080p video playback from video files stored on the device's local storage, player-Windows video players (Media Player, Movies & TV, Films & TV) with full screen, brightness-150 nits, wired earphone with default volume, aeroplane mode on, keyboard backlight off) without connection to Wi-Fi or mobile network, measuring the time until the device is discharged to 2%. Battery life varies significantly depending on settings, network environment, usage patterns and other factors. Actual charging speed may also vary depending on the actual usage, charging conditions and other factors.
- ⁴Battery capacity and amount of charge after a 30-minute charge vary by configuration. The inbox charger and data cable are USB Type-C.
What’s the best Samsung laptop to buy?
The best Samsung laptop to buy depends entirely on what you want to use your new laptop for, and what features you need.
If you’re looking for an awesome all-round laptop that’s optimised for studying or working, we would recommend the Galaxy Book4 Pro 360 or Galaxy Book4 Pro. These models can handle intense workloads, are light and portable, and include features like S Pen compatibility, split screen and 2-in-1 functionality¹.
If you’re looking for a great everyday laptop or one that’s suited for your kids or teens, consider models like the Galaxy Book4, Galaxy Book4 360 or Galaxy Chromebook2 360 LTE which have plenty of intuitive features that are great for studying and entertainment.
If an epic gaming laptop is what you’re after, check out the Galaxy Book4 Ultra which is our most premium, high-end laptop to date. With the latest processors, graphics and awesome display tech it shows off games at their best.
Still not sure? Take a look at our Galaxy Book comparison page which lets you quickly compare the specifications of three different laptop models of your choice.
¹2-in-1 functionality and S Pen compatibility only available on Galaxy Book 360 models, including the Galaxy Book4 360 and Galaxy Book4 Pro 360.
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