laptop
Guide

I need a loptop...
How to choose?

Is it possible to find your way through the laptops jungle? There are thousands of models to choose from and the only one will be the one that suits you best. But how to find it? No worries, we'll explain everything!

Good to know

1- First of all: the screen.

The screen

The screen is what you will see 24 hours a day... impossible to forget! The smaller the laptop, the more mobile it will be: lighter, less bulky, less power consumption and therefore more autonomy, etc. Larger, it will be comfortable for a long time! It's up to you to decide which way your heart inclines..


If needed, here are some reference points:

  • The  15-inch laptop is the most versatile. Below that, mobility is the key, and from 16 inches upwards, sedentary use is required.
  • There's nothing to stop you from connecting your small laptop to a larger monitor, with some bonuses such as an adapted keyboard and mouse for further comfort.
  • You don't think about carrying your laptop everywhere, and you want to enjoy your movies, video games or graphic creations to the fullest? Then a large screen is a must-have!

Help, I have reflections!

Beware, if you plan to work with your toes out on the lawn, the sun could ruin everything! If you intend to use your laptop/Macbook outdoors or in a bright place, choose a "matte" screen:  it will reflect less light and offer more natural colours (but a little less contrast). Otherwise, a glossy screen will be cheaper and brighter... It's up to you to decide which one you prefer!

4K quality or not?!

Of course, everyone would like the higher resolution. But does it really matter to you? If you're going for a small screen that's more convenient to carry around, or if you're not going to display any audiovisual material on it, then there's no point in insisting on it. Worse: a very high resolution on a small screen will not only be useless, but also very unpleasant! Besides, it's also a good way to save money: a Full HD (High Definition) laptop is bound to be more affordable than a UHD or 4K (Ultra High Définition) laptop...

Tactile, convertible & cie

Some would find these points unnecessary, others would not be able to live without them! Touchscreens  and 360° screens that can be turned into a tablet are excellent assets for greater versatility (or simplicity, for the elderly for example...). It is also a good way to avoid buying several products, or simply to go faster without a mouse.


2- Power = CPU

CPU

The processor is the heart, the power of your laptop. Just like everything else, it's good to aim for the right amount of power according to your needs: there's no point in getting a speedy beast if all you need is checking your emails... And once again, that's a good way to cut costs for an efficient daily life laptop.


It's up to you!

3 - Talking about Gaming (and graphics)...

GPU

All laptops can open the latest little Facebook game or run your favourite movie, since they all have what's called a GPU (G for "graphics") built into their processor. But if you really use your laptop regularly for gaming, a graphics card is a real plus: superior graphics and image beauty, protection against tearing or lags... The question also arises for artists, graphic designers and other architects: if you work on relatively light files, there's no need to go broke. On the other hand, if you start doing 3D or video, don't skimp on the means!
 


Good to know:

  • A good quality integrated GPU may be sufficient for low power games (Fortnite, etc) or for drawing for example
  • For a more intensive graphics use, or depending on your level requirements, a graphics card is preferable.

Beware, this crucial point will increase both the price and the weight of your laptop. So think carefully!

4- Plugged in and connected:

GPUWant to connect your laptop to an HD TV? Check for an HDMI output! Want to regularly connect an external hard drive, a graphics tablet or a whole bunch of accessories? Then you need several USB ports (or  an accessory to multiply them).

  • USB 2.0 ports allow to connect most of today's peripherals, but you might as well switch to USB 3.0.
  • USB-C (mini) ports can sometimes be the only connections offered. Be sure to bring an adapter with you!
  • The memory card reader is a plus for viewing your holiday photos or just adding space. Beware, some readers are only compatible with SD cards, others are able to read several formats!
  • Wi-Fi is present on all laptops, but it comes in a variety of versions with varying speeds. You should also check for Bluetooth, camera and other connectivity details as required.

5- More autonomy, for longer!

GPU

Typing on your laptop/MacBook all day long without having to plug it in... that would be perfectc! But unfortunately, your choices always limit the autonomy of your future laptop. Here are the 3 things you need to know.

Screen
The smaller the screen, the less your battery will be used. You can also save autonomy by reducing the screen brightness!

Power
The more resources you need (for gaming, for example), the shorter the battery life. If your use is limited to office work or browsing, it is therefore in your interest to choose a less powerful machine!

Battery
A laptop battery is featured by its capacity (expressed in mAh) and the number of cells in it (in relation to the voltage supplied). Longer-lasting batteries are also more bulky and heavier.

Which laptop to choose?

Want a selection of laptops just for you? Nothing could be easier! Just fill in this form below and your dreams' laptop/ Mac will appear!

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5. Would you like something refurbished?



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I just want to...

Work!

Are you planning to travel in the coming months, or just to be able to comfortably work remotely? In short, your main use will be for office work: writing reports, checking the internet, making video calls, playing a few videos and... And that's all? Don't bother with a speedy beast and save on power and graphics card. However, don't limit yourself in terms of accessories and connectivity so that you don't get stuck in a foreign country! Finally, choose a light weight and an easy-to-carry size, or even a hybrid model that can convert into a tablet if you do a lot of reading!

Our selection

Play!

Of course, there is playing and .... Playing. There's no need to get the most powerful laptop/MacBook if you just want to try your hand at a few games sessions. You'll be able to save on battery life and weight by aiming for something reasonable for your use. Find out what your main game is and what the minimum requirements are to run it. Of course, get a graphics card that is a little more powerful than indicated (for comfort and duration), but don't go overboard. On the other hand, if you are a pro-gamer and intend to use your laptop/MacBook in LAN, then don't hesitate: big (real) graphics card, optimised keyboard, large screen, etc. Let yourself be tempted without breaking your budget (and your wallet)...

Our selection

Do anything!

Okay, fine, "who can do more can do less". But we don't all have an unlimited budget, nor the same goals. If you want to be a multi-purpose and multimedia user, make sure you prioritise your main needs: large screen or light weight, autonomy or power, etc. One does not exclude the other, but it may give you a clearer idea of what you are looking for. For example, if your only multimedia need is to watch movies and doodle on the tablet, you can afford a small i5 processor that is perfectly adequate. However, if you're going to do 3D modelling, you'll need to be more careful! Similarly, if you plan to share this laptop/MacBook with the whole family, don't hesitate to think about everyone's comfort: a screen that's not too small and perhaps touch-sensitive can help, a relatively powerful GPU, suitable connectivity... In short, be prepared!

Our selection

Our selection by budget

Under 800€:


From 800€ to 1,200€:


Over 1,200€:

The essentials to remember!

With the democratisation of working from home, you may be thinking about getting a computer to work comfortably and efficiently from home. The purchase of a new computer may also be motivated by studies or leisures. Performance varies from one model to another and should be taken into account according to your uses and priorities. With LDLC 2021's special laptop buying guide, find the machine best suited to your needs and equip yourself with the best brands! Discover also our selection of reliable and performing laptops from 300 euros to the racing beasts for gaming enthusiasts.
 

2023 laptops/MacBook: our recommendations by use:

  • For the whole family: The family laptop is usually a multi-purpose laptop that will be used for the web, the Office suite and multimedia. An entry-level configuration  is therefore sufficiently appropriate. If it is to be used permanently on a desk, treat yourself with a 17-inch screen. A nice diagonal is more comfortable for the eyes. For this use, also consider the refurbished alternative! Budget: between 300 and 600 euros.
  • For gamers looking for performance: The ultimate gamer laptop is the one that combines the best technologies for gaming: powerful graphics card, high frequency screen, mechanical keyboard, complete connectivity. Everything is gathered to offer you the best gaming experience possible! Budget: between 700 and 1500 euros.
  • For students looking for mobility: No need to lug a 4kg laptop to school. High school and university students, opt for a light laptop and bet on autonomy! For you, the top choice is definitely the ultra-portable laptop. In addition to having all the features you need in a mobile situation, this type of silent laptop will not disturb your school mates. Budget: from 500 euros.
  • Mac vs. laptop, which is the right choice for graphic and video designers? In principle, you already have the answer! Because if you're a creative professional you're working on laptop or MacBook specific software. However, if you want to pursue a creative career, pay attention to the processor model, the type of hard drive used and the screen size and slab if you decide to go for a laptop. The MacBook is generally popular for photo and video editing because of its performance and stability. The Apple environment is commonly used in this type of profession. Budget: between 1000 and 2000 euros.

Laptop vs. Tablet: where do we stand in 2023?

With the release of the Apple iPad Pro, which truly reinvents the iPad and by extension the tablet, the question can legitimately be asked. Powerful and very compact, this tablet combined with a keyboard offers an experience very close to that of a laptop, with the added bonus of a touch interface. In short, the best of both worlds between the smartphone and the laptop. An ideal solution for creative people, students and families. Except for gaming use, replacing a laptop with a tablet is possible in 2021!