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After the COVID-19 pandemic, work culture has shifted dramatically and now requires the use of the best laptop for working from home to perform your job work remotely.

Perhaps you’ve been working remotely for a while and are looking to replace your old computer. Otherwise, you’re new to this and need to prepare yourself for your new found freedom from the office or a planned work station.

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Whatever the case may be, there are a few factors to consider while selecting the laptop for remote work.

Minimum Laptop Requirements

  • The recommended screen size is roughly 13 inches.
  • Weight of less than 1.5kg
  • Core i5, Ryzen 5 or higher processor
  • Memory and storage: 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
  • Battery life: at least 8 hours

Here are some of the things to look for when purchasing a laptop for use at home –

11 Features to Consider When Buying a Laptop for Working from Home

1. Processor

When it comes to computers, the processor is the brain. The faster a computer’s processor is, the more quickly it can carry out its tasks. Better processors are faster, but they are also more expensive.

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If you’re not careful, this is one place where you could spend a lot of money.

You may not require the quickest and most powerful Intel Core processors for a home laptop. Remember that the more influential the processor, the more battery power it consumes.

For a home computer, sticking in the center of the CPU performance spectrum is advised.

A mid-range CPU will suffice for word processing, mail, and basic office duties unless you’re working on CAD design, multimedia, or photo editing.

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2. Size and Weight

Because good laptops use the greatest parts and components, they tend to be lighter than inexpensive laptops of the same size.

Nevertheless, low-cost light laptops are still available. Larger-screen laptops are typically bulkier and heavier.

Apple, for example, has struck a terrific balance between size and weight, and their laptops have excellent monitor-to-weight ratios.

3. Storage and RAM

When it comes to power and efficiency of your laptop, the processor isn’t the only aspect to consider.

RAM is also important since it determines how much data your computer can manage at once.

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4GB should suffice if you’re browsing the web and sending emails. However, if you’re working with design software or editing films and photographs, 8GB is better. 

You might want to consider 16GB for more intense workloads.

It all boils down to your storage requirements. SSD storage has surpassed traditional hard disc drives in performance and usability.

When using a laptop for photo editing, InDesign on occasion and everyday tasks like browsing the web and checking emails, 256GB SSD storage is more than plenty.

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4. Graphics Card

Unless your profession requires you to edit photographs and videos, this is one area where you may save money.

Many customers are enticed by video card specifications and purchase laptops with high-end video cards they will never use.

Most laptops now come with integrated graphics cards that are adequate for the ordinary computer user.

Integrated graphics cards are found in laptops with features such as “integrated Intel XE GPU, Intel Iris XE graphics.”

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5. Display Quality on Laptops

When picking the best laptop for working from home, screen size is frequently mentioned as a top priority.

Many people want it to be large enough to comfortably replace their desktop monitor yet tiny enough to carry about.

The most common size for portable laptop screens is 13.3-inch to 14.1-inch, as this size offers the best balance, as bigger ones are best suited to desktop alternatives.

Nevertheless, the screen’s size isn’t the only factor to consider.

Evaluate the screen’s resolution or the number of pixels it contains, and if you can easily see all of the data you require.

Versatility is also important, so choose a monitor with a bright, non-reflective screen so you can work from any location, including outside in the garden.

6. Wireless Connectivity

When working from home, having a good Wi-Fi network is essential. Ascertain that your laptop has a strong Wi-Fi signal so that you may stay connected no matter where you are in the house.

Also, search for one with a strong Bluetooth connection so you can attach peripherals like mouse and keyboards with ease!

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7. Multimedia Capabilities

When purchasing a business laptop, one feature that is sometimes ignored is the device’s multimedia capabilities.

Furthermore, the recent COVID-19 pandemic has underlined the need for features such as decent quality speakers, mics, and webcams when working from home.

Choosing a laptop with high-quality audio and video capabilities allows you to communicate more effectively with co-workers and clients.

Consider how simple it is to add additional features, such as wired or wireless headphones, without relying on your IT department.

8. Longer Battery Life

When you do WFH, one thing you won’t have to worry about is battery life. 

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Because you’ll almost certainly be working near an electric socket at all times, this is a good idea.

Although, if you ever need to work from outside the house, it’s still crucial to pick a laptop with long battery life. Choose one with a battery life of at least 8 hours to get a lot of work done!

9. The Quality of the Keyboard

It’s difficult to overlook the keyword quality, especially if you spend half of your day typing emails and creating articles.

The keyboard should be pleasant to use and navigate.

For individuals who enjoy a decent keyboard, there are two primary elements to consider:

Quality. Under pressure, a high-quality keyboard should not flex. It should ideally be static. Each key should travel as far as possible (minimal key travel can make typos and feel awkward). Check to see if the keyboard is rattling.

Layout. There should be six rows of keys, including the Ctrl and Alt buttons on the left and right and the Function row. If you require an extended keyboard for work, keep in mind that the latest generation of laptops usually doesn’t come with a numeric keypad.

10. Usability

When you’re constantly on the go, a simple laptop to use and requires little fiddling will keep you sane and help you get more done. The quality of a laptop is heavily influenced by its ergonomics.

Look for a keyboard with an ergonomic layout and plenty of space between the keys and backlighting if you need to use it in the dark.

A 2-in-1 laptop may be the best option, depending on your preferences and needs.

11. Price

Finally, everyone must operate within a budget, and where yours falls will influence the type of laptop you can purchase.

Few people have limitless funds, so you’ll certainly have to make trade-offs and sacrifices.

However, consider twice before squeezing the pennies too tightly on a laptop. It might easily end up being a waste of money.

A speedier laptop may help you be more efficient at work if you can extend your budget. After that, you’ll have more money in your pocket or more free time on your hands to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

So, which laptop is better for working at home?

The best laptop for working from home needs to be portable, have a long battery life, and have a decent Wi-Fi card. 

Think about the Mac Air or Pro if you want an outstanding laptop, and your finances permit it.

If you favour Windows over Apple OS, the Microsoft Surface is a superb consideration. Lastly, choose Acer Aspire, Lenovo, or Dell if you’re on a tight budget.