Best Notebook 2023 • 6 Notebooks Reviews

What is a notebook and how does it work?

There is not an exact definition for a notebook. In comparison with traditional laptops, they are smaller and lighter. However, the truth is that there are no clearly defined rules to differentiate them.

Notebooks can be distinguished from other portable computers because they tend to have screens between 7 and 14 inches, and usually weigh under 4.4 pounds. These are less powerful equipment than their larger counterparts. However, they are also cheaper than laptops, at an average price of around $300.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Notebook

Notebooks are smaller and lighter than laptops. They are therefore best to take with you while traveling, or for people who do not need particularly powerful equipment. And of course, their price is significantly lower than that of a laptop.

Since notebooks are not particularly powerful, they are not well suited to certain tasks. Furthermore, in comparison to most laptops, the keyboard and screen on most notebooks are smaller. Additionally, most don’t feature a disk drive, and it can be difficult to find ones with a battery life longer than four or five hours.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Shopping Criteria for Notebooks

Next, we will evaluate several important issues that you should consider before buying a notebook. Taking this time will mean that you are more likely to be satisfied with your purchase. We would hate it if you became disappointed with the performance of your device after you tested it for a few months. So, how can you find a notebook best suited for you? Consider the following criteria.

• Intended use
• RAM
• Microprocessor
• Hard drive capacity
• Screen size
• Autonomy
• Brand
• Operating system
• Accessories

Intended Use

It’s important to have a very clear idea of what you are intending to use your notebook for. After buying a notebook, people will often discover that their expectations are not met. This is because they wanted things from their device that it never promised to be able to deliver. Remember that a notebook is designed to only perform very basic tasks. Track your daily laptop routine to find out what you use it for.

Therefore, it is a good idea to take the time to test your daily laptop routine to find out what you use it for. In the same way, consider in what circumstances and where you will use it. If you are going to work mostly at home, you may be better off opting for a laptop.

RAM

Random-access memory (RAM) is the working memory used by computers, so it is vital to the performance of any piece of computing equipment. Most notably, RAM stores all the information processed by the microprocessor and all the data used by programs. Hence its great importance in the performance of a team.

As a matter of fact, tests have shown that a large number of the most common performance issues come down to insufficient RAM. This is also why notebooks are really only capable of performing a few basic tasks. You should always look for a device that has good RAM specifications.

Microprocessor

The microprocessor is essentially the brain of a computer. It is responsible for performing calculations and processing information. In short, it is responsible for running all programs and applications. The better the microprocessor, the faster and more agile the notebook will be, and the better it will operate.

Along with RAM, the microprocessor is one of the two factors that determine how well your computer performs. Unfortunately, due to the nature of a notebook, they don’t usually have very powerful microprocessors. However, in our opinion, some manufacturers are starting to offer these devices with quite surprising features.

Hard Drive Capacity

The hard drive is the part of the computer which stores all the information. It is where programs are installed and where all files are saved. Higher storage capacity means you can store more and larger files. However, it is important to note that it does not have a fundamental influence on performance.

Tests have shown that, if you have to sacrifice something, you should sacrifice the capacity of the hard drive. When you come to need more capacity, you can always resort to using external hard drives, which are also becoming cheaper, smaller, and offering an increasing number of benefits.

Screen Size

It makes sense that the screen size of a notebook is smaller than that of a traditional laptop. The most common size for most manufacturers is in the order of 10 or 11 inches. There are models with smaller screens. However, in our opinion, the latter option is not the best fit if you intend to use it to watch movies or multimedia content.

Autonomy

The autonomy a notebook battery gives you is a fundamental aspect to consider when choosing which one is best fitted for you to buy. Very often, you are going to use it in places where you do not have access to an electrical outlet. It will surely be an issue if you need to shut down your computer just as you’re finishing an important report for work.

Choose a device that gives you autonomy for at least four or five hours. Regardless, keep in mind that with continuous use and continuous recharging, the battery will lose capacity. In the long-term, it will be a good option to invest a little more in a notebook with a better battery. In this way, you will prolong its useful life.

Brand

There are currently a great number of manufacturers of laptops. Some specialize in low-cost models, others in high-quality products. Ultimately, choosing the brand will depend on what you are looking for. Our opinion is that you should choose a notebook from a recognized and tested brand. Apple has earned popularity for its commitment to innovation and design. Asus, meanwhile, offers great value for money. HP is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious brands in the industry and has gained this reputation thanks to the quality of its products. Lenovo, on the other hand, stands out for offering quality laptops at very attractive prices.

Operating System

In terms of the operating system, you can choose between Windows and Linux—unless you opt for an Apple model, which uses Apple’s corresponding operating system. If you decide on Linux, you’ll enjoy a free and open-source operating system that boots up more quickly. Windows, on the other hand, offers much greater compatibility.

Since notebooks have quite limited features, many work with Linux. Those that work with Windows sometimes use older versions, since not all of them support the latest operating systems. Until recently, only midrange and high-end equipment could enjoy the latest versions of Windows.

Accessories

In our opinion, it’s best to choose a notebook that has at least two USB ports, Wi-Fi connectivity, and Bluetooth compatibility. It is also a good idea to have a headphone jack input and an integrated microphone. In the same way, a model that incorporates a good camera may be worth considering. And if possible, look for one that comes with an SD card reader.

If you don’t have any CDs or DVDs, you need not worry, as they are slowly being phased out. Additionally, keep in mind that when you buy your notebook, manufacturers may often be limiting their production. Remember, too, that notebooks are specially designed to be both lightweight and small.

Related Links and Sources

• https://store.hp.com/us/en/tech-takes/laptop-vs-notebook
• https://www.diffen.com/difference/Laptop_vs_Notebook
• https://www.thebalancesmb.com/before-you-buy-a-laptop-or-notebook-computer-2946956

FAQs

What are the main uses for Notebooks?

In general, notebooks are usually used for reasonably basic tasks. They can be used to browse the internet or work with word processors or spreadsheets. After all, these are the functions most commonly used by the vast majority of laptop users.

Notebooks, unfortunately, are not built to edit videos or play state-of-the-art video games. The most they will let you do is some simple editing and image touch-ups.

Who would be recommended to buy a Notebook?

Notebooks are ideal for people who do not need a powerful laptop. In the average user's opinion, these computers are the best alternative. Consider buying a notebook if you need a computer only to surf the internet and to perform basic office tasks. Similarly, you should consider the option of an ultraportable if you often take your laptop away from home and want something lightweight, or if you travel frequently and want a device that does not take up too much space in your luggage. Finally, they are the best option for those who have a limited budget.

What are the minimum recommended requirements?

If you want reasonable performance, a notebook with at least a 1.6 GHz microprocessor is recommended. As for RAM, it should be a minimum of 2 GB. The hard disk should have at least 160 GB of capacity. And the battery should offer a minimum capacity of four hours. The device should also be able to connect via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

How do you look after a notebook?

Look after your notebook just as you would a laptop. You should take care not to hit or drop it, first and foremost. These computers frequently fall victim to small accidents. It is also very important to avoid spilling anything on your notebook, or leaving it in corrosive or humid environments.

It is a good idea to keep it in a good laptop case. Try to keep it connected to your charger whenever possible. This will lengthen the life of the battery.