
Windows is an operating system that needs no introduction. The world’s most popular computer platform runs everything from huge multinational corporations to a child’s school powerpoint presentation. But with Apple’s macOS and Google’s ChromeOS hot on Windows’ heels, the choice is not so straightforward. So if you’re curious as to whether Windows is the one for you, check out these ten key considerations below.
Of course, there is. Anyone who wants the highest number of buyers/subscribers or downloaders are going to choose the most popular and most open operating system possible. This means windows laptops…
...boom!
With an infinite number of manufacturers, from the general to the niche, you are more likely to find a Windows machine that suits your needs perfectly than either Mac or Chromebook which have narrower identities and capabilities. Alongside Chromebooks, Windows also come in a dizzying array of shapes, sizes, fashions and colours. It’s the most diverse galaxy in the laptop universe.
Although not the very easiest to use (both Mac and Chromebook would be easier to pick up from zero computer exposure) most people have at least some experience of it, so the learning curve for a Windows machine will be the least (even if you’re jumping versions of the operating system).
Compared to Chromebooks, which aren’t that much cheaper, you get a lot more capability. You can often pick up a great windows machine for less than half price when comparing like for like specifications with Macs. Also, Macs start from around £/$1000 upwards, whilst there are thousands, yes thousands, of sub £/$1k Windows options out there as well as outstanding machines over £/$3k.
Windows has been trying to make its system easier for consumer users since the 90’s trying to balance its corporate and consumer markets. Covering the endless settings, with simpler high-level menus, has been a part of that. This means running a windows machine requires less fiddling with. However, the endless settings are there, if you want it. This allows for a very high degree of configurability right down to the functioning of individual components. If you like getting under the hood, then your Nirvana awaits!
With the OS built to handle almost limitless combinations of hardware, you’re more likely to find a laptop that you can configure its specification to your needs, before and indeed after purchase. Macs, in particular, are locking down more and more components which limits hardware configuration. Which leads on to...
When your machine ages, as all do, you may want to beef-up components rather than buying a new machine. Also, your needs may change - you may take up photo editing. Therefore you may wish to switch from a traditional hard drive to an SSD which is much faster at processing your portrait touch-ups. Indeed, you may want to a bolster the RAM to manage a larger image library or to deal with heftier RAW image files. Conversely, many Macs have locked down even RAM from manual DIY upgradability. Most Windows machines are still easily upgradable from home with a little bit of YouTube assistance.
If you’re going to need to use the machine in non-personal settings such as connecting to a business or college network, then chances are that Windows will be your best bet. Whilst networks are becoming more and more OS agnostic, if you want to reduce your risks of complication, Windows is the way to go
Not only are there more games available for Windows laptops, but they are better for gaming. Here’s why:
… boom!
From software packages to online/telephone assistance to hands-on tech repair, there’s more providers available and consequently more competition. This results in lower costs to Windows support than the competition.
So if you’re convinced that Microsoft’s ubiquitous operating system is for you don’t worry about trying to scour the world wide web for the best value Windows laptops and then combing the net for the best prices. We’ve done all that work for you. Just check these out...
Our scores reflect the needs in this guide, rated across 40+ dimensions by the Choosist engine.
Choosist may earn a commission if you buy through retailer links. Recommendations are based on product fit, not retailer commission. Prices and availability can change. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The Aspire ES1-132-C5UA makes surfing the web easy thanks to a reasonable hardware specification and fast, reliable b/g/n/ac WiFi connectivity. A sizeable drive allows you to download and manage hundreds of thousands of emails on the Aspire ES1-132-C5UA. Facebook, twitter etc require little...
The Aspire ES1-132-C27M makes surfing the web easy thanks to a reasonable hardware specification and fast, reliable b/g/n/ac WiFi connectivity. Sending and receiving email is a relatively lightweight activity that the Aspire ES1-132-C27M can comfortably handle. It also comes with of total storage...
The Aspire ES1-132-C4XY makes surfing the web easy thanks to a reasonable hardware specification and fast, reliable b/g/n/ac WiFi connectivity. Email demands very littl e from a laptop. We've taken this into account . Although less powerful than other laptops, the Aspire ES1-132-C4XY is more than...
The Stream 11-y002na makes surfing the web easy thanks to a reasonable hardware specification and fast, reliable b/g/n/ac WiFi connectivity. Sending and receiving email is a relatively lightweight activity that the Stream 11-y002na can comfortably handle. It also comes with of total storage so you...
Surf the web at speed thanks to the Stream - 11-y002na’s speedy b/g/n/ac WiFi interface. A sizeable drive allows you to download and manage hundreds of thousands of emails on the Stream - 11-y002na. Although less powerful than other laptops, the Stream - 11-y002na is more than capable of keeping...
As a student or researcher, the Notebook 14-bw021na provides a good balance of portability and performance. With b/g/n WiFi support, you can easily roam between networks in libraries, offices and labs. This laptop gives you the tools you need to research and write outstanding papers.
Light, portable, and full-featured, the V110 is ideal for carrying between offices and libraries. You’ll have all the tools you need to research and write outstanding research papers and theses.
As a student or researcher, the V145 provides a good balance of portability and performance. With b/g/n/ac WiFi support, you can easily roam between networks in libraries, offices and labs. This laptop gives you the tools you need to research and write outstanding papers.
Light, portable, and full-featured, the Aspire ES1-533-P6MP is ideal for carrying between offices and libraries. You’ll have all the tools you need to research and write outstanding research papers and theses.
As a student or researcher in the social or physical sciences, this device provides a good balance of portability (with it's 15.6 inches screen size) and performance so that you're free to roam the labs or libraries with a machine that can competently multi-task your data crunching,...
The GU605CX-QR075W has been designed with gaming in mind. Featuring an ultra-fast processor and dedicated GPU, you have all the raw power needed for the latest games releases. Factor in 64 GB RAM and a super-fast SSD and this laptop has everything you need to compete with the best.
Raw power is everything when playing games on the move. The G635LX-RW019W is equipped with a high-power 5.4 GHz CPU and a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 GPU for faster refreshes and higher frame rates. These are complemented by a SSD and 64 GB RAM to deliver a lightning fast gaming experience.
The G835LX-SA009W has been designed with gaming in mind. Featuring an ultra-fast processor and dedicated GPU, you have all the raw power needed for the latest games releases. Factor in 64 GB RAM and a super-fast SSD and this laptop has everything you need to compete with the best.
Raw power is everything when playing games on the move. The G835LW-SA038W is equipped with a high-power 5.4 GHz CPU and a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 GPU for faster refreshes and higher frame rates. These are complemented by a SSD and 64 GB RAM to deliver a lightning fast gaming experience.
View a full list of Windows laptops.
These picks are ordered around fit, not retailer commission. If your needs are more specific, Choosist can narrow the choice for your budget, use case, and region.