8 Online Laptop Shopping Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
One of the worst feelings in the world is the black screen of death appearing on your laptop. Whether your trusty tech companion finally gave out or you’ve spilled water on your keyboard, this can be frustrating and stressful.
In a rush, you may quickly buy the first laptop that shows up on your search engine.
However, for tech newbies or whizzes in need of a refresher, taking the time to look into laptops can help you save money and avoid making online laptop shopping mistakes.
If you’re not sure how to get the best laptop for your needs when making an internet purchase, be sure to keep reading to help you avoid additional stress when finding a new personal computer.
1. Ignoring Specs
Though you’ve found a laptop for a great price that can arrive quickly, it’s crucial to look at the specs.
You should look into crucial aspects like memory, operating system, processor type, graphics, and hard drive before making your final purchase.
Though exact needs will be entirely personal, taking the time to read the full product description is essential. You don’t want to end up with a laptop that can’t handle the programs you need to run for school or work!
You should also consider the physical size of the laptop. While most have gotten slimmer and lighter over the years, some heavy-duty options can weigh a decent amount.
If you plan on traveling or bringing your laptop to work or class, you may want to consider opting for a lighter, easier to transport option.
2. Skipping Online Reviews
Though you may know someone who loves their laptop, or on the contrary, bashes the brand, doing your own research is essential to making sure you find the best option.
When looking at options for laptops, you’ll want to take full advantage of online customer reviews. These offer valuable insight from consumers who’ve already purchased and used the product.
Remember, when sifting through reviews, you’ll need to think critically and use your best judgment to determine real reviews and those from a disgruntled buyer.
If there’s only a handful of negative comments amid hundreds of praises, you’re likely looking at a good laptop!
3. Buying the First One You Find
Though you may be in a rush to get a new or replacement computer, you shouldn’t settle for the first option you find. Instead, comparing laptop prices and taking the time to review your options can help you find the best fit.
Take the time to look at different reputable sellers and compare prices, warranties, and shipping information to help you make the best decision.
Also, don’t be afraid to branch out and look at different brands or models. Though you may be an Apple-enthusiast or HP-diehard, there are plenty of brands out there that have their own pros and cons.
4. Purchasing From a Shady Site
While ads that pop up on your social media promise incredibly cheap yet high-quality laptops, you should air on the side of caution and assume these are scam sites.
Realistically, you’ll never get a brand new Apple MacBook for anything less than one thousand dollars. It’s important to use common sense when searching online for reputable and trusted electronic sellers and sites.
5. Settling for a Cheap Option
It’s no secret that laptops can be expensive. Trying to find great deals is vital to helping you save money!
However, you shouldn’t settle for a laptop solely based on its price. If a cheaper option can’t run specific programs you need, it won’t do you any good to spend money on it!
Cheaper options also run the risk of being low-quality, meaning leading to frequent repairs or replacements that add up. Instead, saving up and buying a quality laptop will help you in the long run.
6. Not Reading Store Policies
Before you put your credit card information in and hit “confirm the purchase,” you’ll need to look into the online store’s policies about returns, shipping, and refunds.
This can help you avoid headaches when trying to deal with sales representatives online, as you’ll know what you’re dealing with.
For example, if you’re unhappy with your purchase but didn’t read the online store’s policy, you may find that you’re unable to get a refund. You may only get store credit, leaving you frustrated.
Taking the time to research where you buy is just as crucial as looking into what you buy!
7. Not Checking Compatibility
If you’re buying a replacement laptop, you’ll need to check to make sure your current accessories and technology are compatible with your substitute.
Things like whether or not the new laptop works with your Bluetooth keyboard, has USB ports, or if the cases for your MacBook will fit the replacement are essential to helping you save money on additional accessories.
8. Paying for Features You’ll Never Use
While it can be tempting to upgrade your RAM or buy a laptop with the biggest screen, if you’re only using your computer for personal amusement, this isn’t always necessary.
These additions can end up costing you a lot of money, and you may not even need them! While laptops for work may need additional storage or better graphics, it entirely depends on what you plan on using your computer for.
Be sure to think about what your laptop will be used for before making upgrades or paying for additional features.
Avoid These Common Online Laptop Shopping Mistakes
Online shopping can make your life so much easier. Not only can you avoid going to stores and dealing with pushy sales reps, but you can easily compare options!
However, buying laptops online will require a bit of work to ensure you’re getting the best product for your needs. Remember, take the time to think about your purchase instead of shopping impulsively.
If you found this guide to the most common online laptop shopping mistakes informative, you’ll definitely want to check out the rest of our website. There, you’ll find more great tech tips and tricks.
