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Should You Buy a Windows Laptop, Chromebook, or MacBook?

3 years ago
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by Flexshopper
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3 years ago
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Written by Flexshopper

If you’ve been shopping for a laptop lately, chances are you’ve found yourself overwhelmed by the huge number of options to choose from. It’s no longer just a matter of simply choosing between the best MacBook or Windows laptop. There’s also now a 3rd option to consider: Chromebooks. Each type of laptop runs a completely different software system under the hood and the price ranges can vary considerably depending on your needs. With so many products to choose from, let’s take a look at the difference between Chromebooks, Macbooks, and Windows laptops so you can decide which personal computer is best for you.

Windows Laptops

Windows laptop sitting on a wooden desk

The most recognizable and widely used computer, the Windows laptop (or Windows PC Laptop) continues to be a top choice amongst many types of consumers. Most new Windows computers often come preloaded with antivirus protection on a trial which can be extended with a subscription. There are a vast number of Windows laptops that fit just about every budget and purpose. Before highlighting some of the more popular laptops, let’s take a close look at what Windows has to offer:

  • Easy to Use – The look and feel of Windows makes it easy to adjust settings and customize many options. Windows 10 supports laptops with touch screen capability, making it even easier to navigate through programs and files.
  • Greater Software Choices – With a large Windows user audience, developers are producing more applications including utilities, word processing packages, and games. Windows can run Microsoft Office, a robust bundled software package for word processing, spreadsheets, and slide creation.
  • Best for Gaming – Windows supports the latest innovations in both gaming hardware and software. Easiest to modify or upgrade internal components to suit individual gamers’ preferences.
  • Plug and Play – Adding and replacing new devices such as mice, keyboards, and other peripherals are much easier on a Windows-based system. Windows easily recognizes devices and automatically installs the required software with little to no user intervention.

There are a multitude of laptops, each with its own unique features, designs, and purposes. However, there are some standouts that are suitable for common everyday tasks such as email, streaming movies, and internet browsing:

  • Microsoft Surface Go 2 – Microsoft’s Surface is often referred to as a 2-in-1 since it has the characteristics of both a tablet and a laptop.  This light, versatile computer is perfect for everyday tasks such as web browsing, emails, homework, and other common uses. In tablet mode, notes can be written directly on the screen, using the Surface Pen or other suitable stylus, which is sold separately. While the Surface Go 2 is not suitable for memory-heavy applications such as graphics design, video editing, or high-end gaming, it is the perfect device for other everyday uses.
  • Asus VivoBook 15 – The Asus VivoBook is a slim 15-inch notebook that is a great budget-friendly computer for on the go or stay-at-home productivity and entertainment. Unlike the Windows Surface Go 2, the VivoBook does not feature touch screen capability. However, as a full-featured notebook, it is installed with Windows 10 Home 64-bit to run more powerful applications. Its 8GB RAM and Ryzen 5-3500U processor can also handle advanced multitasking, basic photo and video editing, and casual gaming. The VivoBook also features several USB ports and has an HDMI port to attach an external screen or TV.
  • Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 – As in the Surface 2 go, the Lenovo is also a 2-in-1 touch screen tablet and notebook. The Lenovo’s unique 360-degree hinge enables this versatile laptop to be propped up like an easel or folded completely to use as a tablet. The IdeaPad also features two USB ports as well as an HDMI output. The IdeaPad uses a 10th generation i3 processor and has 8GB of RAM memory and 512GB of storage to handle work, home, or school computing tasks easily.

Looking for more Windows PC Laptop options? Check out our PC Laptops category to find the perfect one for you.

Chromebooks

chromebook sitting on a desk with google.com on the screen

A more recent entry into the laptop market is the Chromebook. These computers run on the Chrome operating system and are generally more limited in computing power and capability. With an average storage size of about 32GB of flash memory, these devices are meant for more everyday web surfing and video streaming instead of power-intensive tasks like video editing and graphic design.

But in case the low storage size doesn’t work for you, these devices are perfectly compatible with Google Drive, Google’s cloud storage service. Plus, many Chromebook models have a MicroSD slot for easy file management in case it’s needed. Chromebooks have become such a reliable and affordable option that many schools now use them in the classroom since they handle the basics for assignments and note-taking so well. It’s important to keep in mind however that Chromebooks rely on a working internet connection to use most of the available functions.

Here are some major advantages to owning a Chromebook:

  • Portability – Due to their lower hardware requirements, they are lighter and smaller than the average laptop.
  • Affordability – Entry-level Chromebooks may run in the $200 range and are generally the least expensive option for a laptop.
  • Battery Life – Average of nine hours with continuous web surfing.
  • Quick Boot Up Time – The built-in flash memory enables the computer to turn on very quickly.
  • Google Play Store – Access millions of Android apps for entertainment and productivity

Here are some of the more popular Chromebooks from our marketplace:

  • HP Chromebook x360 14″ – The HP Chromebook x360 functions on an Intel Celeron processor and 4 GB of RAM for smooth web-based internet applications and everyday graphics usage. It can handle basic photo editing and casual gaming as well as high definition playback. This HP touch-screen 2-in-1 also can be turned into tablet mode with a 360 flip and fold design. This Chromebook also features built-in virus protection and the familiar Google products of Gmail, YouTube, and Google Hangouts. Google Drive is also available to save files in the cloud for secure access.
  • Samsung Chromebook 4+ 15.6″ – As in the case of the HP Chromebook, the Samsung Chromebook 4+ 15.6″ also features 4 GB of RAM and an Intel Celeron processor. The same Google Chrome features are included as well as built-in virus protection. However, unlike the above HP model, this Samsung Chromebook is not touch-screen enabled. Samsung does feature a larger screen than the HP which is great for media streaming.
  • Asus Chromebook Flip C433 14″ – As the name implies, this Asus can also double as a touch-screen tablet with its 360 flip-and-fold design. This touch-screen model features 64 GB of flash storage, double the amount of the Samsung and HP Chromebooks. As in the other models, the Asus has 4 GB of onboard system RAM. An Intel Core m3 processor adds a bit more performance power over the Celeron chip, making this Chromebook perfect for managing multiple open browser tabs and programs.
  • Asus Chromebook Flip C434 14″ – The Asus Flip is a convertible Chromebook-Tablet with many of the same features as the above 2-in-1 model. The Flip, however, does have an added advantage of an additional USB-C port for connection to devices or for an external display with the appropriate dongle adapter. The Flip also has ultra-slim bezels that make the touch-screen almost borderless.

Looking for more Chromebook options? Check out our Chromebook category to find the perfect one for you.

MacBooks

closed MacBook sitting on a wooden desk

No discussion about laptops would be complete without covering the Apple line of Macbooks. MacBooks can basically do it all with their higher-end graphics and processing power. The added plus is the ease of use and the vast number of applications available. From the student to the videographer, the MacBook is a capable workhorse built for performance.

What makes buying a MacBook so compelling is how well they work with other Apple devices in a way its competitors can only dream about. Take the iPhone for example, the most popular smartphone brand on the planet. It integrates so easily and seamlessly with MacBooks when it comes to sharing and accessing photos and documents thanks to iCloud. It’s important to note however, MacBooks do not come preloaded with antivirus software, but subscription-based programs such as Norton and others can be easily downloaded and installed to prevent intrusions.

Here are some major advantages to owning a Macbook:

  • The Apple Ecosystem – Unlike Microsoft, Apple has developed many mobile devices that complement their computers. From the iPhone to the Apple Watch, communication between the computer and these devices is seamless and very useful for many applications. For example, if you did not finish working on a document on your Macbook, you can access its last saved state on the iPad. Didn’t finish watching that movie on your Apple TV? It can be picked up where you left off on the iPad as long as there is an internet connection. No other company has been able to come close to the connectivity and integration of devices when compared to Apple.
  • Easier to Learn and Use – MacOS applications are much easier to use since they can be more self-explanatory. Unlike the infinite number of menus that Windows has, accessing programs and utilities is more efficiently done on a Mac.
  • Easier to Purchase – Selecting a windows-based computer is a daunting experience with thousands of manufacturers and models to choose from. Comparing all the specs and features can become a tiresome activity. With Apple, it’s easy to pick from just a few models based on the amount of processing power and memory needed. While MacBooks are pricier than Windows laptops and Chromebooks, they are built to last and can withstand many years of use. Support is just a phone call or message away when needed.
  • The Apps – A Mac is preloaded with an amazing collection of useful apps that you can start using immediately. From Photos and iMovie to GarageBand, Facetime, and Maps, there is something for everyone. Apple’s app store for macOS is an incredible depository of programs for every computing need.

Here are 2 of the latest MacBooks that just became available on our marketplace:

  • MacBook Pro 13″ – The latest Macbook Pro features Apple’s new M1 chip. It features an 8-core CPU that gives a fantastic experience when designing on photoshop, video editing, or even gaming. The battery will last up to 20 hours between charges. It’s Apple’s most popular laptop for the workplace.
  • MacBook Air 13″ – Apple’s MacBook Air is an ultralight, thinner version of the MacBook Pro. The latest MacBook Air also includes the new Apple M1 chip, allowing the user to have a stunning CPU & GPU experience. Its long battery life of up to 18 hours makes the MacBook Air an excellent laptop to fulfill your everyday web surfing & streaming needs.

Looking for more MacBook options? Check out our MacBook category to find the perfect one for you.

Looking for a New Laptop?

If you are in the market for a Windows laptop, Chromebook, or MacBook, FlexShopper has easy weekly payments to fit any budget. Contact us today for more information on you can lease-to-own1 the best laptop for your computing needs.

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