When you're shopping for a laptop, it's important to remember that it's more than just the size or speed that counts. 

Finding the right model to suit your needs and price range involves a whole lot of other considerations too, which is where we come in.

Different types of laptop

The terms laptop and notebook tend to be used interchangeably as a general description. You can break these down into smaller sub-categories, though they're not always mutually exclusive.

For example, an ultraportable can also be a convertible (2-in-1) which works as both a laptop and a tablet. Also, many devices that are designed as tablets can also work as laptops if you add a keyboard. Some are specifically designed for this, such as several models in Microsoft's Surface or Apple's iPad range. 

Entry-level, mid-range or high-end laptop?

Entry-level

If you want a cheap laptop for basic tasks and occasional or lighter use and aren't overly concerned about performance, weight or battery life, you can find sub-$700 "budget" models.

These low-cost laptops are relatively low-powered, but capable of general computing tasks such as web browsing, email and general word processing. They can handle most basic multimedia tasks (e.g. standard definition video streaming) and are best suited to casual users and younger students. 

Mid-range

If you want to take your laptop with you on-the-go a lot, you'll want something thin, light and easy to carry. Look for an ultraportable (including Ultrabooks).

Generally speaking, mid-range laptops are aimed at regular computer users, families, students and business people, and can run most software and games, but may struggle a bit with high-end work such as intensive video editing and games that require exceptionally fast graphics processing.