Start with your needs
A laptop buying checklist that starts with your software
Build a practical US laptop shortlist by checking application requirements, memory, peripherals and the complete cost before choosing a model.
Read the guideUS / Laptops & tablets
Better tech. Thoughtfully chosen.
A considered approach to choosing your next laptop or tablet. Compare the requirements that matter, plan your budget, and build a practical shortlist.
Explore the collection01 / Explore topics
Explore topics
01
Start with your needs
Turn your everyday tasks into a useful shortlist.
02
Life on the move
Think beyond the weight printed on the box.
03
Tablets & 2-in-1s
Understand where a flexible device fits.
04
Creative & demanding work
Match software requirements to the whole system.
05
A second life
Evaluate refurbished condition and support.
06
Your complete setup
Budget for the accessories that make work easier.
02 / Guides
All guides ↗A closer look
Creative & demanding work
What the Copilot+ PC label tells a buyer
Understand category requirements without treating an AI hardware label as a universal application benchmark.
Read the guide
Creative & demanding work
Photoshop laptop memory: minimum versus recommended
Interpret Adobe's RAM guidance, separate upgradeability from capacity, and compare the complete cost of a photo-editing laptop.
Read the guide03 / Planning tools
Planning tools ↗Planning tools
Budget planner · Weighted comparison · Preparation checklist
04 / Retail
View listing ↗Entry ChromeOS laptop
A 15.6-inch ChromeOS laptop with 4 GB of memory and 64 GB of eMMC storage is the floor for browser-and-documents work, and the Acer Chromebook 315 sits at that point. Configurations and pricing change between model years, so confirm the current listing before you buy. Affiliate link — if you buy through it we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.