As someone whose job requires providing technical advice to different people, I get a lot of different questions. Sometimes it's about learning how to send an email. Sometimes, it's about getting rid of spam and viruses. Occasionally, it's people who want to learn how to get the right personal computer (or PC, for short) for their own use.

Given that there are so many different options, it can be hard to know where to start. Do I want Windows or macOS? Do I want a laptop or a desktop? Do I want an ASUS, a Lenovo, or even a Dell? What size do I want? And don't even get me started on the different quality of RAM and storage and how good the processor is. It can be overwhelming if you don't know what you're doing.

So, I'm here to make things a little simpler — going through each of the different aspects you may not fully understand.

Device — Laptop vs Desktop

It can be hard to decide whether you want a laptop or a desktop. There are pros and cons to each.

The benefits of a laptop are largely based on its size and design. It is small and portable, meaning it can be used anywhere — particularly in small spaces like on a train or at a compact desk. It includes a screen, keyboard, touchpad, USB ports and, in most modern models, a webcam, all in one device. Laptops also have an internal battery, meaning you can use them without being plugged in. Additionally, due to having fewer components, they are quicker to set up and generally consume less power.

Alternatively, if you want a more powerful system, a desktop is usually the better choice. Desktops typically have stronger processors and more memory, allowing them to run demanding tasks more efficiently. They often feature larger screens and more USB ports, making it easier to connect multiple devices. Desktops are also easier to maintain and upgrade, as individual components can be replaced or improved over time. In many cases, they are more cost-effective and can be more durable.

Operating System — Windows vs macOS (and others)

The Operating System (OS) is the system of programs that control a computer. It's responsible for managing all the computer's resources — including its memory, processors, hard drive, I/O devices (hardware that allows for interaction between user and computer, such as a mouse, keyboard, monitor, printer, and microphone) and security.

The two biggest in the PC market are Microsoft's Windows and Apple's macOS. Windows is generally seen as better for business and IT professionals, as well as the general public, whilst macOS is popular among those in creative fields (graphic designers, videographers, marketers and music producers) and software developers. That said, there is crossover.

Windows is the OS of choice for many manufacturers, such as Lenovo, Dell, ASUS and HP. It's available on a wide range of devices and functionalities, whether a basic budget laptop or a multipurpose workstation. It also supports more software overall, with some tools being Windows-only. There are more customisation options, and you can download software from anywhere. Windows also includes Active Directory, Microsoft's directory service used to manage users and computers on a network — commonly used by schools and workplaces.

macOS is developed by Apple, and its main advantage is how well it integrates with other Apple devices. Everything syncs between devices, making it easy to share files, answer calls, and use your iPhone as an extension of the Mac. It's particularly popular in creative fields, with strong apps like Final Cut Pro and hardware optimised for such tasks. Because Apple controls both the hardware and software, performance is smooth and consistent across all apps. The hardware quality is generally high, with durable aluminium frames, excellent trackpads, and sharp displays.

In summary: Windows suits users who prioritise flexibility, high-performance hardware options, and lower costs. macOS is typically for those who value ease of use, stability, design, and hardware-software integration.

Beyond those two, Linux (developed by Linus Torvalds) has a smaller but dedicated audience — primarily software developers, system administrators, and tech enthusiasts who appreciate its security, stability, and freedom (free to use, modify, and redistribute). ChromeOS, made by Google, is primarily used by students and educators who value affordability and ease of use, particularly those who work heavily within Google Workspace.

Different Manufacturers

The three largest manufacturers in the PC market are Lenovo, HP and Dell. All three support Windows, Linux and ChromeOS. Choosing between them largely comes down to the specifications and priorities of the device.

Lenovo is best known for durability, practical design and strong value for money. Its ThinkPad range is widely recognised for exceptional keyboards, making it ideal for users who type a lot. Lenovo prioritises build quality, producing robust, reliable laptops suited to students, programmers, writers and large organisations.

HP focuses more on design, variety and balanced performance. It offers a wide range from budget to premium, with modern, stylish designs and strong battery life. Some models also handle light creative work and casual gaming well — making HP a solid choice for students, professionals and families who want a well-rounded device.

Dell is known for reliability, performance consistency and premium build quality. Its XPS range uses aluminium and carbon fibre to create lightweight yet durable laptops, with strong cooling systems that prevent overheating. Dell also stands out for its customer support, often rated among the best in the industry. It's ideal for power users, corporate environments, and creators who need stable, high-performance machines.

Other notable manufacturers include ASUS, known for high-performance and gaming-focused laptops, and Acer, popular for offering good value for everyday use. Companies like Microsoft and Apple also produce their own hardware within their respective ecosystems.

Tech Jargon — RAM, CPU, Screen Size and More

If you search for a laptop on Amazon, you might find something like: "Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5 | 16 inch WUXGA 1200p Laptop | Intel Core i5-13420H | 16GB RAM | 1TB SSD | Windows 11 Home | Cosmic Blue." Here's what that all means:

  • RAM (Random Access Memory) — The computer's short-term, temporary workspace. It holds data and applications currently in use, allowing the processor to access them instantly. This is what lets you have Microsoft Word, Google Chrome and Spotify all open at once. 8GB is enough for light browsing and schoolwork; 16GB is better for multitasking and office work; 32GB suits heavy creative use; 64GB+ is for complex technical tasks.
  • Resolution — The number of pixels displayed on screen, typically written as width × height (e.g. 1920 × 1080) or just the height (e.g. 1080p). Higher resolution means a clearer, sharper, more detailed image.
  • SSD (Solid State Drive) — The computer's primary storage, holding all files — both yours and the system's. Storage is measured in GB (gigabytes) and TB (terabytes). Note: the listed storage on a device is often slightly less in practice, as system files and pre-installed apps take up space.
  • Processor / CPU (Central Processing Unit) — The "brain" of the computer, responsible for taking in data, performing calculations, and carrying out instructions from software. Using the example above, Intel Core i5-13420H breaks down as: i5 = mid-range tier; 13th generation = more modern and efficient; 13420 = specific model; H = high-performance laptop chip. Key specs to look at: clock speed (GHz, how fast it processes tasks) and core count (more cores generally means better multitasking).
  • Screen Size — Measured as the diagonal length of the display area (top-left to bottom-right), not including the frame, written as "x inch" or "x"".
  • Graphics Card — Houses the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), which renders visuals. Some laptops use integrated graphics (built into the CPU), while others have a dedicated graphics card for better performance in gaming and creative work.
  • Ports — Slots that allow external devices to connect to the computer. Main ones are: USB (storage, keyboards, mice), HDMI (monitors, TVs, projectors), Ethernet (wired internet), audio (speakers, microphones), and SD card slots (memory cards for cameras and phones).

Conclusion

Hopefully this information has been helpful. The aim was to provide a clear overview of the key concepts to consider when choosing a device. That said, it's recommended that you conduct further research to ensure you select the device that best meets your own needs — there are many high-quality options out there, and the right choice depends on how you plan to use it.