Remote working – once quite rare in the grand scheme things – has become a very common setup in today’s post-pandemic world. In fact, the pandemic was a huge inflection point that continues to influence how we work today.
Prior to the pandemic, less than 5 percent of employee days were worked at home. That number immediately peaked to 61.5 percent at the height of the pandemic in May 2020. It declined to 37 percent by the end of the year but has held steady right around 29.5 percent since the fall of 2022. In other words, right around one-third of all workers now work remotely.
In order to be productive and efficient as a remote worker, there’s one thing you need: A really good Windows laptop. But with so many different options to choose from, which features matter most?
5 Features to Prioritize in Your Windows Laptop
Every individual has unique needs – largely dictated by their job role and other personal factors – but here are five features that you should absolutely prioritize when shopping for business laptops.
1. Performance and Speed
Your laptop needs to keep up with you. That means having a powerful processor, plenty of RAM, and substantial storage. As you probably know from personal experience, a sluggish laptop can turn any task (no matter how simple) into a test of patience. Likewise, insufficient storage can leave you juggling files and applications – constantly having to uninstall, delete, and reinstall things on your computer to make room.
For smooth multitasking and handling software with ease, look for a laptop equipped with at least an Intel Core i5 or equivalent processor, 8GB of RAM (16GB if you’re into more demanding tasks like video editing or graphic design), and a solid-state drive (SSD) for faster boot times and quick access to your files.
2. Reliable Connectivity
As a remote worker, your connection to the outside world is arguably even more important than folks who work in an office with other people. A laptop with strong connectivity options ensures you’re always just a click away from your team, clients, or resources.
Look for laptops with strong Wi-Fi capabilities, preferably with the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard for faster and more reliable internet connections. You’ll also want to consider models with built-in LTE or 5G support, allowing you to connect to the internet even when Wi-Fi isn’t available. (The more ways you can stay connected, the more seamless your remote work experience will be.)
3. Long Battery Life
One of the perks of remote work is the flexibility to choose your workspace. Whether it’s a coffee shop, a park, or a cozy corner of your home, you don’t want to be glued to a power outlet. That’s where long battery life comes into play. Aim for a laptop that offers at least 8 hours of battery life under normal use conditions, so you can power through your workday without constant recharging. Some of the best models can even push beyond 12 hours, giving you the freedom to work from anywhere without battery anxiety.
4. High-Quality Display and Webcam
In a remote work setting, your laptop’s display and webcam are extremely important. Opting for a laptop with a high-resolution display ensures you can work comfortably for extended periods, with crisp text and vibrant visuals that reduce eye strain. A screen size of 13 to 15 inches strikes a good balance between usability and portability – but this is largely preference.
A high-quality webcam is key for video calls and virtual meetings. Look for laptops with at least a 720p webcam, though 1080p is ideal for clearer and more professional-looking video. Some laptops even come with privacy shutters or kill switches for the webcam, which can offer a little peace of mind when you aren’t using it.
5. Portability and Durability
Last but not least, your remote work laptop should be ready to go wherever work takes you. This means accounting for both portability and durability. A lightweight laptop, ideally under 4 pounds, makes it easy to carry around, but it should also be sturdy enough to handle the occasional bump or drop. Consider laptops with metal chassis or those that meet military-grade durability standards for added protection.
Find the Right Windows Laptop
There are plenty of good Windows laptops to choose from – so you’ll have to do your research. However, if you prioritize these five features, you’re going to end up with something you’re happy with. Good luck, and don’t rush this process! Patience will serve you well as you look for the right option to help you thrive in your remote role.
Article Submitted By Community Writer