There are so many options when it comes to new computers and laptops today. If you are looking for a device for your child there are many things to consider before you make a purchase. Here are a few of the questions you should ask yourself and what exactly you should make sure are included on your new computer or laptop.
What Products Are Used in Your Childs School
With so much technology being used in schools today, your search should begin by asking them what your child’s school uses. If your children are already familiar with these products, you should probably find a device that is similar. This is a good starting point to direct your search when looking for laptops for kids.
Talk to Older Children
Older children that are familiar with technology can also help you pick the right desktop or laptop computer. Talk to your child and ask them what kind of device they prefer. A child that is use to Apple products will likely prefer something like a MacBook instead of a computer with the Windows Operating System installed. Nowadays, kids are more technologically inclined than adults and quite possibly can give the best advice.
Operating Systems
The operating system installed on a computer should be the first decision made. In the past, Windows computers dominated the market. However, in recent years, the success of Apple’s iPads, iPhones, and iMacs have made Apple’s operating systems more popular. The iMac computers, even the cheapest ones, are more expensive than the Windows counterparts making them a bad choice for younger children.
Important Specifications
Even the cheapest Windows and Macs are well suited for everyday tasks like cruising the internet and typing up papers. You do not have to worry too much about the various specifications but here are a few helpful tips so you know what you are looking at. The processors available on most Windows-based computers include the Intel Core i3, i5, and i7. The i7 is the best, the i5 is the middle range, and the i3 is the lowest, though it is still good. 4GB of RAM should be enough to do any school work your child has. A 500GB hard drive is able to store a huge amount of the data they will be working with. HDD storage has a lower price point while SSD drives are much faster.
Touchscreen
Touchscreen computers have become very popular but you can save money by choosing a similar device that does not include touchscreen capabilities. If you have a specific budget in mind, you can choose a device that does not include a touchscreen but has a processor that is faster and more memory.
Important Characteristics
The size, weight, and battery life are more important issues than the specs. Laptops with a low price tag are generally bigger and bulkier than those that cost more. If your child plans on taking this laptop with them, choose a smaller product, but if the laptop is going to be staying on a desk at home, the size does not really matter as much. The battery life of cheaper models may last up to four hours while the most expensive available can last up to ten hours without having to plug it in.
Using these tips, you should be able to decide on a computer that best suits the needs of your child. Pick what is most important to you and start looking for a device that includes these features.
