There are dozens of laptop models out there and all of these have unique features that make them suitable for different tasks. This is one of the reasons why choosing the best portable computer isn’t always straightforward, especially if you need it for business purposes.

All laptops have a screen, RAM memory, and of course, a processor. While all parts are important, the processor will have a direct impact on the speed and overall performance of your device. In this article, we’ll go over the most common types of laptop processors and provide some tips and recommendations to help you choose the right laptop.

What Purpose Does Your Processor Serve?

As the name suggests, the processor or CPU is responsible for running the operating system as well as the applications you open on your laptop. As a general rule of thumb, a faster CPU will result in a smoother interface. But, they also drain the battery faster because they are more powerful than slower models.

If you use your computer for conventional tasks like surfing the web, checking your email, and watching videos, you don’t have to aim for the best processors on the market. But, if you run heavy applications, play games, or use it to run simulation software, you may need a more powerful CPU.

Most Popular Processor Brands and Models

Today, there are a handful of companies that manufacture processors, but the two most renown brands are Intel and AMD.

Intel

Intel has been regarded as the leader in the processor manufacturing industry for the last few years. The company has a huge range of models that are suitable for different requirements. Intel processors are known for being powerful, fast, and durable. That said, they also offer more affordable models that are usually featured in basic computers.

AMD

For years, AMD was regarded as a distant second to Intel. But, since the release of their Ryzen line, the company is quickly closing the gap. Modern AMD processors are powered by Zen architecture, which allows its different parts to work independently. This results in faster performance and improved energy efficiency, not to mention the fact that they are still cheaper than the leading competitor.

Choosing the Best Processor for You

Before choosing the right processor, you have to keep in mind the apps you’ll be running. As we mentioned before, people that use their computer for everyday tasks like checking email don’t need to purchase higher-end models. But, if you use your computer for professional reasons, you should consider purchasing a laptop with a powerful processor.

Here are our recommendations for the best laptop processors.

Best Processor for Light Users: Intel i3 and i5 Series

If you use your laptop for entertainment and to stay up to date with emails, you can opt for Intel’s i3 and i5 series. The i3 is the least powerful of the two, but it should still be enough to support relatively light apps and regular usage. The i5 series offers better performance, so it’s ideal for people who work from their laptop at least part-time.

Best Processor for Business Purposes: Intel i7 and AMD Ryzen

If you use your portable computer for graphic design or other business appliances, Intel’s i7 series and AMD’s new Ryzen line are the best options. Intel offers different configurations and models, with the 8th gen i7 H series being the most reliable of them all.  

Best Processor for Gaming: Intel i7

Gaming computer should also have a high-quality processor, which means the Intel i7 series is the best option That said, keep in mind that gaming PCs also need to have a powerful graphics processing unit in order to deliver a seamless experience.

Get Help from a Computer Expert You Can Trust

Choosing the best processor may not be easy, but you should be able to find a suitable computer for the right price, if you take your time of course. The tips above should help you narrow down on the best processing unit and ultimately allow you to choose the best computer.

Want to learn more? Stay tuned for more tips or get in touch and our team will be glad to help.

Author’s Bio

Kym Wallis, the founding director of Higher Ranking has over 15 years of advertising sales, digital strategy, and business development experience. He is currently working as Digital Adviser for Colourtech.