New laptop specs that actually matter (and the ones that don't)

For most office work, prioritise RAM — 16GB is a sensible modern minimum — and a solid-state drive over raw processor speed; those two changes make the biggest difference to everyday responsiveness. Battery life and build quality matter more than marginal processor upgrades for anyone working away from a desk regularly.

Coach's tip: buy one model up from the absolute cheapest option — it usually adds a year or two of useful life for a small extra cost.