uni laptop

What are we thinking for uni laptops?
I'm going to UofE for BSc Biomedical Sciences, and so far the plan is to buy a refurbished HP elitebook or probook. I also have an iPad with a Bluetooth keyboard for emergencies. I kind of want to get a laptop as soon as possible so I can properly learn how to use it (and also so I can have my own laptop once handing in my school Chromebook)
Does anyone have any tips for how to choose a laptop, or any thoughts in general?
:smile:

Reply 1

UEA Rep Fatma

Official Rep

Original post

by Bee2008

Hello! @Bee2008 🙂
Firstly, it's great you're thinking ahead!
I currently study natural sciences and I'd definitely recommend having a laptop for university. I only used my iPad during my first year and it wasn't too bad but using things like Word and Excel were quite annoying on an iPad. (especially super and sub scripts!)
However, if you're taking any maths modules, you may find the iPad better for notes as you can write equations faster and more precisely. iPads are also quite good for diagram heavy modules (mainly biology)
In terms of what to look for in a laptop I'd recommend:

•

Enough storage: 8 GB may be enough but it may be better to get slightly higher just in case

•

A big enough screen: This just makes it more comfortable for when you use it for a long time. As you will probably carry it around with you, I'd recommend not going too big on screen size either! 13 or 14 inch screens are good.

•

Battery life: Make sure it has a good battery life so you don't need to charge it every so often

•

Lightweight: This is more important if you commute, but make sure it's not too heavy!

I currently have the HP EliteBook and it's been working well so far, but do have a look as there are tons of options out there!
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any questions 🙂
Fatma.

Reply 2

Dunnig Kruger

My biggest tip for buying a laptop is for you to buy what I'd buy for myself or for a close friend. I'm the sort of guy that can look at an online laptop buying guide and tell you exactly what the author got right and what they got wrong.
Getting a used HP Elitebook is a great choice on your part.
The best sized laptop will depend on your mobility profile. Anything from a 13" to a 17" could be the right size for you - depending.

14" laptops are the correct size for most students. If you're of dainty build and will carry it a lot, get a 13". If you're of rugby prop forward build a 15.6" or 16" laptop would be right for you. If you'd only carry the laptop short distances or in the boot of a car, 15.6" to 17" would be right for you.

Having an ipad and a laptop is a good combination. The tablet is good for taking to lectures and scribbling notes over the downloaded lecture handouts. The laptop is great for typing assignments, emails, running a wide variety of applications.

Installing Linux as soon as you get the laptop would be a great idea. Linux with a Gnome or KDE Plasma desktop is a significantly better working environment than Windows. And it's 100% free. Along with a set of great Linux or cross platform apps that are 100% free, such as Libre Office.

Current deals I'd go for in a 14" size include:
Bidding £170 for this:
HP 845 G7
You might be the only bidder.

Bidding up to £242 for this:
HP 840 G8

Reply 3

username7564193

Original post

by Dunnig Kruger

My biggest tip for buying a laptop is for you to buy what I'd buy for myself or for a close friend. I'm the sort of guy that can look at an online laptop buying guide and tell you exactly what the author got right and what they got wrong.
Getting a used HP Elitebook is a great choice on your part.
The best sized laptop will depend on your mobility profile. Anything from a 13" to a 17" could be the right size for you - depending.
14" laptops are the correct size for most students. If you're of dainty build and will carry it a lot, get a 13". If you're of rugby prop forward build a 15.6" or 16" laptop would be right for you. If you'd only carry the laptop short distances or in the boot of a car, 15.6" to 17" would be right for you.
Having an ipad and a laptop is a good combination. The tablet is good for taking to lectures and scribbling notes over the downloaded lecture handouts. The laptop is great for typing assignments, emails, running a wide variety of applications.
Installing Linux as soon as you get the laptop would be a great idea. Linux with a Gnome or KDE Plasma desktop is a significantly better working environment than Windows. And it's 100% free. Along with a set of great Linux or cross platform apps that are 100% free, such as Libre Office.
Current deals I'd go for in a 14" size include:
Bidding £170 for this:
HP 845 G7
You might be the only bidder.
Bidding up to £242 for this:
HP 840 G8

thank you so much! that's super helpful