A little direction
Find your kind of tech.
Three quick choices narrow the catalogue. Then use the guide below to compare memory, storage, display and condition with confidence.
Laptops
Match the laptop to the work.
Use this as a starting point, then compare models in the laptop range.
| If you mainly… | Processor | Memory | Storage | Look at |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Study, browse, email, video calls | Core i3 / Ryzen 3 or above | 8 GB | 256–512 GB SSD | Inspiron, Vivobook, refurbished Latitude |
| Office work, accounts, many tabs | Core i5 / Ryzen 5 | 8–16 GB | 512 GB SSD | Latitude 5000 series, ThinkPad, EliteBook |
| Development, data, heavy multitasking | Core i7 / Ryzen 7 | 16–32 GB | 512 GB–1 TB SSD | Latitude 7000 series, ThinkPad T series |
| Design, video, CAD, 3D | Core i7 / i9 H-series | 32 GB | 1 TB SSD | Dell Precision mobile workstations with dedicated graphics |
Condition
New, open-box or refurbished?
Every listing says which one you are buying. Here is how they differ.
New
Sealed stock with the full manufacturer’s warranty. The right choice when you need the latest generation, a long warranty or identical units for a team.
Open-box
Packaging has been opened but the product is sold in working condition, usually at a lower price. Ask about accessories included and warranty.
Refurbished
Pre-owned, mostly business-class machines that have been checked and prepared for resale. Good value for everyday work; compare processor generation, battery condition and warranty.
Before buying refurbished, check
- Processor generation (e.g. 8th gen Core or newer for Windows 11)
- RAM and whether it can be upgraded
- SSD capacity
- Battery health and charger included
- Warranty period and what it covers
Compatibility
Make sure it fits, first time.
Laptop batteries
Match the laptop model and the battery part number (for example GPM03 or F3YGT). Check voltage and cell count.
Chargers and adapters
Match wattage (45 W, 65 W, 90 W), the connector (USB-C, 4.5 mm or 7.4 mm pin) and the brand.
RAM upgrades
Laptops use SO-DIMM, desktops use DIMM. Match DDR3, DDR4 or DDR5 and the speed your board supports.
SSDs
Check the slot: 2.5-inch SATA or M.2. For M.2, check SATA or NVMe and the length (2280 is most common).
Docks and USB-C adapters
Check your laptop’s USB-C port supports video (DP Alt Mode or Thunderbolt) and charging.
CCTV recorders and cameras
Analog (HD-TVI) cameras go with DVRs; IP cameras go with NVRs. Match resolution and channel count.
How much RAM do I need in a laptop?
8 GB is enough for study, browsing, email and office work. Choose 16 GB for heavy multitasking, large spreadsheets, development or photo editing, and 32 GB for video, 3D and engineering software.
SSD or hard disk?
Choose an SSD for the drive your operating system runs from; it makes start-up and apps much faster. Hard disks still make sense for large, low-cost storage such as backups and CCTV recordings.
Is a refurbished laptop a good idea?
A refurbished business laptop (for example a Dell Latitude or Lenovo ThinkPad) can be a sensible way to get a sturdy machine for less. Check the processor generation, RAM, SSD size, battery condition and warranty before you buy.
What does “open-box” mean?
Open-box items have had their packaging opened, for example a display or returned unit, but are otherwise sold as products in working condition. Ask us about the condition and warranty of a specific open-box item.
Laptop or desktop for the office?
Choose laptops for people who move between desks, meetings or sites. Desktops and all-in-ones give more performance and screen for the money for fixed desks such as reception, accounts and design.
How do I check a battery or charger fits my laptop?
Turn the laptop over and note the exact model (for example Latitude 7390 or EliteBook 840 G2) and the part number on the old battery or adapter. Match both, and for chargers also match wattage and pin size.
Which Windows edition do I need?
Windows 11 Home (often listed as “W11 SL” or single language) suits personal use. Choose Windows 11 Pro for business features such as domain join, BitLocker and remote management.
Still deciding?
Tell us how you will use it and your budget per item. We will shortlist two or three options and explain the difference.