The short answer: choose the type of laptop first, then the model.
- If you already use an iPhone, a Mac is usually the easiest match. Apple’s cheapest laptop, the 13-inch MacBook Neo, starts at $699 (Apple). The MacBook Air starts at $1,299 for the 13-inch and $1,499 for the 15-inch (Apple).
- If you mostly use the web (email, news, YouTube, video calls in the browser), a Chromebook Plus is simple and gets updates automatically.
- If you need Windows programs, or someone helping you only knows Windows, buy a Windows 11 laptop with at least a 14-inch screen.
How we put this together: prices and specs come from the manufacturers’ own websites, checked on October 20, 2026. Prices change often, and stores frequently run sales, so check the link before you buy. We haven’t been paid by any brand mentioned here.
Do you need a new laptop at all?
If your current laptop runs Windows 10, it no longer gets regular security updates. Microsoft ended support on October 14, 2025 (Microsoft). You can buy time with Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which provides critical security updates until October 12, 2027. Enrollment is free if you sync your PC settings, or costs 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points or a one-time $30 (Microsoft ESU). To check, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and look for the enroll link (Microsoft).
So if your Windows 10 laptop still works well for you, enrolling in ESU means you don’t have to rush. Plan to replace it before October 2027.
The three kinds of laptop, compared
| Mac (Apple) | Chromebook Plus | Windows 11 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | iPhone and iPad owners; people who want Apple’s in-store help | Web, email and video calls; people who want the fewest settings | Familiar Windows programs; widest choice of brands and prices |
| Starting price (official) | MacBook Neo from $699; MacBook Air from $1,299 (Apple, Apple) | Varies by brand | Varies by brand |
| Watch out for | Each step up in storage or memory raises the price, so decide what you need before checkout (Apple) | Doesn’t run traditional Windows or Mac desktop programs, so check that anything you rely on works in a web browser | Specs vary widely between models, so check the screen, memory and storage against the list below |
What to look for, in plain English
- Screen size: 14 to 15 inches is easier on the eyes than 13 inches, but it’s heavier to carry. Apple sells the MacBook Air in both 13-inch and 15-inch sizes (Apple).
- Screen sharpness: look for “Full HD” or “1080p” or better. Google requires at least a Full HD screen for any laptop sold as a Chromebook Plus (Google).
- Memory (RAM): 8GB is the minimum Google sets for Chromebook Plus (Google). For Windows laptops, 16GB gives more room for the years ahead.
- Storage: at least 128GB on a Chromebook (Google’s Chromebook Plus minimum, Google). If you keep lots of photos on the laptop, aim for 256GB to 512GB.
- Webcam: for clearer family video calls, look for a 1080p camera. Chromebook Plus requires one (Google).
- Fingerprint login: it saves typing a password every time. On the MacBook Neo, Touch ID comes only on the 512GB model (Apple compare page).
- Try the keyboard in a store if you can. Key feel and trackpad size matter more for daily comfort than processor speed.
Built-in help for eyes and hands
- Windows 11: go to Start > Settings > Accessibility > Text size, drag the slider and select Apply (Microsoft).
- Chromebook: open Settings > Accessibility to turn on the screen magnifier and other display options (Google).
- Mac: Apple offers free online one-on-one “Personal Setup” sessions with a Specialist after you buy a new Mac (Apple).
Ways to spend less
- Official refurbished: Apple sells certified refurbished Macs on its own store (Apple Refurbished). Other manufacturers have similar outlets, so check the brand’s own website rather than unknown sellers.
- Don’t over-buy. For email, browsing, photos and video calls you don’t need a “gaming” or “pro” laptop.
- Be wary of “tech support” add-ons pushed at checkout. Read our guide to fake tech support scams before paying anyone to “set up” a laptop remotely.
