The Only Laptop Buying Guide You'll Ever Need
Published on: January 30, 2025
Laptops are now a must-have for professionals, students, and business owners. While the market offers countless options, this can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming. But here’s the positive spin: you have a world of choices at your fingertips! Whether you're looking for high-performance gaming laptops, lightweight and portable models, or budget-friendly options, there's something for everyone. However, the Nepali market is flooded with various brands and models, each offering different features and price points. This abundance of choices makes it increasingly difficult to pick the right one.To navigate through products that are reliable and authorized, you can trust and buy a laptop from Hukut. We have laptop experts who thoroughly check the performance, build, and everything else a buyer wants to see. You can trust us, as we are the most trusted and authorized seller, ready to assist you whenever you face any issues.In this bubble, we are creating a buying guide to help you make the right choice and decision.
The Nepali market is flooded with laptops from various companies, available in different price ranges, making it tricky to choose one that best fits your needs. That’s why we are discussing every laptop component you should consider before making a purchase. We are here to guide you in and out of the product details so that you can make the right decision. In the Nepali market, laptops are available in every price range and segment, from entry-level to mid-range and high-end products. Apple, Dell, Lenovo, Acer, Asus, HP, and others are among the most trusted laptop brands in Nepal.These laptops are available in different specifications, affordability ranges, and types, designed to meet the needs of professionals, students, travelers, and individual users.
Traditional Laptops: Best for beginners or casual users. Affordable, lightweight, and ideal for basic tasks like browsing and document editing. Popular brands: HP, Dell, Lenovo.
Gaming Laptops: Designed for gamers with powerful CPUs, dedicated GPUs, and high-refresh-rate screens. Bulkier but perfect for gaming and heavy multitasking. Popular brands: ASUS ROG, Acer Predator, MSI.
Content Creator Laptops: Built for professionals in video editing, graphic design, and animation. Focus on high resolution (4K), color accuracy, and specialized drivers like NVIDIA Studio. Popular brands: Apple MacBook Pro, Dell XPS, ASUS ProArt.
Business Laptops: Tailored for professionals with enhanced security features (fingerprint scanners, facial recognition) and durable builds. Lightweight and portable for frequent travelers. Popular brands: Lenovo ThinkPad, HP EliteBook, Dell Latitude.
Ultrabooks: Slim, lightweight, and powerful, ideal for portability and multitasking. Powered by efficient processors like Intel P-series or AMD HS-series. Popular brands: Apple MacBook Air, ASUS ZenBook, HP Spectre.
2-in-1 Convertible Laptops: Versatile devices with touchscreens and 360° hinges, functioning as both laptops and tablets. Some models include an Active Stylus for drawing or note-taking. Popular brands: Lenovo Yoga, HP Envy.
Comparison:
Performance: Gaming and content creator laptops are the most powerful, while traditional laptops are basic.
Portability: Ultrabooks and 2-in-1s are the most portable, while gaming laptops are bulkier.
Display: Content creator laptops prioritize resolution and color accuracy, while gaming laptops focus on refresh rates.
Use Case: Business laptops emphasize security, while 2-in-1s offer versatility for creative tasks.
Pick Your OS
Know Your CPUs
Graphics Cards
How Much RAM?
Storage Space
Screen Type
Webcam & Extras
Brands
Make Your Choice
Before diving into laptop models, it’s essential to decide which operating system (OS) suits your needs.There are four major computer operating systems. Each has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's an overview of each.
Windows: It is known for being easy to use and works well with most software and hardware, which is why many people choose it. It’s great for everyday tasks and has a huge range of apps for all kinds of devices. However, it can have security issues from time to time, and some advanced features might be harder to learn compared to systems like Linux. Still, its main strength is how accessible it is, making it a go-to for most users.
macOS: Apple's macOS user-friendly operating system, designed exclusively for MacBooks. It’s known for its smooth performance, sleek design, and strong security. Perfect for creatives, students, and professionals, it integrates seamlessly with other Apple devices like iPhones and iPads. While it offers excellent tools for productivity and creativity, it’s limited to Apple hardware, meaning you can only use it on MacBooks. Ideal for those who value simplicity, reliability, and a premium ecosystem.
Chrome OS: It is a lightweight, fast, and easy-to-use operating system found on Chromebooks. It’s perfect for browsing, streaming, and basic tasks like email or document editing. Since it’s cloud-based, most apps and files are stored online, making it great for users who rely on Google services like Drive and Gmail. Affordable and with long battery life, Chromebooks are ideal for students, casual users, or anyone needing a simple, no-fuss device for everyday use.
Linux: Linux offers a versatile, open-source alternative for laptops, compatible with most hardware. While it lacks support for popular software like MS Office and Adobe Creative Suite, free alternatives such as
LibreOffice, GIMP, and Darktable provide robust functionality. Linux is ideal for those willing to embrace a learning curve. For Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X CPUs, Linux support is developing, with experimental Debian versions available, though full optimization is expected in six months. Explore Linux for customization and cost-effective computing.
Once you've settled on your preferred operating system and have a clear vision of the software you plan to utilize, it's time to pinpoint the essential hardware specs. The processor, also known as the CPU or chip, should be your initial focus. While Intel and AMD dominate the consumer laptop processor landscape, there are alternative options worth considering.
Apple maintains a straightforward naming convention for its silicon. Typically, it's an "M" followed by a number and a suffix. Although these chips may not boast the highest clock speeds in the market, they are renowned for their smooth performance. This is largely due to Apple's integrated design approach, where they develop both the hardware and software in-house. To date, Apple has released 12 laptop processors, with the latest being the M4 series.
Apple produces a variety of chips used across MacBooks, iPads, and iPhones. The naming is quite intuitive. The current lineup includes the M1, M2, M3 & M4 chips. The M1 is the original and the least powerful, while the M4 represents the latest and most advanced technology. Each chip series offers different models, such as the base model, Pro, Max, and Ultra. The base model offers the most basic performance, while the Ultra model provides the highest level of power and capability.
Let's delve into Intel processors. What sets them apart is their diverse core configurations. Essentially, these processors boast multiple cores that significantly enhance multitasking capabilities without compromising the device's overall performance.
It's important to note that not all tasks demand the same level of computational power. Intel processors intelligently switch between different core types depending on the task. For less demanding tasks, they utilize their efficiency cores, and for more intensive tasks, they ramp up their performance cores. This approach ensures a harmonious balance between power delivery and energy efficiency.
When it comes to processor generations, it's crucial to understand the hierarchy. Intel categorizes its chips into series like i3, i5, i7, and beyond. However, the generation of the processor is equally important. A newer-generation i3 processor can often outperform an older i7 processor.
This year, Intel introduced a refreshed naming convention, which might add a layer of complexity. The latest processors are now called "Core Ultra," featuring advanced integrated graphics and a new architecture with three distinct core types and a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU). The higher the number following "Core Ultra," the more powerful the processor.
Here's a breakdown of Intel processor generations and their expected performance:
(14th Gen) Intel Core: A rebranded version of the previous generation.
13th Gen Intel Core: Still robust, despite being a year old.
12th Gen Intel Core: Performs well and is a reliable choice.
11th Gen Intel Core: Adequate, but consider newer options if possible.
10th Gen Intel Core: Functional, but don't expect top-tier performance.
Older Generations: Best suited for basic tasks; avoid for demanding workloads.
In addition to generations, Intel processors are further categorized by numbers and letters. The numbers indicate the specific model, while the letters (e.g., U, P & HX) denote the processor's intended use and performance characteristics.
Typically, Intel processors are denoted with numerical identifiers such as Core i9 or Core Ultra 7. A higher number signifies a more potent processor. Consequently, a Core Ultra 7 surpasses a Core Ultra 5 in performance, and similarly, a Core i9 outshines a Core i7, which in turn exceeds a Core i5, and so forth. In addition to the Core series, Intel offers other processor lines, like Pentium and N-series. These can be considered supplementary options. Essentially, they are less powerful chips and may not be ideal for most general users seeking robust performance.
Furthermore, Intel further classifies its processors with letter suffixes. The hierarchy progresses from U, P, H, to HX in ascending order of performance. There are additional suffixes, but they are less significant in the broader context.
Let's dive into AMD! Unlike Intel, AMD focuses on performance. Efficiency cores aren't part of their design. And if you found Intel's naming confusing, AMD's isn't any clearer. Let's break it down.
Decoding AMD's chip nomenclature can be as challenging as Intel's. Take the AMD Ryzen 5 8600X as an example: the “8” denotes the generation (with higher numbers indicating newer, better models), and the “6” signifies the power level. In this case, a “6” suggests a mid-range power chip, while a 3 or 4 would be less powerful (slower). The subsequent two digits have minimal impact. The “X” suffix indicates high performance, whereas “U” suggests ultra-low power consumption, which is great for battery life.
Is there a significant difference between Intel and AMD chips? From my annual testing of dozens of models, it varies. Generally, an Intel i5 and a Ryzen 5 are nearly indistinguishable in everyday tasks like web browsing or document editing. The same applies to the Intel i7 and Ryzen 7, as well as the Intel i3 and Ryzen 3.
The real difference emerges in graphics performance. In my extensive testing, both in benchmarks and real-world scenarios, AMD's integrated graphics often outperform Intel's in graphics-intensive tasks, such as video editing or gaming. While Intel's latest chips have made significant strides, AMD still holds an advantage. If you're a video editor or gamer, an AMD machine might be beneficial, but for optimal performance, a dedicated graphics card is usually the best choice.
AMD utilizes a thousand-series system to denote processor generations, occasionally segmenting them into sub-series. For instance, the 7000 series includes sub-series like 7020, 7030, 7035, 7040, and 7045. The current latest series is the 8000, specifically the 8040s. Whether AMD will expand this series remains to be seen. Generally, I would recommend considering AMD chips no older than the 5000 series.
Another classification is the Ryzen series, analogous to Intel's Core/Core i-series. This series encompasses Ryzen 3, Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7, and Ryzen 9, maintaining a similar hierarchical structure to Intel's.
Additionally, AMD employs suffixes such as C, U, H, HS, H, and HX. While AMD may occasionally alter these designations, focusing on the processor architecture, currently Zen5, provides a clearer understanding.
AMD's latest innovation is the Strix Point CPUs, featuring a class-leading Neural Processing Unit (NPU) with 50 TOPs, along with enhancements to the CPU, GPU, and efficiency.
Lots of computer chips use something called ARM architecture. A big thing lately is Qualcomm's Snapdragon X CPU. In 2024, this chip got a lot of buzz because it was the only one that could run Microsoft's new Copilot+ AI features. (Microsoft said Copilot+ will work on Intel and AMD computers too, but not yet.) We tried out two laptops with Snapdragon X chips that had Copilot+ and we're really happy with them. They work really well (though it's hard to compare them to other computers because not all tests are done yet), the battery lasts super long, and most software works fine on them. This is because Microsoft has a special tool called Prism that helps apps run on ARM computers, even if they're a bit slower. Snapdragon X chips are still pretty new, but so far, they're doing great and are shaking up the usual Intel and AMD computers a bit.
First, let's clarify what a GPU is. It's a specialized piece of hardware dedicated to handling graphics-related tasks. Graphics encompass anything visual, such as images, GIFs, videos, and games. The component that processes these visuals is the GPU. When it comes to laptops, you have two main options for GPUs: integrated and discrete. Integrated graphics are integrated into the system alongside the processor, so the performance of an integrated GPU is determined by the chipset used in the laptop. There's not much you can do to change this other than understanding the general capabilities.
On the other hand, a discrete GPU is a separate piece of hardware in the laptop. A laptop with a discrete GPU essentially has two units working on graphics: the integrated one that comes with the processor and a more powerful, specialized one. For discrete graphics cards in laptops, NVIDIA is virtually the only option. They offer a range of products, from entry-level to high-performance beasts.
The NVIDIA GeForce MX-series represents a lower-powered segment of the market. The series includes models such as the MX110, MX230, MX130, MX150, MX250, MX330, MX350, MX450, and MX550.
These graphics cards are not designed for gaming but rather for media consumption, like playing HD videos smoothly. They might seem underwhelming because modern integrated GPUs can handle these tasks just as well, if not better. In fact, integrated GPUs often outperform the MX-series, which is why you'll mostly find them in older laptop models. The latest MX-series model was released around 2022, and there are rumors that the series has been discontinued.
Similarly, there's the NVIDIA GeForce RTX series, which is tailored for gaming enthusiasts. This series offers a wider range of options and can be a bit more complex. To simplify, it's organized into different series. The most recent is the 4000 series, which features a variety of models starting from the 4050 and ascending to 4060, 4070, 4080, culminating in the 4090—the most potent discrete GPU to date! The RTX 3000 series is its predecessor, and there are whispers that the 5000 series is on the horizon.
In addition to NVIDIA, AMD and Intel also offer their own discrete GPU lines. AMD's is known as the Radeon RX/Pro series, while Intel's is the Arc A-series. Meanwhile, for those interested in a detailed comparison of all GPUs, both discrete and integrated, you can explore comprehensive rankings to find the best fit for your needs.
Random-access memory (RAM) is the workhorse of your laptop, acting as a temporary storage area for data that the processor is actively working on. Imagine RAM as your workspace desk—if it's cluttered or too small, your productivity plummets. Similarly, insufficient RAM can lead to sluggish performance, frozen applications, and the need for frequent restarts.
For the average Windows user, 8 GB of RAM is a decent starting point, but 16 GB significantly enhances capabilities, especially for gaming. If your work involves heavy tasks like programming or video editing, 16 GB is the minimum, with 32 GB being highly desirable. Chrome OS, however, is more lightweight, with 4 GB being sufficient for most users, though 8 GB allows for smoother multitasking.
When purchasing a laptop, look for RAM labeled as DDR4, which offers fast performance. DDR3 is older and less common, while DDR5, though not yet widespread, provides even faster speeds for demanding tasks. The type of RAM is crucial, with options like LPDDR (low power) being more battery-efficient and often soldered to the motherboard, making them ideal for portable devices.
Beyond capacity, consider the RAM's channel (single or dual), DDR type, and frequency. Dual-channel RAM, akin to having two desks, offers better multitasking capabilities. The DDR type (DDR4, DDR5, LPDDR4, etc.) indicates the technology and efficiency, with higher numbers and prefixes like "LP" and "X" denoting more advanced and power-efficient versions. Frequency, measured in MHz or MT/s, indicates the speed of the RAM, with higher values being better.
Lastly, check the laptop's RAM upgradability. Some laptops have a maximum memory support limit, and if the RAM is not soldered, you can upgrade it to extend the laptop's lifespan. Understanding these aspects of RAM will help you make an informed decision when choosing a laptop that meets your needs and budget.
When it comes to laptop storage, think of it as your digital filing cabinet. The two main options are hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). HDDs are the traditional choice, resembling a more sophisticated version of a CD, but they are vulnerable to damage from electrical issues or magnetic fields. SSDs, on the other hand, offer a modern solution with better reliability, faster speeds, and lower power consumption, albeit at a higher cost. However, the price of SSDs has stabilized, making them a more accessible and preferable choice for most users.
For the average user, a minimum of 256 GB of storage is recommended, but 512 GB is ideal to avoid quickly running out of space, especially if you plan to install many games, software, or save a large number of photos and videos. SSDs, particularly those using an NVMe connection, are significantly faster than older SATA-based drives. Some laptops combine an NVMe SSD for the operating system with a SATA drive for file storage, offering a balance of speed and cost.
If you're on a budget, you might encounter laptops with eMMC storage, which is technically an SSD but differs from NVMe and PCIe SSDs. eMMC stands for Embedded MultiMediaCard and is commonly found in phones, tablets, and some laptops, including Chromebooks. The "embedded" aspect means it's soldered to the motherboard, making it non-upgradable. Additionally, eMMC drives are slower, with speeds comparable to old SATA-based spinning drives. They are suitable for light-duty tasks like web browsing and office work but may not be ideal for more demanding tasks.
In summary, when choosing a laptop, prioritize an SSD for its speed and reliability. Consider the storage capacity based on your needs, and check the laptop's compatibility and upgradability options. If possible, aim for a minimum of 512 GB of SSD storage to ensure you have ample space for your data. Understanding these aspects will help you make an informed decision and choose a laptop that best suits your storage requirements.
When selecting a laptop, the screen is a crucial component that can significantly impact your overall experience. The screen size is the first factor to consider, as it determines the portability and weight of the laptop. Thirteen-inch laptops are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for portability, but the screen can feel cramped. Fifteen-inch screens offer more room for multitasking and media consumption but come with the trade-off of a heavier device. Fourteen-inch laptops strike a balance between portability and screen real estate, making them a popular choice.
The aspect ratio of the screen is also important. A 13-inch screen with a 16:9 ratio will have a different viewing experience compared to one with a 4:3 ratio. Most modern laptops use a 16:9 aspect ratio, which is suitable for most users.
Beyond size and aspect ratio, consider the screen's capabilities. Touchscreens can be convenient for tasks like sketching or taking handwritten notes but may add to the cost and battery drain. The sharpness and brightness of the screen are also key factors. Brightness is measured in nits, with a minimum of 300 nits being acceptable, though 400 nits or higher is preferable for better visibility in various lighting conditions. Sharpness is determined by pixel density; a 1080p screen on a 13-inch laptop will appear sharper than the same resolution on a 15-inch laptop. Full HD (1080p) is the standard, but 2.7K and 4K screens offer higher resolutions with trade-offs in battery life and cost.
The type of screen panel is another consideration. OLED screens offer the best color reproduction and contrast, making them ideal for media consumption and graphic design, but they are expensive and can suffer from burn-in issues. IPS panels are the most popular and offer a good balance of color accuracy and viewing angles, though they may not have the deep contrast of OLED screens. TN panels are the most budget-friendly but offer poor color reproduction and viewing angles.
Screen size can be categorized into two main groups: 14 inches and below, which are more portable and lighter, and 15.6 inches and above, which are larger and often come with a dedicated number pad, making them suitable for tasks like spreadsheet work. The weight of these larger laptops can vary, with general-use models being more portable and gaming laptops being heavier.
Resolution is another nuance to consider, with the base standard being Full HD (1080p). Higher resolutions like FHD+, WUXGA, WQXGA, 2K, 3K, and 4K offer sharper images but may impact battery life and cost. The refresh rate of the screen, typically 60Hz, can be higher on gaming laptops, offering smoother motion and a better experience. Finally, the color gamut, or the range of colors the screen can display, is important for tasks that require accurate color representation. A screen with a 100% sRGB color gamut is good, while full DCI-P3 is even better.
In summary, when choosing a laptop screen, consider the size, aspect ratio, panel type, resolution, refresh rate, and color gamut. Each of these factors can influence your laptop's performance and your overall satisfaction with the device. By understanding these aspects, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and preferences.
In today's digital age, a webcam is an essential feature for any laptop. Surprisingly, some laptops in 2024 still omit this basic necessity. Most webcams offer 720p resolution, which is adequate for casual use or for those who prefer the privacy of a slightly blurry image. However, with video conferencing platforms like Zoom remaining a staple in many work environments, investing in a laptop with a 1080p webcam can significantly enhance your virtual meeting experience.
The laptop's hinge is another critical but often overlooked component. Testing the hinge can be challenging if you're purchasing online. If possible, visit a local electronics store like Best Buy to physically handle the model you're considering. A simple yet important test is to try opening the laptop with one hand. This might seem trivial, but the inconvenience of a laptop that requires two hands to open can be frustrating in the long run.
Beyond the webcam and hinge, there are several ergonomic and durability factors to consider. Assess whether the laptop can be comfortably carried with one hand. Consider its sturdiness—will it withstand the rigors of daily transport in a backpack? Evaluate the size of the trackpad and the placement of the buttons. Additionally, check if the keyboard layout is intuitive and free from any unusual design quirks that might affect your typing experience.
In summary, when selecting a laptop, don't overlook the importance of a good webcam, a reliable hinge, and ergonomic design. A 1080p webcam ensures clear video calls, a well-designed hinge allows for easy one-handed operation, and a comfortable, durable build with a user-friendly keyboard and trackpad layout can greatly enhance your overall satisfaction with the device. These features, while not directly related to performance, play a significant role in the practicality and usability of your laptop.
When looking for a laptop in Nepal, you have many brands to choose from. Here’s a quick look at some popular ones:
Apple
Apple’s MacBooks are top-notch. They’re well-built and work smoothly, but they cost more. The MacBook Air is light and good for everyday use, starting at around NPR 100,000. The MacBook Pro is for serious work like coding or video editing and starts at NPR 400,000.
Lenovo
Lenovo makes a lot of laptops for all budgets. Their V series is cheap and good for basic tasks, starting at NPR 33,000. The Legion series is for gamers and can cost over NPR 400,000.
HP
HP has a long history and makes many types of laptops. They have something for everyone, from cheap models to high-end ones.
Dell
Dell also has a wide range of laptops. You can find basic ones starting at NPR 37,000 and fancy ones that compete with MacBooks, costing up to NPR 450,000.
Asus
Asus is known for its gaming laptops, but they have other types too. The Vivobook is a good deal, starting at NPR 64,000. Their Zenbook is very high-tech and can cost up to NPR 555,555.
Acer
Acer has many laptop series. Some are for everyday use, and some are for gaming. They also have laptops with screens that can spin around. Prices start at NPR 49,000 and go up to NPR 375,000.
In short, choose a laptop based on what you need and how much you can spend. Apple is great but expensive. Lenovo and HP have something for everyone. Dell is reliable. Asus is good for gamers. Acer offers good value for money. Try to test the laptop if you can before buying.
Here’s a straightforward guide to help you pick the right laptop in Nepal:
Top Choice: Opt for a MacBook or the latest Intel Core i5/Ryzen 5 laptop with 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and an IPS screen. These suit all users, balancing performance and portability.
Budget Option: Go for a 12th Gen Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 laptop with 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, and IPS display. Ideal for basic tasks like browsing, streaming, or office work.
Gaming: Prioritize laptops with 12th Gen Intel i5-H or AMD Ryzen 5 5000-H CPUs, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and a 165Hz IPS screen. These handle AAA games smoothly.
Budget Gaming: Consider RTX 3050/4050 GPUs, H-series CPUs, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD (upgrade to 1TB if possible). Aim for 144Hz screens.
Price Range: Top Tier: NPR 100,000+ Mid-Range: NPR 70,000–100,000 Budget: NPR 50,000–70,000 (minimum for decent specs)
Key Tips: Prioritize SSDs over HDDs, check RAM upgradability, and verify warranty/support. For general use, Full HD IPS screens are ideal. Gamers need high refresh rates and discrete GPUs. Always buy from trusted sellers for reliable service.
In Hukut, we have different methods of purchasing products. We will be discussing these in brief.
Online: You can place an order from our website. We provide discounts, promo codes, and various offers. After placing your order, you can pay the price of the product after delivery. Currently, we only accept cash on delivery. In the future, we will be integrating additional payment options such as wallets, debit cards, and bank transfers.
Store visit: Our customers can visit our store to experience our services and see the latest technologies available in the market. They can also discuss the products with our staff.
EMI: Currently, these options are not available in our store.
These are our top picks for you for the year 2025.
Hukut is your go-to place for all kinds of laptops. We offer the newest tech and products that have been reviewed and tested. Our experts are here to help you find the perfect choice that fits your budget. We really care about how our customers feel and we work hard to give you the latest tech products and services you need.
Here, we've covered everything you need to know about buying a laptop in Nepal. In today's world, a laptop is pretty much a must-have, so getting one is definitely a smart move. The choice of brand and how you buy it is totally up to you. The main thing to focus on is the specs, which I hope I've made clear enough for you to grasp easily. As we wrap up, I want to wish you all the best as you set out to buy a laptop in Nepal.
