A freelancer editing 4K videos, a family managing emails and online homework, a retailer running their checkout on a tablet: these three users need different processors, budgets and services. Choosing computer equipment without considering how it will actually be used can mean overspending or buying an underpowered device—or sometimes both.
Windows 10 support has ended: an often-overlooked reason to replace your computer
Before looking at specifications or brands, check something most buying guides leave out: is the operating system still supported? Standard support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025. Without enrolling in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, affected PCs no longer receive monthly security patches.
In practical terms, keeping a computer running Windows 10 without ESU leaves it exposed to unpatched vulnerabilities—a serious concern for anyone storing personal or business data. Before buying, check that the machine is compatible with an operating system that is still supported.
This software-related factor can mean replacing a computer sooner than expected, even if the hardware still works. To compare the options currently available, Mobile Junky’s computer buying guide brings together product listings organized by use case and price range.
Laptop or desktop: choose the right format for your workspace
Choosing between a laptop and a desktop isn’t about an abstract preference. Start by looking at how much space you have and how often you need to move your computer.
A desktop setup (tower or mini PC) is a good fit if you always work in the same place. It offers better heat dissipation, which helps maintain performance for longer, and is easier to repair or upgrade one component at a time: memory modules, storage drive, graphics card. A well-maintained desktop stays performant longer than a laptop in the same price range.
A laptop makes more sense if you regularly switch between two locations (office and home, shop and warehouse). In that case, keep an eye on three practical factors:
- Real-world battery life for everyday tasks (office work, browsing), which often differs from the manufacturer’s claims. Checking independent reviews can help avoid unpleasant surprises.
- Total weight with the charger, especially if you carry the device in a backpack every day. Above a certain weight, the strain of a daily commute can become a real drawback.
- Available ports: the number of USB ports, whether it has a video output (HDMI or USB-C), and an SD card reader for photographers. A universal adapter can make up for missing ports, but adds cost and bulk.
Processor, RAM and storage: get the right specs without overspending
Generic recommendations such as “get at least 16 GB of RAM” are common. In reality, the right amount depends on how you use your computer.
Office work and web browsing
For writing, basic spreadsheets and browsing with multiple tabs open, a recent entry-level processor is enough. 8 GB of RAM handles these tasks without noticeable slowdowns. An SSD makes a bigger difference to everyday usability than the processor in this scenario: the computer starts quickly and apps open almost instantly.
Video editing, 3D modeling or gaming
Step up to a mid-range or high-end multi-core processor, with at least 16 GB of RAM. Fast SSD storage (NVMe) cuts export times. A dedicated graphics card becomes essential, not just a nice extra. For these workloads, how long the hardware remains useful depends on whether it can run future software versions—a difficult thing to predict more than three or four years ahead.
Specialist business software
Some accounting, computer-aided design or inventory management software has specific requirements (operating system version, memory capacity, screen resolution). Check the software developer’s technical requirements before choosing a computer, not the other way around. Buying a computer only to discover it can’t run your main tool is more common than you might think.
Repairability index: useful, but not enough to assess durability
In France, laptops display a repairability index. This score takes into account technical documentation, ease of disassembly and the availability of spare parts. A high score indicates that repair conditions are favorable.
However, a good score doesn’t guarantee that you can repair the device yourself. Replacing a screen or a soldered battery requires specialist tools and some technical know-how. The index indicates repair potential, not how difficult the repair is in practice.
For now, the durability index applies to televisions (since January 2025) and washing machines (since April 2025). Laptops are not yet covered. Comparing repairability scores between two models is still a good buying habit, as long as you also check user feedback on how long they actually last.
Related services: the right level of warranty, cloud storage and security
Hardware doesn’t work in isolation. Pair it with a few essential services to prevent data loss and prolonged downtime.
- The manufacturer’s warranty generally covers two years, but terms vary (parts only, labor included, response time). Read the terms before buying, not when something breaks.
- Cloud storage (OneDrive, Google Drive, iCloud) protects files against drive failure or theft. A few free gigabytes are enough for everyday documents, but photographers and videographers quickly hit the limit.
- An up-to-date antivirus and an enabled firewall are the foundation of good security. For business use, add a password manager and, if possible, enable two-factor authentication on sensitive accounts.
A computer with the right specs and services lasts longer and costs less to use than an overpowered machine with no protection or backups. Choosing computer equipment is as much about the configuration as it is about the software ecosystem and services that support it.
