Laptops: which brands to avoid and how to choose the right model?

In a saturated market where the choice of laptops often proves overwhelming, it becomes crucial to clearly discern which brands to favor and, above all, which to avoid. This delicate selection is based on a multitude of criteria such as reliability, performance, battery life, value for money, and suitability for professional or personal use. In 2025, faced with an ever-increasing range, many users face a dilemma: how to ensure that their investment lasts, thus avoiding disappointments related to models often sold at attractive prices but prone to malfunctions and premature obsolescence?

Some brands struggle to keep pace with the rapid pace of technological innovations or show little flexibility in their warranties and after-sales services, causing a sense of insecurity among buyers. Others offer machines with outdated components, such as processors that are too old or screens of lower quality than the current standard. This phenomenon directly influences the user experience and, in particular, the long-term satisfaction with the equipment. That is why it is essential to arm oneself with a thorough knowledge of the different brands and the technical characteristics to prioritize.

This detailed guide thus explores the brands to absolutely avoid in 2025, while providing concrete advice for choosing your laptop well. It takes into account not only technical and aesthetic aspects but also durability and repairability, considering the specific needs related to demanding professional use or versatile domestic use. You will also discover precise technical criteria on which to base your selection, ranging from the choice of processor to that of RAM and storage. To complete this overview, a focus is made on best practices to adopt to extend the lifespan of your equipment while optimizing your value for money.

Laptop brands to absolutely avoid in 2025

In the field of laptops, not all brands are equal, and some should be approached with the utmost caution. In 2025, some brands persist in offering models that do not meet current requirements in terms of performance, build, and user experience. This is notably the case of Toshiba, now operating under the name Dynabook. This brand suffers from a clear technical stagnation, relying on components sometimes dating back to a bygone era, with processors several generations old and screens often limited to HD resolution, which is now insufficient for optimal daily visual comfort.

The example of Toshiba/Dynabook perfectly illustrates the risks incurred when opting for a computer out of step with current technological trends. Despite their often high prices, these machines struggle to offer a convincing value for money. They are therefore at the top of the list to be avoided, especially for professional use that requires stability and efficiency.

Acer, particularly in its entry-level range, is also a name to keep at a distance if your budget is limited to under 450 euros. At this price, the models frequently feature fragile construction: plastic chassis, weak hinges, and components that do not meet current needs, resulting in disappointments and breakdowns in record time. Negative feedback is abundant among consumers who notice rapid deterioration of their equipment, which directly impacts their experience, especially for students or professionals on the move.

Sony VAIO, once a flagship of quality, has lost much of its prestige since Sony stopped producing its PCs in 2014. The models available today suffer from disappointing after-sales service and a lack of visible innovation, which no longer meets the expectations of contemporary users. Finally, Microsoft Surface, although boasting attractive design and promising performance, disappoints with its high price difficult to justify given the actual performance and often below-expected battery life for intense professional use.

Brand	Main defect	Recommendation
Toshiba/Dynabook	Obsolete components	To absolutely avoid
Acer (entry-level)	Fragile construction	Avoid under €450
Sony VAIO	Poor customer support	Not recommended
Microsoft Surface	Excessive price	Recommended alternatives

These recent examples show that a brand to exclude is not only about its components but also about overall quality and after-sales service, two determining criteria for a wise purchase.

Technical characteristics to avoid to prevent unpleasant surprises

A high-performance laptop in 2025 is defined not only by its brand but also by its internal components. Identifying obsolete or insufficient technical characteristics is an absolutely key step before finalizing your choice. The lifespan of your laptop depends directly on it.

The first point of attention must be on processors. A machine equipped with a CPU older than three years will inevitably experience a significant drop in performance, especially for professional and modern multitasking uses. Recent processors, often recognizable by their new generation Intel Core i5/i7 or AMD Ryzen, offer better energy management, more cores, and overall better responsiveness.

RAM represents another crucial factor. In 2025, it is almost unacceptable to purchase a laptop with less than 8 GB of RAM. Indeed, this amount now constitutes the strict minimum, allowing smooth navigation and execution of common software. For intensive and professional users, 16 to 32 GB are highly recommended. This memory surplus guarantees better endurance against future software evolutions and allows working easily on video editing, programming, or virtualization applications.

The choice of storage is also decisive. Computers equipped with basic 64 GB eMMC storage or a classic mechanical hard drive are no longer suitable due to their slowness and low capacity. SSDs (Solid State Drives) are now the standard, favoring a much faster file access speed, with recommended capacities starting at 256 GB minimum. NVMe SSDs, even faster, are highly recommended for users eager for speed and reliability.

Finally, screen quality deserves particular attention. A screen limited to HD resolution quickly tires the eyes, especially during long work or gaming sessions. A minimum of Full HD (1920×1080 pixels) is mandatory to ensure optimal visual comfort. Some high-end models even offer higher resolutions, OLED panels, or high refresh rates, especially useful for graphic designers or gamers.

• Old generation processors (more than 3 years): avoid to maintain performance and battery life.
• RAM less than 8 GB: condemns the laptop to rapid obsolescence, especially in multitasking.
• Low, non-expandable eMMC storage: limits capacity and slows daily use.
• HD screen resolution only: causes visual fatigue and too poor rendering.
• Low-end plastic chassis: fragility and lower durability.

Why durability and repairability must guide the choice of your laptop

Over time, a laptop can suffer various breakdowns that test the resistance and quality of the hardware. Experience shows that machines with low repairability generate a total cost of ownership that is often high, hence the importance of steering your choice toward models designed to last and be easily serviced.

One of the main defects observed on some PCs is the excessive integration of components. Elements like RAM, battery, or storage that are soldered or glued make even the simplest repair complex and expensive. For example, a non-removable battery often requires a complete disassembly by a professional, which increases out-of-warranty delays. This type of design, now common in parts of the market, greatly limits the actual lifespan of the device.

The chassis is another fundamental parameter. A low-end plastic casing promotes breakage, notably at the hinges. These poorly withstand the repeated stress of opening and closing. Models with metal or aluminum alloy construction offer better support and an undeniable premium appearance, which is a definite advantage especially for professional use on the go.

To make an informed choice, you can rely on the repairability index, which is now indicated on a majority of models. A score of 8/10 or higher reflects a machine that is easier to maintain and repair, with better availability of spare parts. Some brands, aware of current ecological requirements, strive to extend the life of their devices, thereby offsetting the environmental impact related to the consumption of electronic equipment.

The importance given to durability is also found in thermal performance. An inefficient cooling system causes overheating, harmful to the longevity of components. For example, MSI GPUs are renowned for their advanced cooling technology, increasing performance while preserving stability during intensive sessions such as gaming.

How to optimize your purchase: strategies and advice for a durable and high-performance laptop

Successfully purchasing a laptop involves anticipating your needs and making a technical choice in line with them. Rather than opting for a model with a slightly lower but technically insufficient price, it is better to invest a little more to ensure durable and efficient use.

Always favor a processor whose power somewhat exceeds your current needs. For example, for ordinary use, a latest generation Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 will provide comfortable margin to cope with upcoming evolutions in software and operating systems. For more intensive use, whether gaming, audiovisual production, or advanced programming, an i7 or Ryzen 7 will be preferable.

Do not neglect RAM which, as previously explained, greatly conditions multitasking fluidity. A minimum of 16 GB is strongly recommended for professional use, which will help keep the machine performant for several years. The choice of an SSD over a classic mechanical hard drive is also essential, not only for faster access to data but also for shock resistance.

The refurbished market offers an interesting alternative, especially for those looking for better value for money. These devices, often inspected, repaired, and updated, are also covered by a minimum one-year warranty. Buying refurbished helps avoid the pitfalls of new entry-level laptops that often show a low repairability index and limited performance.

• Prefer a processor slightly above your needs to ensure longevity.
• Choose at least 16 GB of RAM for professional use.
• Opt for an NVMe SSD of 256 GB or more for speed and durability.
• Consider refurbished laptops from reliable brands.
• Always check the repairability index and the warranty provided.

The pitfalls of unsuitable screens and their consequences on user experience

Beyond the internal components, the screen is the primary interface between the user and their machine. Resolution and display quality are often underestimated at the moment of purchase but strongly impact visual comfort and eye health, especially during prolonged use.

In 2025, it is inconceivable to choose a laptop whose panel is limited to HD resolution (1366 x 768 pixels). This resolution produces a blurry display, with visible pixelation, causing premature eye fatigue especially in a professional context or for gamers. Moreover, insufficient sharpness can cause poor color rendering and hinder graphic work.

A Full HD screen (1920 x 1080 pixels) has become the minimal standard. It offers a better, sharper, and more precise rendering, better suited for multitasking, reading texts, and watching videos in high definition. Some high-end configurations go further, offering QHD or 4K screens intended for creatives and demanding users.

Other criteria complement screen quality: panel technology (IPS for better viewing angles and vivid colors), higher refresh rate (useful in gaming for smoother motion), and brightness for comfortable use even outdoors. Ignoring these parameters can turn a rewarding practice into a true source of discomfort.

For professionals, notably in graphic design, photography, or video sectors, color calibration and coverage of the sRGB or AdobeRGB color space are essential. A quality panel avoids unpleasant surprises during editing and ensures faithful color rendering.

Essential criteria for choosing your laptop according to professional use

Purchasing a laptop intended for professional use requires particular attention to several aspects less found in consumer models. Performance, battery life, robustness, and ergonomics then become fundamental criteria to ensure optimal productivity and lasting comfort.

A professional, depending on their sector, expects a machine capable of handling demanding workloads while offering enough battery life for days on the move. This involves favoring powerful processors, combined with a minimum of 16 GB of RAM, a dedicated graphics card when necessary, and a fast, large SSD. This setup allows running heavy business software, managing databases, or performing editing without hiccups.

Battery life is also a central challenge. Extended use time, ideally more than 8 hours in standard use, prevents constant dependence on power outlets during travel. Note that some manufacturers favor this aspect by providing high-capacity batteries and optimized energy chipsets.

Finally, weight and ergonomics must be considered for mobile use. A machine that is too heavy or poorly balanced can quickly become a burden. A sturdy chassis, comfortable and pleasant-to-touch keyboards, as well as extensive connectivity (multiple USB ports, HDMI, SD card reader) are elements that guarantee ease of use and longevity in a professional context.

Consumer reviews: a valuable guide to avoid unpleasant surprises

In the digital age, consumer reviews play a crucial role in selecting a laptop. They offer a direct and honest perspective on real performance, battery life, and reliability of a given model. Analyzing these feedbacks allows buyers to better understand strengths and weaknesses often unsuspected on paper.

In 2025, several specialized platforms gather thousands of user reviews. Careful reading of these testimonies reveals clear trends: some highly rated models unanimously prove their worth over time, while others suffer frequent failures, notably in battery or hinges.

For a comprehensive analysis, it is advisable to compare reviews across several sites, favoring detailed feedback accompanied by photos or videos. A negative consensus around a particular problem, such as excessive overheating or hard-to-reach after-sales service, may justify discarding a model even if it initially appears attractive.

In addition, technical tests conducted by experts allow confronting real-world conditions with announced specifications. This cross-checking guarantees a safer choice, especially when the investment is significant.

Value for money: how to find the right balance in a competitive market

The choice of a laptop often rests on a compromise between budget and expectations in terms of performance and autonomy. In 2025, this value for money ratio has become more complex with the multiplication of models and the diversity of segments: entry-level, mid-range, high-end, and specialized gaming or creative.

To find the best deal, a methodical approach is required. It is necessary to identify the real need in terms of performance and features, without being seduced by superfluous options unnecessarily inflating the bill. For example, if your use is mainly office work and Internet surfing, an Intel Core i5 with 8 GB of RAM and a 256 GB SSD will suffice, thus avoiding paying for excessive features.

Knowing how to wait for seasonal promotions or end-of-stock offers can also make it possible to access more powerful machines for a lower price. The refurbished market also remains a smart option to explore to optimize your budget.

Finally, it is essential not to neglect the warranties offered by the brand and retailer as well as the quality of after-sales service. A cheaper device but difficult to repair or maintain can ultimately prove more costly in the long run.