Laptops & Notebooks

The right laptop depends on the operating system it runs, the work it has to do and how it's supported over its life — from Chromebooks for a school computer suite to Windows laptops for a business team. Take a look at what we've got at Rapid below.

Chromebook or Windows laptop?

This is the decision that shapes everything else. A Chromebook runs ChromeOS — a fast, secure, browser-based system that boots in seconds, updates itself and is simple to manage across many devices, which is why schools and web-first teams favour it. It's most at home online, though many apps now work offline too. A Windows laptop runs the full range of desktop software, works offline as standard and offers far more processing power, making it the default for most business and specialist work. As a rough guide: choose a Chromebook for web, email and managed, admin-light fleets; choose Windows when you need specific software, offline power or higher performance. Our Chromebooks come from ASUS, Lenovo and Samsung.

Choosing a laptop for business

For business use, match the specification to the workload rather than the headline price. Office and admin work runs happily on a mid-range processor with 8 GB of memory; design, data or development want more power and 16 GB or above. Beyond raw speed, weigh the things that matter over years of daily use: a solid build that survives commuting, security features such as a TPM chip and fingerprint sign-in, and a warranty and support package that keeps downtime low. If people work at a desk as well as on the move, a laptop that connects to a docking station and a full-size monitor gives them the best of both.

Laptops for schools and students

Education has its own priorities: devices are shared, used hard and bought in numbers, so manageability, durability and value at volume matter more than premium specs. Chromebooks dominate the classroom because they're quick to hand out, easy to lock down centrally and low on upkeep, while students who need full software lean towards Windows. For a fleet, plan how the devices will be charged and stored — charging trolleys keep a full class set powered and ready between lessons — and how they'll be managed once they're out in the school. The same audience often runs alongside tablets and e-readers for younger year groups.

Which specifications actually matter?

A few specifications decide how a laptop feels day to day. Memory (RAM) is the biggest one — 8 GB is fine for everyday work, 16 GB for heavier multitasking. For storage, an SSD beats an older hard drive: it's far faster to start up and open files, and 256 GB suits most users. Processor tier sets the ceiling for demanding tasks, and screen size is a portability trade-off — 13 to 14 inches to carry, 15 to 16 inches for a main machine. Once you've chosen, kit it out with the right bags and cases, stands, spare power and security locks — and you'll find all our stocked brands on the brands page.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between a laptop, a notebook and a Chromebook?

"Laptop" and "notebook" mean the same thing — a portable computer. A Chromebook is a type of laptop that runs Google's ChromeOS instead of Windows, built around the Chrome browser and web apps.

Do Chromebooks work without an internet connection?

Partly. Many Google apps and files can be used offline and sync when you reconnect, but a Chromebook is at its best online. If you'll often work with no signal, check the apps you rely on support offline use first.

What is a 2-in-1 laptop?

A 2-in-1 has a screen that folds back or detaches so the laptop can be used like a tablet. It suits note-taking, presenting and touch-first work where you want one device to do both jobs.

Are refurbished laptops a good option?

They can be — a professionally refurbished laptop offers most of the performance for less, which stretches a school or business budget further. Look for a clear grading, a warranty and a genuine wipe of the previous data.

Can we buy laptops in bulk or on account for a school or business?

Yes — we supply schools and businesses and can help with volume orders. Tell us the numbers and what the devices are for, and we'll help you spec and price the rollout.