[2020 version] 10 models recommended for laptops.How to choose a PC that can be bought in the 100,000 yen range [For university students]

So which laptop should I get?

Gizmodo has a wide variety of gadgets, but one of the most popular is the laptop. There are many voices from readers saying, "Please tell me the recommended notebook PC."

This video is a response to everyone's request.

Deputy Editor-in-Chief Kanemoto of Gizmodo's editorial department introduces recommended notebook PCs in the 100,000 yen to low 200,000 yen range.

Especially this time of year is the season when demand increases for university entrance and employment. In addition, recently, the demand for laptops used at home has increased sharply due to remote work due to the epidemic of the new coronavirus. If you're wondering, "What kind of notebook PC is best for you?", please refer to it.

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Contents

Before choosing a PC, choose an OS first

・MacBook Air 2020｜If you buy a Mac, choose this ・Surface Pro 7｜Tablet PC with your favorite keyboard ・Dell XPS 13｜If you are looking for a model with a cheap 4K display ・Inspiron 13 7000 2 in 1 4K｜Affordable 4K high image quality ・HP ENVY x360 Wood Edition｜The warmth of wood creates a premium feeling ・HP Specter x360 13｜A model that combines beautiful design and practicality ・HP Specter Folio｜Book on the body Unique notebook PC with leather ・ThinkPad X390｜If you choose mainly for keyboard ・MateBook13｜If you choose for cost performance ・LG gram｜A true mobile PC with extreme lightness

Precautions when buying a PC for 50,000 to 70,000 yen

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Before choosing a PC, choose an OS

The first thing to consider when choosing a laptop is the OS. Specifically, will it be Mac or Windows? Let's decide from here first.

Apple's macOS and Microsoft's Windows have different operability, but once you get used to them, you should be able to use both comfortably.

What you need to be careful about when choosing an OS is whether the software you want to use is compatible with it, rather than operability.

Some software only supports either macOS or Windows. Even if you choose a Mac because it looks easy to use, it doesn't make sense if the software you want to use only supports Windows. If you are a university student, it would be a good idea to ask your seniors about the software they use.

Choose from 3 major foreign PCs for Windows

Notebook PCs with macOS are only Apple products, so you won't get lost much, but there are various notebook PCs with Windows. Because it is released from a manufacturer, you may be at a loss as to which manufacturer to use.

In that case, it is recommended to choose from the "three major foreign PCs" of Dell (Dell), HP (Hewlett-Packard), and Lenovo (Lenovo).

Dell: Equipped with 4K display from low-priced model HP: Lenovo with high design and premium feeling: Equipped with a high-quality keyboard. Recommended for people who type a lot

[Specs]

Current trend: CPU Core i5 or higher, memory 8GB or higher, storage SSD 256GB or higher

If you have to compromise on anything... "Storage" → You can use an external storage or an SD card for operation, so if you want to review the specifications due to budget concerns, First of all, it is recommended to make the storage one rank lower capacity.

I can't give up on this! "Memory" → There are products with 4GB of memory, especially for Windows laptops, but it is better not to select this. At least 8 GB of memory is an absolute requirement for choosing a computer.

Let's take a look at the laptops recommended by Deputy Editor-in-Chief Kanemoto.

MacBook Air 2020 | Choose this if you want to buy a Mac

If you choose a laptop with macOS, the MacBook Air 2020 is the most recommended one right now.

Equipped with a 13.3-inch display of 2,560 x 1,600 pixels in a slim and lightweight body with a thinnest part of 4.1 mm and a weight of 1.24 kg. The basic model is reasonably priced at 104,800 yen (excluding tax), but it also has the necessary and sufficient specifications such as a Core i3 CPU, 8GB of memory, and 256GB of SSD. It is highly recommended in terms of cost performance.

It can be said that the slim body and design of the MacBook Air 2020 are suitable, especially when considering it as a portable laptop for mobile use.

Another advantage of the MacBook Air 2020 is that the price is stable. Windows laptops have been known to "drop significantly in price during sales and other periods." If you see the notebook PC you bought on sale at a discounted price, it might cause a lot of mental damage. On the other hand, in the case of Apple, there are almost no sales, so the price is always constant. In other words, you don't have to worry about when to buy. It's a laptop that adheres to the cardinal rule of gadgets: when you want it, when you want it.

(104,800 yen basic model)

CPU	Intel Core i3 (10th generation)
Memory	8GB
Storage (SSD)	256GB
Display size	13.3 inches
Weight	1.24kg
Battery	Up to 12 hours

New MacBook Air hands-on: Welcome back, Air!

I want to say! On the night of March 18th, Apple announced the new MacBook Air. You can now choose a quad-core processor, and storage...

https://www.gizmodo.jp/2020/03/macbook-air-2020-hands-on.html

Surface Pro 7 ｜A Tablet PC with Your Favorite Keyboard

Nowadays, Microsoft's Surface Pro 7 is making a strong presence as a Windows notebook PC. It is no exaggeration to say that it is a representative of Windows notebook PCs, but it is actually quite unique.

Many notebook PCs currently on the market are "clamshell type" with a folded display and keyboard, but this product packs all functions into a single plate-like body like a tablet. It has become a thing. All models are compatible with touch display, so it is suitable for tablet-like usage using Surface pen.

The genuine Type Cover keyboard is thin and has the shape of a cover that protects the LCD. This makes it easy to carry around.

Another big feature is that the keyboard can be separated. Especially for those who are particular about keyboards and want to use their favorite keyboard, this is a big advantage. You can also use it by placing the main body vertically, so it is also a point that you can use it in your own way. However, it has the weak point that it is difficult to work on your lap, so it may not be suitable for people who want to work while traveling by train.

CPU	Intel Core i3 (10th Gen)
Memory	4GB
Storage (SSD)	128GB
Display size	12.3"
Weight	1.252g
Battery	Up to 10.5 Time

Microsoft Surface Pro 7 / Office H&B 2019 / 12.3 inch / 10th Generation Core-i3 / 4GB / 128GB / Platinum VDH-00012

105,730 yen

Dell XPS 13 ｜If you are looking for a model with a cheap 4K display

One of the three major foreign PCs, Dell's notebook PC features a high-resolution display option. This Dell XPS 13 can also optionally select a 4K display. Moreover, the 4K display can be selected at a market price of less than 200,000 yen, so it is excellent in cost performance.

A high-resolution display allows you to display more information on the screen, so you can expect to improve your work efficiency. It is also capable of high-definition rendering, so it should be a good choice if you want to display high-resolution photos or play 4K videos.

Another major feature is the narrow bezel that makes the bezel around the display as narrow as possible. As a result, it is quite small as a 13-inch class notebook PC, realizing almost the same size as a 11.6-inch notebook PC. Also suitable as a mobile laptop.

In terms of specs, the CPU uses the latest model, the 10th generation Intel Core i5 series. In addition, the basic model is equipped with a 512GB SSD for storage, which makes it a bargain.

CPU	Intel Core i5 (10th Gen)
Memory	8GB
Storage (SSD)	256GB
Display size	13.3 inches
Weight	1.23kg
Battery	Undisclosed

Dell mobile laptop XPS 13 7390 Core i5 Silver 20Q31S/Win10/13.3FHD/8GB/256GB SSD/Wi-Fi 6 compatible

134,800 yen

Inspiron 13 7000 2 in 1 4K ｜Affordable 4K high image quality

This is a 2 in 1 laptop with a rotating LCD display that can be used as a tablet. The display size is 13.3 inches for mobile, but the biggest feature is that you can choose a 4K display by customization.

In addition, even if you choose a 4K display, the actual selling price is much lower than 200,000 yen. It is a notebook PC that meets the needs of working with a high-definition display anytime, anywhere.

The CPU is the 8th generation Core i7, but the performance is sufficient. There is also 16GB of memory available. The main unit comes with an active pen that allows you to write text directly from the touch screen or on the screen, so you can use it like a tablet. With a high-definition 4K display and active pen, there is no doubt that it will respond well to creative uses such as video editing, illustration creation, and photo retouching.

CPU	Intel Core i7 (8th Gen)
Memory	16GB
Storage (SSD)	256GB
Display size	13.3 inches
Weight	1.46kg
Battery	Undisclosed

Dell Inspiron 13 7000 2 in 1 Premium 2019 13.3" 4K UHD IPS Touchscreen Laptop, Intel Quad-Core i7-8565U, 16GB DDR4, 256GB PCIe SSD, HD Webcam HDMI USB-C WiFi Backlit KB Fingerprint Active Pen Win 10.

179,290 yen

HP ENVY x360 Wood Edition ｜The warmth of wood creates a premium feeling

HP notebook PCs are characterized by many models that adopt unique designs. This HP ENVY x360 Wood Edition uses a wooden material for the palm rest (where your wrist hits when typing). This alone makes it different from other laptops. Because we use real wood, the wood grain is different one by one. In other words, it is the only notebook PC in the world.

Also, the point is that it is a 2 in 1 that can be used like a tablet by rotating the liquid crystal display 360 degrees.

Specs are practical with 10th generation Intel Core i5, 8GB memory, and 512GB SSD. The display is a 15.6-inch display with a full HD resolution of 1,920 x 1080 pixels. Compared to the 13-inch class, it is larger, so it is more suitable for use at home or in the office, rather than for mobile use.

This is a laptop that meets the selfish desire of wanting to use a unique computer that is different from others, but not sacrificing specs. If you use it at university or in the office, maybe it will attract attention?

(cheapest model) th>

CPU	AMD Ryzen 3
Memory	8GB
Storage (SSD)	256GB
Display size	13.3 inches
Weight	1.28kg
Battery	Up to 14 hours 30 minutes

HP Laptop HP ENVY x360 13 13.3" Full HD Touch Panel Display 2in1 Convertible Type AMD Ryzen 3 8GB 256GB SSD WPS Office With (model number: 6RH39PA-AAAA)

83,000 yen

HP Specter x360 13｜A model that combines beautiful design and practicality

Introducing another model from HP. The HP Specter x360 13 has a beautiful design and practical features.

The narrow bezel 13.3-inch display enhances the immersive feeling on the screen. In addition, it has a touch panel specification, and the screen can be rotated 360 degrees and used in tablet mode.

In terms of design, the point is that the USB-C terminal is installed in the part where the corner of the main unit is cut, and the design and functionality are compatible. The difference from other notebook PCs is connected to the premium feeling.

It also has a SIM card slot for internet connection. If the user prepares a SIM card for data communication, the notebook PC can connect to the Internet at any time. You no longer need to tether with your smartphone or carry a mobile Wi-Fi router.

Not only does it look premium, but it is also a highly satisfying model in terms of specifications and price. It is a notebook PC that plays an active role in every scene, such as home, school, office, and cafe.

(minimum configuration)< th>Display size

CPU	Intel Core i5 (10th gen)
Memory	8GB
Storage (SSD)	256GB
13.3 inches
Weight	1.24kg
Battery	Up to 22 hours

HP Specter Folio｜Unique laptop with genuine leather body

It is a notebook PC with perfect performance, but the biggest feature is that the body is covered with genuine leather. When closed, it looks like a notebook PC at first glance, creating a premium atmosphere not found in other notebook PCs.

Not only is it stylish, but it is also functionally satisfying. Up to 19 hours of continuous battery life. If you fully charge it in the morning, you can use it almost all day without charging. If you don't have to carry around an AC adapter, the stylish body will feel even more stylish.

In addition, the main unit can be used in four modes. You can change the style according to the situation, such as using it as a laptop, watching videos, or using it as a tablet. The main unit is equipped with four Bang & Olufsen-supervised speakers. Sound quality can also be expected.

CPU	Intel Core i7 (8th Gen)
Memory	8GB
Storage (SSD)	512GB
Display size	13.3 inches
Weight	1.48kg
Battery	Up to 19 Time

5LN33PA-AAAA [HP Specter Folio 13-ak0000 model (i7-8500Y 8GB 512GBSSD 13.3FHD touch W10H64)]

157,960 yen

ThinkPad X390 ｜If you want to choose based on the keyboard

Lenovo's ThinkPad X390 is a notebook PC that is perfect for the word simple and sturdy. The ThinkPad series, which has continued since the IBM era, is a model with many enthusiastic fans.

Even though it's a laptop, the keyboard is designed to feel like you're typing, and the trackpoints (commonly known as red dots) on the keyboard fit your hand the more you use it. This ThikPad keyboard is even released as a single keyboard "TrackPad" series.

The specs of the main unit are the latest in modern times, but the rugged design has been inherited from generation to generation. One of the reasons why it has so many fans is that it has remained unchanged in design and operability for many years. Another feature is that you can choose models that are produced in Japan.

Although it looks classical, it can also be equipped with a SIM card slot as an option, but it also supports modern usage. The fearless and classical design is something that can be used for a long time without being influenced by the times. Especially in the business scene, it is a model that will be a good partner in terms of design and specifications.

(minimum configuration)< th>Display size

CPU	Intel Core i3 (8th generation)
Memory	4GB
Storage (SSD)	128GB
13.3 inch
Weight	1.18kg
Battery	Up to 13.1 hours

MateBook13 | If you choose for cost performance

Huawei, famous for smartphones (Huawei) laptop. The biggest feature is its cost performance.

Compared to other companies' models with the same specifications, the MateBook 13 is priced about 10% to 20% cheaper.

It is not the case that the cost is reduced just because it is cheap. The design is stylish, reminiscent of the MacBook Air. It seems to be made with MacBook Air in mind, and the usability part is also close to MacBook Air.

The main unit only has a USB-C port, but the main unit comes with an expansion adapter "HUAWEI MateDock 2". I'm happy with the detail in this area.

In addition, since it is equipped with a function "OneHop" that allows you to send and receive files with HUAWEI smartphones, it is convenient for those who use HUAWEI smartphones.

Perfect for people who are not particular about the manufacturer and are looking for a laptop with good cost performance, people who like the MacBook Air but have a Windows OS, and people who use HUAWEI smartphones. it might be.

CPU	Intel Core i5 (10th Gen)
Memory	8GB
Storage (SSD)	512GB
Display size	13"
Weight	1.3kg
Battery	Max 12.4 Time

Huawei MateBook 13/13 inch/Core-i5/Memory 8G/SSD 512G/UMA installed/Space gray/2020 model [Japanese authorized distributor]

119,800yen

LG gram 14Z995-GP52J｜A truly lightweight mobile PC

The biggest feature of LG Electronics' LG gram series is its lightness. A typical 13-inch class laptop weighs between 1kg and 1.2kg. However, the LG gram is a 14-inch model with a lightweight body of 995g, less than 1kg. By the way, even the 17-inch model weighs 1.34 kg.

The secret of lightness is the material of the body. By adopting a magnesium alloy for the body material, it is lightweight yet tough. It also has the robustness to withstand hard use.

The specs are no exception. The CPU is equipped with the 10th generation Intel Core i5. The battery life is also noteworthy, and the 14-inch model can be used continuously for up to 27 hours. You don't have to bring an AC adapter if you're going on a business trip for 2 days and 1 night.

For those who want to actively use laptops not only at home, but also at school or in the office, in a sense "lightness" is more important than CPU and memory. LG gram should be comfortable to use without sacrificing anything.

CPU	Intel Core i5 (10th Gen)
Memory	8GB
Storage	256GB
Display size	14 inch< /td>
Weight	999g
Battery	Up to 22 hours

LG laptop gram 999g/Battery about 22 hours/10th generation Core i5/14 inch/Memory 8GB/SSD 256GB/Thunderbolt3/White/14Z90N-VR51J (2020 model )

163,455 yen

Points to note when buying a PC for 50,000 to 70,000 yen

Gizmodo readers asked me to recommend a laptop priced between 50,000 yen and 70,000 yen. We have received a lot of voices.

If you choose a notebook PC of that class, we recommend the business model of the three major foreign PCs: Dell, HP, and Lenovo.

In terms of specs, most of these laptops are one rank lower than models costing 100,000 yen or more, but for tasks such as using office software, browsing the Internet, sending and receiving emails, etc. , can be used almost without problems.

Conversely, you can't expect heavy work such as developing RAW images from digital cameras or editing video files. If you can divide that area, you can choose a notebook PC that can be used sufficiently.

You can also consider a used laptop as an option, but I can't recommend it. This is because there are not many models of recent notebook PCs that allow you to remove the cover and replace or add memory by yourself. In particular, second-hand notebook PCs often have deteriorated batteries, so if you cannot replace the battery yourself, you will have to use only the AC adapter, and you will not be able to demonstrate the original capabilities of the notebook PC.

There are cases where some manufacturers, such as Apple, maintain initial defective products and sell them as second-hand products. Such products can be purchased at a good price, but the lineup of products to choose from is small, and the latest models are rare, so it can be said that they are not very suitable for first-time notebook PCs.

Have a good laptop life, new college students and new working adults!

Nowadays, notebook PCs have become the mainstream in the personal computer world, and high-performance products are now available at affordable prices compared to a decade ago.

For that reason, I feel that it has become difficult to choose the best notebook PC for the beginning of a new life, but it can be said that it is a very fortunate situation that "there are many notebook PCs with good cost performance".

If you are unsure about which laptop to buy for the first time, read this article and find the one that suits you best.

I can't say it out loud, but I think you'll be happy with any of the laptops introduced here!

Added June 4, 2020: Regarding the table in the HP ENVY x360 Wood Edition, I added that it is the (cheapest model).