We use our laptops for everything from work and entertainment, to shopping and staying connected on the go. But unfortunately, they don’t last forever. And after a few years, you might start noticing that your trusty machine isn’t quite as sprightly as it used to be. Maybe it’s a bit slower, its battery’s not holding charge as well, or it’s crashing a lot.
So, how long should a laptop last? Most will perform well for around four to five years. But not all laptops are the same, and we’ll reveal a few things that can affect your machine’s lifespan — from your usage habits to the quality of its components. Plus, we’ll share some handy tips to help you keep yours ticking for longer.
What affects a laptop's lifespan?
The lifespan of your laptop can be influenced by a few things, with usage being a big factor. It might last a good while if you lift the lid occasionally, for basic tasks like web browsing and word processing. But if you're a gamer or use demanding apps for photo and video editing, then your laptop’s likely to wear out faster as it’ll be pushed to its limit more often.
But it’s worth keeping in mind that the quality of your laptop’s hardware will play a big part too. With high-end laptops that feature the best components tending to last longer than budget models with cheaper parts.
More expensive doesn’t always mean better though. That’s because how well you care for your laptop can affect how long it’ll keep going for too. Giving it a good clean every few weeks and installing the latest software updates can significantly extend its life. So, don’t keep pressing ‘remind me later’ on those important notifications!
Understanding laptop hardware and lifespan
The lifespan of a laptop can be closely tied to some of the main bits of hardware it has under the hood:
Battery: A laptop’s battery loses its ability to hold charge over time, and it’s often the first thing to wear out. This is normal, and luckily, it’s something that can be quite easily replaced.
Cooling system: The next part to go is usually the cooling system, which includes the heatsink (that's what keeps your processor nice and cool).
RAM (random access memory): The more RAM your laptop has, the faster it'll run and the longer you can use it without noticing any slowdown. That’s why upgrading the RAM is one of the easiest ways to breathe new life into your ageing laptop.
Hard drive: The hard drive is what stores all your long-term data. SSDs (solid state drives) are faster and last longer than traditional hard drives as they don’t have moving parts, which makes them less prone to failures. Most new laptops come with SSDs, but if yours has an HDD, you could upgrade to an SSD for less than the cost of a new device.
Need a hand upgrading a part?
If you want to keep your laptop running smoothly without forking out for a whole new one, our friendly experts can help upgrade your hardware. For more info, please read our computer maintenance information page.
Laptop users and their unique needs
How you use your laptop can make a big difference to how long it lasts. In this section, we’ll explore the most common types of laptop users and give you an idea of just how long their perfect device could last with the right care:
Power users: These users run resource-intensive apps like video editing software and 3D modelling tools, which can stress a laptop’s CPU and GPU. Their machines are likely to wear out faster with more continuous use, which is why high-performance parts are needed to keep them going for longer.
Gamers: Games are pretty demanding to run too, which is why avid players often buy special gaming laptops. These boast powerful processors and graphics cards which can handle the extra strain. They also feature advanced cooling systems which stop everything getting too hot during marathon gaming sessions.
Small and medium business (SMB) users: These users typically need reliable laptops for basic everyday tasks like sending emails, editing spreadsheets, and running small programs. They don’t have to be the most powerful and should last a few years, with parts that are easy to replace.
Casual users: Laptops for browsing, streaming, and light productivity tasks are all home users need. Their machines tend to last longer because they aren't subjected to heavy workloads, with battery life and easy maintenance being key priorities.
Tips to extend your laptop's life
Don’t let your laptop gather dust. Proper maintenance is key to squeezing a few more years out of your machine. Here are some top tips to keep in mind:
Clean regularly: Debris can clog your laptop’s cooling system, which will lead to overheating. That’s why you’ll need to regularly clear out your laptop's vents to prevent dust build-ups. Our how to clean a laptop guide has all the steps you need to follow.
Keep things cool: Make sure your laptop has good airflow, so it doesn’t run too hot. Always avoid using it on soft surfaces like beds or sofas, as they can block the vents. You could even use a cooling pad to help your laptop beat the heat on warm days.
Use it safely: Keep drinks away and place your device on a stable surface or laptop stand to prevent accidental drops. Also make sure to store it in a laptop bag or case for extra protection when on the go.
Care for the battery: Don’t let your laptop’s battery drain completely and avoid using your laptop in extreme temperatures so it doesn’t overheat. Remember, lithium-ion laptop batteries perform best when kept between 20% and 80%.
Install software updates: Keep your operating system and software up to date. They often include performance improvements and security patches that can help keep your laptop running well.
Store it properly: Put your laptop in a cool, dry place when you’re not using it. Don’t ever leave it in direct sunlight or in your car on a hot day.
Need something fixed?
You could be the most careful person in the world, but accidents still happen. And if your laptop has a cracked screen, damaged port, or is simply running slower than normal — our computer repair experts can help.
We handle all types of laptop and computer repairs across most major brands, including Apple and Microsoft. Plus, we offer a 12-month parts and labour guarantee.
FAQs
Which lasts longer, Mac or PC?
When it comes to lifespan, both Macs and PCs have their strengths. Apple Mac computers are known for their excellent build quality, often lasting several years with proper care. But they can be more expensive to repair, with specific parts that are harder to find and replace.
Windows PCs can range from budget models to high-end machines, which means their lifespan varies a lot. But they’re generally easier to repair and upgrade, so they can cost less to maintain in the long run.
What’s the average lifespan of a laptop?
Most laptops will run well for around four or five years. But their lifespan depends on the quality of their hardware, how much they’re used, and how well they’re taken care of.
Which laptops last the longest?
Apple MacBook laptops are known to last a long time. This is thanks to their high-quality components and regular software updates, which keep even older models running fast.
What’s the average laptop battery life?
A laptop battery typically lasts between three to five years, or around 300 to 500 charge cycles. But don’t just take that as a hard and fast rule. That’s because how regularly you use your laptop, the type of battery it has, and how well you look after of your device can affect how long it stays powered up for.
Need more help?
If you reckon your laptop is past its best, you should start thinking about a replacement. And we can’t think of a better place to start than our laptop buying guide. It’s filled with useful tips and advice that’ll help you pick a perfect new PC. Don’t forget that we sell an amazing range of budget-friendly refurbished laptops too!
If you want to keep your new laptop running smoothly, add a Care & Repair plan. With this, we’ll offer advice and breakdown support whenever you need it. And with our 7 Day Fix Promise, we’ll repair your tech and get it back to you fast.
