5 Signs You Should Replace Your Old Laptop

Depending on the source, a laptop computer will last three to five years. 

While it may be possible to squeeze a few more years out of your old machine, there will come a time when an upgrade is necessary. Nothing lasts forever, and even the best computer has a finite lifespan.

It’s best not to hold onto an old computer too long — especially if you need yours for school, business or streaming. The wrong machine will test your patience and leave you wishing you had a new laptop.

But if the goal is to use it for as long as possible, here are five signs you’ve reached the end of the road and need a new laptop sooner rather than later.

1. Performance Is Sloth-Like

If you’ve been holding onto an ancient computer for too long, you might not realize how abnormally slow it is. But if you want to do more with your laptop like stream movies or play video games, the performance of your machine might make useability painful. A tired computer with outdated specs will make doing even the simplest tasks frustratingly painful.

It’ll try your patience, yes. But that’s not it. A computer with sluggish performance will also reduce your efficiency and productivity, which is a no-no if you work remotely. And it won’t cut it if you like gaming. If the performance is sluggish, you’ll have to shelve your gaming passion.

2. Keyboard Is Damaged

Are some of your laptop keyboard keys temperamental, non-functional, or missing altogether? If the answer is, “Yes” to any of the above, that’s a good reason to consider getting a new laptop. 

Using a computer with a compromised keyboard can be a stressful and frustrating experience. A wonky keyboard might make your machine unusable altogether.

Rather than hanging on and trying to make the most of a bad laptop, it’s best to upgrade. You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg on a new setup either since there are many machines at reasonable price points.

3. Screen Is Broken

Another sign it’s time to replace your old laptop is if the screen is damaged. A damaged screen will compromise useability and make it a chore to pull out your machine, turn it on, and use it.

Do you want to watch your favorite programs on YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video, or any other streaming platform? That’ll be difficult with a damaged screen. Whether there are missing pixels, cracks, or it’s flickering, a damaged screen is reason enough to get a new laptop.

The problems will worsen over time. So, it makes sense to swap a damaged laptop for a new one as soon as possible.

4. New Programs Won’t Work on It

You know your laptop is too old when it won’t support the latest software. If that’s the situation you’re facing, weigh how important it is for you to download software applications. Such a computer might be okay if all you need to do is surf the internet. Otherwise, it’ll be a big paperweight.

Considering you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg for a new laptop, it’s worth exploring the possibility of replacing one that’s so old that you can’t download the applications you want or need.

5. Use Case Changes

While an old laptop might be okay for general use, it might be time for a change if your use case changes. For instance, if you change jobs and will work remotely, an old, slow laptop might be a no-go.

It might be impossible to use such a laptop for work purposes. Whether for a new job, school, gaming, or something else, you’ll want a machine offering maximum usability. Buying a new laptop with the right specs will ensure you have a machine that serves you well for years.

Whether you upgrade an old computer or stick with the one you have for a little longer is up to you. But the five points above highlight when buying a new laptop is the right decision.