Tech explained
Clear, short answers to the questions people ask before buying tech. Each page starts with the direct answer, then goes deeper.
ExplainerHow much RAM do I need in a laptop?For most people, 16 GB of RAM is the right amount in a laptop today. It handles browsing, office work, video calls and light photo editing with room…ExplainerHow many years of software updates should a smartphone get?A smartphone should get at least five years of software updates. For phones launched in the EU since June 2025, ecodesign rules require…ExplainerWhen is the best time to buy tech in Europe?The best time to buy tech in Europe is usually around Black Friday and Cyber Monday in late November, during the January and summer sales, and in the…ExplainerIs refurbished tech worth it?Yes, refurbished tech is usually worth it if you buy from a trustworthy seller. You can often save 20–40 % on devices that have been tested, cleaned…ExplainerWhat warranty do I get on electronics in the EU?In the EU, the seller must give you a legal guarantee of at least two years on new electronics. If the product is faulty, the seller has to repair or…ExplainerWhat matters in a monitor for photo editing?For photo editing, colour accuracy matters most. Choose an IPS or OLED monitor that covers close to 100 % of sRGB, has good DCI-P3 coverage and comes…ExplainerHeadphones or earbuds for flights?For long flights, over-ear noise-cancelling headphones are usually the better choice: they block low engine noise more effectively and stay…ExplainerHow much storage do I need on a phone or laptop?For most people, 256 GB is the sweet spot on a phone and 512 GB on a laptop. Choose 128 GB on a phone only if you keep photos in the cloud and shoot…Explainer60, 120 or 144 Hz: what refresh rate do I need?For office work and films, 60 Hz is enough, but 120 Hz makes scrolling and mouse movement noticeably smoother. PC gamers should aim for 144 Hz or…ExplainerUSB-C charging explained: which charger fits my laptop or phone?Most USB-C chargers work with most USB-C phones and laptops, but the charging speed depends on the wattage and on USB Power Delivery support. Choose…