How Long Should a Laptop Last?
Most laptops remain genuinely useful for four to six years with reasonable care, though this varies with usage intensity and build quality. The battery is usually the first component to need attention, often well before the rest of the laptop is ready to retire.
What typically limits a laptop's life
Battery capacity degrades steadily regardless of care, and is often the first noticeable sign of age. Storage and overall performance can be extended significantly with an SSD and RAM upgrade if the rest of the laptop is in good condition.
What extends it
Keeping vents clear of dust, avoiding extreme heat, and addressing small faults (like a worn charging cable) before they cause bigger problems all help a laptop last closer to the longer end of its expected range. This page will be expanded with more detail in a future update.