When buying a new laptop, consumers have plenty of specifications to compare, from processors and RAM to battery life and display quality. But a new survey suggests that performance remains the biggest deciding factor for most laptop shoppers.

According to Amazon's Best in Tech survey, as many as 87% of respondents said processor performance is the most important consideration when purchasing a laptop.

The survey also highlights another growing trend: consumers are increasingly interested in AI-powered features. At the same time, buyers appear to be becoming less loyal to particular brands when competing products offer better specifications at the same price.

Processor Performance Tops the List

For laptop buyers, speed and overall performance appear to matter more than almost anything else.

The survey found that 87% of respondents ranked processor performance as their top priority. RAM and storage came next, followed by battery life.

Interestingly, features appear to be more important than brand loyalty for many consumers. Around 53% of respondents said they would consider switching brands if another company offered better features at the same price.

Nearly half of the respondents—48%—said they compare two or three brands before making their final decision. Only 18% already have a specific brand in mind before beginning their search.

AI Is Becoming a Major Laptop Buying Factor

Artificial intelligence is also emerging as an important consideration for laptop buyers.

According to the survey, 58% of respondents consider new AI features extremely useful for their work.

Among those interested in AI capabilities:

• 28% want an AI assistant that can run directly on the device

• 25% are interested in dedicated AI processing hardware

• 23% want AI tools for content creation and editing

This indicates that consumers are beginning to look beyond traditional specifications and are paying more attention to how AI can actually improve their everyday computing experience.

Most Laptop Buyers Are Looking Below ₹80,000

The survey also provides an insight into the price ranges shoppers are considering.

Around 24% of respondents are looking for laptops below ₹40,000, while 28% prefer models priced between ₹40,000 and ₹60,000.

Another 22% are considering laptops in the ₹60,000–₹80,000 range.

Meanwhile, 14% are looking at laptops priced between ₹80,000 and ₹1 lakh, while 12% are willing to spend more than ₹1 lakh.

This suggests that while premium laptops have their audience, a large portion of buyers are still focused on the mid-range market.

Display Is the Biggest Priority for Tablet Buyers

The priorities change when it comes to tablets.

The survey found that 74% of tablet shoppers consider display size and quality their most important factor. Price comes a distant second at 12%, followed by the processor at 9%.

The ₹20,000–₹35,000 price range appears to be particularly popular, with 59% of respondents choosing this segment.

Why Are People Buying Tablets?

Consumers have different reasons for choosing a tablet instead of a laptop or smartphone.

According to the survey:

• 29% view tablets as a more affordable alternative to laptops

• 21% primarily want them for watching content and entertainment

• 17% value their portability and convenience

This shows that tablets are being positioned as versatile devices for people who want a larger screen without carrying a full-sized laptop.

Survey Included More Than 40,000 Responses

Amazon says the Best in Tech survey collected more than 40,000 responses.

The findings will also contribute to Amazon's Best in Tech Awards, highlighting products and trends that are influencing consumer technology choices.

Performance First, AI Next

The survey reveals an interesting shift in consumer priorities. Performance remains the number one requirement for laptop buyers, but AI capabilities are quickly becoming an important part of the purchasing decision.

At the same time, shoppers appear increasingly willing to switch brands if they can get better features for their money.

For tablets, however, the picture is different: a good display remains the feature consumers care about most, showing that buying priorities can vary significantly depending on the type of device.