Due to my interest in following tech news, people often ask me for recommendations when they need to buy a new phone, laptop, or other tech.
Smartphones:
Android: I'd consider a Fairphone if you have the budget for it. Although it does not offer the best specs at its price point, you are buying a phone that is repairable, has long term support, and is made as ethically as possible. If the Fairphone is not your cup of tea, I'd go for a Google Pixel, they're great phones and benefit from long term support too.
iPhone: I personally like refurbished phones as they are much cheaper and will generally still receive udpates for years. If you're not getting a new battery with your refurbished phone, I'd suggest to check the amount of battery cycles (ask if not specified). You want less than 300 cyles ideally so that you get a battery that lasts. For context, under 300 is considered low and above 600 is high.
Laptops:
These are general recommendations for general use cases, last updated on 25 June 2025. Laptop recommendations strongly depend on what Operating System you want to use. If you're at least a little tech savvy, I'd recommend considering a Linux distribution such as Ubuntu.
Why Ubuntu? It is beginner friendly, has a lot of supporting resources online, and is well polished and functional. The main drawback is that the software you use on Windows or MacOS may not be available. Battery life may also be reduced. You do get a lot of advantages though, these include a strong ability to personalize and customize the system to your wants and needs, no ads and bloatware, better privacy, and the possibility of keeping your laptop up to date for much longer. Many of the expensive software available for Windows and MacOS also has great free alternatives on Linux, so it's well worth a shot!
Ubuntu: I'd recommend the Framework Laptop 13, a great laptop with the added benefit of being modular, upgradable and repairable. For cheaper alternatives, I would look at brands that provide Ubuntu already installed such as Slimbook, Tuxedo, or System76.
MacOS: My recommendation would be to buy a refurbished Mac with a M series CPU. They will be cheaper than brand new laptops, more sustainable, and still provide plenty enough power for daily tasks. A Macbook Air would be great for most people.
Windows: I'd recommend the Framework Laptop 13, a great laptop with the added benefit of being modular, upgradable and repairable. Otherwise, I find the Microsoft Surface Laptop to be a solid option, but be careful of getting the right one as other models have similar names.
Wondering what I use? Find the list here.