Upgrading from Windows 10? Here Are My Recommendations for Desktop and Laptops in Canada
If you’d rather upgrade to Windows 11 now instead of extending Windows 10, here are my laptop and desktop picks available in Canada.
In my last post, I outlined the easiest way to qualify for Microsoft’s free year of Extended Security Updates: simply run a backup using the Windows Backup app while signed into your Microsoft Account. That one step is enough to unlock the updates, and it’s a lot simpler than trying to earn enough Rewards points or paying the $30 fee.
Still, this only extends Windows 10 support until October 2026. After that, you’ll need to decide whether it’s time for new hardware. With that in mind, here are some of the best laptop and desktop options you can get right now in Canada.
My number one tip is do NOT buy the cheapest PC. Many computers under $1,000 aren’t very good, and stay far away from PCs under $500. Walk into the store knowing what you want.
Here are the steps I recommend when setting up your new Windows 11 computer.
💻 Canadian Laptop Picks
A few standouts:
Apple MacBook Air 15‑inch (M‑series) — My absolute top choice. A fast, efficient laptop with all-day battery life and a spacious 15-inch display that makes multitasking smooth and comfortable, and avoids the frustrations that come with Windows 11. A little bit of a learning curve, but I honestly prefer the hardware, and it’s a strong alternative to Windows 11. My Mom, who isn’t tech savvy, caught on to it fairly quickly. You can pay monthly through Amazon or Best Buy (Fairstone).
Dell XPS 13 Plus — sleek, high build quality, good display.
HP Spectre x360 14 — flexible 2-in-1 design, touchscreen + pen support.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon — rugged, business quality, solid keyboard (good for productivity).
When you check Canadian retailers, look for these specs (or better):
At least 16 GB RAM
512 GB SSD (or more) is recommended, unless you primarily use the browser on your computer. My MacBook Air only has 256GB. It’s just enough for a few select installed apps and files synced with Dropbox. For Windows, you definitely want 512GB.
Recent generation CPU (e.g. Intel 13th/14th gen, AMD Ryzen 7/9, or Apple M-series)
Look for good warranty support in Canada (not cash grabs). AppleCare is honestly the best option.
🖥 Desktop / Prebuilt PC Options in Canada
Here are some options currently available in Canadian online and local stores:
Acer Aspire Desktop PC (i5-14400 / 16 GB / 512 GB SSD / Win11) Good general use box ~$699.99
Lenovo IdeaCentre 3i Desktop (i7-14700 / 16 GB / 1 TB SSD / Win11).
Dell Tower Desktop Plus - Expandable, more premium tower. Starting from about CAD $1,249.99 specifically through Dell.
One more mini/compact option worth noting:
Geekom IT12 Mini PC — 12th-gen Intel i7, 32 GB RAM, Windows 11, compact form factor, often priced around CA $799 on sale in Canada.
🏷 Tips for Buying in Alberta / Canada
Check local storefronts (Canada Computers, Memory Express, Best Buy, etc.) so you can avoid import/duties and have easier warranty support.
Watch for “Canada” or “Canada / North America warranty” versions — some laptops are region-locked on warranty.
Prefer units with DDR5 RAM, PCIe 4/5 SSD, and modern connectivity (Wi-Fi 6E, Thunderbolt 4) to “future-proof” a bit.
Confirm the power adapter matches Canadian electrical specs (110–120 V) and plug type (Type B).
Ask about local service / repair, especially for screens, keyboards or battery replacements down the road.
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