Shopping for Laptops: Should I Prioritize a Numpad?

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When shopping for laptops for electrical engineering, the necessity of a number pad is debated. Many users suggest that a number pad should not be a high priority, as numbers can be typed using the top row of the keyboard. Learning to type numbers efficiently on the top row is recommended, as it can enhance overall typing skills. For those who prefer a number pad, alternatives include purchasing a separate USB number pad or using smartphone apps that function as number pads. Typically, laptops 15 inches and smaller do not include a number pad, while those 17 inches and larger often do. The decision between models, such as Acer with a number pad versus a sleeker HP design, ultimately depends on personal preference and typing comfort.
Chevyman12
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Hey everyone I didn't know where to put this but it is a pretty important question that I thought someone could help me with. I have been shopping for laptops lately for electrical engineering. I am just curious if a number pad should be a very big priority? I don't know how much I will have to type numbers with my laptop or whether I will be using the computers in the lab more? If anyone has some experience with this and could let me know what they think that would be great.
 
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No, a number pad shouldn't be a big priority. Numbers are typically on a keyboard near the top row...
 
For typing numbers, it's no big deal. If you are such a poor typist you can't hit the numbers of the top row accurately, learn to type properly - it will save you WAY more time for the rest of your life than it takes to learn.

You can always buy a separate number pad if you really need one. There are also apps so you can use a smartphone as computer number pad.
 
I touch-type, and I very seldom use the number pad.
 
Ok thanks. I guess the reason I was asking is because I never learned how to use the numbers across the top very well compared to the number pad. I am just trying to decide between and acer and hp. The acer has a number pad but the hp has a sleeker design.
 
Most 15in and below size laptops exclude the number pad. 17in and above usually have the full normal layout with the number pad
 

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