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Buying Checklists for Samsung Shoppers: Laptops, Tablets, TVs, Watches & More (US)
Updated September 27, 2026 · By the PeanutButterJelly editorial team
Shopping for Samsung — for yourself or as a gift? Start with who you're buying for and what they need. Use our checklists to narrow it down, then follow our links to continue shopping on Samsung's US website.
How we made this guide: these are general buying questions PeanutButterJelly wrote for any brand. They don't describe any specific product, and we don't list specs or prices here — check the exact model on Samsung's site before you buy.
Affiliate disclosure: PeanutButterJelly (PJELLY) may earn a commission on purchases made through the links to Samsung.com on this page. PeanutButterJelly adds no fee or markup when you use our links. This page is intended for shoppers in the United States, and its links go to Samsung's US website.
Start with the person
Before you browse, jot down three things: what they do every day, what devices they already own, and your budget. Then jump to the checklist that fits:
| Shopping for… | Checklists to start with |
|---|---|
| A student | Laptops · Tablets · Monitors — plus "Buying for a student" below |
| A movie or sports fan | TVs |
| A gamer | Monitors · TVs |
| Someone who works from home | Monitors · Laptops |
| A fitness fan | Watches · Earbuds |
| Someone who listens on the go | Earbuds |
| Someone ready for a new phone | Smartphones |
| A new homeowner or growing family | Kitchen & laundry appliances · Vacuums |
Buying for a student
- Check the school's device requirements first. Some programs require a specific operating system or software.
- Laptop or tablet? A laptop is usually the safer choice for long essays and required software. A tablet that works with a stylus can suit handwritten notes and reading.
- Memory: 8GB covers everyday schoolwork; 16GB gives more room for heavy multitasking and creative apps.
- Battery and weight matter if they carry it to class all day.
Tech: laptops, tablets, monitors, TVs, phones, watches & earbuds
These checklists are general questions for any brand. Check the exact model's listed features on the retailer's site.
Laptops
- What will they use it for most — schoolwork, office work, creative projects, or entertainment?
- Do they carry it every day (lighter, smaller screen) or mostly use it at a desk (larger screen)?
- How much memory (RAM) and storage do their apps and files need?
- How many hours of battery life do they need away from an outlet?
- Which ports do they need for their monitor, drives, or accessories?
- Will it run the apps, and connect to the devices, they already use?
Browse Galaxy Book laptops at Samsung →
Tablets
- What will it be used for most: notes or drawing, reading, streaming, or schoolwork? If they'll write or draw, check whether the exact model works with a stylus.
- What screen size is comfortable to hold and carry?
- How much storage will their apps, books, and downloads need?
- Would they want a keyboard? Check which accessories fit the exact model.
- Wi-Fi only, or cellular (5G/LTE) for use away from Wi-Fi? Cellular models need a data plan from a wireless carrier, often with a monthly fee.
Browse Galaxy Tab tablets at Samsung →
Monitors
- Is it for work, school, gaming, or all three?
- How much desk space is there, and how far will they sit from the screen?
- What resolution do they want for sharp text and video?
- Gamers: what refresh rate does their computer or console support?
- Which video outputs does their computer have (for example HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C)? Not every USB-C port carries video, so check the computer's specs and get a cable that matches both ends.
TVs
- Pick a size: a common rule of thumb for 4K TVs is to measure from the seat to the screen in inches and divide by 1.5 — about 65 inches at 8 feet, or about 48–50 inches at 6 feet. Go bigger for a more cinematic feel.
- Then check the TV's full width and stand size on the product page against your wall or furniture.
- What do they watch most — movies, sports, streaming, or gaming?
- Sports and gaming: 60Hz is standard; a native 120Hz (or higher) screen shows smoother motion. Check the native refresh rate — some brands also advertise higher "motion" figures that include processing. For 4K at 120Hz on a PS5 or Xbox Series X, the TV needs an HDMI 2.1 input.
- Which streaming apps do they use every day?
- Will the TV be wall-mounted or on a stand?
Smartphones
- Unlocked, or tied to their current carrier? Check that it works with their carrier.
- How much storage do their photos, videos, and apps need?
- What matters most to them — camera, battery, screen size, or price?
- Will they need a case, screen protector, or charger?
- Buying as a surprise? Setup may require the recipient's account or carrier line.
Browse smartphones at Samsung →
Watches
- Will it work with their phone? Check compatibility before you buy.
- What would they use a watch for most? Make a short list, then compare it with each model's listed features.
- Bluetooth only (uses their phone's connection) or LTE (works without the phone nearby)? LTE models usually need a plan or added line from their wireless carrier, often with a monthly fee — check with their carrier first.
- What size and band will fit their wrist and style?
Earbuds
- Will they work with their phone? Most Bluetooth earbuds pair with any Bluetooth phone, but some features may work only with certain phones — check the product page.
- Where will they listen most — commuting, flying, studying, or working out? Check each model's listed noise-control features and water/sweat-resistance (IP) rating.
- How important are call quality and a comfortable, secure fit?
- How much listening time do they need between charges?
Browse Galaxy Buds at Samsung →
Home upgrades: appliances & vacuums
Kitchen & laundry appliances (refrigerators, washers, dryers, dishwashers, ranges, microwaves)
- Measure the space, doorways, hallways, and stairs on the delivery path.
- What capacity fits the household's size?
- Check the hookups in the installation guide. Most full-size electric dryers and electric ranges in the US need a 240-volt outlet; gas models need a gas line; ice makers and water dispensers usually need a water line; most dryers need an outside vent.
- Leave the clearances the installation guide calls for.
- Compare the yellow EnergyGuide label, which estimates yearly energy cost, where it applies.
- Before you order, confirm how the item will be delivered and installed, what will happen to the old appliance, and whether any fees apply.
Browse home appliances at Samsung →
Vacuums
- How large is the home, and what floor types — carpet, hardwood, or tile?
- Pets? Pet hair affects which features matter.
- Which matters more: no cord, or longer run time? Check each model's listed run time.
- How often will the bin need emptying?
Before you check out
- Will it arrive in time? Check the delivery estimate at checkout, not just the product page. Large appliances often need a scheduled delivery window, so order those first.
- Can they return or exchange it? Read the retailer's return window and ask for a gift receipt if you can.
- Confirm the final price, delivery date, and return terms on the checkout page before you place your order.
- Keep receipts and order confirmations in one place.
- Watch out for fake deals. Be wary of deals in unexpected texts, emails, or social media ads. Before you enter payment details, check that the address bar shows the store's real web address. If a price looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose a TV size?
Measure from the seat to the screen in inches and divide by 1.5 for a starting 4K screen size — about 65 inches at 8 feet. Go bigger for a more cinematic feel, then check the TV's full width on the product page.
Does a cellular tablet or LTE watch cost extra each month?
Usually, yes. Cellular tablets and LTE watches typically need a data plan or added line from a wireless carrier, often with a monthly fee. Check with the carrier before you buy.
Can any USB-C laptop connect to a USB-C monitor?
Not always. Not every USB-C port carries video. Check the laptop's specs for video output over USB-C (such as DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt).
Is this Samsung's official website?
No. PeanutButterJelly is an independent affiliate marketplace. Our links take you to Samsung's US website, where you complete your purchase.
Does using your links cost me more?
PeanutButterJelly adds no fee or markup when you use our links. We may earn a commission on qualifying purchases.
How PeanutButterJelly uses commissions: Through 2028, PeanutButterJelly directs 100% of its net affiliate commissions — what's left after operating expenses and applicable taxes — to student scholarships and hunger relief. This is PeanutButterJelly's own program; Samsung does not sponsor or endorse it. Subject to operating costs, taxes, and program changes.
Samsung, Galaxy, Galaxy Book, Galaxy Tab, and Galaxy Buds are trademarks of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. PeanutButterJelly is an independent affiliate marketplace and is not the official Samsung website. PeanutButterJelly does not set, control, or verify product details, prices, availability, or offers — check Samsung's site for current information before you buy. Links to Samsung.com on this page are affiliate links.