CPU, RAM and storage

Three components that determine how fast a computer feels:

• CPU (Central Processing Unit): the brain. Measured in GHz (clock speed) and cores. Modern laptops: 4-12 cores at 2-4 GHz.
• RAM (Random Access Memory): the desk where the CPU keeps things it's working on right now. Volatile - empties when you power off. 8-32 GB is typical.
• Storage (SSD/HDD): the filing cabinet. Persistent. SSDs are 10-100x faster than spinning HDDs.