It’s tested, criticized, and debated over.

Some claim flex is bad, while others say it’s irrelevant.

But why should you care about flex?

wireless charger

That sinking sensation is deck flex.

It measures how much the laptop’s body bends or warps under pressure.

Deck flex isn’t just a quirky trait.

Four hard drivers sticking out of a rack-mount server that’s being used as a NAS.

It’s a potential indicator of your laptop’s overall build quality.

Over time, this could lead to your laptop’s premature physical demise.

Just as withGPU sag, circuit boards and components don’t like bending too much.

Person typing on the keyboard of the Acer Aspire Vero 15 laptop.

Jason Montoya / How-To Geek

It’s as simple as pressing gently on the keyboard deck.

If the surface noticeably bends or warps, you have some deck flex.

you could try lifting the laptop from one corner while it’s open for an even clearer picture.

Any noticeable twist or bend is another sign of deck flex.

But remember, handle it with care.

Laptops aren’t exactly designed for one-handed corner lifts.

Does Deck Flex Affect Performance?

A prognosis for confirmed deck flex is where things get a bit murky.

But in the long run, significant deck flex can spell trouble.

Should You Care About Deck Flex?

In a word, yes, you should consider the presence of deck flex as you shop.

It can show you how well the laptop will hold up to daily use and the occasional mishap.