Also using old laptop...I tried staking via running wallet, but my internet connection isn't stable enough, so I was skipping possible rewards...gotta be careful, some viruses go for crypto wallets.
I decided to trust 3rd party staking pool with my coins over at btcpop.co, and it's working great for over a year. That way I don't have to fear power outage or leave laptop on 24/7, thus spending less electricity. They also have an exchange with support of other staking coins, but volumes are low. Testing withdrawals all the time with another coin.
If you really want to keep the control, get a Raspberry Pi or another SBC, less viruses over on Linux and it's using way less electricity.