Laminate flooring is a floating floor system — it sits on top of an underlayment and is not attached to the subfloor. Like hardwood, laminate requires an expansion gap around the perimeter, typically 1/4 to 3/8 inch. Shoe molding is one of the most common ways to cover this gap.
Laminate flooring manufacturers sometimes include or recommend T-molding transition strips for perimeter edges. However, shoe molding often provides a cleaner look, especially if you already have baseboards installed. Many homeowners prefer shoe molding because it matches the traditional trim appearance of the rest of the house.
Both work well on laminate. Shoe molding has a slimmer profile and is less noticeable, which many people prefer. Quarter round covers more of the gap, which can be helpful if the expansion gap is larger than expected. Choose based on aesthetics and the size of the gap.
Laminate floors can shift slightly over time, especially in rooms with large temperature or humidity swings. If gaps appear between the shoe molding and the floor, they can usually be fixed with caulk or by adjusting the molding. Do not re-nail the molding into the floor to fix this.