Many factors are important in finding the right laptop. Before starting to pore over system specifications, though, take a moment to decide whether convenience or specs are of primary importance. Often, portability is a key factor, and these systems are more lightweight and easy to transport, but typically have less powerful systems than heavier, less portable laptops.
The pricier laptops are typically either more portable or more powerful than competitor's models. While desktop replacements offer all of the features a standard desktop PC does, these are heavier, and much harder to carry. Likewise, bargain notebooks or thin-and-light notebooks are similar in many ways, but the bargain notebooks are much less expensive.
People who are concerned about cost and want a model with good features often opt for bargain notebooks. Those who are concerned most about portability may select either ultraportable or thin-and-light models. Typically, ultraportable models weigh less than 4 pounds, while thin-and-light models weigh between 4 and 6 pounds. In contrast, a bargain notebook weighs between 6 and 8 pounds, while a desktop replacement may weigh over 7 pounds.
In addition to the weight of the laptop, factor in the weight of the carrying case in addition to all necessary accessories. Some accessories might include power cords, extra batteries, USB cables, and flash or external drives.
One of the most important considerations when purchasing a laptop is evaluating what purpose the new computer is expected to serve. Home users may want a laptop that's portable enough to carry into another room or upstairs. They typically want many of the features of a standard desktop PC, but are concerned about price. A bargain laptop is often the best choice, and many people today prefer models that feature internal Wi-Fi capabilities for accessing the Internet.
Students may want a lighter weight laptop that is portable enough to take to the library after class. Some colleges are more particular about specification requirements than others, so check with the university to determine what systems or user platforms are supported through the institution's network system.
If the university doesn't have particular requirements, a thin-and-light or ultraportable laptop may be the ideal choice. Many students prefer to purchase models with software packages like Microsoft Office. Internal Wi-Fi is probably essential, and a minimum of 1GB of ram, as well as either a CD or DVD burner, are also highly important features.
For those who are frequently on the go, traveling for work-related reasons, a lightweight computer is almost certainly the way to go. Think thin-and-light or ultraportable. Internal Wi-Fi, a software package like Microsoft Office, and a minimum of 1GB of RAM are essentials.
Business users require laptops that are travel-friendly, but will help them to create the presentations and spreadsheets essential for their work. Network connections are also a prime factor. Thin-and-light or desktop replacement laptops that offer software applications like Microsoft Office, as well as internal Wi-Fi or an external Wi-Fi card, as well as a larger hard drive and at least 1GB of RAM will generally help business professionals meet their computing needs. Those with minimal travel requirements will probably find that a desktop replacement best meets their needs.
Gamers will want laptops that feature high-speed processors, superior graphics resolution, and at least 2GB of RAM. A desktop replacement laptop with a large display screen and a 512 MB 3D card for graphics will probably be the best option for gaming.
Multimedia buffs will probably be best served with a desktop replacement model that offers at least 2GB of RAM, as well as a hard drive offering at least 80GB of free space, and a monitor screen at least 15 inches in size. Select a model with multiple USB ports for downloading via digital camera, uploading to an MP3 player, or connecting via other media devices. Movie buffs will probably enjoy the features of a DVD RW drive, which will allow them to burn movies.
Choosing the Right Laptop Processor
Many of the processors used in laptops are made by AMD or Intel. Some offer optimization of batter capacity, while others maximize CPU performance. Generally, mobile processors require less power than desktop processors do. Persons who are not purchasing a desktop replacement model should strongly consider a mobile processor. This will also help reduce the risk that the laptop will overheat. Some of the processors available include:
- Celeron: Made by Intel, this processor is budget friendly, but offers speeds of up to 2.5 GHz. They are faster than the Pentium M chip, but slower than the Pentium processor.
- Celeron M: One of the most budget friendly processors on the market. This processor can achieve speeds of up to 1.5 GHz, and is ideal for basic web surfing, word processing, and email.
- Pentium M: This processor is designed to maximize battery life, but offers processing speeds up to 2.1 GHz.
- Pentium 4: These are primarily used for desktops, and can cause overheating. In addition, they wear down the battery quickly. The trade? Processor speeds of up to 3.33 GHz.
- Intel Duo Core: These feature multiple processors in a single chip, and are helpful for persons who use simultaneous applications that require higher processor speeds.
- AMD Sempron: AMD's most budget friendly option, this processor is best for those who don't have heavy computing needs.
- AMD Athlon 4: Ideal for gamers, this processor is typically used with desktop replacement laptops.
- AMD Athlon 64X: This is a popular chip for those who favor overclocking, and is very similar to other processors in the Athlon 64 line.
- AMD Turion 64: This processor focuses on delivering high performance with thin-and-light notebooks.
- AMD Turion 64 X2: This is the dual core prototype of the Turion 64 processor.
Essential Laptop Requirements
After choosing the weight class and the processor, evaluate other features offered by specific models. For example, what size hard drive will be necessary for the computing needs required of the laptop? Although most people require between 40 and 60 GB, people interested in storing large images or files may prefer as much as 80GB. External hard drives can also be used to meet storage capacity requirements. In contrast, memory, or RAM, is required for computing functions and system operation. Higher RAM equals better performance.
CD or DVD drives are also important considerations. Choose from options like CD-ROM, which will only read CDs, to CD-R or CD-RW functions, which allow CDs to be burned or over-written. These same options are available for DVD drives.
Consider the number of USB ports the laptop model offers. Some people are comfortable with one or two USB ports, while others want multiple ports that will allow them to plug in a variety of digital toys, including MP3 players, camcorders, and digital cameras. Screen size is also important; however, larger screens often mean heavier models. Consider how much display size is worth sacrificing for the extra pound or two of weight.
A graphics card is a must for serious gamers. This valuable feature frees up RAM so that the processor can accomplish other tasks. Serious gamers will want to invest in a 256 MB or 512 MB graphics card.
Lastly, those who are planning to use the laptop outside their homes or offices should also consider Internet connectivity. Consider laptop models that offer built-in Wi-Fi, a network card, or other support feature for wireless Internet.
Many people purchase a model that features most of the desired options, and then choose upgrades that will optimize the system's performance. Upgrading memory by replacing RAM sticks is very simple. Some people also wish to insert new hot swap drives, or wireless cards.
Every computer shopper has to decide on what accessories he or she considers essential. mouse, but rather a touch pad or other similar device. Consider purchasing a traditional or wireless mouse for the laptop.
A carrying case is essential for portability. A lightweight, but sturdy case will protect the laptop during travel. An extra battery is also a must for people on the go. If the laptop is primarily for use around the house, or electric power is easily available, an extra battery may be less important.
Another helpful accessor is Bluetooth capability. Users with PDAs or cell phones that have Bluetooth capability may also want to take advantage of this same feature with a laptop. Some laptops also offer a cable lock for additional security.
One other accessory that many laptop users prefer is a docking station. After the day's work is done, bring home the laptop and connect it to a traditional mouse, keyboard, desktop monitor, and computer printer. Portable and convenient, it allows users to take the office with them home at night!
Take the time to choose the most important laptop accessories and features. A good laptop is an investment in the future, so invest wisely!