Guide To Buying A Laptop Computer
If you're reading this, you've probably already resolved the laptop vs. desktop dilemma, and have decided that a laptop, or notebook, is the right computer for your needs. Moving forward, you'll need to evaluate exactly what it is you expect of your computer and whether this will be your primary workstation or just an additional model to add to your collection of memory machines.
Before shopping for a laptop, consider how you will be using it. If your main goal is to get some word processing or spreadsheet work done while remaining current with e-mail, a Netbook (priced at less than $500) will satisfy your needs. But a Netbook Computer does imply some sacrifices: a smaller processor, about 1GB of RAM, not much in the way of hard drive space, no optical drive, and (at widest) a 10.2-inch screen. On the surface not a great deal separates the netbooks from stylish lightweight notebooks, but the specs under the hood (and a big screen inside it) can inflate an ultraportable's price to as much as $2,000 more than a regular netbook.
Websites With Good Laptop Reviews
If the netbook isn't for you, start off with some research on the latest laptops, which ones are popular, and why. Helpful Sites for Laptop Research are:
- NotebookReview.com regularly updates its site with reviews of new laptops.
- Laptop Magazine has a well-rounded buying guide tailored to various types of users.
- Business Week's Laptop Reviews are useful to get a general feel of the market.
- ConsumerReports.org has a good page on laptop ratings.
Remember that most marketers, pioneered by Dell, now permit you custom-build and -price your own laptop by picking from an impressive array of features, which gives you a great deal of control over the final product. For example, you may be able to afford a faster notebook by going for a smaller, less-expensive hard drive or DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive, rather than a BD-ROM. Look into the periodic surveys in top computer magazines for comprehensive information about the reliability of specific laptop brands and customer satisfaction with them. Select a brand based on quality, price and limited warranty.
Checklist For Purchasing A Laptop
Whether you custom-build or go for out of the box, these are factors that you need to consider based on how you plan to use the laptop:
- Determine the core configuration you need, including processor and speed, amount of RAM, and hard disc size.
- Settle on the type of display. Select a dual-scan display if your budget is extremely limited.
- Choose an active-matrix display for the fastest response and best visual quality (especially under challenging conditions), although at the cost of shorter battery life. Select an HPA (High-Performance Addressing) display if your budget rules out an active-matrix display but you need to use the laptop under challenging lighting and want to maximize battery life.
- Determine the size of display you want. Remember that bigger screens contribute to the unit's price, weight and bulk.
- Compare the weight of units you're looking at. Consider about how frequently and how far you'll need to carry the computer and its peripherals. Select an ultraportable unit if weight is more important than price, reliability, battery life and ease of use.
- Purchase a unit with built-in CD-ROM and floppy drives if convenience is more important than portability or reliability. Look at models with removable internal drives for the most flexibility. Many laptops now come with two or more USB 2.0 ports, which are helpful for plugging in more of the latest peripherals.
- Test the comfort and feel of the input device and keyboard. Choose between a touch pad, used by most manufacturers, and the pointing stick (also called the 'command point') used by IBM and Toshiba.
- Does the laptop have a built-in memory card reader for your type of digital camera? Does it have a built in web cam? A built in microphone? How loud do the speakers get?
- Make certain the laptop comes with a lithium-ion battery. Be questioning of manufacturers' battery-life claims. Back those up with some online research.
- Make sure you have the proper wireless abilities. Most laptops have Wi-Fi Internet access, while many desktops do not. Some mid- and high-end laptops also include Bluetooth for wireless accessories such as mice and headphones, and cellular wireless for areas where Wi-Fi isn't available.
- Determine what preinstalled software you want or need.
- Choose the duration of warranty or service coverage you need.
Using this checklist, you should be able to find a laptop that fits your exact needs. Also, look around our site to find a good Internet Service to go with your laptop.
How "Not" to Buy a Laptop
While many products are great bargains after they've been "pre-owned" (think used cars, for instance), a computer isn't necessarily something to get off of Craig's List or eBay. Laptops topped MSN Money's recent list of the ten things you shouldn't buy used because of how frequently a laptop is likely to be neglected or mistreated before you get your hands on it. The financial gurus over at MSN Money also advocate obtaining an extended warranty including tech support for any laptop you purchase new—an option you probably won't have with a used computer.
Remember that the laptop market moves pretty quickly. Sites like NotebookReview.com are outstanding because they're constantly updating their information and reviews, keeping you informed of any new computers that become available. With prudent research and a little restraint, you'll find a laptop computer that fits your needs and your budget, in addition to that desire to work from home every now and then.