How to Choose a Laptop

How to Choose a Laptop

By Elena Price

Laptop computers - also known as notebooks - offer the same features and specifications as desktop computers but in a portable form. A laptop computer consists of one unit, usually with a keyboard and hardware in one section, and a screen section connected to it, so the laptop can be opened and closed in a 'clam style' fashion.

Features to Look for When You Buy a Laptop

Those specifications differ widely between the models of laptop computer available to buy online or in the shops.

• Operating system: This is the basic software that makes use of the laptop's processing system. Both systems perform well and run most common software applications, including Microsoft Office, media players and Internet browsers. Windows is the largest selling operating system in the world, but while most laptops come with Windows, OS X is popular for its graphics and publishing capabilities.
• Processor: Processors are composed of chips that drive and control the laptop's functions. Your laptop will usually come with a powerful processor, though it's worth comparing the different types.
• RAM: This is Random Access Memory, which is used to run software. Consider buying more memory if you want to run several large software programs at the same time.
• While desktop computers usually have larger hard drives, most laptop hard drives are up to 80 gigabytes in size. If you are planning to store large amounts of music, video or other data on your laptop, consider buying extra hard drive storage space
• Optical drive: This is usually a combined CD and DVD drive, and is used for both playing and recording onto CD and DVD, though some laptops will be cheaper if the DVD option only plays.
• Wi-Fi: Wireless Fidelity enables your laptop to connect to the Internet without using wires.
• Ports: For printing, music amplification, and connecting to other devices, laptops use ports as well as wireless connections. Fire wire ports are ideal for camcorders, and Ethernet ports are great for high-speed Internet access.
• Battery: Battery life is usually up to about 10 hours, but it does vary between laptop models and depends on whether you run powerful software applications.
• Screen: Screen display sizes on laptops vary from 10 inches to over 17 inches.
• Accessories: Laptops can come with a range of accessories, or they may be available to buy separately. Accessories include: carry bags and cases - essential for protecting the laptop when on the move; speakers - to improve sound amplification; and web cams - unless your laptop has a built-in web cam, you will need to buy one if you want to use your laptop for video conferencing.

Do I Need to Buy an Extended Laptop Warranty?

Look out for laptops that include the types of software that will suit your needs. Apple Macintosh computers such as the latest Apple Mac Book come with a range of useful software already installed, but can be more expensive than Windows laptops.

Before choosing your laptop, find out what type of warranty is offered with it. Sometimes it's worth paying extra for an extended warranty, especially if you are buying a more expensive laptop.

Online retailers hold regular sales and discounts and offer reconditioned laptop bargains, so by taking advantage of these offers and comparing laptop prices between different retailers, you might end up with a better model of laptop for your money.

10 Reasons To Buy Notebook Computer

10 Reasons To Buy Notebook Computer

By Titus Hoskins

Notebook computer is becoming very popular. It is estimated that over 42 million notebook computer will be produced this year. It's more than just the next techno fad; notebook computers offer some very practical solutions to our computing requirements and needs.

So if you need convincing, here are those 10 solid reasons why you should consider buying a notebook computer:

1. Size. It's the main reason you should consider buying a notebook computer or laptop in the first place. Notebook computer come in a variety of sizes to match your needs or purpose. Just match the notebook computer size to the main purpose or use of your notebook computer and you can't go wrong.

2. Portability. Probably the second, if not the most important reason you're considering buying a notebook computer or laptop. This freedom of movement -- taking your office or vital data along on your business or personal travels is the main selling point of the notebook computer.

3. Performance. Not too long ago, many as second-class computers when compared to the performance and speed of the mighty desktop PC viewed notebook computer or laptops. Although still not on par with the desktop, thanks to the next generation notebook computer chipset, Intel's New Sonoma Platform, many notebooks come very close to providing the performance level of a desktop PC. Many notebook computers, especially the desktop replacements, already have impressive technical specs that would shame most ordinary desktops. Some of these desktop replacements even use desktop processors or CPU's.

4. Connections. The notebook will do for computers, what the cell phone did for the telephone industry -- make our communications wireless. The notebook computer will give you this wireless connection.

5. Function. There are certain functions that are unique to the notebook computer. The tablet PC provides a convenient device for note taking and data gathering that's not practical on a desktop computer. For business professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and real estate agents...these tablet notebooks do very practical 'in-the-field' chores or tasks. Other notebook computer is very useful for PowerPoint presentations at meetings and other gatherings.

6. Backup. The notebook computer or laptop can be used as a convenient backup of your vital files and programs. Often overlooked, but the notebook computer can provide a rather cheap and safe way to protect your sensitive data. Having a separate system stored on a laptop or notebook computer can be a good way of working around this problem.

7. Variety. Notebook computer and laptops offer much more variety than the ordinary desktop PC. There is a greater range of systems to choose from; all the way from sleek custom designed notebook computer to huge monster gaming laptops, there's something to satisfy most tastes. You can also buy a notebook computer to match your style; from IBM black to Ferrari Red.

8. Price and Availability. Notebook computer is everywhere and they're getting cheaper by the minute. Notebook computer prices are coming down, as more and more notebook computer is sold -- the price will drop even more.

9.Sex Appeal. It has to be mentioned, notebook computer is sexy! The notebook computer's great looks will probably be the first drawing card for many people who are considering buying a notebook computer.

10. Last but not least, the main reason you should consider buying a notebook computer -- because you want one. Just for the convenience, portability, or the downright pleasure of owning a notebook computer.