|
The most highly evolved species of computer, the laptop computer allows you to work without being tethered to an office. Portability and good performance make laptop PCs an essential part of the daily lives of millions of people, from college students to business travelers. Even the least-expensive of today's laptops are well equipped for everyday work.
How to buy a laptop:
Buying a laptop is a little different from buying a desktop computer. There are different things you need to know and consider before making your decision. Most people go in for buying a laptop just considering the basic things that they would think about while buying a desktop PC.
Types of Laptops:
Nowadays, a multimedia laptop is more than just a work laptop. It's an entertainment center, a module for watching television, and a necessary vehicle for avid photographers and video editors. With the help of fast, speedy processors, plenty of screen width, strong graphics and large hard drives, you'll be able to edit photos, burn music, and store and edit videos whenever and wherever you choose. If you've ever shopped for a laptop, you know that the factors to consider go far beyond performance and connections. Notebook buyers have to think about such additional variables as size, weight, screen dimensions, battery life, and keyboard quality--plus options such as built-in wireless and other laptop accessories.
Tips & Tricks:
Consider the travel weight. Compare travel weights, not system weights. That's the notebook (system weight) plus the power adapter (typically 0.75 pounds).Don't get hung up on small weight differences. What really counts is the total weight of the bag you sling over your shoulder.
Small notebook, smaller battery.. Manufacturers sometimes keep weight down on sub notebooks by shipping with three- to four-cell batteries that are good for just 2 to 3 hours of power.
Midlife battery crisis. Batteries don't last forever. A frequently used 2- or 3-year-old notebook may be due for a new battery. One way to lengthen your battery life span is to charge it up fully, unplug, let the battery run down and then recharge again.
Think about the extended warranty. An extended warranty is a money maker for the seller. For individual buyers, there is the comfort of knowing that if the notebook breaks, especially early in life, the store may just hand you a new one.
Think twice about hi-res. higher resolution is generally better, except when you try to read the fonts. Make sure you know the difference between a transflective (glossy) screen versus a matted (anti-glare) screen. |
