Learn Tips on how to Acquire A good Laptop Computer
Learn Tips on how to Acquire A good Laptop Computer
When buying a laptop, you should contemplate factors beyond performance and weight. There are many additional things like screen dimensions, battery life, and keyboard and connection choices which you've to think about.
Let's look at some of the factors one really should contemplate when buying a laptop.
1. Processor
One of the initial things you should contemplate in a laptop is the CPU. The latest laptop CPUs include Intel's Core Duo and Core 2 Duo processors which outperform older single-core Intel processors (e.g. Pentium M). Other laptops use the AMD Athlon Turion 64 X2 dual-core processor - which is also a good performer. In general, nonetheless, if you're searching for a laptop, I'd advise you to look for one with an Intel Core Duo processor. You are able to also read this guide to discover out a lot more.
2. System memory
The amount of RAM in the laptop is really crucial. If you're not short of cash, my advice is to get at least 1GB of RAM - that is the minimum you should get newer PC applications to run fast. Also remember that you are able to usually add a lot more memory to your existing laptop. You may possibly be interested in this short guide on how you can install new memory modules into a laptop.
3. Graphics memory
Laptop graphics are another feature you will wish to contemplate. Usually, I'd say you need to go for 128MB of dedicated video RAM. Also, make certain that the graphics memory is used solely for graphics use and not shared with the primary memory. In the event you intend to play games on the laptop, then look for advanced 3D graphics chips with about 256MB to 512MB of dedicated graphics memory. Be prepared to fork out a lot a lot more cash though.
4. Screen
You will also wish to take a look at the laptop screen. Laptop screens have recently turn out to be bigger. Most of them have gone widescreen so you are able to watch movies or edit spreadsheets a lot more comfortably.
In the event you intend to use the laptop from house a lot, then I'd go for a 17-inch wide screen. If you are a lot more concerned about portability or in the event you travel a lot, then laptops with screen sizes of 12.1 or 13.3 inches may suit you better. You will find also 14.1- or 15-inch screens for laptops, but I believe manufacturers are shifting away from these models.
5. Battery
Here's another critical factor - laptop battery life. I personally discover it really frustrating to have my notebook power run out after 15 minutes at Starbucks. What you should do is to purchase a laptop that has about 3.5 hours of battery life, running on a Core Duo or Core 2 Duo processor. Ensure you question the retailer on how long the battery can last - a short battery life is typically a deal breaker for me.
6. Keyboard and Pointing Device
Some folks believe that the keyboard and pointing device on a laptop is crucial. In the event you have large fingers, you might be a lot more comfortable typing on a larger notebook keyboard than a little one. Ensure you try the laptop out - get the feel of typing and navigation before you purchase the laptop.
7. Optical drives
I'd typically recommend getting a laptop with a rewritable DVD drive as a minimum. One thing you should know is that some laptops sacrifice a DVD drive in exchange for a lighter weight and portability. In the event you don't think you require a DVD drive all the time, then you may wish to get a model that doesn't have one.
8. Tough drive
In the laptop tough drive department, what can I say? A lot more is better. These days, you are able to get a notebook tough drives coming in sizes of 160GB or a lot more. You are able to also get SATA tough drives in the event you have a lot more cash.
9. Weight
Another thing to note is the weight of the laptop. Now, when you purchase a laptop, usually remember that the total weight includes the notebook And also the AC adapter, any external modules, and their cables. These can add up to quite a bit of weight.
10. Communications
These days, you will discover that most laptops come with at least two USB 2.0 ports - I'd recommend that as a minimum. In the event you do plenty of video editing, then a FireWire (IEEE 1394) port also becomes important.
You need to also check for great network capabilities. Ensure your new laptop has built-in ethernet capability, a built-in wireless connection and also built-in Bluetooth (in the event you require to transfer data between your mobile phone and also the laptop).
Some of the laptops also include card slots for removable media like CompactFlash, Secure Digital and MultiMediaCard. In the event you take plenty of digital photos, then this feature may matter to you.
11. Laptop Shopping Tips
Whew! That sure is a long list of features to contemplate when buying a laptop. In addition to understanding the features, you will find three crucial laptop shopping tips you need to bear in mind.
Tip #1: How will you use the laptop? One of the issues when you purchase a laptop is that you pay for features you don't actually require. One of the best ways to steer clear of paying too much is to contemplate how you will use the laptop. If it is mostly for word processing, then settle for a cheaper machine. If it is for gaming, then you require a a lot more powerful one.
Tip #2: Think of features you will not compromise You need to also be aware that you will find some basic features in a laptop you need to NOT sacrifice. For example, for me, if I were buying a laptop, I'd choose (as a minimum) - an Intel Core Duo or Core 2 Duo processor, 2GB of RAM, 160GB of tough drive, a really little screen size and a super long lasting battery. Your list of critical feature may possibly vary.
Tip #3: Remember you are able to pick and choose Most vendors will let you custom-build your own laptop. This is a great thing, due to the fact you are able to just pick those features you require and not pay any extra. You are able to effortlessly purchase a faster notebook by accepting a smaller tough drive or DVD drive, for example.
Conclusion
I hope this article has shown you that ins and outs of buying a laptop. Remember, a laptop is an costly device. It will also be something you bring along anywhere you go. Hence, it is critical that you do proper research and discover the correct laptop to suit your needs. Remember the above tips the next time you're in the market for a laptop, and happy shopping!
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