Definition of Laptop

"Laptop" is a term that defines any portable computer. Generally, a laptop computer will weigh between 3 to 5 lbs. and have a screen size of approximately 14 inches diagonally. Laptop computers are hinged, with the keyboard and PC components on one side, the screen on the other and can be closed for easy transportation. Laptops vary widely in their specifications, however, and many of their similarities end here. If you are considering purchasing a laptop for your next computer, understanding the types available can help you make the purchasing decision that best suits your needs.

Laptop Classification

Laptops are usually classified according to their screen sizes, which can range from 7 to 20 inches. In ascending order of screen size, the different laptop classifications include netbooks (7 to 12 inches), subnotebooks (10 to 12 inches), notebooks (12 to 15 inches) and desktop replacements (16 inches and greater). Laptops additionally include tablet PCs, which can can be held like a pad of paper and have touch-sensitive screens that can be written or drawn on.

Notebooks

The vast majority of all laptop computers fall into the notebook category. They also tend to be the least expensive of notebooks, excluding netbooks. A notebook will tend to have many of the features that would be expected of a full desktop computer, including a CD or DVD drive, wireless Internet capability, USB ports and a memory card slot. Most notebooks are powerful enough to be used for virtually any purpose, with the exception of serious computer gaming.

Ultraportables

Ultraportables generally have capabilities that are similar to notebooks, with similar processing and graphics power, in much smaller packages. An ultraportable might be extremely thin, such as the Apple MacBook Air which measures just 3/4 inch at its thickest point, or very small, such as the Sony Vaio TT, with an 11-inch display and a weight of under 3 lbs. Ultraportables tend to have a stylish appearance, leading to a high level of desirability and a higher price point than notebooks. While a well-equipped notebook in 2009 can be had for less than $700, an ultraportable may cost more than $1,300 with no upgrades.

Netbooks

Spurred by the incredible success of the ASUS Eee PC in 2007, netbooks are a fast-growing segment of the laptop market due to their tiny size and low price. A netbook will have a screen of between 7 and 12 inches and will often cost less than $300 before upgrades are added. To determine whether a netbook is a good choice for you, it is important to understand what they can and cannot do. Netbooks are inexpensive because they are nowhere near as powerful as other types of laptops. They are an ideal solution for browsing the web, chatting or doing a bit of work on the go. However, they are not powerful enough to play most computer games, and you will often find that there are long delays when performing basic operations, like switching windows and launching programs.

Tablet PCs

Like the ultraportable class, tablet PCs generally offer a level of power similar to that of notebooks. However, tablet PCs have their screen on a rotating hinge, which can be turned around to face outward. In this configuration, the laptop can be held like a writing tablet or clipboard. It can then be written on using a pen-shaped stylus. Tablet PCs are typically more expensive than comparably equipped notebooks, due to their expensive touchscreens and limited consumer demand.

Desktop Replacements

Desktop replacements are laptops that can barely be considered portable, measuring 16 to 20 inches and sometimes weighing 10 lbs. or more. The most extravagant models may have enough room inside for multiple hard drives and an upgradable video card. Desktop replacements are generally not feasible for bringing to work on a daily basis; rather, they are meant for occasional transport and designed for serious gamers. Most notebook computers cannot play recent games at acceptable speeds, so gamers often resort to lugging their desktop computer to LAN parties and competitions. Compared to this scenario, transporting a desktop replacement is a breeze. Unfortunately, desktop replacements are often extremely pricey and can cost more than $2,000.

References

• Tom's Hardware Guide: Five Powerful, Light Ultraportables
• IGN: Gaming Laptop Buyer's Guide
• CNET: Laptop Buying Guide