How to Comparison Shop for a Laptop Computer Online

Prices on laptops continue to decline. To find the best quality for your dollar, comparison shop online at sites like Froogle, Bizrate, Pricegrabber and MySimon. Here's how to access the information.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access

1. Consider how you'll use your laptop to determine which features you'll need.
2. Navigate to a comparison shopping website such as www.froogle.com, www.bizrate.com, www.pricegrabber.com or www.mysimon.com.
3. Key in your search terms, such as "lightweight laptop," into the search box and hit Enter.
4. Narrow your search results. Enter a brand name or price range if you have those options.
5. Compare the features of various laptops. If you can’t accumulate enough information, visit the manufacturer’s website.
6. Select a laptop model and compare prices. Include shipping costs and sales tax, if applicable. Look for free shipping offers or other incentives.
7. Visit several comparison shopping sites to find the best deal.

Tips & Warnings

• Before you buy online, visit an electronics store and try different laptops.
• Laptop screens range from 15- to 17-inches. More screen means more weight, which affects portability.
• If you want to watch movies, manipulate video, audio or image files, or play graphics-intensive games, choose a model with a faster processor, more RAM and advanced graphics capability. The more powerful laptops tend to have a longer battery life; if you plan to use your laptop in places where you can't plug in, pay attention to this feature.
• Most new models are Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity) enabled, so you can connect to the Internet wirelessly anywhere you find a Wi-Fi signal.
• Laptops can be expensive to upgrade (more so than desktop computers), and few upgrade options are available. It is less expensive to order the features you require when you first buy the computer.
• To protect your investment, study the vendor's return policy and the manufacturer's warranty before purchasing your laptop.

Who Can Help:

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