How to Choose a Laptop Computer

If you're looking for a laptop, but don't know what you're looking for, learn what you need to know.

Things You'll Need

• Laptops to ponder about

Instructions

1. Screen Size: Screen sizes range from as small as 11.1" to as large as 18.4", and bigger isn't always better. Laptops with smaller screens are more portable (smaller and weigh a lot less), and can more easily fit in low-space areas, like on a small desk. If the laptop you're getting will also serve as your desktop, a larger screen might be more comfortable.

2. CPU and Video Card: Get at least a dual-core CPU. If you've got high-end software or recent games you want to run, a high-speed CPU and/or video card will be necessary. For basic use, an integrated video card should be enough. And for occasional 3D gaming or Blu-ray drive, a low-end or maybe even medium-end separate video card will work.

3. Networking: There's Ethernet, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. For Wi-Fi, make sure both the network you want to connect to and laptop wireless card support the same version. Most are backwards compatible.

4. RAM: 2GB to 4GB is common. While 2GB should be plenty for basic tasks, if you'll be running a lot of programs simultaneously or running advanced software/games, 4GB would be the better choice.

5. Battery Life: Varies widely depending on how fast you run the processor, if you're using the DVD drive, whether your network card is enabled, and how bright the screen is set to. If estimated battery life is given, realize it could turn out to be much different in real life.

6. DVD Drive/Burner: The choice here is between a laptop with a standard DVD drive/burner, and a laptop with a Blu-ray drive. Pay close attention to the read and/or burn speeds if you're getting a Blu-ray drive. Compare these speeds to what you would find in a desktop Blu-ray drive to decide if it's worth it.

7. Card Reader: Do you have any specific media you want your laptop to read? If so, make sure the laptop can read it.

8. Hard Drive: With laptops, hard drive sizes are typically smaller than with desktops. This is even more true if you buy a laptop with a solid state disk. The benefits of a SSD are increased speed, and a slightly cooler laptop.

Tips & Warnings

• The best deals are usually found online. Good luck!

• If you have the option to buy anti-virus and anti-spyware with your laptop, don't buy it. Why? No program (not even commercial) can protect against 100% of viruses and spyware. Individual freeware programs are almost as good as commercial programs. But if you combine multiple freeware anti-virus/spyware, you can get better protection--for free--than if you had bought a commercial product.

• Service plans and warranties are usually just a waste of money. The only plan that might be worth buying is one that covers accidental breakage if you're afraid you'll drop it.