How to Compare Laptop Processors

When shopping for a laptop computer, there are a number of options and features to consider, but probably none is more important than which processor the computer uses. The processors for laptops are different than those on desktop PCs, primarily because of a laptop's need for power conservation. Follow these steps to compare laptop processors and make a smart buying decision on your next laptop.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Compare the speeds of the processors. These speeds are expressed in megahertz, and the higher the number, the faster the processor (all other things being equal).

2. Compare the bus speeds of the processors. Again, the higher the speed in megahertz, the better.

3. Compare whether the processors are single core or dual core. Dual-core processors are superior in performance but more expensive than single-core processors.

4. Compare the Thermal Design Power, or TDP, ratings of processors. Lower TDP ratings mean a cooler processor in your laptop, usually a significant concern.

5. Compare the battery life of the computers that you're considering. This is usually less directly related to the battery capabilities as it is to the processor's power needs, so it's actually also a processor issue.

Tips & Warnings

• Use one of the customizable search engines for shopping best prices on the web. The computer-related engines will allow you to enter certain processor specifications, and then will shop for models meeting that criteria.

References

• A useful term to understand is Thermal Design Power, or TDP. This indicates the maximum amount of wattage that the cooling solution for that processor will need to dissipate.

Resources

• Shop for laptops by processor