How Do I Know Which Laptop Is Right for Me?
Laptop computers are convenient because you no longer have to be tied down to one location to work on your computer, but the choices are dizzying. Some laptops are high-powered machines that substitute for a desktop computer. Others are designed for easy portability and offer fewer features to reduce weight and price. When you shop for a laptop, measure each model against your specific needs to narrow the choices to one that's right for you.
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Instructions
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Set a budget for the purchase. Determining how much you will spend on a laptop can narrow your search significantly.
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Decide if you want or need a laptop with a particular operating system. If you have a strong personal preference for the Windows or Mac operating system, look at laptops designed to run that system. If you're not sure, look at the software and hardware you already own, the availability of software you want to use, and at other computers and networks you'll be using with the new laptop to determine if the operating system is a critical factor for you.
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Estimate how much traveling you plan to do with your laptop. This will help you choose between laptop sizes. If you plan to travel daily with your laptop, or carry it for long distances regularly, decide whether you want to carry around a large laptop or prefer a lighter, more portable laptop with a screen size between 10 and 15 inches.
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Determine if you need a speedy processor and graphics capabilities. You need a powerful and more expensive processor and graphics card on a laptop if you'll use it for intensive tasks like gaming or video editing. The laptop doesn't need to be as powerful if you will only use it for basic tasks like writing or browsing the Internet. Prioritize your other hardware needs too, such as a built-in microphone and speakers or a disk drive to play movies or burn DVDs.
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Compare memory size (RAM) and hard drive space on laptops against your specific needs. While you can upgrade if the laptop doesn't have enough RAM to run your software or hard drive space to store your files, it's an additional expense.
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Determine how important battery life is to you before you use it to compare laptops. If you'll be away from a power source often, you'll need a laptop with longer battery life. If you'll carry the laptop to other locations, but plug in most of the time while you're using it, battery life is less important.
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Eliminate laptops that don't meet your networking needs. For example, choose a laptop with a built-in wireless card if you need to connect to wifi networks, either at home or on the road.
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Test the keyboards and touchpads on laptops that meet all your other specifications to choose the one that is most comfortable for you.
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- Photo Credit laptop image by Jorge Figueiredo from Fotolia.com
