When buying a laptop computer, you need to consider elements beyond efficiency and weight. There are many additional things like screen dimensions, battery life, and keyboard and connection alternatives which you need to consider.
Let’s look at some of the factors one should think about when purchasing a laptop.
1. Processor
One of the first things you have to consider in a laptop is the CPU. The latest laptop CPUs consist of Intel’s Core Duo and Core 2 Duo processors which outperform older single-core Intel processors (e.g. Pentium M). Other laptops use the AMD Athlon Turion 64 X2 dual-core processor – which is also an excellent performer. In general, however, if you’re searching for a laptop, I ‘d encourage you to look for one with an Intel Core Duo processor. You can also read this overview of learn more.
2. System memory
The amount of RAM in the laptop computer is extremely important. If you’re not except money, my recommendations is to obtain a minimum of 1GB of RAM – that is the minimum you need to get more recent PC applications to run quickly. Likewise remember that you can always include more memory to your existing laptop. You may be interested in this short guide on how to install new memory modules into a laptop.
3. Graphics memory
Laptop computer graphics are another function you will wish to consider. Typically, I ‘d state you ought to choose 128MB of dedicated video RAM. Likewise, ensure that the graphics memory is utilized exclusively for graphics utilize and not shared with the main memory. If you mean to play video games on the laptop, then search for innovative 3D graphics chips with about 256MB to 512MB of dedicated graphics memory. Be prepared to hand over a lot more money though.
4. Screen
You will likewise wish to have a look at the laptop screen. Laptop computer screens have recently ended up being larger. Most of them have actually gone widescreen so you can view movies or modify spreadsheets more easily.
If you intend to utilize the laptop computer from home a lot, then I ‘d choose a 17-inch broad screen. If you are more worried about portability or if you take a trip a lot, then laptop computers with screen sizes of 12.1 or 13.3 inches might fit you much better. There are likewise 14.1- or 15-inch screens for laptop computers, but I think producers are shifting far from these models.
5. Battery
Here’s another crucial factor – laptop battery life. I personally find it extremely discouraging to have my note pad power go out after 15 minutes at Starbucks. What you need to do is to purchase a laptop that has about 3.5 hours of battery life, running on a Core Duo or Core 2 Duo processor. Make sure you question the retailer on for how long the battery can last – a short battery life is typically a deal breaker for me.
6. Keyboard and Pointing Device
Some individuals think that the keyboard and pointing gadget on a laptop computer is necessary. If you have huge fingers, you might be more comfortable typing on a larger notebook keyboard than a small one. Ensure you try the laptop out – get the feel of typing and navigation prior to you purchase the laptop.
7. Optical drives
I ‘d normally suggest getting a laptop computer with a rewritable DVD drive as a minimum. One thing you have to understand is that some laptops sacrifice a DVD drive in exchange for a lighter weight and mobility. If you do not believe you require a DVD drive all the time, then you may want to get a design that does not have one.
8. Disk drive
In the laptop hard disk drive department, exactly what can I say? More is much better. Nowadays, you can get a notebook disk drives being available in sizes of 160GB or more. You can likewise get SATA hard drives if you have more cash.
9. Weight
Another thing to note is the weight of the laptop computer. Now, when you buy a laptop computer, always remember that the overall weight includes the note pad AND the AC adapter, any external modules, and their cables. These can add up to a fair bit of weight.
10. Communications
Nowadays, you will find that a lot of laptop computers come with at least two USB 2.0 ports – I ‘d suggest that as a minimum. If you do a great deal of video editing, then a FireWire (IEEE 1394) port likewise becomes necessary.
You ought to likewise check for great network capabilities. Ensure your brand-new laptop has built-in ethernet capability, a built-in cordless connection and also built-in Bluetooth (if you need to transfer data in between your cellphone and the laptop computer).
A few of the laptop computers likewise consist of card slots for detachable media such as CompactFlash, Secure Digital and MultiMediaCard. If you take a lot of digital pictures, then this feature might matter to you.
11. Laptop Shopping Tips
Whew! That sure is a long list of features to think about when buying a laptop. In addition to understanding the features, there are 3 important laptop computer shopping tips you should bear in mind.
Tip # 1: How will you use the laptop? One of the issues when you purchase a laptop is that you pay for features you do not actually need. Among the very best ways to avoid paying excessive is to think about how you will utilize the Laptop cu gia re. If it is mostly for data processing, then go for a cheaper device. If it is for gaming, then you need a more powerful one.
Idea # 2: Think about features you will not jeopardize You must also be aware that there are some basic functions in a laptop you must NOT sacrifice. For example, for me, if I were buying a laptop, I ‘d choose (as a minimum) – an Intel Core Duo or Core 2 Duo processor, 2GB of RAM, 160GB of hard disk drive, an extremely small screen size and a super long lasting battery. Your list of critical function may vary.
Pointer # 3: Remember you can decide on A lot of vendors will let you custom-build your own laptop computer. This is a good thing, due to the fact that you can just choose those features you require and not pay any additional. You can easily purchase a much faster note pad by accepting a smaller sized hard drive or DVD drive, for instance.
Conclusion
I hope this article has shown you that ins and outs of buying a laptop computer. Remember, a laptop computer is a pricey device. It will also be something you bring along anywhere you go. Hence, it is important that you do correct research study and discover the correct laptop computer to suit your requirements. Remember the above pointers the next time you’re in the market for a laptop computer, and delighted shopping!