Tips: shopping for a new laptop
Posted: Sat Apr 02, 2011 5:19 amShopping for a laptop has become more complicated over the last few years. There are now more form factors, sizes, operating systems, and other features and upgrades than ever. Let us take a look at some of the most important things to look for to help you find the perfect laptop to suit your needs.
Operating System
If you are choosing a Mac, you have only one option for an operating system: OS X. If you are looking for a Windows machine, however, you will have a choice of different Windows versions designed for differing needs. Most users will be fine with Windows 7 Home or Home Premium, but make sure you don’t need any of the advanced features of other versions before purchasing.
Decide on a Platform and Form Factor
First, you will want to decide whether to go with a Windows-based machine, a Mac, a Linux-based machine, or even a mobile device that supports software such as Android. Also decide what size and form factor you would like, whether it be a traditional laptop, a compact netbook, or a tablet device.
Hard Drive
Users who generally store a lot of files, such as photos and music, will want to ensure they have enough hard drive space. Users who download a lot of movies and shows from iTunes and other sources will want to make sure they have even more space.
Processor and Memory
Intel processors tend to be the fastest on the market at this time. Check reviews to see how the performance of your potential laptop compares against others in its class, and make sure it has at least 4 GB of RAM if you plan to do any photo-editing, gaming, or other high-end applications.
Extras
Lastly, make sure the laptop has the extras you need, such as enough USB ports for your devices, a DVD burner or Blu-Ray player, or a Webcam if you plan to do videoconferencing.
Operating System
If you are choosing a Mac, you have only one option for an operating system: OS X. If you are looking for a Windows machine, however, you will have a choice of different Windows versions designed for differing needs. Most users will be fine with Windows 7 Home or Home Premium, but make sure you don’t need any of the advanced features of other versions before purchasing.
Decide on a Platform and Form Factor
First, you will want to decide whether to go with a Windows-based machine, a Mac, a Linux-based machine, or even a mobile device that supports software such as Android. Also decide what size and form factor you would like, whether it be a traditional laptop, a compact netbook, or a tablet device.
Hard Drive
Users who generally store a lot of files, such as photos and music, will want to ensure they have enough hard drive space. Users who download a lot of movies and shows from iTunes and other sources will want to make sure they have even more space.
Processor and Memory
Intel processors tend to be the fastest on the market at this time. Check reviews to see how the performance of your potential laptop compares against others in its class, and make sure it has at least 4 GB of RAM if you plan to do any photo-editing, gaming, or other high-end applications.
Extras
Lastly, make sure the laptop has the extras you need, such as enough USB ports for your devices, a DVD burner or Blu-Ray player, or a Webcam if you plan to do videoconferencing.