After much consideration, you've finally decided to purchase a laptop computer instead of a bulky desktop. That may have been a tough decision for you, but there's still one important question you must answer before anything else-what exactly will you be using the laptop for? More specifically, which of the following styles will best suit your needs: all purpose, business power use, or ultra-portability? If you need help deciding, this guide can help point you in the right direction.
All Purpose
All purpose laptops can do it all and are a great choice for most notebook users. They deliver the best mix of performance and features at a reasonable price. Although they are heavy and somewhat difficult to lug around, their power and multimedia capabilities can match those of desktops. With an all purpose laptop, you can competently browse the web, do e-mail, archive your photos, play music, and even watch movies. If you need power but don't have enough room for a large desktop, then an all purpose laptop is the perfect choice for you.
Business Power Use
Business laptops are most frequently determined by the manufacturer. They're more conservative in style, have added security, and use stronger materials around their cases. A good business laptop should have a hard drive big enough to store all your word documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and any other important information. Also, it should come equipped with a CD or DVD burner so you can back up your data. Other important features you should look for in a business laptop include: wireless networking capability; portable printer; handheld scanner; and long battery life. Just make sure the laptop you buy is capable of handling all your business needs.
Ultra-Portability
If you want a lightweight laptop to accommodate your traveling lifestyle, then an ultra-portable laptop is the way to go. Ultra-portable laptops defy gravity by integrating every laptop component into the smallest frame possible. The difference between four and eight pounds may not sound like much, but you’ll certainly feel it the first time you have to carry it across town. Of course, there are a few tradeoffs: a smaller screen, less capacious battery, reduced-size keyboard. All in all, ultra-portable laptops have standard features and can perform basic functions, but there may be a slight difference in terms of power.
As you can see, it is important that you take time to assess your needs and what you hope to accomplish with a laptop. Doing this helps you determine which laptop style is the best fit for you. Keep in mind that a laptop should be something you are comfortable using and carrying. Be sure to also check out Tablet PC's, Thin Laptops, and Rugged Laptops.
- Related Videos
- Related Articles
- Ask / Related Q&A
- How to Get the Best Deals on Apple Laptops
- The Consumers Apple Computer Buying Guide
- Executive Laptop Rentals – Things to Consider
- MacBook Pro Buying Guide: Why MacBook Pro is Your Best Choice?
- Laptop Guide - All Purpose, Business Power Use, Ultra-portability
- Laptop Rental Guide
- Business Computer Rentals Guide
- Apple Admits to Faulty Laptop Batteries




Save Money – Buy Refurbished!
By: Philippa Wilson | 15/11/2009In times of financial hardship, we all want to save the pennies. That’s why buying a refurbished notebook is a great way to get a new notebook and still save money.
Refurbished Netbooks
By: Philippa Wilson | 15/11/2009Netbooks are in fashion at the moment and are so easy to use. So why not look at saving a bit of money on your new net book and buy a refurbished one.
Do you know the difference between Laptop Computers and Notebook Computers?
By: sillyfox | 15/11/2009knowing the difference between Laptop Computers and Notebook Computers, you could get what you want when buying the portable computer.
Scientists Invent 30 Year Continuous Power Laptop Battery
By: mengke | 15/11/2009The Dell inspiron 6400 laptop Battery is designed to be 100% manufacturer compatible with Dell part numbers or models.
Three trick questions so that laptop away from blue screen
By: annyhaiyan | 15/11/2009Specific means of implementation: First, from the manufacturer's website to download BIOS update process and BIOS update files. Then run the BIOS update software, and choose our download BIOS files
How to Make Your Laptop Run Faster
By: Viral | 14/11/2009Do you have a slow laptop? If so, it's probably a pain in the butt, and it can get frustrating, I understand! In order to speed up your computer, try out some of these tips.
How to Increase Your Pc Memory
By: Viral | 14/11/2009Computer going too slow? Not able to multi task like you want to? Your pc memory, not to be confused with your pc's storage, is a great way to give your computer a boost. See how to do it here.
How to Troubleshoot an Optical Mouse
By: Viral | 14/11/2009Aside from being lightweight, more sensitive and accurate, you are also not restricted to requiring a mouse pad when using an optical mouse. There are basically two kinds of optical mouse: One that uses infrared or laser beam. They have a light emitting diode, commonly blue or red in color on the bottom to track movements. The other kind uses optoelectronic sensor to take rapid images on the surface it moves on to calculate motions. Above devices eliminate the use of a roller-ball (which can be
How Laser Printers Work
By: Nicole Hannah | 16/03/2009 | HardwareA Laser Printer is One of the Most Common Printers Used Today, But Do You Know How One Actually Works? Read on to Learn How Laser Printers Work as Well as Their Advantages and Best Uses.
Bluetooth Technology - Discover The Best Photo Printers, Mobile Printers And Gadgets
By: Nicole Hannah | 26/02/2009 | TechnologyWould you like freedom from wires? Bluetooth is becoming increasingly popular in the world of electronics and can be found in a variety of products. Find out how it works and all the benefits, including the ones you may not know about.
Scanner Buying Guide: Getting What You Need
By: Nicole Hannah | 11/02/2009 | HardwareThere's a plethora of scanners out there on the market, but how do you know which one is right for you? Should you pick flat bed or sheet fed? What resolution or other features do you need? Use this comprehensive guide to figure out what to look for in a good scanner for you.
When to Outsource Your Printing Needs
By: Nicole Hannah | 05/02/2009 | OutsourcingDeciding if outsourcing work is a better economic choice then undertaking the initial investments to get the work done in-house, can be a major budgetary decision for any company. The following is a simple guide to help you decide if investing in a wide format printer will be the right decision for your company.
Get More Out of Your Wide Format Printer – How to Choose the Right Paper for the Job
By: Nicole Hannah | 03/02/2009 | HardwareSo your company has invested in wide format printer for all your sign, poster, or blue print needs. Now what? Some people try to use the same paper for every job they run. However, choosing the right paper for the job not only will yield better results, but can also save you money in the long run. Read on for more information about wide format printers; also know as plotters, and how to choose the right paper roll for the job.