Laptop Buying Guide: Portable Computing Made Easy

Does portable computing sound like the thing for you? More and more home users are joining the legions of business people that find laptops to be a viable alternative to bulky desktop workstations. In fact, some laptops are designed to be a desktop replacement. Before you plunk down that credit card, though, you'll need to find out what will work best for your needs.

Home Users:

The typical home laptop user needs a laptop that offers a variety of different features and is not overly concerned with portability. Even the largest, bulkiest laptop is far more portable than other computing solutions. The best option for a home user is a midsize laptop or a desktop replacement model. These are bulkier solutions, though they offer the widest range of options and are usually the most affordable. Remember, as the size of the laptop decreases, the cost of the laptop increases. Also remember that notebooks are the same as laptops. The industry terminology has just changed over time, but you can shop using either search term.

Business Users:

Business users usually demand the utmost in portability, unless the laptop will be only for limited office use and nothing more. For the on-the-go businessperson, a thin and light model is the best option. These are smaller and lighter than other computing options, though they have smaller viewable space. In addition, the keyboards are smaller and the capabilities are somewhat lessened. Ultraportable devices are incredibly slim and small, though they have even more reduced power and features. For frequent drivers or air travelers, these are excellent options. Toshiba Laptops have been a preference for many business users because of the combination of price, features and dependability.

Power Users:

Power users can find a range of options to fit their needs. For instance, many thin and light combinations have more than ample power to keep you going strong, as well as other features that can make them attractive options. For those in need of powerful graphic capabilities, a desktop replacement option is still going to be the best deal.

What You Want:

Regardless of the actual style you purchase, there are a few items that you'll need to make sure that you get in the laptop. For instance, you need a minimum amount of RAM, as well as a minimum processor speed and hard drive capacity. Remember, too, that the more you have of any of the items, the higher your end price will be.

RAM: Your laptop should have a minimum of at least 1 GB of DDR2 RAM, though 3 GB models are available and offer better performance. At least 2 GB RAM is suggested for laptops with Windows Vista.

CPU: A model with an Intel Core 2 Duo processor is the best option on the market, though a Quad Core is an even better choice if you can foot the bill. 2 GHz is a good processor.

Hard Drive: A minimum of 120 GB is needed for your hard drive, though the more the merrier, especially if you save a lot of videos, movies and large digital photos. Models with 250 GB are available for a little more cash.

Budget Buying Concerns:

If you're looking for a laptop on a budget, you can find quite an array of options available. The key is to find a reliable brand, as well as the right features in the computer, and not any more features than you need. Buying reconditioned models can seem attractive and can be a good idea in some ideas, though buying new is always the better choice with laptops.

Gamers:

Unlike older laptops, gamers can make good use of today's laptops. In fact, many companies are manufacturing and marketing models specifically to this market segment – Sony Laptopsare one such example. Combining high end on board graphics card, state of the art sound systems and large (17") screen sizes, these are a great option for the gamer on the go, or one without the space to dedicate to a bulky desktop computer.

Businesses:

Many businesses are ditching their desktops and providing laptops for in office use for their employees. For these businesses, desktop replacement models offer the best options. These provide the same power and performance as a desktop model might, but they also provide portability. However, they are far too heavy and bulky for regular travel.