There are so many options to think about when buying a notebook computer. And too much technical language. This tells you everything you need to know in simple, easy to understand, jargon free language. It’ll help you to choose the ideal computer for your needs and budget.
1. What Tasks Do You Need Your Notebook Computer to Perform?
This is an important question. Many notebook computers are configured for specific customer types. For example gaming enthusiasts need 3D graphics chips and at least 512MB of dedicated graphics memory. A computer set up for gamers is more expensive and has functionality that will not be needed for non-gaming users.
A $200 netbook would be ideal for simple word processing, working on spreadsheets and managing e-mails, but hopeless for gaming.
A more powerful laptop would be required for watching online videos, listening to music, editing photos and viewing DVD’s.
2. Are You a Multi-tasker?
Multi-tasking means that several applications are open at the same time. So for simultaneously surfing the web, checking e-mails and working on a document whilst updating data from spreadsheet, you’ll need plenty of memory.
And you need a specific type of memory; Random Access Memory (RAM). This is a type of computer memory that can operate at very high speed. It can be thought of as your PC’s short-term memory. Some applications like Windows Vista need a lot of RAM to operate effectively.
So if you’re a multi-tasker you will need plenty of RAM. You should get at least 2GB of RAM and ideally 3GB for Windows Vista. This will add to the cost. Users who operate 1 or 2 applications can opt for lower RAM to make savings.
3. Does a Slow Computer Frustrate You?
If speed is important to you, you’ll need to invest in a good Central Processing Unit (CPU or processor). This is the brains of a computer. It’s the part of a computer that runs applications, on-screen tasks and processes data. And for pure computing power it’s the most important part of a computer.
Dual-core processors perform much faster than single-core processors, especially when multi-tasking.
Look for Intel’s Core Duo, Core 2 Duo, and Core 2 Extreme for increasing computing power. Low-end laptops offer Intel’s Celeron M processor, which is slower. Again your choice of processor influences the price of your PC.
4. Do You Play Computer Games
Computer games are so sophisticated that they require dedicated graphics memory to operate properly. So, make sure your notebook has memory dedicated to graphics use. For good quality and performance, gamers need 3D graphics chips and at least 512MB of dedicated graphics memory.
5. How Important is Screen Size and Quality?
Choosing the right screen size and resolution is very important for your eye comfort and viewing pleasure.
Do you work on spreadsheets or want to watch movies in widescreen? Is it important to view documents side by side?
Screen sizes are measured diagonally. But it’s not just the screen size that’s important. Larger screens with low resolutions may look fuzzy. Higher resolutions offer clearer, crisper images and enable you to view more information at once.
Ultraportable notebooks go up to 13.3 inches and laptops usually vary from 13.3 inches to 17 inches. A good standard is a 16 inch screen with 1920 by 1080 pixel resolution.
Large screens with a high resolution are popular for viewing movies and photo editing.
6. Glossy or Matte Screen?
Glossy screens have a reflective coating giving sharper more vibrant colours. This is an advantage for watching DVD’s or looking at photos. But they do produce more glare which can be irritating, especially in well lit environments.
Some screens look really sharp inside, but are very hard to read in daylight. If you work outside or like to work in your local coffee shop make sure the screen is readable and not too reflective.
It’s worth checking each type before you choose your notebook to ensure you get what works for you. Don’t get stuck with something you don’t like.
7. Viewing Comfort and Scrolling
High resolution screens can display lots of text. More fits on the screen, meaning less scrolling. And they are good for having applications open side by side; 2 Office documents for example. The disadvantage is that the text will be smaller and can be hard to read.
The same sized screen with low resolution will display less text. It will be larger and easier to read. But less will fit on the screen, so you’ll have to scroll more
Think about the sort of work you will be doing. Some like smaller text with lots of information on the page and less scrolling. Others prefer larger text and don’t mind scrolling. We’re all different, but it’s important to check out your options and get what’s right for your needs.
8. Elephant or Fish Memory?
A hard drive stores the data you keep on your computer. It’s your computers long-term memory.
High resolution photos, video files, spreadsheets and databases need a lot of memory. If you need to store these, you should choose a hard drive with at least 80GB or even 120GB or 160GB.
Check the speed of the hard drive too. Most offer 5400 rpm, but 7200 rpm will give a better performance with data intensive tasks.
9. Music and Camera Connections
If you want to use a wireless mouse, connect to your iPod or download photos from your digital camera you’ll need a USB port. If you want to use more than one at the same time you’ll need more ports. Look for at least 2 USB ports and 1 Firewire connection.
10. How Much battery Life Do You Need?
Battery life varies from 1.3 hours to 12 hours, so choose carefully if you need to operate without a regular power source. Consider getting a longer life or back-up battery.
One thing’s for sure, you’ll never be able to operate your notebook computer for as long as the manufacturer claims. So be skeptical when you check battery life.
11. Are Your Fingers Too Big?
More likely it’s the keyboard that’s too small. Check this out along with the mouse-pad or pointing device. There’s nothing more frustrating than tiny keys. Get a mini-mouse, you’ll thank me.
12. Do You Want a Light Portable Notebook?
If you’re mobile and you need to carry your notebook a lot then check the weight. It might seem OK but will you still think so after a long day?
Remember to include the extras like the AC adapter and any extra batteries and cables. They all add to the weight.
Think about buying a docking station for your desk, so you can leave your cables and portable mouse in your bag. It’ll save the repeated unplugging and re-connecting.
13. Wireless and Bluetooth Capability
Built in wireless capability means you can connect to the internet from just about anywhere. And Bluetooth means you can quickly share information with your phone and other devices without cluttering your bag with cables.
14. Design and Appearance
Apple showed that design and build quality can be as important as functionality. Great design can mean a more expensive notebook. Laptop skins can cheaply transform a standard, dull black notebook.
15. Backing up
Some laptops have DVD burners to back up documents, photos and music files. Others prefer to use a USB Flash Drive.
16. Protect Your Notebook
Finally give some thought to protecting your notebook. Look at anti-theft devices, especially if you work away from your office.
Decision Time
There are many options to consider when you buy a notebook computer. Many have an impact on the price. Unless you have an unlimited budget you may need to make trade-offs with your final selection.
This information will help you to make an informed choice. Choose wisely.
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