Laptop Buying Guide |
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So, you've decided to get a laptop. Or maybe you haven't and you're thinking about it. Either way, there's a few important questions you should ask. 2. What will I be using this laptop for? 3. What kind of specs should I be looking for? |
Remember that the smaller technology is, the more expensive it is, just as a general rule. If you're not going to be taking the computer anywhere but your desk, you can get a lot more bang for your buck with a desktop. Remember that laptops are a total package, so if something goes wrong with it, you'll either be buying a whole new machine, or paying quite a bit to have it repaired. For instance, if the monitor dies, it's possible to hook up another monitor to most laptops, but then you really don't have a laptop anymore, but something more like a really compact desktop.
2. What will I be using this laptop for?
If you've answered question #1 with a yes, then it's time to move on to what you're planning on using this laptop for. Remember that this is a portable computer (at least in most cases) that you'll be taking with you, so the more you need to lug it around, the lighter it should probably be. Lighter typically means smaller, so if you're looking for something you can carry around all day long that weighs virtually nothing, be prepared for the price.
If you will be using the laptop to take to work, and it is only going to be used for work-related things, then downsize it a bit. The latest and greatest technology will always be more expensive, but you also don't want something that's going to be obsolete in a week. Build it just above what you really need, and keep it longer.
3. What kind of specs should I be looking for?
For the most part, the same type of specifications you'd expect to look for in a desktop are true for a laptop. If you're going to be using it to check email, browse the web, and utilize an office suite, then you certainly don't need something designed for gaming. On the other hand, if you're a hardcore gamer, well... see question #1.
4. What else do I need to know?
Shopping for a laptop is like shopping for any other piece of technology. While you certainly want a good deal, you also don't want a lemon, or something that has absolutely no support whatsoever. Treat shopping for a laptop a bit like shopping for a car, you typically don't just run out and buy the first one you see on the lot. Do some research, both on the computer and on the company. Once you've identified the right machine from the right company, see if you can get a deal on it somewhere.
5. Is there more to this than what you've written?
More than likely. If you don't have any idea about shopping for computers, you might want to look into the various technologies that make up one. You might want to take a look at our computer buying guide as well.