Your priority at this point in your evaluation is to find the available laptop computers in the market that best meet your needs. You can save a lot of time during this activity by quickly eliminating any laptop computers that are unsuitable because they don't meet your key requirements. For example, if you have a limited budget for this purchase then you can ignore any laptop computers that clearly exceed your price limit.
When looking for a laptop/notebook computer, you should pay particular attention to the following: the speed (CPU and RAM), drives, screen size and the overall size and weight of the unit. These four components are necessary in order for the computer to function the way you want it to when traveling, at home, or at your local coffee shop.
There are two types of CPUs you can choose from: single-core processors, or Dual-core processors. Dual-core processors are faster at performing multiple task simultaneously but slower when just running one application.
In today's modern computing environment where multiple applications are always running (virus scanners, search optimisations etc), a slower dual core processor will often perform better for day to day computing than a faster single core processor. However, when playing games a single core processor will outperform a dual core processor as all other applications usually shut down when the game is running.
The amount of RAM your laptop has helps how fast the computer will run and how many programs it will be able to have open at one time. With 256 to 512Mb, you will be able to watch movies, listen to music, and use basic computer functions such as checking email and word processing. If you want to be able to create large spreadsheet documents, play interactive games, or store large photo files, you should upgrade to at least 1Gb or more of RAM. Most laptop computers come with 256 -512Mb of RAM but can be upgraded to 2Gb or more if needed.
Storage has always been a concern for those who have laptop computers simply because they are lightweight and contain small internal hard drives. While you will be able to store photos, spreadsheets, and other computer programs on your computer, you will notice the computer will begin to run a little slower. If you are only using your computer for emailing, chatting or surfing the net, then you can buy a smaller drive (40-80Gb). If in doubt, invest in a larger drive.
Tip: Laptops can come with Multimedia card readers. These devices read flash cards similar to the type used in digital cameras. They allow you to store anything you want from your computer, are also portable and free up space on your hard drive. Their sizes range from 128Mb to 16Gb. For more information on these and similar storage products see the 123Buyz buying guide to External Storage Devices.
A CD or DVD drive is an important component because many people enjoy downloading their favorite music, photos, movies, and then transferring them onto CD's or DVD's to use in their car, CD player or DVD player. If you intend to do this then you will also want a larger hard drive (150-240Gb). Remember that you can also play your music and movies on your laptop from your existing collection of CDs and DVDs but you will want to ensure the laptop has a good sound system, graphics card and screen.
Most laptop computers come with CD/DVD-ROM drives. In order to burn music onto a CD, you will need a CD-R or CD-RW drive. A DVD dual layer drive is perfect if you want to create DVDs or store more information on one DVD. These drives will also allow you to edit your work.
The screen is one of the most essential features of a laptop, as you look at it all the time. Screens come either in a square shape or in a widescreen format. The widescreen is better for watching movies but you'll lose a little height on the overall display. The larger the screen the better but as the screen size increases so does the cost. Screen resolution is also important and you will want the highest resolution you can afford to buy.
The final factor to consider with the screen is its view-ability. Some screens have to be viewed straight on for the screen to be seen. This means that someone sitting next to you may have trouble seeing the screen. Most screens today are Active Matrix or Thin Film Transistor (TFT) which means the screen doesn't have to be viewed front on.
Tip: If you will be using your laptop outdoors, newer laptops have a feature sometimes called Brightview which makes the screen much easier to see outside.
The size and weight of your laptop computer matters if you travel often or if it will be replacing your desktop. Laptop computers are available in weights that typically range from 3 to 8 pounds and are about 1 to 1.53 inches in height.
It is best to buy a light weight laptop computer if you travel with it often. This will allow you to carry the computer on planes and cars. If your laptop will be replacing your desktop and will not be moved as often, you can purchase one that is a little heavier.
Tip: Buying a sturdy carrying case is essential when you purchase a laptop computer. A quality carrying case will protect the computer from damage, dust, and other issues when you are traveling.
When you were considering your requirements in a laptop computer it's likely that you singled out certain factors such as screen size, weight, drives, speed and price as being of major significance. As with so many other products, the more features offered, the higher the price.
Buyz123 has created a checklist containing examples of major features; you can work from this checklist when evaluating how well various laptops meet your personal needs:
Features Checklist
Central Processing Units (CPU)
- Dual or single core processor
- 1.4 to 1.6GHz - basic computing functions including word processing, email, watching movies, uploading photos, small document files.
- 1.8 to 2.0GHz - installing presentation software, editing photos and graphics, and basic computing functions.
- 2.16GHz - editing movies, gaming, other multimedia production
Weight
- 5 to 6 pounds - used by those who travel often.
- 6 to 7 pounds - used by those who travel less often or shorter distances.
- 7 to 8 pounds - used by those who use their laptop primarily at home.
Memory
- 256 to 512Mb - watching movies, viewing photos, basic computing functions.
- 1Gb - multiple computer applications at one time, editing movie and graphics files, spreadsheets and presentation software, gaming.
- 2Gb - gaming, creating DVDs, using graphic design software.
Hard Drive - Basic, built-in storage
- 40 to 80Gb - Storing documents, financial software, spreadsheets
- 80 to 240Gb - Music, movies, photos, games
Disc Drive
- DVD/CD-RW combo drive - watch DVDs, burn CDs
- DVDR/RW with double-layer support - burn both DVDs and CDs.
Screen
- Screen types - standard or widescreen
- Screen sizes - 12 to 15.4 inches (good for travelling), 17 inch (better for home office use).
- Screen resolution in dpi (dots per square inch); 800x600, 1024x768, 1400x1050, 1600x1200
Wired Networking
- 100 megabits (mb)
- 1000 mb
Wireless Networking
- Wireless 802.11 a/b/g - access internet that is offered many public places such as college campuses, coffee shops, and hotels.
- Bluetooth capabilities allow users to access other wireless devices including printers, PDAs, and cell phones. Reduces the amount of wires needed in the home office.
Graphics Card
- Standard graphics card - 32Mb: spreadsheets, basic computing functions
- Mid-range graphics card - 128Mb: viewing movies and photos
- High-quality graphics card - 256Mb: video editing, graphic design, gaming
Ports
- USB
- Parallel
- Serial
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- Firewire
Batteries
- 12-cell Li-Ion battery - 1 to 4 hour run time depending on size of computer, 1 to 2 hours when viewing a DVD
- 8-cell battery - 3 hour run time depending on size of computer, 2 hours when viewing a DVD
- 6-cell lithium battery - 2 to 3 three hour run time depending on size of computer, 2 hours when viewing a DVD
Operating System
Laptop PC
- Windows XP Pro - for small and medium businesses, security features, design programs and presentation features.
- Windows Media Center Edition - digital media creation and presentation, storage. TV tuning, gaming, and music and video editing.
- Windows Vista - Small and medium businesses, added programs for graphics, digital media, presentations, updated security system.
Laptop Mac
- Mac OS X Tiger - compatible with pc operating systems, small and medium businesses or home use, graphics, digital media presentations and storage.
- Mac Os X Leopard - for gaming, downloading movies and photos, creating presentations, compatible with pc operating systems.
Support
- Limited warranties on parts and external damage 1 to 4 years
- 24/7 live support with customer service
- Email support
- Manuals, instructional DVDs
- Installation software
There are a lot of features listed here, and some of them may not be relevant to your particular requirements. So, work your way through the list and assess how each of these features impact on your laptop computer needs. You can then create a personalized checklist of the features you really require in a laptop computer.
Once you have finished evaluating the laptop computers available for sale in the light of your personal needs and arrived at a short-list of 'possibles' you are ready to progress to the next stage. This involves comparing the laptop computers one-on-one in order to find those that really stand out.
Evaluate how well a Laptop Computer compares with competing Laptop Compuaters
Comparing the items on your interim short-list, one to another, is an important part of the purchasing process - we all want to buy the best product we possibly can. So once you have established a short-list of laptop computers that meet your needs it is time to evaluate how well they compare in fine detail. This way you can assemble a select list of laptop computers that stand out from the crowd.
Questions to ask yourself:
Which laptop computer on my short-list offers the best value for money?
Which of the short-listed laptop computers has the best warranty?
Which laptop computer has the best technical support?
Which of the laptop computers is the lightest in weight?
Which laptop computer seems of the highest quality?
Which laptop computer best suits my needs?
By answering these simple questions, you are actually eliminating laptop computers that aren't absolutely right for you. This is an excellent time - if you haven't done so already - to evaluate how well your short-listed products measure up in the following areas: Physical Quality, Warranty Conditions and Accessories & Extras.
Physical Quality
Regardless of the method you use when purchasing the laptop computer, you need to find an opportunity to examine the product to evaluate how well it is made, and to check that it is truly suitable for you and your purpose. This is the time to examine the quality of the materials, and how well the item is put together. Check the assembly - is the laptop firmly screwed together? Does the battery fit snugly into the base, or is it easily dislodged? It's also important to examine the item from the perspective of ease of use. How easily is the laptop cleaning and maintained? Are the keys and the touch-pad easy to use? Is it easy to set up and put away? Make sure the item fits you physically, and that it is manageable - some laptops look great on paper, but unexpected problems will show up when you finally get your hands on them.
Physical Inspection Checklist:
- Materials - quality, appearance
- Assembly - all parts held together securely, good quality fittings
- Solidly constructed - stable, no loose components
- Proper fit of removable parts - easy to remove and replace, fit snugly
- Keys and controls - visible, easy to use, accessible, clearly labelled
- Size - appropriate for surroundings and purpose - fits user correctly
- Appearance - well finished, appropriate color, neat fittings etc
- Easy, comfortable and intuitive to use
Tip: The joints where the top of the laptop meets the base of the computer will get the most wear as you will be regularly opening and closing the lid. Ensure that the top is easy to open and the joint is secure and well constructed.
Warranty Conditions
Similar products may be available with significantly different terms and conditions, and you want to get the best deal you can. Parts and labor are often covered under separate warranties, for different time periods; sometimes there can be a significant difference in the warranty offered with one model compared to that offered with the next model up. It is particularly important to investigate any conditions that might void a warranty, such as if you use different batteries to those recommended.
Warranty Checklist:
- Duration - check the specifics
- Parts, Labour, Mechanical, Electrical
- Exactly what is covered
- Exactly what is excluded
- Conditions or actions that may void the warranty
Accessories, Extras and Consumables
When evaluating similar products, it is a good idea to include accessories in your assessment. You need to be clear about exactly what accessories are necessary to run the product to its full capacity, and whether these are included with the purchase. What other facilities are required - do you need internet access to receive updates, for instance? What about a contract or service plan? It's also important to consider consumables, such as batteries as they can wear out - some products have higher associated costs than others.
Accessories Checklist:
- Accessories - included or extra cost?
- Upgrades - will the product needs upgrades, what are the costs?
- Compatibility issues - will it work with your existing programs and hardware?
- Registration - what are the time frames and costs?
- Internet access - is this necessary?
- Consumables - such as batteries, how often and how much?
- Contracts or Service Plans - conditions, penalties, costs
- What else will you need to enjoy this product?
Once you've worked through the Evaluation step you will have a final short-list of laptop computers that meet your needs and stand out from competing products on the market. It's time then to move on to the third and final step: Purchase.
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