Because, let’s face it, life is too short, this simple laptop purchase guide demonstrates the essential qualities to search for without the techie jargon. I do expect you to put this information to good use on your laptop. ZERO vocabularies exclusive to the technical realm.
You probably already know this, but it bears repeating: a laptop (or notebook) is a small, lightweight, battery-operated personal computer that can be taken anywhere and used without being tethered to an outlet.
THE MOST IMPORTANT COMPONENTS OF A COMPUTER TO HAVE
Processor:
The speed of a laptop is determined by its CPU and is measured in gigahertz (GHz).
Intel’s Core 2 Duo is the top dog.
The Intel Core 2 Duo processor is a top-tier model. Offers better performance and battery life at a fraction of the price of competing models.
Word editing, spreadsheets, e-mail, and web browsing are easily manageable on a computer with a 1.73 GHz processor.
Storage: RAM
The quantity of random access memory (RAM) a laptop has determines how many programs it can run simultaneously without slowing down. Regarding games and 3D graphics, 512 MB of RAM is the minimum requirement.
The maximum amount of RAM your laptop can handle is listed in its specifications.
Unless you intend to create a large number of music or data files, or if you intend to install multiple suites like Microsoft Office, a hard disk with 40-80 GB is more than adequate.
Complete package
If portability isn’t crucial, use a laptop with the optical drive. This drive allows you to swap in other devices like hard drives or batteries.
Warranty:
A laptop warranty is something to consider before making a purchase. Someday you’ll be glad you read the fine print.
If the laptop you’re interested in buying has a guarantee, find out if the company will pay for shipping costs if you need to return it for repairs. Some warranties may cover in-home service.
Viewing area:
You shouldn’t have to give up viewing pleasure when shopping for a laptop. Laptop screen sizes are typically referred to as diagonal screen sizes. If you want to avoid eye strain, a screen size over 14 inches is recommended. Larger or wide screens make laptops heavier and bulkier, but they also provide a more comfortable experience while watching movies or browsing the web.
As Seen on Screen:
An anti-glare feature is invaluable when you don’t want any region of your screen to go dark because of ambient light. Readable outside screens are expensive since they are designed to be used in direct sunlight. If you find it annoying that your field of view narrows as you tilt or turn your head, a wide-screen display is a must-have.
Weight:
The ideal notebook weight is at least 5 pounds. Laptops that weigh less than 4 pounds typically feature smaller screens, slower processors, less memory, no optical drive (CD or DVD), and a cramped keyboard. An ultraportable laptop may weigh as much as a standard 5- or 6-pound laptop once you add all the extras you want to bring (a CD drive, a larger battery, a more excellent keyboard, etc.).
Battery:
The amount of energy a battery can provide is measured in watt-hours. More cells in a lithium battery mean longer run time. A new battery is required for most laptops every year to five years.
How much power a laptop needs to run depends on how you plan to use it.
Most battery life estimates assume that the computer is not using the Internet, has no graphics turned on, is in power-saving mode, etc.
A notebook with a modular bay that can accommodate an additional power pack is your best bet if you value mobility and hate being tethered to an electrical outlet.
Wireless:
If you want to use the Internet without being restricted by a cable, you’ll need a device that supports wireless connections. WI-FI enables mobile internet access, which is one of the main selling points of laptops. Most laptops have slots for wireless cards, making installation a breeze.
Keyboard:
The keyboard is one of the most crucial features when deciding on a laptop. First, the keyboard must be full-size or at least very close to it.
Check the percentage of full-size when comparing laptop keyboards.
Clickable Menus:
One possible interface is a touch screen, which the user navigates using a finger on a pad.
Option 2 is a knob that can adjust the mouse’s sensitivity with a single finger. Unless you have strong preferences, I recommend using the touch screen instead.
Thirdly, you may equip your laptop with a touch screen and a knob.
A regular mouse can be connected to your laptop at any time.
One definition of a port is a dedicated outlet on a computer’s back that accepts a plug or cable. You’d be dead by now if you read the technical definition.
The greater the number of ports, the greater the flexibility.
A video connection to an external monitor or projector is essential, as is at least one USB (a multipurpose, very valuable interface).
Wire-based Internet access via Ethernet jack.
Ports for headphones and microphones.
Notable additional ports:
Connect your iPod via FireWire.
A video output S-video jack is included.
A connection for printing devices.
Slots for PC cards (card bus) allow for a broad expansion range. The majority of port types can be replaced with PC cards.
Audio:
Speakers in media centers tend to be of higher quality. Thinner, lighter laptops may have undersized speakers that produce passable audio at best.
Video/Graphics:
This is critical for third-person video games and video playback and editing. Dedicated memory is its memory in megabytes (MB), with sizes of 32MB, 64MB, and 128MB, typically included with a graphics card (ATI Radeon, GeForce, etc.).
If you spend a lot of time playing video games, you should have the best system you can afford.
For a rough estimate of your needs, check the “system requirements” section of the manual or CD case for your favorite games and media software.
Protection against Viruses: Viruses and spyware pose just as much of a threat on a laptop as on a desktop computer. Protecting your computer and data with reliable anti-virus and spyware software is crucial.
Protecting your laptop and the information stored on it is crucial because of its portability and mobility. Cables and biometric fingerprint readers are the only two options out there.
Skins:
Add some flair to your laptop with a skin.
Bags, cases, and backpacks for laptops:
You may find laptop bags and cases in various sizes and styles, even some “with wheels.” There is a laptop cover for everyone, whether they choose professional brown leather or girly pink suede.
As promised, this buyer’s guide is free of technical jargon, and I hope you find it useful. You made it through the laptop buying process without passing out this time!
J.R. Lang
Read also: https://livbulletin.com/category/technology/
