From operating systems, storage capacity and graphics capabilities, some laptops will be more suitable than others depending on their intended use. If the laptop will be used for producing term papers, emails and the occasional letter, a simple system will do. If you intend to view DVDs, watch television or download movies from the internet, a faster, more powerful system with more storage capacity may be necessary.

Selecting the Components

Hard drive capacity determines how much data your laptop will be able to hold. If you decide to purchase a netbook, it will generally come equipped with a 60GB hard drive, but some models come with hard drives of 200GB to 320GB. Ultra-portables containing Solid State Drives, or SDDs, usually have a storage capacity of around 128GB and are lighter and faster. Most laptop computers come with 3GB of Random Access Memory (RAM), sometimes less. RAM can be upgraded when buying or later. A 64-bit operating system can be increased but a 32-bit operating system cannot. If you plan to view DVDs, TV programs or play games that use 3D graphics, look for a laptop that contains either a dedicated video chip set or an integrated graphics card with at least 512MB of memory. As new versions of laptops are introduced, the screens are larger and the resolution higher, making it easier to view movies or large spreadsheets. Screen sizes can range from 10.2 inches to 17 inches. A common screen on newer models is around 16 inches, even on the less expensive models. Battery life should be a factor if you will be using your laptop where there is no power source readily available. Extended-life batteries can be purchased that can last twice as long as regular ones.

Price Considerations

In the budget category the Acer Aspire 5738PG was rated among the best by "Computer Shopper," "Laptop Magazine" and PC Mag.com. With a price range of $749 to $799, it comes equipped with a touch-screen and an ATI Radeon Mobility graphics card suitable for 3-D game playing. The model designated "DG" does not have the touch screen. The Asus UL30A received great reviews from Notebook Review, Amazon.com, Gizmodo.com and ranked high in the ratings for inexpensive ($775) laptop units. "Laptop Magazine" gave this model its editor's choice award. Although reviewers found the graphics to be the least attractive feature, it received high ratings for performance and is suitable for everyday computing needs. Weighing in at under 4 pounds, this one-inch thick laptop boasts a battery life of nearly 10 hours and comes with a two-year warranty. At a price of around $1,200, the 13-inch MacBook Pro is very desirable. It has an Intel processor and can run Windows 7. "Laptop Magazine," PCMag.com and Computer Shopper all give this system their Editor's Choice awards. Although all of them were less than impressed with the minimal storage capacity of this model, they praise the display at being first-rate and good enough for casual gaming. The hard drive can be upgraded from 2 GB to 4 GB for $100. Dan Ackerman of CNet also gives the MacBook Pro its Editor's choice award and calls it "one of the most universally useful laptops available."

Source:

Laptop Comparisons: The Laptop Authority.com

How to Buy a Laptop: PC World.com

Cheap Laptop Reviews: Consumer Search.com

More Information:

Video/Graphics Cards: Tiger Direct.com