Notebooks

Notebooks (also known as laptops) are one of the most popular choices for personal computing. Notebooks pack all or most of the capabilities of a desktop computer into a compact size that is ideal for portability. Some factors to consider when purchasing a new notebook are listed below:

Size:
Notebooks come in a small range of screen sizes. The smallest have screen sizes are around 12" and are light weight and excellent for traveling. However, smaller notebooks may not perform as well as larger computers and lack screen size. The mid to larger sized notebooks are 15" to 17" and over. While the larger screen adds considerably to their weight, you get the benefits of more memory and faster processor speeds. Another type of notebook to consider is referred to as a "desktop replacement". These machines have the fastest processors and are built for heavy duty applications such as gaming.

Battery Life:
Another important factor to consider is battery life if you are planning on using your machine on the go or anywhere you do not have access to a power source for extended periods of time. Generally, you should look for a battery life of over 4 hours.

Operating System:
The two main operating systems available are Mac OSX and Windows. Mac computers have become more popular in recent years due to their sleek design and superior security from unwanted infections. They also offer their own suit of software including Garage Band, iLife, and iTunes which come included with every Mac purchased. However, Mac computers are generally more expensive with a price of $1,000 and over. Windows machines are still one of the most popular and readily available operating systems and are perfect for gaming. Most people are already familiar with the Windows user interface and may feel more comfortable choosing a Windows computer. However, Windows machines are notorious for security issues. If you are on a limited budget a low end Windows machine will cost you under $500.

Processors and Memory:
One of the most important things to look for is how much RAM (Random Access Memory) a notebook has. Ram is important because it effects how fast your computer will work. As a general rule you should accept no less then 4GB. (gigabyte) When choosing a processor you will need to decide between AMD and Intel. Intel processors tend to be faster and more efficient while AMD is less expensive.