Laptop Buyers Guide

In this laptop buyers guide you will learn exactly what to look for in a laptop computer. The difference between a notebook vs laptop, and where to find cheap laptop computers.

Notebook vs Laptop

What's the difference? None! It's like calling a Tomato (Toe-May-Toe) a Tomato (Toe-Mah-Toe). Same thing different name. I've seen other laptop buyers guides with a lot of false information. They state that notebooks are the same as netbooks, which is absolutely not the truth. Regardless of what you've read in other laptop buyers guides, it's all the same thing!

Listen folks, a NOTEbook is a laptop, and a NETbook is a mini laptop computer. You can visit netbooks and mini laptop computers to get a guide on how to shop for them.


What to look for

There won't be any techie talk here. Just simple info. The main things you want to look for in a laptop or notebook is a fast processor, adequate RAM/Memory, and decent storage space. These are the main things.


Processor

The processor is how fast the laptop well... processes information! In simplest form, a single core is like having one brain, In this day and age, for most people, a dual-core processor will suffice. Only if you were a graphic designer running Windows would I recommend anything faster. Or some type of musical engineer; but if you're in a field where you need more, you'd know it.


RAM/Memory

Memory or RAM, is how well a system can handle multi-tasking. For example, often times I may have several programs up at one time, while using Firefox (a memory hogging beast!) and have like 7 or 8 windows open within Firefox. That requires a good amount of memory. You ever have a few windows and programs up and your computer slows down? You have too little memory.

Now for most people 2GB is actually enough. However, don't buy anything with 2GB LOL. You'll need at a minimum 3GB, just to stay relevant for the upcoming years. 4GB would be just perfect for anyone.


Storage Space

Also followed by a “GB” at the end of the number. This can sometimes throw people off. Storage is exactly what it sounds like, the amount of storage space you have for programs, software, pictures, videos, movies, music, etc. Most laptops now come with at least 320GB which is more than enough for again, most people. Unless you plan on having a large number of movies stored to your hard drive, you should never really fill up 320GB. Besides, you can grab a 500GB external hard drive for about $60. Something everyone needs to back up important files.


Other Features

Other things you might want to look for are chiclet keyboards, they're easier to type on. At least 3 USB ports. A HDMI port for easy HD connectivity to your TV. An SD card slot for pictures, and a DVD-burner. Also one thing I love and appreciate about my laptop is the "10-key" off to the side. 15.6" keyboards and up sometimes have the number pad to the right o the keyboard, making oh so convenient when typing numbers in Excel or using Calculator.


Size

If your laptop is going to be at home mostly, I'd go with a 15.6". You'll see better on the larger screen, and because this is now the standard size, these tend to be a bit cheaper.

If you're going to be out and about with it, I'd go for a 14", but remember, you pay for convenience! These tend to be about $100 more than their 15.6" counterparts.

If you're looking for the ultra light super portable laptop. Then you should check out a Mini Laptop Computer AKA Netbook



Laptop Brands

Now that you know HOW to shop for a laptop, and to make this laptop buyers guide more complete, I have reviewed each laptop brand. Pay specific attention to each brand's reliability and price points.

• Acer
• Alienware
• Apple
• Asus
• Dell
• Gateway
• HP
• Lenovo
• Samsung
• Sony
• Toshiba

From this laptop buyers guide and the recommendations mentioned above you should have yourself a great laptop that will last you some years. You can buy Epson Refillable Ink for your printer as well.