When buying a laptop, you need to think about factors beyond performance and weight. There are numerous additional things like screen measurements, battery life, and keyboard and connection options which you have to consider.

Let’s look at a few of the aspects one must think about when buying a laptop.

1. Processor

One of the first things you require to consider in a laptop is the CPU. The current laptop CPUs include Intel’s Core Duo and Core 2 Duo processors which exceed older single-core Intel processors (e.g. Pentium M). Other laptop computers utilize the AMD Athlon Turion 64 X2 dual-core processor – which is also a great performer. In general, nevertheless, if you’re trying to find a laptop, I ‘d recommend you to try to find one with an Intel Core Duo processor. You can likewise read this guide to learn more.

2. System memory

The quantity of RAM in the laptop is extremely important. If you’re not short of cash, my advice is to get at least 1GB of RAM – that is the minimum you need to get newer PC applications to run quickly. Likewise keep in mind that you can always include more memory to your existing laptop. You might be interested in this short guide on how to set up new memory modules into a laptop.

3. Graphics memory

Laptop graphics are another function you will wish to consider. Normally, I ‘d say you must choose 128MB of dedicated video RAM. Also, ensure that the graphics memory is utilized solely for graphics use and not shared with the main memory. If you mean to play video games on the laptop, then look for innovative 3D graphics chips with about 256MB to 512MB of dedicated graphics memory. Be prepared to hand over a lot more cash though.

4. Screen

You will likewise want to take a look at the laptop screen. Laptop screens have actually just recently ended up being bigger. The majority of them have gone widescreen so you can watch films or edit spreadsheets more easily.

If you plan to utilize the laptop from home a lot, then I ‘d choose a 17-inch large screen. If you are more concerned about portability or if you take a trip a lot, then laptops with screen sizes of 12.1 or 13.3 inches might suit you much better. There are likewise 14.1- or 15-inch screens for laptop computers, but I believe manufacturers are moving away from these models.

5. Battery

Here’s another vital factor – laptop battery life. I personally find it extremely discouraging to have my notebook power go out after 15 minutes at Starbucks. What you need to do is to purchase a laptop that has about 3.5 hours of battery life, operating on a Core Duo or Core 2 Duo processor. Make sure you question the retailer on the length of time the battery can last – a brief battery life is generally a deal breaker for me.

6. Keyboard and Pointing Device

Some individuals believe that the keyboard and pointing gadget on a laptop is necessary. If you have huge fingers, you might be more comfortable typing on a bigger note pad keyboard than a little one. Ensure you attempt the laptop out – get the feel of typing and navigation before you buy the laptop.

7. Optical drives

I ‘d normally recommend getting a laptop with a rewritable DVD drive as a minimum. One thing you require to understand is that some laptops sacrifice a DVD drive in exchange for a lighter weight and mobility. If you don’t believe you require a DVD drive all the time, then you might wish to get a model that does not have one.

8. Hard disk

In the laptop hard disk department, what can I state? More is better. These days, you can get a notebook hard disks being available in sizes of 160GB or more. You can likewise get SATA hard drives if you have more money.

9. Weight

Another thing to note is the weight of the laptop. Now, when you buy a laptop, always remember that the total weight consists of the notebook AND the Air Conditioning adapter, any external modules, and their cable televisions. These can add up to quite a bit of weight.

10. Communications

Nowadays, you will find that many laptops include a minimum of two USB 2.0 ports – I ‘d advise that as a minimum. If you do a lot of video modifying, then a FireWire (IEEE 1394) port also becomes important.

You should also check for great network capabilities. Make sure your new laptop has integrated ethernet ability, a built-in wireless connection and likewise built-in Bluetooth (if you require to transfer information in between your cellphone and the laptop).

A few of the laptops likewise consist of card slots for removable media such as CompactFlash, Secure Digital and MultiMediaCard. If you take a lot of digital photos, then this feature might matter to you.

11. Laptop Shopping Tips

Whew! That sure is a long list of features to think about when looking for Laptops for Sale South Africa. In addition to comprehending the features, there are 3 essential laptop shopping tips you need to bear in mind.

Suggestion # 1: How will you utilize the laptop? Among the issues when you purchase a laptop is that you pay for features you do not actually require. Among the very best methods to prevent paying excessive is to consider how you will utilize the laptop. If it is primarily for word processing, then settle for a less expensive machine. If it is for video gaming, then you need a more effective one.

Pointer # 2: Think of features you will not jeopardize You should likewise know that there are some fundamental functions in a laptop you should NOT compromise. For example, for me, if I were buying a laptop, I ‘d select (as a minimum) – an Intel Core Duo or Core 2 Duo processor, 2GB of RAM, 160GB of disk drive, a very small screen size and a very long-term battery. Your list of vital function might vary.

Pointer # 3: Remember you can decide on Most suppliers will let you custom-build your own laptop. This is a good idea, because you can simply choose those functions you require and not pay any extra. You can easily buy a faster notebook by accepting a smaller disk drive or DVD drive, for instance.

Conclusion

I hope this post has revealed you that ins and outs of buying a laptop. Keep in mind, a laptop is a pricey device. It will likewise be something you bring along anywhere you go. For this reason, it is critical that you do correct research study and find the proper laptop to suit your needs. Remember the above suggestions the next time you’re in the market for a laptop, and pleased shopping!