How to Buy a Laptop

Tips for buying a laptop

1. Laptops offer their owners an incredible amount of freedom due to the fact that they can go anywhere. If you're someone who gets restless sitting at home on your PC, a laptop will allow you to go to a coffeehouse, a restaurant, a bar-just about anywhere-and do things you normally would have had to do while parked in front of a monitor. But do be aware of some of the major drawbacks of owning a laptop. Perhaps the biggest drawback is the fact that laptops are very difficult to upgrade. RAM or a hard drive installs are best done by the manufacturer. Also be aware that laptops lag behind PCs in technology because it takes additional time to slim down and shrink innovations for laptops installation.
2. If you decide a laptop is right for you, then it's time to start researching those experts say are the best in the countless computer magazines on the market today.
3. Figure out much RAM you're going to need, as well as what size screen you'd like. Usually the smaller the screen, the less you'll have to pay. Other things you'll need to be aware of is hard disk size and core configuration.
4. Think about how heavy you want your laptop to be and fatigue factors. If your shoulder gets fatigued after having a bag strapped onto it for a long period of time, you're going to want to purchase the lightest laptop available.
5. Sit down in front of the laptop you are thinking about purchasing and test it out. Do you feel comfortable using it?
6. Know what kind of software you want pre-installed and check to see if software is included with purchase.
7. Make sure your laptop comes with a lithium-ion battery.
8. Make sure the laptop you're going to purchase comes with a good warranty!
9. Scan Sunday newspaper advertisements for great deals being offered on laptops at electronics stores near you. Also look online for sales and deals being offered at online computer stores.
10. Always talk with a professional at the store where you’re considering making a purchase, about laptop specifics, pros and cons, etc. Also talk with friends and co-workers and ask for advice or recommendations. If you work in an office, talk to your IT guy.

How to buy a great laptop for under $500

First of all, look at the online reviews in your price range. This can be done by typing a simple search term, such as "laptop" or "notebook computer" into your search engine and clicking on some of the links that come up. Chances are, you will soon find yourself at a site that offers laptop comparisons. Look at the laptops that are available in this price range and make a note of their features. Take advantage of any comparison features that offered by the site, and see if any of these laptops are sold in stores in your town. If the laptop is also sold in a store in your area, you may also find that you are eligible for in-store rebates and other promotions. Who knows? You may end up paying less than you bargained for and no shipping!

Additional resources

Should I Buy a Laptop or a PC?

InfoHQ.comLaptop Buying Guide

Yahoo Shopping: How to Buy a Notebook PC