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Laptop Buying Guide

Buying a laptop is a big purchase. After all, you will have to spend several thousands of Rands if you are hoping to buy a new unit. While this may scare you, there is actually no reason to be worried. The fact of the matter is that you can find the perfect laptop in no time at all if you know what you are looking for, how much you can spend and have a bit of information regarding the available options. It is very important to have a good idea of what you want because there are so many different types of laptops on the market today.

The User

When buying a laptop, the first thing that you have to consider is what type of user you are. In other words, how and for what are you going to be using your laptop on a regular basis? Generally speaking, there are three types of people who buy laptop computers. You need to categorize yourself, making the  search for the perfect laptop that best suits your situation.

Home User

There used to be a time when home users shunned away from buying laptops. Instead, they opted for desktops that were stationed in one fixed location. While there is nothing wrong with this, the trend has moved more towards laptops as the years have gone by. If you are merely a home user, any type of laptop should be good for you. A basic setup is all that you need in order to be able to send emails, surf the net, and maybe type some quick notes. The one main feature that you will want to look for is wireless networking. This way, you can take your laptop anywhere in your home but still have access to the internet.

Businessmen

If you are going to be using your laptop primarily for business, there are some features that you will need to have. Not only do you want a well balanced laptop that offers a lot, but a lightweight unit will also help.
One of the main features to consider is the size of the screen. If you are going to be using your laptop frequently on the road, a larger screen is something that you will want. This way, you can see what you are doing in a hotel or even sitting on a plane.
Additionally, just like a home user wireless networking should be high on the list of essential features. This makes it easier for you to use your computer while sitting in airports, or staying in a business class hotel.
Also, do not forget about the proper level of business software, a decent sized hard drive, and a CD/DVD drive.

Students<

The final group that is always in the market for laptops is students. In most cases, these are high school students who are looking for a computer suitable for college. The main difference between a student buyer and the groups listed above is that they are more than likely going to buy with price in mind. Luckily, the price of a laptop is lower today than ever before.
There are several key features for students to consider. First off, wireless networking is vital. This allows students to stay connected no matter where they may be on campus.
Additionally, a large hard drive is a must for any college student. After all, students are downloading songs and videos from the internet at a record pace.
Finally, the proper software applications are a must. Generally speaking, Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition should get the job done. Make sure to check out all your options in this area.

Features

There are three main features that you need to consider when buying a laptop. They include the processor, screen size, and memory. Although these details may seem a bit too technical for you, they are not as hard to understand as most buyers think.

Processor

The processor is more or less the brain of your computer. This is what controls what you do as well as what you are capable of doing. Since every laptop manufacturer has a different view on processors, you will want to shop around to make sure that you are getting what is best for you. As you can imagine, the type of processor that is used in a laptop will figure greatly into how much it costs.

Screen Size

There used to be a time when laptop screens were small; but not anymore. The fact of the matter is that manufacturers are doing whatever they can to allow laptops to compete directly with desktops. For this reason, you will find screen sizes that range anywhere from about 10.5 inches all the way up to 20 inches! Although you may not need the largest available screen size, you should consider all of your options before a purchase.

Memory

Memory is an extremely important feature when it comes to laptops and computers in general. The amount of memory influences the speed and efficiency that the laptop runs at. Regardless of what kind of user you are, a minimum of 1GB memory is recommended. For serious gaming and graphics performance you should look more towards 2 – 4 GB’s of ram to ensure optimum smooth graphics and gameplay.

Buying Tips

Before you buy a laptop you need to make sure that you know that this is what you want. There may be more popular than desktops at this time, but that does not mean that it is the right choice for you.
Here are three buying tips that will help you to end up with the best laptop for your needs.
1. Check out several different makes and models before you make a decision. Remember, there are many manufacturers who claim to have the best laptops. You need to check out at least three of them so that you have an idea of what is available.

2. Although cost is something to consider, when buying a laptop you cannot let this be the only determining factor. Your goal should be to find the laptop that offers the most features, as well as the ones that you need, which will suit your price point.

3. Determine what you will be using your laptop for, and then only shop for units that suit these needs. If you do not buy a laptop with the features that you really want, you will end up regretting your decision in the end.

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