Laptop Advice For Those New To Them
The prospect of having to buy a new laptop may seem frightening to you, particularly if you are somewhat new to the computer marketplace. The volume of available information on the topic really can seem overwhelming. However, the article that follows is intended to give you just the right guidance to help you find what you need.
If you are looking for a very light weight laptop, consider a Netbook. Netbooks are light weight, very portable and usually less expensive than traditional laptops. The downside of Netbooks is that they are not as high functioning as traditional laptops. Still, if you are looking for a simplistic laptop with a budget friendly price, this is the way to go.
When looking at laptops, really consider battery power. Since this is an on-the-go machine, the amount of battery you have is very important. A laptop that only gets two to three hours of battery life may be of no real use to you if you're constantly on the road. Weigh power against battery life very carefully.
When you buy a laptop, consider getting a protective carrying case to go with it. While most laptops are fairly durable, they are susceptible to damage, wear and tear, and the weather. A good case can shield it from unnecessary damage, help it to last much longer, and keep it running properly to boot.
Look for a display that will suit your needs. If you intend to watch movies on the laptop, you will want a larger, quality screen. Those with more mundane needs, like web surfing and email, are not going to require expansive screens. The screen size will impact the weight and size of the laptop, so be realistic in your needs.
If you are purchasing a used laptop from a private seller, you should inspect it thoroughly before going through with the deal. Inspect the outside first and make sure it is not damaged. Turn the computer on and make sure it connects to the Internet. You have no guarantees with a private sale, so make sure everything looks good first.
The first step in buying a laptop is always to set up a budget. You need to know exactly how much money you can spend without causing yourself to be unable to pay bills next month. If you set an exact limit, you'll be sure not to have financial issues down the road.
To keep your hands and fingers from cramping up while you are typing on a laptop, use a wireless keyboard that is the same size as a desktop. That way you have the comfort of a full size set of keys without having to cart around a desktop computer with you.
After you choose a model to buy, check out reviews online. This can be an easy way to avoid buying a computer which is reported to blow a power supply or have the screen conk out after a year or two. Check multiple sources to ensure you see a broad spectrum of opinions.
To avoid sales people who desperately want to make a commission, do your purchasing online. This not only opens you up to a much larger selection, but the prices will often be lower as well. On top of that, shipping is often free, meaning you'll get your laptop quickly and easily.
Choose a reputable brand when buying your new laptop. Your computer is only as strong as the brand name behind it, and you might find this out if you have to contact customer service for any reason. You want a company that honors the warranty it offers and assists you with updates or other needs too.
Before you buy from anyone, ask about any warranties, guarantees or return policies. If you end up with a computer which doesn't work, you could have nothing more than a doorstop if the seller won't take it back or fix it! Ask first, buy second to protect yourself down the road.
Do you have wifi at home? If not, remember that your laptop will need an Ethernet port to connect to your modem or router. If you can't find a laptop you like which doesn't rely on wifi, instead purchase a new wifi router and use that to set up your home for wireless connections.
Consider how large of a screen you need before you buy. If your plan is only to watch movies, you still want to think about what size will best suit your needs. Having to stare at an 11-inch screen for 2 hours might cause undue eye strain and headaches.
Computer technology is changing constantly so find out what can be upgraded before you choose a laptop. You need to know if you can upgrade the CPU, hard drive and RAM. Some laptop computers have ports that allow you to save data on external storage devices. Find out if you can do these upgrades yourself or if you will need to go to a service center to have a technician do the installation.
If you tend to be a bit of a klutz with your tech, you may want to consider a ruggedized laptop. These computers have been built to withstand normal drops and spills so you can keep on working through your klutziest of moments. You do need to pay a bit more for these laptops, but it can be worth it!
Set a budget, and stick to it. It is easy to get carried away when presented with an array of shiny new laptops. Add in extras and accessories, and your budget can go flying out the window if you aren't careful. Be aware of how much you can afford and don't go over your set amount.
If you are nervous about the possibility of shopping for a laptop, take heart. Now that you have read this piece, you have what it takes to make the very best decision possible. Go forth and start enjoying the convenience and extreme versatility that laptop computers are known for providing.
