Laptops Guide: Choosing a Laptop that is Right for
You
Most of us tend to think of laptops in the same way: a fairly small portable
computer that can open and close like a suitcase, with all of the capabilities
of a desktop. In fact, the term “laptop” is really very generic.
There are currently four main styles of these portable PCs, each offering
something a bit different, depending upon your specific needs.
Ultralights – Also known as sub-notebooks or ultraportables, this
style of laptop weighs up to – but no more than – four pounds,
making them ideal for travelers. The upside of an ultralight is that it doesn’t
burden those who have to spend a lot of time carrying them with aching muscles,
as its larger cousins often do. The downside, however, is that – in
order to cut down on the size and weight – this type of laptop is so
small that there’s no room for a network card or internal CD drive.
In order to reap the benefits of these types of “attachments,” you’d
have to bring an external CD drive and port replicator. Another negative
in the scenario is that ultralights tend to be on the expensive end of the
laptop spectrum.
Notebooks – This is basically just a regular laptop, but is slightly
less heavy, weighing in at four to six pounds. While it’s heavier than
the smaller ultralight, it also offers more options with less fuss. Offering
the flexibility of a combo bay, notebooks are designed with a large opening
on the side which allows the user to plug a CD drive, floppy disk or extra
battery – allowing you to access the features that you need without
the burden of making room for those that aren’t needed.
Standards – Commonly referred to as “regular laptops,” these
weigh between six and eight pounds and offer a full range of benefits. This
technological pack-mule is the best buy – dollar for dollar – when
you consider the cost/performance ratio. Due to their popularity, combined
with their design and usability, it’s not uncommon to find discounts
on these from major manufacturers. Other types of laptops, which fall into
more specialized categories, tend to be in the higher price ranges. The bottom
line is, of the four main types of laptops, the standard is the most economical
for the most reasonable amount of money.
Extra Large – Although this type of laptop doesn’t yet have
a technical name, it’s best to simply refer to it as “extra large,” since
they weigh between eight and ten pounds and have a screen that measures at
least 17 inches. In addition, the keyboard is much larger than a standard
laptop, making it a more comfortable fit for those who find the keyboard
of the standard laptop rather inhibitive. There are a couple of downfalls
to owning this type of unit, not the least of which includes its weight.
There can be a four pound difference between the weight of a standard and
an extra large laptop – and that’s quite a bit, when you think
about lugging it around all day. The other negative factor is the cost of
this type of laptop. It offers a price tag that’s every bit as hefty
as its weight and size.
The purchase of a laptop comes down to personal preference, and there are
enough styles in the laptop community to please just about everyone. For
those who can’t decide and just want “a laptop,” then it’s
probably better to stick to the standard model.
About The Author
Jonathan Chase runs an computer repair business and is a contributing writer
to All Cheap Laptops. Learn more about laptops at http://www.all-cheap-laptops.com/How-Laptops-Work.htm
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