If you want to buy a laptop, consider the following:
Windows vs. Macintosh. Many people choose laptops using the Windows operating system because it's what they've always used, but Apple's Mac OS is a fine alternative. In recent subscriber surveys, CONSUMER REPORTS found Apple's technical support to be top-notch. According to another survey, we also found that Apple computers were less susceptible to most viruses and spyware than Windows-based computers. Among Windows laptops, Lenovo's tech support is above average. Dell's support is improving.
Buy à la carte. Dell and Gateway pioneered the notion that every computer can be tailored to an individual's needs. Configure-to-order is now common practice for laptops as well as desktops.
Menus show you all the options and let you see how a change affects the overall price. You might decide on a less-expensive processor, for example, but spend more for wireless capability or better graphics. Configure-to-order will often give you choices you won't get if you buy an off-the-shelf model. And it means less chance of overlooking important details. But be sure to double-check your choices before ordering, and look for unwanted items that some manufacturers include by default.
You can also purchase a computer off the shelf. (You can do the same online if you opt for the default choices of equipment the manufacturer offers.) Most retail configurations are quite robust, except for graphics.
Downplay the processor speed. Current processors deliver all the speed most people need. Spend your money on more memory.
Ergonomics can make or break a laptop. Look for a slightly tilted keyboard with keys that don't feel mushy. Touchpads should be large enough so your finger can cover the span of the screen without repeatedly lifting it, and touchpad buttons should be easy to find and press. The touchpad should also have a dedicated scroll area.
The laptop shouldn't get hot during use (89 to 100 degrees is a good range), and it should run quietly. Ideally, devices such as optical drives should be in front for easy access. Glossy screens are now standard on most laptops. Several have added antireflective coatings, with mixed results.
Windows vs. Macintosh. Many people choose laptops using the Windows operating system because it's what they've always used, but Apple's Mac OS is a fine alternative. In recent subscriber surveys, CONSUMER REPORTS found Apple's technical support to be top-notch. According to another survey, we also found that Apple computers were less susceptible to most viruses and spyware than Windows-based computers. Among Windows laptops, Lenovo's tech support is above average. Dell's support is improving.
Buy à la carte. Dell and Gateway pioneered the notion that every computer can be tailored to an individual's needs. Configure-to-order is now common practice for laptops as well as desktops.
Menus show you all the options and let you see how a change affects the overall price. You might decide on a less-expensive processor, for example, but spend more for wireless capability or better graphics. Configure-to-order will often give you choices you won't get if you buy an off-the-shelf model. And it means less chance of overlooking important details. But be sure to double-check your choices before ordering, and look for unwanted items that some manufacturers include by default.
You can also purchase a computer off the shelf. (You can do the same online if you opt for the default choices of equipment the manufacturer offers.) Most retail configurations are quite robust, except for graphics.
Downplay the processor speed. Current processors deliver all the speed most people need. Spend your money on more memory.
Ergonomics can make or break a laptop. Look for a slightly tilted keyboard with keys that don't feel mushy. Touchpads should be large enough so your finger can cover the span of the screen without repeatedly lifting it, and touchpad buttons should be easy to find and press. The touchpad should also have a dedicated scroll area.
The laptop shouldn't get hot during use (89 to 100 degrees is a good range), and it should run quietly. Ideally, devices such as optical drives should be in front for easy access. Glossy screens are now standard on most laptops. Several have added antireflective coatings, with mixed results.
No comments:
Post a Comment