Five Things to Consider When Buying A Laptop-6
TECH SPECS AND OTHER FEATURES
This is the really techy stuff. AMD or Intel processors? What speed? How much RAM (random access memory)? The most important thing to look for is RAM, which is what will help your computer work faster. Accept no less than 1-gigabyte, but if you've got the cash, spring for 2-gigabytes, just to be safe, especially if you intend to run the resource-hungry Vista. The exception to the rule is Mac, for which we'd recommend getting 2-gigabytes from the get-go. Why? Because upgrading RAM on a Mac is either really complicated or really expensive. If you're determined to save some money on RAM for your Mac, then buy the standard 1-gigabyte and get your technologically inclined nephew to upgrade it for you after the fact. (Hint: Shopping at Newegg.com could save you up to $100 over the Apple memory upgrade.)
When choosing a processor, the decision between AMD and Intel is pretty simple: Unless you plan on only e-mailing or word processing, or if price is a concern, you should go with an Intel processor -- they just tend to be faster and more efficient, which means fewer mysterious freeze-ups during computing and longer battery life. Any Core 2 Duo (logo above) will do -- and aim for the 2-gigahertz and higher models if you plan to do any gaming. If the laptop you like only offers AMD processors, then go with AMD's top-of-the-line Turion 64 X2 mobile processor (logo above).
Intel's standard Pentium line (not Pentium M or Pentium 4, just plain Pentium) is fine for those with only basic computing needs and tight budgets, but avoid anything that has the word Sempron in it. Sempron is the bottom of the barrel, bargain processors from AMD, and it's only single-core, under-powered, and outdated by the time you get it home. We'd also recommend holding-off on Celeron processors until the end of 2008, when the more affordable processor brand from Intel will get a dual-core upgrade. While both Sempron and Celeron processors may do the job for a brief period of time, you'll be wishing you dropped the extra $50 on a processor upgrade when it takes a full three minutes to launch the next version of Internet Explorer or Firefox.
If you really want to future proof your purchase, look for the latest processors from Intel, which are built on the chipmaker's new 45nm process. The technology leads to faster and cooler processors that wont burn your lap under heavy use, and will survive a little longer on a charge. The latest from Intel are still called Core 2, but can be distinguished by their processor numbers that start with "8" or "9" (i.e. T9500 or T8300). The current versions available now are aimed at more demanding users such as gamers and media enthusiasts, but the technology will trickle down to the lower end of the company's processor line in the next couple of years.
When it comes to optical drives, a DVD +/- writer is the standard, and is good enough in most instances since it'll handle the most common disc formats. If you plan to watch HD movies, look for a Blu-ray drive -- it's pricey and only worth it if you're an early-adopter, high-def movie buff (don't pay for a competing HD-DVD drive, since that format is all but dead). Be warned, though, that many ultra-portables, such as the MacBook Air and the Lenovo X61 shed an optical drive to save size and weight, which means an external drive will be needed to watch DVDs, rip and burn CDs, or, in most cases, install software from a CD or DVD.
The last thing to look at is a graphics card. Many laptops use "integrated" graphics, which means they're built into the system and borrow RAM to operate. These graphics chips are good enough for most everyday tasks, but if you plan to do any gaming beyond playing 'Minesweeper' and/or run Vista, then look for a "discrete" graphics solution from either ATI or Nvidia that has its own memory. Look for either an ATI HD 2xxx or an Nvidia GeForce 7xxx or 6xxx series with at least 128-megabytes of memory for Vista, or if you're planning on using your laptop for HD video playback. If you plan on doing any serious gaming or video editing, then spring for the top of the line GeForce 8800 or ATI's HD 3600 series with 512-megabytes of dedicated memory.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
jeff @ Feb 5th 2008 3:14PM
I was wondering if anyone knew of any articles in reguards to HTPC's. I am wanting to either buy or build a relatively inexpensive unit but need some advise and/or opinons as to what to do...Thanks
izzyamar @ Feb 5th 2008 3:19PM
Another instance of "experts" getting it wrong. AMD processors, when compared with their Intel counterparts, are every bit as powerful, and usually less expensive. All of the CGI in Star Wars Revenge of the Sith was done on AMD processors - how's that for an underpowered, economy chip? AMD was the first of the two companies to release a 64-bit processor, and Intel had to play catch up. Intel's not the only game in town. I'd buy a Sempron before the Celeron. All a Celeron is, is a chip that failed Intel testing - even making it dual core won't make it any better. You can't game on it, no higher end graphics...yes, a Sempron is low end, but that's what it was designed for.
These people are nitwits!
Paul Steele @ Feb 5th 2008 3:19PM
Does anyone know the difference between a laptop and a notebook? Is it size difference only? There seems to be a big difference in price. Thank you in advance.
Michael @ Apr 15th 2008 6:51PM
There's no difference between a "notebook" and a "laptop".
It used to be that you either purchased a "desktop" or a "laptop"
But in the past few years as notebooks got to be more powerful and thus put out more heat, manufacturers steered away from the "laptop" name so people wouldn't be encouraged to use them on their laps. (I imagine men's sperm around the world rejoiced.)
Seriously though, using a notebook on a desk or other hard surface is the best plan. All those little holes on the bottom and sides of a notebook are there for a reason- either to suck in air or blow hot air out. Using a notebook on a soft surface such as your lap or (even worse) a bed can cause it to perform less than optimally.
Michael @ Feb 5th 2008 3:29PM
Has the person that wrote this article ever tried to swap out the hard drive or install memory on a mac after the g4 processor? On an intel mac all you do is pop out the battery, pull a tab and presto!! there's the memory AND the hard drive. While this would have been useful info about 4 yrs ago, today it's just not the case. Please when writing tech articles try and get some current facts.
Moe! @ Feb 5th 2008 3:47PM
I've purchased 3 desktops and 2 laptops from Dell over the last few years, all were INTERNET purchases from the Dell wed site. Opinions may vary but for the life of me I can't understand why someone would go any other way. Perfection delivered to your front door within a weeks time.. No, I don't work for Dell. LOL
Sasquatch @ Feb 5th 2008 5:19PM
Sorry to disappoint you izzyamar, but the expert got it 100% right. The Core 2 Duo is by far the best processor out there right now. Dont even compare yesterday's technology with today's, sure AMD's line was better when Revenge of the Sith was made (over 3 years ago), but right now AMD's processors cant even stand up next to Intel's offering. Maybe check some benchmark tests, and get your facts right before you respond. Oh and Sempron and Celeron are both junk, don't buy them.
simonsiphone @ Feb 5th 2008 5:42PM
Jeff, building a computer is the best way to go. Computer parts these days are getting morer and more inexpensive to make,unlike what dell's prices are tellign you. Most gamers who need very high quality graphics cards, and CPUs(processor, pentium 4, dual-core etc.) as well as rather nice LCD monitors can build a completely custom rig for 1200 where dell would seel them the same setup for $3000. This is not and advertisement of any kind but if you go to cyberpowerpc.com they will start you off with a base computer and you can customize it to your liking. and if you pick incompatible parts they will let you know. I am not affiliated with Cyber Power in any way. if you haev any other questions hit me with an e-mail at simonsiphone@aol.com (fastest response)
bob @ Feb 5th 2008 7:22PM
No one mentioned centrino, is it any good or what?
computerbunny @ Feb 5th 2008 9:04PM
There should be a sixth thing to consider and that is customer service and being user friendly on repair and replacement of parts (ie) hard drives, cmos batteries and other computer components. Some companies have there laptops arranged so something simple like changing hard drives or removing the cmos will have you taking it to an authorized dealer for something you should be able to do yourself for less cost The Toshiba Satellite comes to mind.
Mel @ Feb 5th 2008 9:32PM
You forgot one of the most important parts of the puzzle, a docking station. That is what everybody needs when they replace a desk top with a laptop. Portability with desk top convenience.
nunya @ Feb 5th 2008 9:46PM
I agree, computerbunny. What I really wish these companies would do is hire more people who speak/understand English. Part of customer service issues I've had is having questions/problems and not being able to get help because the person working for Dell, for example, acts like they don't know a bit of English.
nunya @ Feb 5th 2008 9:46PM
And Dell computers work way better than their lap tops, in my experience.
Danny @ Feb 6th 2008 7:19AM
"Most gamers who need very high quality graphics cards, and CPUs(processor, pentium 4, dual-core etc.) as well as rather nice LCD monitors can build a completely custom rig for 1200"
I don't know where you live, but last I checked this article is about laptops which can't be custom built to any large degree.
I am a system builder and gamer, 1200.00? That won't even get you the tower. I could easily spend 10K on the tower alone. Just think dual video with 600 dollar cards and you have 1200.00 without anything else! Where do they get these guys?
gracie @ Feb 7th 2008 12:37PM
What's the best laptop to connect my gps garmin4250 for travel?
LA @ Feb 9th 2008 8:57PM
I have a DELL Desk Top and am very happy with the DELL but ONLY when it comes to Desk Tops. In addition, if you are purchasing a computer for a child or first time users, the DELL is a great "introduction" computer for novices.
As for my Laptop.....I went with Hewlett Packard and found this to be the best one in reliability thus far. Perhaps this will help others looking at which brand to go with.
TSFC @ Feb 20th 2008 7:13AM
A lot of these articles are biased. Only 100% proven facts will tell the truth here. While it is true that some Intel chips are more powerful than the AMD competition, it's not the case with every processor. There were plenty of desktops powered by AMD chips that slapped the crap out of Intel's offerings. Basically, you just have to go with the laptop that feels just right for you. I went with the Toshiba Satellite A215-S5808 and I love it to pieces. I don't like the battery life (but it's common problem with all Toshibas) but other than that, it's been 110% reliable. Vista on the other hand...yikes. Get rid of Vista as soon as possible. It's like Millennium Edition...but without the support that M.E. has for programs and peripherals.
BobSalawalatski @ Mar 17th 2008 6:57PM
Benchmark tests do indicate that Intel chips make more decisions per second, but that's all.
A somewhat computer-savvy person will look at benchmark tests and believe that Intel is the better brand, but a person who can look at a motherboard and tell you what every individual label means will immedately spot the AMD's superiority.
Why?
AMD lacks a bridge between the chip that handles the data going into the main processor, whereas Intel processors do have them. This part in AMD processors is integrated. The bridge in Intel chips causes a delay in a part of the system outside of what a benchmark test can detect.
So although AMD chips alone are weaker, you could say they are on a better diet than Intel chips, so they are healthier and can run faster when actually put to use in the real world.
Alan Robinski @ Mar 18th 2008 7:34PM
centrino is a combination (chipset) of core 2 duo and an intel wireless controller. (someone asked)
gp Salvo @ Mar 25th 2008 5:14PM
I have a DELL with the AMD Turion 64 running VISTA and there are NO freeze-ups, or slow responses. Your reporting is incorrect.
gp salvo