Choosing the Right Laptop for Your Needs

When considering a laptop purchase, it's essential to think about your usage requirements and weigh the benefits of various features. If you intend to use the laptop as your sole computer, opt for a high-end model with a large hard disk, good color screen, and multimedia capabilities. However, these models can be heavy, and the compromise may not be worth it for frequent travelers.

Key Takeaways:

• A medium-range laptop with docking capabilities can be a good compromise between power and portability.
• Look for laptops with at least 250MB hard drive and 8MB of RAM for smooth performance.
• Consider purchasing a spare battery, especially if you plan to travel extensively.
• Negotiate for additional features and options at purchase time, as some manufacturers charge exorbitant amounts for extras.
• Evaluate the battery life, especially with Nickel Metal-Hydride or Lithium Ion batteries, which can offer extended usage.
• Think about the type of user interface you prefer, such as Windows or OS/2, and choose a laptop with a big, bright color screen accordingly.
• Consider the importance of PCMCIA slots for connecting peripheral devices.
• Assess your need for specific features like the TrackPoint pressure-sensitive "pencil" or built-in speakers.

Statistics:

• Minimum recommended hard drive size: 250MB
• Minimum recommended RAM: 8MB
• Number of PCMCIA slots to consider: at least one, ideally more
• Battery life: look for Nickel Metal-Hydride or Lithium Ion batteries with extended life expectancy
• Spare battery: ideally, have one or more spare batteries available, especially for frequent travelers
• Number of PCMCIA modems to consider: at least one

Sources:

• Charles Wright, ALTHOUGH there are many powerful arguments for choosing a cheaper "clone" rather than a brand-name desktop PC, you will get much more security and more powerful features if you buy a laptop from one of the major vendors.