Laptop vs. Desktop: Killer Mobile System with Power & Speed
Dec 15 '00
Replacing a desktop computer with a laptop system immediately makes ones purchase more customized. As a laptop user you will be looking at mobility without sacrificing much of the hardware that would come with a desktop.
I recently gave this viewpoint much consideration when a couple asked me what laptop would be the best for them. They wanted computing flexibility to fit their diverse lifestyles, he is in sales and she is a writer with toddler in tow. She wants to use a laptop when she is about town, and also wanted something portable for around the house when she is with her child.
Adjectives used to describes laptop computers today are thin, light, mobile, loaded, portable. Weight is a big issue among mobile professionals. If you have ever traveled with a laptop you’ll quickly find out why. Your laptop should be no more than six or seven pounds, with consideration to any additional accessories you might be dragging along. A ten-pound laptop may have all the bells and whistles but it can be a bear. Not just to carry, but to lift from the floor and shuffle around your workspace. Anyone who has had the pleasure of using a Toshiba Tecra will know.
If you simply use Word documents, check e-mail and surf the Web, a mainstream notebook will do. Most people looking to replace the desktop system don’t want to sacrifice the “essential” robust qualities that they have become accustomed to: high-end processing unit, abundance of RAM, hard drive space and an assortment of necessary peripherals.
With price being no consideration, look for a computer with high-end components. Pentium III processor, 10 to 20GB hard drive, 64 to 128MB of RAM. This will be costly, but it is mainly a starting point to scale down from. The beauty of computing is the plethora of options. If you are running games or doing editing you will need more RAM. Consider online storage if you don’t think you need a large hard drive. Additionally, keep in mind that a larger screen will consume more battery power.
Your laptop should also have a modem and an Ethernet adaptor if you are bringing it to and from the office. Look for a laptop with flexibility where you have swappable drive bays for a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM or an extra battery. You want to keep your laptop light for travel or you can simply own these peripherals that stay at home and go on the move as the need arises. Other optional peripherals that you may consider having but leaving at home include a CD-RW or Zip drive. Your laptop should have 2 USB ports to accommodate any extra peripherals.
Hopefully these pointers will give you some guidance and flexibility when searching for a desktop replacement. Just as you should strive for high-end components, keep in mind that you don’t need everything. Dell has just released a great series of laptops in Inspiron, which I think is a great starting point for collecting your laptop ideas. Just remember you can’t have everything so budget accordingly.
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
© 1999-2008 Shopping.com, Inc.