Articles | Important Features to Look Out for When Buying Notebook Computers

Notebook computers have become an essential tool for many users, allowing them to work from virtually anywhere. However, it can be challenging to buy the best notebook for your particular needs considering that there are so many models available on the market. Here is a breakdown of the various notebook features so that you ll know how to choose the best one for you.

Processor. Also known as the Central Processing Unit (CPU), the processor is essentially the brain of your computer, controlling all of its functions. A notebook processor is typically less powerful than that of a desktop computer, although recent high-end models have improved performance considerably. In general, if you are planning to use your notebook for basic tasks such as word processing you can get notebooks that have single core processors; however, if you need greater computing power, buy a notebook with a dual core processor.

RAM. Read-only memory refers to the temporary storage used by notebook computers when running programs and files before it has to load data from the hard drive. In general, the more RAM the more efficiently your notebook will run. At a minimum you should have at least 2GB of RAM for general use and 4GB for memory-intensive functions. And if you need the notebook to run faster, you should get DDR3 memory.

Hard Disc Drive. The HDD is where your programs and files are permanently stored. As with RAM it is always good to get a higher amount of memory than you need. For most general uses an HDD of 160GB to 250GB is sufficient; however, if you will play games or work with HD video you will need at least 500GB or more and use an HDD with a faster rotational speed of 7,200 rpm.

Connectivity options. Nearly all notebook computers contain an Ethernet connection as well as wireless connection for Wi-Fi mobile broadband. However, if you are planning to use the notebook in an area where there are no Wi-Fi hot spots, you should get a model with a built-in WWAN or 3G broadband antenna that will allow you to access a cellular data network although you will also have to sign up for a data plan and speeds are still slower than most high-speed Internet connections.

Optical drives. These CD/DVD-burning drives are useful if you need to back up data or burn music onto a CD or install software onto your hard drive; otherwise, using a USB drive to back up or transfer data to and from your computer should be enough. However, if you plan to watch movies on your notebook you should get one with a Blu-Ray drive that can play Blu-Ray discs.

Display. Traditionally, notebook screen sizes have been around 15-inches. However, for students who value portability, a notebook with a 13-inch size will be ideal. On the other hand, gamers and professional photographers and videographers will want 17-inch displays. Resolution is also an important consideration. The standard resolution is 1024x768 but those who watch movies or play games on their notebook computers will want models with higher native resolutions as well as larger screens.