Laptop vs. Desktop Computer II

Starting this week and for the next month, millions of students will be returning to school. Some of these students go to college, some to high school and some are adults going back to school part-time or nights. All these students can benefit from a computer.

For the mobile lifestyle of students, I recommend getting a laptop. Laptops can not only be toted to class, the library or your home, more and more they can be connected to the Internet wirelessly for research and communication anywhere. The mobility of a laptop can make doing homework more efficient and even fun.

Often I am asked which laptops I recommend. My favorites are IBM Thinkpads and Toshiba Satellites. After that I like HP, Gateway, Dell and Adam is really enjoying his eMachines laptop as well. Big name laptop makers tend to offer better support (usually 24/7 support). For an upgrade, you can also get priority overnight service or replacement with these companies.

More importantly is picking out the proper components since buying a laptop can be even more confusing than buying a laptop. Follow these guidelines when considering a laptop

*Size - If the user will be toting the laptop daily from place-to-place, choose a lighter, thinner model (these cost a little more than the bigger 7 pound plus models)

*Screen - Most screens are 14" and larger and all have great quality, but be sure to compare side-by-side in a store if possible

*Memory - I recommend getting at least 512 megabytes (mb) of memory

*CD - Get a DVD/CDRW combo drive, the only compromise here is if you get a DVD super drive that records both DVD's and CD's

*Hard Drive - 40 Gigabytes (gb) should suffice for most users.

*Warranty - Be sure to get at least a one year warranty. For users who rely on their computers being up and usable, consider upgrading to an onsite warranty. Also, laptops are one of the few items that extended warranties make sense...if the prices is right.

These are just shopping guidelines. If you have specific laptop buying questions, call the show on any Saturday!