If you’re looking for a laptop, there are many things that you have to think about in order to purchase the right one at the right price and at the right place. Given the advanced technology in computers now, there’s tons of choices to pick out from. Continue reading for the best tips involving laptop purchases.

Laptop weight is one factor to take into consideration. Carrying a laptop that is heavy can cause damage to your shoulders and back. Lighter computers don’t always cost more. But battery life will not be as high.

If you watch a lot of multimedia on your laptop, like DVDs games,, Netflix or Hulu, get one with a good-quality, devoted graphics chip. Integrated chips are not as fast and may stutter if play a lot of high-end games or videos. Determine upfront whether you are going to need the dual-core processor or a quad-core chip instead.

When shopping for a laptop computer, look at Windows PC’s and Macs. Windows computers are typically cheaper than Macs, but some people find that Mac meets their needs better. Visit an electronics store to give them both a try. Then, hit the Internet and look for reviews and feedback on each.

Usb Ports

Make sure there are several USB ports on the laptop. This is one important feature which is frequently overlooked. You may need to use a couple USB ports simultaneously. A good amount is four USB ports, so consider that in your purchase.

Make an exacting list of the things you will use your laptop for. For instance, do you want to display recipes on it as you cook? If you do, you should invest in a waterproof skin. Your list will determine which features you need.

If you are going to be carrying your laptop with you everywhere you go, you should pay attention to how it’s being carried. Get a bag that’s sturdy and firm so you’re not swinging it around and hitting yourself with it when you’re walking. Banging into things can badly damage your laptop.

Do not just buy a laptop based on a brand. While it is true that good companies have good products, they may be charging you way too much. Compare the system hardware between models to find lower price models with the same functionality as higher priced, brand name laptops. Many times you can get a better price by purchasing a computer from a lesser known company.

If you’ve had your eye on an expensive laptop that costs too much for your wallet, you can have some great luck with a model that has been refurbished. They come with same warranty as new models and the prices are very attractive. You get essentially the same deal for less. Most refurbished models work perfectly fine.

Try buying a laptop that has several security features for personal or work use This is especially true if you do banking on it. Some good features to look for are security cable slots, screen with privacy coating and built in security software. Keep up with the security after you buy it.

If you have gaming, movies or music in mind for your laptop, make sure that the set of internal speakers matches what you need. This will help ensure that you get quality sound when you need it.

Take into consideration when the brand is going to release the next model of the laptop you’re going to buy. There are a couple reasons you want to know when the newer model is coming out Firstly, the one you’re looking at now will be cheaper. The second has to do with the improved features available on the new model, which is often worth the higher price.

Buy a laptop that is equipped with a video camera. You might not think it’s necessary, but face-to-face interaction is becoming more important. There is Skype now, which is used for more than social networking. Job sites use it now, for instance. They can be used to keep in touch with far off family members. You never know when that camera can be put to good use.

Take the time to shut off the power to your machine when it isn’t being used. Laptop computers are able to overheat really easily, and this is especially true if you put them down on a surface that’s soft. These things can be avoided if you just shut the thing off when it’s not in use.

Before shopping, figure out the online retailers that have free shipping and only stick with them. If you find the machine you need there, you can save a lot.

Graphic Cards

Graphic cards aren’t a necessity if you are using your computer for basic things. Most dedicated graphic cards will shorten the battery life. A lot of people get laptops, as they think they require the dedicated GPU; however, a lot of times never use it more than they would an integrated one.

Look at the software that comes with the computer. A word processing option and a spreadsheet program are often necessities. Make sure the software that comes installed isn’t a trial or demo of the software. If they aren’t included, you will need to purchase them separately.

If you’re thinking of getting a laptop but don’t want it to be used by other people because of what’s on it, then you need to get one that contains extra security on it. Many laptops use facial recognition software or fingerprint identification to help keep your information secure.

Now that you have finished this article, go shopping for your new laptop. You can now ascertain what type of laptop you need. This is an important decision, from price to screen size and more.