A large number of you are in the midst of or about to shop for that new computer.  Back around 2007 when this article was written, it was solely a concentration on the laptop as the new computer.  Lately, in a worldwide scale it’s everything from a netbook, to an iPad, to a tablet, to the main device being someone’s smartphone.  One reason for the new [let’s call it a device] is to replace the one that has seen its last days. Another reason is that your child’s college website hints about every student having a laptop for classes; oh well, again device (netbook, iPad, etc.).  Let’s not forget that your job relies increasingly on computers and now computer training determines job security.  It was that way back approximately 2007 and it’s still that way now.  Believe it or not, your worst nightmare came true because your friends said they will send you an e-mail!  But you do not have an e-mail address. To make matters worse, you don’t have a computer.   It’s astonishing that even in 2012 there are those who DON’T have computers.  You must purchase a computer, and at the same time you are computer illiterate.

The goal of these articles/blogs is to help ease some of the tension when it comes to computers—at least the purchasing aspect.  For this blog, the concentration will be on the different types of laptops because not all laptops are the same.

According to www.pcmag.com, the different types of laptop computers are general, cheap, business, ultraportable, gaming and media. “General-purpose laptops,” as they are called, are laptops that are used basically to send e-mail, do primarily word processing tasks and your everyday Internet search.  These laptops don’t have the added gadgets or large hard drives. These computers are for the people who want to start off small and for the people who desire simplicity in their lives. If a computer is new to a person, this is the type of laptop obtained.  Some people buy general-purpose laptops as the second computer for their home, work, etc.

The “cheap” laptops are for the budget seekers, the cost evaluators, the ones who consider the bottom line as to whether the purchase is worth the expense. The advertisements in the paper are analyzed with a fine toothed comb, repair costs are, one hopes, non-existent; moreover, the time is now to buy this type of laptop computer because you’re tired of bumping your leg against the tower If the cost is under $1,000 it’s good.  If the cost is under $500 and has the gadgets and capabilities of a $2,000 computer, that’s a steal!  For the sake of argument with the advancements of technology, tower sizes have shrunk significantly; however, the costs will have to be taken into consideration when one has to deal with how much warranty is needed.

When it comes to the corporate world, the focus is on which series of laptops and systems will specifically meet that business environment’s needs. The size of the hard drive has to be ample for change and growth, security is high priority, meetings are increasingly conducted online via the Internet and/or Intranet, and beyond 2007 it’s been the norm for an employee to conduct business in and out of the office on a laptop computer.  In some cases, the “workstation” is the laptop for an individual’s business use at their workplace; at other times, it is the area of the office that consists of a computer and necessary equipment such as wireless Internet. Noteworthy for business survival is this equation – technical advances plus laptops with rugged protection equals the ability to be global.

“Ultraportables” bring to light the fact that convenience costs.  Bulkiness is not an option, weight matters, and battery life cannot be less than four hours tops. Unfortunately, a person’s fingers might find the keyboard and screen smaller than usual; however, the graphics compensate satisfaction.  For the person who frequently commutes, work can be done while on the road.  In other words, your office can be your car, the portable printer, the laptop, and the cell phone.  Additionally, “fingerprint readers” have been standard on many ultraportable laptops.  The cost will usually be above $2,000 (unless you find a good sale).

Still haven’t come across your laptop yet?  Maybe these next ones will fit your fancy!

You just have about everything a laptop could have if you are a “gamer.” The more graphics the better, the sound card is the key ingredient for the speakers, the latest computerized games distinguish the novice from the expert, and all accessories are pricey but worth every penny.  Besides, the laptop design denotes your reputation.  The computer screen is 17 inches or larger, and speed is required.  No speed?  No way!  You are playing a game against someone on the other side of the world, and a slow Internet connection better not happen.  Okay the laptop gets heavy because it is seven pounds or more; however, you probably have the hard drive size to start your own Internet service provider business.

Finally, this is the category for the one who must have it all in spite of bulkiness. The “media center or multimedia” laptop can be used be used to watch television, for video editing, your updated jukebox.  Sure there is still the word processing and the e-mail, but there’s also state-of-the-art  graphics, accessories out of this world, the ability to connect to an additional 24-inch computer screen, and a sizeable hard drive that causes your peers to drop their jaws in disbelief.  Speed equates with power, the $3,000+ price tag is the norm, and color has to be top notch.  Internet connection can be high speed, but wireless is preferred.

When buying that laptop, you’ll now have more of an idea of the laptop that is right for you.  Because we’re still in the beginning of 2012, some of this information can also be applied to the purchase of your next netbook, iPad, smartphone, etc.   The next blog will detail the break down some computer terminology for the novice.  Don’t worry intermediate and advanced users cause I have something for you too.

Amber S. Hawkins is the President/CEO of Your Computer Needs of Toledo, LLC.  Since 2005, Your Computer Needs of Toledo, LLC has provided in-home computer training, computer training/consulting for businesses, and workshops for churches and other faith-based organizations.  Additional components include online computer training, conference/convention assistance, and Internet research reporting.  Products include promotional postcards, business cards, and free industry trade publications

For more information, visit www.yourcomputerneeds.net.  Note that the site is going through transition for preparation of the March 2012 discount specials.  Questions and information regarding current prices can be emailed to [email protected]