Laptop PCs, what this type of computer consists of and how to choose it
Portable PCs are perfect for those who are on the move, but also ideal for those who do not want the restrictions of a fixed location. This type of computer is the one that has achieved the most success in the last twenty years and despite having a formidable competitor in smartphones and tablets, it still remains one of the most chosen solutions.
The notebook is in fact mobility, but also convenience.
In fact, this computer is not chosen only for business uses. Its versatility and transportability also make it perfect for purchase by students. But not only that, owning a laptop has many other advantages compared to a desktop PC.
Advantages of portable PCs
Used or new laptops are easily transportable and storable. This makes them a perfect choice also for a private environment, thanks to the convenience of independent use from a fixed location. The further convenience of being able to store them without problems makes them the univocal choice for anyone who does not want to use a corner of their residence as an office area.
Types of Laptop PCs
By portable PCs or notebooks we mean a very large family of products, whose common denominator is precisely that of portability. But there is a lot of difference between the various portable PCs . Differences and factors that we will have to pay attention to when choosing used or new laptops or notebooks .
We can in fact divide the "large family" of portable PCs into some different categories:
Ultrabook: among portable PCs, it is the one in which the size factor is the most refined. These are
notebooks optimized to be light and small, which usually makes them more expensive than other categories. Ideal for "digital nomads" and for those who move very often, they have very clear but usually small screens.
Portable workstations: like laptops for "gaming use", these are real computers transformed into movable units. Those who choose this category of computers usually need performance and large screens. For this reason, notebook mobility is no longer the factor of first choice.
Traditional laptops: this huge "band" includes all
notebooks that do not have a predefined use, but can be used for work and/or pleasure.
Choose your laptop
Whether our goal is a new laptop or whether our interest is in used laptops, we will have to be clear about our needs before looking for the laptop.
Here are the parameters and characteristics we will have to evaluate:
Screen size: with a range of proposals ranging from 11" to 17", the choice of screen size is also an "intention of use". A laptop with a small screen will indicate a greater need for mobility. A larger screen, vice versa, will mean a greater need for technical and professional features.
Screen resolutions: not just size, but also resolution. A high resolution will allow us to have better graphic detail. Size and resolution must also be "thought" according to the "form factor" of the screen, which is now increasingly rectangular (16:9 or 21:9).
Operating system: for laptops, unlike many other categories we find an additional operating system when choosing. Chromebook is also added to the common Windows and Apple and the less used Linux. This last type of laptop, in which the Chrome browser is available in the operating system version, is often the choice of students or people who are looking above all for the multimedia aspect of the laptop.
Processor: Just because the laptop is small, that doesn't mean it isn't powerful. Modern laptops are in fact equipped with powerful CPUs, made up of one or more cores which allow them to cope with even the most demanding tasks. The processor for laptop computers is usually created ad hoc by large manufacturers (Intel and AMD). The goal is in fact to have great performance without overheating or high battery consumption.
RAM: is the amount of memory dedicated to opening files and processing data. Obviously the more the better, but considering that the notebook , at least the "classic" one, is not purchased for heavy-duty work, even in this case you can look for a compromise between performance and price.
Graphics card: basic notebooks integrate it directly into the motherboard for a question of price and space. The more advanced ones have a dedicated one. Again the choice should be dictated by the end use. If you don't expect animations or "prohibitive" content from a graphic point of view, you can very well opt for the integrated card.
Battery: Wireless usability is a prerogative of laptops. But for how many hours? Battery life is a crucial factor for your laptop. Of course, it will decay over time, but since it is an easily available replacement, what we will have to worry about is the maximum duration considering the "new" battery. For the same reason, but on the contrary, the possibility of replacing the battery makes used laptops attractive and convenient.
Ports: obviously they will be fewer than those of a Personal Computer, but it is still essential to check that there are at least those necessary for your needs. When choosing used or new laptops, we will therefore have to evaluate, for example, whether there is a need to connect to some particular peripheral (external monitors, keyboards, etc.) or whether a certain minimum number of USB ports is needed (it is better to always have at least 3…)
Advanced features. Most modern laptops have reversible screens and touch capabilities. Innovative functions, but often, for the majority of users, not really fundamental.
Laptop PC prices
The endless variety of uses, sizes and features makes it extremely complicated to estimate the price of laptops. Generally speaking, you can find laptops ranging from a few hundred euros up to a few thousand. For medium/high value laptops, an excellent alternative is the evaluation and purchase of used notebooks .
The incessant technological evolution, combined with bureaucratic and "representative" reasons, in fact requires many companies to cyclically change the laptops supplied to commercial and technical personnel. This allows you to find used notebooks on the market with excellent technical characteristics at decidedly affordable prices.
