Buying a laptop computer
If portability and compactness are your priorities then a laptop computer (notebook computer) is your best choice.
Laptops have become a serious consideration over a desktop personal computer (PC). They take up less space at home and, if you are on the move, they offer portability to carry out tasks wherever you are. Built-in wireless technology also allows you to send and receive emails, and surf the web when you're out and about.
It is important to check dimensions and weight, to ensure your laptop is truly portable. Some of the larger laptops are designed as desktop replacements, so you need to look at the slim, lightweight models if you are likely to want to use your laptop on the train on your way to work.
Choosing a laptop - extra features to look for...
Laptop Display
A 14-15 inch laptop screen is suitable for lightweight use such as surfing the internet or sending emails. If you are likely to use your laptop more frequently for home use or multimedia then 17 inch displays are becoming more common and are a good choice for this type of usage. Be aware that laptops with bigger screens can increase their overall weight, making them less portable. TFT (thin film transistor) LCD screens perform better in bright light and can produce clearer images - handy if you want to work outdoors.
Laptop Battery Life
Laptop battery life is an important consideration if you are likely to be away from a power source for a period of time. Laptops use a rechargeable battery, which can give up to 5 hours of continuous use (models vary) before they need to be recharged. Watching a movie will use up more of your computers battery life than running basic office applications.
Webcam
These are worth considering if you wish to hold a 'visual' conversation over the web. They are typically an integrated digital video camera (typically between 0.3 to 1.3 megapixel resolution) which uploads moving images to a web server, either continuously or at regular intervals.
Removable Media & Drive
Most new laptops have slots for removal media storage devices such flash cards and memory sticks. They are an easy way to transfer data to and from gadgets like digital cameras to your laptop computer.
Pre-pay Wi Fi
Wireless mobile broadband is now on Pay As You Go. It couldn't be easier. Simply top-up and connect your mobile broadband USB stick into your computer. You can be up and running in 5 minutes and you can even swap your USB stick between computers. No contracts. No wires. No worry.
Great for individuals on the move or for those who need to clean up their home office space.
Buying a desktop PC
If mobility is not something that you will need, then a desktop computer offers value for money, with more features and performance than similarly priced laptops have typically have a greater amount of storage space too.
Choosing a desktop PC – extra features to look for…
PC monitor
When choosing your screen size you need to consider what you will be using your desktop PC for and the amount of time you are likely to spend on it as well as the space you have available. If you’re looking to display your digital photographs at their best, then opt for a bigger screen size with a suitable resolution.
- 12.1 to 15.4 inch screens have a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels
- 16.0 inch screens have a resolution of 1440 x 900 pixels
- 17.0 inch screens have a resolution of 1600 x 900 pixels
PC accessories
Need peripherals or software? We have a large range of products available, some of which have great savings when bought within any computer. If you’re buying your laptop mainly for travelling and working away from home, consider buying an extra battery.
