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Laptop buying tips
The smallest laptops are made for frequent fliers or others who spend a lot of time traveling and need an extra-portable computer. They will efficiently run most office programs and Web browsers, as well as media players and basic photo programs. Some of the smallest laptops are also tablet PCs. Tablet screens rotate 180 degrees and fold back over the keyboard. The user can then make selections and take notes with a stylus pen. These handy computers are great for those who do a lot of work standing up or who need a more versatile laptop for note taking.
Just be aware that what you gain in portability you loose in performance. Some of the smaller laptops won't have DVD drives, for example, and they won't have as much space for memory and graphics cards. However, you can connect external DVD burners and other drives to a small notebook computer if you need more versatility. A smaller laptop also equals a more compact keyboard.
Most laptop users will want something in the middle -- a laptop that can be used for doing a little bit of everything while remaining small enough to easily take to class or work. With most mid-size laptops, you can burn and play DVDs, surf the Web, handle digital photos and maybe even edit a little video. They may strain to run professional graphic design, video editing and other complex software, but these mid-size notebook computers will get you the biggest bang for your buck.
Multi-media professionals and gamers need something bigger and more powerful -- a laptop that can replace a desktop computer. These desktop replacement laptops aren't quite as portable as the others, since they generally weigh more and take up more space. However, they will perform extra well. Large laptops will have bigger screens, larger hard drives and more space for lots of other cool accessories. Some are designed with multi-media professionals in mind, so they will play and edit movies as well as run the latest graphic and Web design programs.
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