Laptops and notebooks have made huge strides in the past few years, thanks to ever-improving microprocessor and LCD technologies. Today, the average notebook computer is as powerful as the desktops of yesteryear and is more lightweight and versatile than ever before.
Manufacturers have also begun to diversify their laptops, offering small netbooks designed for easy Web browsing, as well as mini laptops that are even lighter and more portable than their full-sized counterparts. The world of computer portability is expanding and will continue to diversify and grow as technological advances make realities out of what was once impossible.
Key Capabilities of Laptop Computers
In terms of hardware components, there isn't a lot of difference between desktops and laptops. They both have CPUs, RAM, motherboards, sound cards, video cards and keyboards. While many laptops have mouse touchpads rather than external mice, they do have ports that allow you to add a mouse if you find using a touchpad inefficient. You can also add speakers if you want to improve your laptop's usually modest built-in sound system, and other peripherals such as webcams can be added at your discretion.
The primary distinguishing feature of a laptop computer is its portability. Laptops allow you to get work done when you're out and about and in places where you wouldn't normally be able to get anything accomplished. They're quieter and use less power than desktop computers, and their connectivity is extremely convenient if you have Wi-Fi capabilities. Laptops allow you to surf and work from anywhere you can pick up an Internet signal.
Popular Laptop Brands and Models
The world's best-known laptop brands include Dell, HP, IBM, Toshiba, Sony and Gateway, but there are many other smaller and lesser-known companies that produce outstanding products. If you prefer Apple computers to PCs, the MacBook line of laptops offers outstanding performance capabilities. Mac laptops are, however, considerably more expensive than their PC counterparts.
If you're searching for cheap laptops, consider gently used or refurbished laptops. These can offer many of the same capabilities as new laptops for a much lower cost. Of course, if you want or need cutting-edge technology, a used or refurbished laptop is probably not the way to go, as these tend to be slightly older models.