Due to the advances in technology, there is so much information about laptops. It’s fun to look for new laptops, but what must you look for particularly? If you haven’t bought one in a while, you may need to spruce up your knowledge. Don’t fret. This article will help you on your way.

Consider both Macs and Windows when looking for a laptop. Windows laptops are less expensive, but Macs are preferable to some people. Try both of them out at the store. Look online, visit review websites and make your choice.

Consider the size of your monitor when choosing a laptop. Laptop displays are generally available in sizes between 13″ and 17″. If you are replacing a desktop with a laptop, you will probably want the bigger model. If you will lug the laptop around a lot, a lighter 13 inch screen may be best.

Your LCD display is one major thing that uses up your laptop battery. Make the screen dimmer for a longer battery life. If you do so, your battery will work much more efficiently.

Look at refurbished laptops to find high end equipment at lower prices. The price is often great, and if you get a decent warranty, the risk is low. Most owners have no trouble with them, and this means everyone has access to the best ones.

How important is security to you and your laptop? There are many security options out there for laptops. You may want to buy a laptop that can do fingerprint or facial recognition scanning. No one who is not registered on the computer can use it.

You should think about purchasing a laptop that features an extended warranty. Laptop repairs are neither fun nor cheap, and laptop replacement is pricey. If you can afford to spend a few dollars for extra coverage, it might save you money down the line.

When purchasing a laptop, make sure to check out the mouse. There are any that come built in. Whether you like button style, a track pad or one with a ball, it is really your decision. You can get various add ons at a later time, but it’s good to start with ones you enjoy the most.

A graphics chip is something you need to think about when getting a laptop. Integrated graphics chips are usually sufficient for most laptop users. If you want to view movies and play hardcore games, then a dedicated graphics card is what you need. Laptops built specifically for gamers normally have the highest performing graphic chips available.

Many of the newer laptops are not coming with DVD/Blu-ray drives. The content is moving towards Internet media streaming. Obviously, though, you’ll want to be sure you’re getting a DVD/Blu-Ray equipped laptop if you prefer to watch movies straight from discs – or if you like burning your own!

If you plan to use your laptop for a lot of gaming purposes, listening to music or watching movies, check out the internal speakers before making a purchase. Speakers are critical in terms of entertainment value, and it is annoying to have to utilize external ones.

Take into consideration when a new model will be available prior to making your purchase. There are a couple of good reasons to buy a new machine at the same time a new model is released. The first reason is that the existing model will have its price reduced, making it a bargain. The other reason is that the newest model features better technology and benefits.

Choose a laptop that has a video camera included. You may think it’s unnecessary, but face-to-face interaction on computers is becoming commonplace. Programs like FaceTime and Skype are just now starting to hit their prime. They can really be fun when used to talk to your kids. You may use the camera more than you think.

If you are thinking about getting a cost-effective computer that is light, think about one that is no drive bay. All software will have to be installed from a USB key or online download, but you’ll save a ton of money, easily hundreds of dollars, just be skipping the drives. You could also just buy a portable DVD drive if you must have one to use with your laptop.

Brand only matters in laptops with regards to its reputation. Make sure you see what people have to say about the different major brands. Lesser known brands may have the superior computer at a lower price.

When you thinking about a new laptop, get the Sunday paper of your local community every week. You’ll see lots of good coupons for laptops for sale on Sundays. Those few bucks spent on the paper can really pay off for an ad or coupon that will save you hundreds on some local laptop.

Check out online complaints once you have a list of laptops you are interested in. This can be done by using your model number along with the word “problem” in a search. Things such as problems with monitors or overheating will be listed online.

To avoid losing your laptop in an airport security screening station, be sure to keep your eyes on it the entire time. Laptop bags are similar, and some people are always looking for a free laptop. Watch your computer as it rolls through the x-ray machine.

Be sure to plug your laptop in whenever possible. This will help preserve your battery. Your battery is going to last longer if you plug it in most of the time.

Use this information to help you feel more knowledgeable about computers. Understand why you need a laptop. It is smart to pick a laptop that matches exactly what you will most likely need it for.