Today, we're going to look at the portable options for computers. Specifically, we'll look at Notebook/laptops, Chromebooks, Macbooks, Netbooks and Ultrabooks. "Convertibles" will be covered tomorrow under tablets.
There are a lot of options available for portable computers. For the most part, they are going to come pre-configured and assembled. There are do-it-yourself options, though they are geared toward a certain level of enthusiast, and are not as easily available. Like desktops, the components and operating system are important considerations in deciding your machine. CPU, Memory, drive space, graphics card, ports and screen type/size are important to consider. Hard drive and RAM are easy to change out, not so much the rest.
We'll start off with an outgoing product, today. We'll start with the Netbook. Netbooks were initially a light version of the notebook. They had a smaller screen size, lighter processor, no optical drive, but were wi-fi included (upon their release, not all notebooks had on-board wi-fi). Some netbooks, in fact, were partnered with cellular providers, allowing them to connect to the internet using your data plan. With ultrabooks, tablets, convertibles and smartphones, the netbook market has been dwindling. While they're decreasing in popularity, they are still available, and still are a good option for some people. With 7-10" screens, they offer a small, portable option. Netbooks often include Windows operating system, though some shipped with Linux. They'll fit into many bags, and travel well. While some may find a tablet or iPad a lighter option, the netbook still possesses a standard keyboard, and can utilize a full office suite. They're worth at least a basic consideration, when size, portability, and price are important determining factors.
Last year's entry into the portable category, the Chromebook, has had a couple of new additions. When I first covered these, last year, there were only two options. HP has joined Acer and Samsung, and there is a bit more of a variety. Chromebooks utilize the Google Chrome operating system. This is a competing operating system to Windows, Mac, or Linux. Like the netbooks, Chromebooks come sans optical drive. They come with a larger screen than yur typical netbook, and have a much more streamlined appearance. Upgrading components is not the easiest thing to do, however. Chromebooks come with access to online backup storage space on Google's cloud servers, and they have improved their operating system to allow for more features to work when not connected to the internet. Chromebooks tend to start around $200. Windows users may find the learning curve to the Chrome OS a bit of a challenge, at least at first. I would recommend looking at these for a similar market as those looking at netbooks. At the very least, it's worth it to play around with a demo unit if you see one at your local shop.
Another option for portable computing is the Macbook. Apple's notebook ships with their operating system and software. Apple has several models and sizes available, though there is a limited variety in components. Macbooks have a very sleek appearance, much like many of Apple's products. They include the Mac OS (version may depend on model). Windows users will find some differences in keyboard layout and programs. Macbooks tend to have a higher price than some comparable notebooks. but they enjoy a strong following from their owners. As I mentioned above, there is a limited selection of compatible components. Apple has made it rather difficult to work on your own Macbook. They've created the Pentalobe Screw (and driver) which made accessing your device a bit more challenging. There is a rumor that Mac's are "virus-proof". This is far from true. To be honest, no operating system is virus proof. With a lower market share, Macs do not make as tempting a target. It's important, though to be careful whatever operating system you use. Apple has their own warranty service, and provides instruction either by phone, or through their Apple Stores. While I may be a bit hesitant to recommend this for most people, it's more for the price than for the operating system. These systems work well out of the box, and will serve their users well through their lifespan. They do come with a steep price tag, which may put them out of some people's reach.
The Ultrabook are newer portables. They aim to optimize battery life, weight, size and power. These may not include optical drives, and often have smaller screen size, but make up for this with high-speed solid state processors, and low-power consumption CPU's which allow for a longer battery life. Mostly, these machines are powered by Intel based Core processors. They often come at a higher price, though not often that of a Macbook. These are geared toward more "super user" than standard or light user. Some gamers, or heavy users will find them far more effective. With their lighter size they are great for travelling. A fair amount of ultrabooks do not include an optical drive (CD/DVD?BD)While external drives are always available, if this is critical to your needs, it may be worth finding a model that includes this feature - or choosing a different style. Likewise, heavy gamers may find these not suitable for their needs. Memory and possibly hard drive are the two main replaceable components in these, though you need to check the maximum RAM capacity. Like the Macbook, I am hesitant to give an "everyone" recommendation on these. The price may not be agreeable with everyone, and the features need to be evaluated per user need. They are very nice though.
The last group we will look at today will be the broad category "notebooks". This is a catch-all for anything that doesn't fit into the previous category. It's also a catch-all that includes the previous ones, if you want to be technical about it. For the discussion here, though, we'll assume that we're dealing with other-than-previously-named. Notebooks come in a variety of sizes, CPUs, RAM and RAM capacity, hard drive type/size, graphics, manufacturer screen size, and more. It's important to consider your needs, budget, and expectations when purchasing your notebook (or one for a gift). AMD E-series processors and Intel Celeron processors may be affordable deals, but they are also the lowe functioning processors from each laboratory. In general, you'll find models from about 13" to 17", with larger ones often having a full-size keyboard (including number pad), while smaller size will have a more tightly packed keyboard. DVD/RW drives are fairly common as optical drives on laptops these days, though Blu-ray and recordable are getting a greater toehold. Very often a machine will include a certain amount of RAM. Very often this amount is replaceable, or upgradable. Hard drives vary. It's still common load a SATA mechanical drive, but SSD boot drives are a popular replacement or substitution. The greatest degree of variety in manufacture and component exist here. Toshiba, Dell, Alienware, Acer, Gateway, Sony, HP, Compaq, Lenovo, Asus and more exist on the market. They range from low-end economy units, to high-end gaming computers. Your needs will vary, but it's importnt to watch out that you don't pick up an economy model when you want to game - or spend extra money on a gaming rig when you are only going to watch Youtube videos. You have the greatest chance of finding "the right" machine in this categry statistically. That's partially due to the variety out there. I can't give an economic value, because that's a very personal decision.
My final word on portables, is that there are a lot of options out there. It's easy to get confused, but there are a few things you can look out for. I hope that this gave you some food for thought on what to get for yourself/as a gift. If you have any questions, or could use a hand in picking out your next portable, don't hesitate to get in touch with us.
Thanks for stopping by again, and stop back tomorrow for the Tablet Guide.
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