One thing every student is going to need is a notebook. The main benefits include size and portability over desktop computers. If it is going to be his first notebook, we suggest getting a cheaper one to learn all its features before moving to a higher end model. Here are some tips to keep in mind before you shell out money on a budget notebook.
1) Size: Notebooks come in a variety of sizes. You might find the 16 inch laptops a joy to use but they are not that practical to lug around all day. That is why, we recommend trying out netbooks like Asus Eee PC X101 and Lenovo X120e which weigh less than 2 pounds and are much easier to carry around. X101 runs Meego operating system that boots in less than 5 seconds. Thanks to its aggressive power saving techniques, you will easily be able to get around 4 hours from its small 3 cell battery.
2) Storage and RAM: There are two kinds of memories inside a computer - hard disk and RAM. RAM is volatile storage which means that all data is erased after you turn off the computer. On the other hand, data stored on the hard disk or a solid state drives is persistent. Photoshop, operating system and Office apps require a lot of space and that is why, we recommend getting at least 160GB hard disk and a minimum of 1GB RAM. If you are planning to do a lot of multitasking, consider getting a notebook with 2GB RAM.
3) Processor: Most of the mini notebooks come with Intel Atom processors. They are very power frugal and deliver excellent battery life. For college work, an Atom processor is more than enough. However, if you are planning to do a bit of gaming as well, get one with an Intel Core i7 processor.
4) Operating system: Most of the notebooks, other than Apple, come with Windows 7. Apple computers run Mac OS X and are not compatible with the plethora of PC applications. Some PC manufactures also sell laptops with Meego or Ubuntu OS pre-loaded to save costs. Almost all of them come with windows drivers.
5) Warranty: Most electronic stores and outlets often offer extended warranties that cover small or big damage for few years. However, we recommend getting extended warranties from the actual computer manufacture itself as they have ready supply of parts that would be required for repairing. All the notebooks come with 1 year warranty as standard that cover most of the hardware damages.
1) Size: Notebooks come in a variety of sizes. You might find the 16 inch laptops a joy to use but they are not that practical to lug around all day. That is why, we recommend trying out netbooks like Asus Eee PC X101 and Lenovo X120e which weigh less than 2 pounds and are much easier to carry around. X101 runs Meego operating system that boots in less than 5 seconds. Thanks to its aggressive power saving techniques, you will easily be able to get around 4 hours from its small 3 cell battery.
2) Storage and RAM: There are two kinds of memories inside a computer - hard disk and RAM. RAM is volatile storage which means that all data is erased after you turn off the computer. On the other hand, data stored on the hard disk or a solid state drives is persistent. Photoshop, operating system and Office apps require a lot of space and that is why, we recommend getting at least 160GB hard disk and a minimum of 1GB RAM. If you are planning to do a lot of multitasking, consider getting a notebook with 2GB RAM.
3) Processor: Most of the mini notebooks come with Intel Atom processors. They are very power frugal and deliver excellent battery life. For college work, an Atom processor is more than enough. However, if you are planning to do a bit of gaming as well, get one with an Intel Core i7 processor.
4) Operating system: Most of the notebooks, other than Apple, come with Windows 7. Apple computers run Mac OS X and are not compatible with the plethora of PC applications. Some PC manufactures also sell laptops with Meego or Ubuntu OS pre-loaded to save costs. Almost all of them come with windows drivers.
5) Warranty: Most electronic stores and outlets often offer extended warranties that cover small or big damage for few years. However, we recommend getting extended warranties from the actual computer manufacture itself as they have ready supply of parts that would be required for repairing. All the notebooks come with 1 year warranty as standard that cover most of the hardware damages.
Find out more meego laptop news and reviews to acquaint yourself about the Meego OS. Eee PC X101 is the first meego notebook. You can find more about it in this Asus x101 review.
