We've been seeing plenty of "What should I buy?" posts recently. I thought it would be nice to make a model for these requests so the rest of us can give you the best suggestions.
This is just a start. Please feel free to suggest additional questions or modifications to existing ones.
General Usage
What will you be using the notebook mainly for? Will you be using it to play games? Will you be using it for word processing / general productivity? etc.
Are you looking more at a very small notebook, a standard notebook, or a large desktop replacement?
Will you be carrying the notebook around a lot or be keeping it stationary most of the time?
How important is battery life to you?
How long do you intend on using this laptop?
Features
Do you need lots of hard drive space?
Will you be burning DVD's or just CD's?
Do you tend to work with a lot of applications at once?
Graphics & Display
How big would you like your screen to be? Do you care if it's widescreen or not?
Are you willing to pay more for premium screens enhanced by XBRITE, Crystal View, or Bright View? (Go to the bottom of this post for an explanation)
(If applicable) Will you be playing casual games or the latest games?
(If applicable) Will you be doing work in a 3D modeling program like 3D Studio Max or Maya?
Miscellaneous
Do you care if your notebook looks good or not?
Are there particular brands you prefer or won't buy from?
How much are you willing to pay for this notebook?
Are there particular models you have already looked at?
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* Explanation for XBRITE, Crystal View, Bright View
The difference between an enhanced screen and a non-enhanced screen is in overall screen quality. Enhanced screens are significantly sharper, crisper and more contrasting than non-enhanced screens. They also reduce glare and are much better suited to outdoor situations where lighting can vary. Finally, they have far wider viewing angles than normal screens. Most enhanced screens are supplemented by a glass/plastic filter placed over the screen to protect the anti-glare coating inside.
On average, they cost $50 - $100 dollars more. I recommand this kind of screen particularly for Gamers and Graphic Artists who would treasure this level of screen quality. My recommendation is to go to a computer store and compare an enhanced screen to a non-enhanced one to see the difference. It's very difficult for me to portray the difference in words.
Currently, these screens can be found in higher end notebooks made by Sony, Toshiba,
HP, Fujitsu, and
Dell.
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Compaq Presario 2800T Pentium 4-M 1.6 GHz - 15" UXGA
512 MB RAM - 40 GB (5400 rpm)
ATI Mobility Radeon 7500 64 MB
Pretty good for 2002 isn't it?
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