Laptops or notebook computers rule over desktops in terms of portability. Designed for busy professionals who take their work with them, laptops sacrifice the added power of more computer components for a lighter system. Notebook computers have special components that are designed smaller than their desktop counterparts. But even in the mobile world of laptops, there are lightweights and heavyweights. In terms of size and weight, notebook computers can be classified into five general categories: ultra-portable laptops, thin-and-light laptops, mainstream laptops, desktop replacements, and netbooks.
* Ultra-Portable Laptops
Weighing less than 4 pounds, ultra-portable laptops are aimed at people who want to tote their laptops with them everyday. These lightweight notebooks are very small, featuring a 12-inch screen or less, and lack bulky components like DVD drives. These types of laptops are good for basic office applications but perform poorly with graphics intensive applications like videos or games.
* Thin-and-Light Laptops
For better performing power at the cost of size and weight, you can opt for a thin-and-light laptop instead of an ultra-portable. You can still bring your thin-and-light notebook about with you but it will definitely be heavier than an ultra-portable. Thin-and-lights weigh an average of 5 pounds but they have faster processors and wider screens — 13 to 14 inches. They also include a regular-sized keyboard. With a thin-and-light notebook, you can play light games, movies, and music.
* Mainstream Laptops
Mainstream laptops are the cheapest notebook computers that you can find in the market today. They are not as sleek as thin-and-lights or ultra-portables but they come equipped with more powerful components and a larger screen size. Most are around 15 inches wide and weigh an average of 6 pounds.
* Desktop Replacements
Desktop replacements attempt to emulate desktops while trying to be portable. If you do not have the extra space to place a desktop computer on your study table but still want a top performing machine, a desktop replacement is the answer for you. Desktop replacements usually have 17-inch screens and some can even be as wide as 19 inches. With a roomier build, desktop replacements can accommodate high-end computer components that can handle demanding tasks like gaming and video editing.
* Netbooks
Netbooks are geared for traveling people who need constant access to the Internet. Only between 7 and 10 inches wide, netbooks are the most portable laptops around. These mini computers are great for checking emails and surfing the Web. The cute keyboard, however, will make long typing sessions a painful process.
For laptops, portability not only comes at a hefty price, it also affects a unit’s computing power. If you are content to do word processing tasks on your laptop, you may want to shell out more cash for an ultra-portable. If mobility is not such a big issue for you, you can opt to have a more functional computer by getting a thin-and-light or a mainstream laptop.
