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Notebooks -- the desktop alternativeNov 27 '00 (Updated Nov 28 '00) Write an essay on this topic.If you're pressed for time, here's the summary: If you can afford a laptop, go for it! You'll probably appreciate it much more than a desktop. OK, now the long version: There are some good existing editorials that highlight why purchasing a laptop is a good alternative to getting a desktop PC. However, I wanted to further emphasize some points plus make a few additional ones. PRICE Although laptops have been coming down in price, they are still more expensive than comparable desktop PCs. Mobility isn't cheap. Some low-end laptops have broken the $1000 barrier, but a better unit will cost you around $2500. If you're looking for the lowest price, you'll want to pass on a notebook. PERFORMANCE For the majority of users, a notebook computer -- even a low-end system -- has more than enough processing power for any of their applications. In fact, some of today's high-end notebooks rival desktops on almost all specs. The most common area where a desktop will outperform a notebook is video performance. Generally speaking, if you're a hardcore gamer or doing high-end 3D graphics (for example), then you probably want to stick with a desktop. EXPANSION Many notebooks have expansion bays allowing the user to swap components in and out, depending on current requirements. Although not as convenient as a desktop (which would have everything in at once), this type of flexibility IS present in many notebooks. Additionally, many laptops have available docking stations. A dock will typically have one or more bays that accept standard devices (such as a CD-RW or Zip drive). Laptop expansion is further enhanced by the proliferation of USB ports on both the notebook itself and the optional dock. Another "expansion" choice is the port replicator. Although port reps usually don't give you the expansion capabilities of a dock, they are very convenient. As the name implies, they replicate the ports already on the notebook. Without one, you may need to attach all sorts of cables when you use the notebook, and then detach them all when you take the notebook on the road. However, with these devices, you can attach your printer, your scanner, your speakers, your modem, your WebCam, etc. to the port rep (or dock) and then only make a single connection (the notebook to the port rep) to use them. When you're ready to move, just remove the notebook from the port rep and you're disconnected from all the devices. A port rep or dock is definitely worthwhile if you're purchasing a notebook. MOBILITY The obvious reason to get a laptop is the mobility it brings to the user. For a professional, this might mean being able to work while on the road. For a student, it could mean taking notes while in the classroom or writing a paper while on the Quad. For others, it is just the convenience of working or playing anywhere they please... in the kitchen, on the deck or in the bedroom. Once you've used a notebook and understand the accompanying mobility, it is very difficult to go back to a desktop. Keep in mind that you'll find varying levels of mobility among notebooks. If you're always traveling (a true road warrior), you might appreciate a mini- (or sub) notebook. At about 3 pounds, you'll hardly know you're carring the thing around. Of course, there are usually tradeoffs in building such a small system: small screen, small keyboard keys, lack of integrated devices (such as a CD-ROM), etc. Next in size are the so-called "two-spindle" notebooks, which have a hard drive (first spindle) and usually an optical drive (CD-ROM or DVD). Usually the optical drive is in a modular bay and can be swapped with a diskette drive or other devices. These systems tend to offer a nice blend of usability and performance features, and are usually in the 6-7 pound range. The largest notebooks are the "three-spindle" systems: hard drive, optical drive, and diskette drive. In addition to the convenience of not having to swap devices in and out, the larger footprint allows for bigger screens (15"+). Of course, bigger means heavier, and these laptops are in the 8-9 pound range. PRODUCTIVITY For the business buyer: Studies have shown that the productivity increases of giving notebooks to employees can outweigh the greater purchase cost of a notebook vs. a desktop. Additionally, the employees (usually) appreciate the fact that they can more easily work at home instead of staying long hours in the office. A win-win situation. USABILITY There are two areas where you don't want to skimp -- the keyboard and the display -- since this is where all your interaction with the notebook will take place. For example, some notebooks (re)move keys or make them smaller than ISO standards. If you're already used to a desktop computer, look for a notebook with a full-size keyboard and standard key layout. Your fingers will appreciate it. Most systems have integrated pointing devices -- typically either a pointing stick or touchpad. There are proponents of either device (I prefer the pointing stick). If you can, try them out with your favorite applications and see what you find most comfortable. Of course, you can also add an external mouse... but the integrated devices are great when you're on an airplane or short on space. It is worth the extra money to get a system with an active matrix TFT display (instead of passive matrix / dual scan / HPA). You'll especially want a TFT display if you'll be showing presentations on your system (because of the wider viewing angle) or if you'll be playing video files. I hope you appreciated my first editorial.  |
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