Updated April 20th, 2009

When buying a Laptop, do so because you need to, not because you can. Desktops are cheaper all the way around.   I only recommend buying a Laptop if you need one to take with you places.  If you are looking to buy one for use around your home only, then consider if it is really worth the extra cost. 

Laptops cost much more to repair and maintain than desktops.  In many cases the motherboard can be repaired for around $150 - $200 if its just a blown component or two. But a motherboard "replacement" costs on average $500 to $1000 (the cost of the laptop!!!). Sometimes its just not worth repairing if its a major problem. I've seen customers with $1000 - $1500 laptops under 2 and 3 years old that were to expensive to repair. They ended up having to buy new laptops!!!! Be sure to get an extended warranty, they didn't.

So you decided to buy a laptop, here is what to look for -

1.) Memory - If it has Microsoft Windows Vista then you must have 1GB of RAM or more. Don't buy it if it has less. (512MB works bad on Vista machines, so I don't recommend it) 3GB or more of memory for Vista is optimal.

2.) Processor -  Buy a multi-core CPU. Look for the words Intel Dual Core, Core Duo, Core Quad, Core i7. For basic users you can get away with a cheaper AMD processor like X2, X3, X4 but go with Intel if you have the money. If the laptop does not have these multi-core processors, then the Laptop will be slow. This is true of desktops as well.

3.) Brand - For good quality laptops, Toshiba is the best, followed by Sony.  HP and Lenovo are good too (Lenovo bought out IBM's Personal PC division).  I don't like Gateway.  Dell's customer support is really bad, and Dell is in financial trouble so I have stopped recommending Dell lately.

Don't know what the heck I just said? That's OK.  You can call me before you buy, and I will help you go over it.  Theres no charge for the phone call.  Or if you want me to go with you to help you pick one out, call me to schedule an appointment.