New features to look for when buying Computers
From June 2011 CTLS Newsletter, updated September 2011
Here is a nice list of things to look for in new laptops, and many of these features also apply to workstations:
I doubt that many of our libraries would purchase laptops with all these features, but it is good to start watching the prices on some of these, especially #1,#2 and #6
1. “Sandy Bridge” Intel processor, which is a second generation Core-i processor. While you might not be able to afford the Sandy Bridge processor this year, it does mean that manufacturers are selling PCs with the older Core-I processors (i3, i5 and i7) for much lower prices than last year. For more information on all these processors, see this page. And, while we are on the topic of processors, I use the charts on this site when I am trying to compare processors. Often you will look at the price of two laptops and wonder why one is so cheap…and the answer can be that one contains a very slow processor.
2. USB 3.0 – you may not need this for patron computers, but it would be a good idea to look for this feature for your new staff computers. Old USB 1.0 transferred data at a maximum of 12 megabits per second, and USB 2.0 transfers data at 480 megabits per second…but USB 3.0 transfers at 3.2 Gigabits per second! That means you can transfer photos and run backups at about 400MB of data every second. Of course, you would also need to use USB devices and cables that are compatible with USB 3.0.
3. If you are buying a laptop (or a monitor) and plan to do photo or video editing, look for full HD (1080p or better) or RGB LED backlighting.
4. Chiclet keyboards have the benefit of no gaps between the keys, so this keyboard would gather far less dust, fluff, crumbs and such. Also look for backlit keyboards…if you plan to use your laptop in the dark.
5. Housing and build quality – have you ever bought a laptop and then found that the outside case is just cheap plastic? My daughter has a laptop that has duct tape holding it together, even though it is only one year old. A laptop doesn’t need to be combat ready, but look for sturdy hinges and outside case, especially if this laptop will be loaned to patrons.
6. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are getting cheaper all the time. These are much more reliable, especially in something that may get dropped (like a laptop), and are faster, and quieter.
Also, check out this new buying guide from MakeUseOf. You will need to subscribe in order to download this guide, but it is worth it:
http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/download-laptop-buying-guide-2011/
Also take a look at this site: http://laptoping.com/category/dell-vostro
- Notice the “Category” section, mid-way down the rightside of the page, and you can compare all kinds of laptops, not just Dell Vostro