Features

Many components play a key role in how a computer performs, including the processor, memory, operating system, hard drive, video adapter (with video memory), optical drive, and display (monitor). Laptop computers have additional features and considerations that are important. Where applicable, we've noted feature information that is important and distinctive to the type of computers.

Processor

Also known as the CPU (central processing unit), the computer's 'brain' is responsible for processing information. Speed is the most important factor when choosing a processor, so pay attention to the processor's family, the number of cores, and the clock speed.

Intel and AMD are the dominant manufacturers of processors. Intel's processor families include the low-end Atom, Celeron, and Pentium; the mid-range Core 2; and the high-end Core i7. AMD's processors range from the low-end Neo, Sempron, Athlon, and Turion; and the mid-range Phenom and Phenom II.

Processors with multiple cores can process more data at the same time. You can usually tell how many cores a processor has by looking at its name. A Core 2 Duo has two cores and a Core 2 Quad has four cores. A Phenom X3 has three cores. But it's not always that clear; a Core i7 has four cores.

Clock speed, measured in GHz (gigahertz), determines how quickly it can process information. Within a processor family, the higher the clock speed, the faster the computer. Clock speeds typically range from 2 to 3GHz.

Power consumption is another important factor when choosing a processor. This is especially true for laptops--lower power consumption translates to longer battery life.

When buying a computer, make sure it has a processor that will be fast enough to handle your needs. If you are buying a desktop or a laptop, avoid computers that use the AMD Neo or Sempron processor, the Intel Atom or Celeron processor, or the Via Nano processor. For basic tasks like browsing the web and checking e-mail, opt for a low-end dual-core processor like the Intel Pentium Dual-Core and AMD Athlon/Turion X2. If you plan to use your desktop or laptop for entertainment like watching videos or playing games, get a faster processor such as the Intel Core 2 Duo/Quad or AMD Phenom/Phenom II. If you're a gamer or plan to edit high-definition video, buy a computer with a high-end processor like the Intel Core i7. If you're in the market for a netbook, stick to the slow but low-power-consuming Intel Atom processor.

Random access memory (RAM)

Most brand-name computers sold today have at least 1GB of RAM, the memory the computer uses while in operation.

For laptops: We recommend at least 2GB of RAM (random-access memory).

For desktops: For Windows Vista or Mac OS X, we recommend at least 2GB. Memory upgrades are not expensive, but don't get more than 3 GB in a Windows PC unless you opt for a 64-bit version of Windows, which requires 4 GB or more of memory.

Memory

Also known as RAM (random access memory), this is what the computer uses to temporarily store data while in operation. Computers with more memory tend to be faster than those with less, up to a point. Memory is measured in GB (gigabytes). Most brand-name desktops and laptops sold today have at least 2GB of memory. Computers with 3GB are slightly faster. Any more than that is probably not beneficial unless you plan to run multiple memory-intensive applications at the same time. Netbooks typically come with 1GB of memory, which is adequate as long as the netbook runs Windows XP and not Windows Vista.

Operating system

Many people choose PCs running Windows because they're less expensive than Macs. Others choose PCs because they have a superior selection of games. If you go with a PC, you have a choice of several versions of Windows Vista, each with its own hardware requirements. Vista Home Basic leaves out several features we liked in this software, while Vista Ultimate costs more and has more features than most home users need. We recommend Home Premium as the Vista version for most home users. Microsoft will release the next version of its OS, Windows 7, in October 2009. PCs with Vista Home Premium or Ultimate that are bought between now and October 2009 are eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 7.

Macs are more expensive but are immune to most, if not all, of the viruses and spyware out in the wild. While Apple's phone support is only available free for 90 days, you can get unlimited technical support through the Genius Bar if you live near an Apple store. Apple released its most recent version of OS X, called Snow Leopard, in September 2009.

If you're satisfied with your current operating system, there's no need to switch. PCs and Macs are able to do almost anything the other one can. If you decide to switch, you'll need to spend some time relearning how to use your computer and you may need to buy new versions of software you already own.

Graphics adapter and video RAM

A computer's graphics adapter is either integrated onto the motherboard or on a separate internal plug-in card. In addition to feeding the computer's display with an analog (VGA) or a digital (DVI) signal, a graphics adapter might have an output such as an S-video or HDMI port to feed video to an external TV (common), or accept video from an external analog source (rare). But an adapter can always display video from sources such as a file, a DVD, an external analog feed, or a TV tuner. All desktops and laptops come with a minimum of integrated graphics capability for watching DVDs or playing casual games such as solitaire. Video RAM, or VRAM, is secondary RAM that works with the graphics processor to provide smooth video imaging and game play. To run Windows Vista's 3D interface or play 3D-intensive games, we recommend at least 256 MB or more.

Video adapter and video memory

Also known as the video card, video accelerator, or graphics card, this is responsible for drawing what you see on your screen. There are two types of video adapters: integrated and discrete. The vast majority of computers sold have integrated video, which is slower and uses up part of your system's memory. That said, integrated video is perfectly fine as long as you don't plan to play complex 3D games like The Sims or World of Warcraft. Otherwise choose discrete video, which is faster and uses its own video memory. If you choose discrete, make sure that it has at least 256MB of video memory. Hard-core gamers should get 512MB to 1GB of video memory.

Video outputs

If you're buying a desktop, check to see what video outputs it has. Almost all desktops have an analog VGA output, which is compatible with flat-panel LCDs and older CRT monitors. Some have a digital DVI output for use with LCDs; this delivers a much cleaner and crisper image on the screen. If you're buying a laptop, a VGA output can be used with a projector for delivering presentations. The newest desktops and laptops might have an HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) output to feed video to an external HDTV.

Hard drive

Also known as a hard disk, this is where your programs, documents, music, photos, and videos are stored. Bigger is better. Hard drive sizes are measured in gigabytes (GB) and commonly range from 160 to 750GB. You'll even see drives of 1 terabyte (1,000GB). While size matters, speed is equally important. Speed is measured in RPMs (revolutions per minute). A slow hard drive will take longer to start up programs such as Windows) and complete tasks (such as installing programs or scanning your hard drive for viruses). For desktops, make sure it has a 7,200RPM hard drive. For laptops, make sure it has a 5,400RPM hard drive.

Hard drives often fail, and when they do you need to have a backup to recover your data. The best option is an external hard drive. These connect to your computer through a USB (slowest, but most common), FireWire, or eSATA (fastest, but least common) port. Some desktops offer portable hard drive bays, which save space by letting you insert a removable hard drive inside the desktop.

Some high-end desktops and laptops can be configured with a RAID (redundant array of identical disks) array. These computers have two or more hard drives. There are several types of RAID arrays, the most common being RAID 0 and RAID 1. RAID 0 distributes your data across multiple hard disks, which can greatly improve speed. But if one drive fails, you'll lose data on all of your hard disks. On the other hand, RAID 1 automatically copies data from one hard disk to the other. There is no speed boost, but if one crashes, all your data will be safe on the other one.

SSDs (solid-state drives) are on the cutting edge of storage technology, allowing your computer to access data without the moving parts required by a traditional hard drive. So-called flash drives don't have the spinning disk of a conventional hard drive, so they use less power, work quieter, and should be more resistant to damage from rugged use. And because there are no moving parts, they promise quicker access to data Netbooks are an exception; they may be bundled with very small solid-state drives that perform worse than traditional hard drives.

Optical drive

This lets you read and write to CDs, DVDs, and Blu-Ray discs. DVD burners (also known as DVD+/-RW) are standard gear on today's computers. DVD burners can read and write to CDs and DVDs so you can backup your home-video footage or digital photos, for example. Recordable CDs (CD-R) can hold up to 700MB of data. Recordable DVDs (DVD+R, DVD-R, or DVD-RAM) can hold up to 4.7GB of data (single layer) or 8.5GB of data (dual layer).

With the HD disc format wars over, Blu-ray Disc (BD) drives are the newest standard. BD drives are capable of playing the growing list of Blu-ray movies and can store up to 25GB of data (single layer) or 50GB of data (dual layer), almost six times the capacity of a DVD.

Monitor

For desktops: Unless you're a graphic artist, there's little reason to choose an almost-extinct CRT. LCDs offer numerous advantages over the CRT, chief among them their smaller footprint. Sizes range from 15 to 24 inches and larger (measured diagonally). The most common sizes are 19 and 20 inches.

Better LCD displays can use a DVI connection, found on some PCs with graphics processors. You can often obtain a deep discount on an LCD monitor by buying it bundled with a new computer at a manufacturer's Web site.

Display

For desktops, LCD sizes range from 19 to 24 inches and larger (measured diagonally), with 19- and 22-inch displays most common. Most are widescreen, which are designed to fit widescreen movies better without the black bars, but give you less screen area per inch over a non-widescreen display. Those who plan to edit or view photos or videos may also want to pay attention to differences in color, viewing angle, contrast, and brightness. You can often obtain a discount on an LCD monitor by buying it bundled with a new computer.

For laptops, a 15- to 16-inch display, measured diagonally, should suit most people. Displays that are 13, 14, and 17 inches are also common. The screens on most laptops are glossy instead of matte. Glossy screens have more saturated colors and deeper blacks, but are also much more prone to glare. Like desktop displays, most laptops have widescreen displays to fit widescreen movies better.

LED-backlighted displays are making their way into laptops, resulting in more efficient use of power and longer battery life. Color on LED-backlighted screens is sometimes better, sometimes worse than displays using older technologies.

Battery

For laptops: When not plugged into a wall outlet, laptops use a rechargeable lithium-ion battery for power. Laptops go into sleep mode when used intermittently, extending the time between charges. You can lengthen battery life if you dim the display, turn off wireless when not needed, and use only basic applications. Playing a DVD movie uses more battery power than other functions, but most laptops should be able to play one through to the end. Many laptops can accept an 'extended' battery, adding size and weight but giving as much as twice the battery life.

Case

For desktops: Form factors for computers are more varied now. In addition to the most common tower format, you can find all-in-one and small-form-factor (SFF) computers. Mainstream computers usually come in towers, which fit on top of or under a desk. The all-in-one form factor, such as the Apple iMac, packs all the components into the same enclosure as the LCD display. Only the keyboard and mouse are separate. Sony, HP, Dell, and Gateway also have all-in-one models. SFF cases include the Dell Studio Hybrid and the Apple Mac mini.

Networking

For connecting to the Internet, all desktops come with an Ethernet port that lets you run a wire between your desktop and your router. But if it's not possible to run such a wire through your home, consider a Wi-Fi wireless adapter. Some desktops have this built-in, while others require you to buy one and install it separately. You'll also need a wireless router. All laptops come with wireless built-in, and most have a wired Ethernet port as well.

Wireless adapters run either the older 802.11g standard or the newer 802.11n standard (which is backward-compatible to 802.11g). Unless you have an exceptionally large house, there's no reason to buy an 802.11n wireless adapter. 802.11g is less expensive and fast enough for most people's needs, and its range is wide enough to cover a medium-sized house. If you do select an 802.11n adapter, make sure your router supports 802.11n as well.

Mouse

Desktops typically come with a mouse to move the cursor on the screen. Most mice bundled with desktops are optical mice, which have light sensors on their underside to track movement. To save a few dollars, some manufacturers, notably eMachines and Compaq, bundle ball mice. Those are less accurate than optical mice, and unlike an optical mouse they require you to periodically clean the ball's rollers. Mice come in all shapes and sizes. Some are ergonomically contoured to match the shape of your palm, while others are designed to be stylish. They can also be either wired or wireless. You won't have to deal with a cord if you have a wireless mouse, but you will have to recharge or replace the batteries every few months.

Touchpad

Most laptops use a small touchpad in place of a mouse; you slide your finger across it to move the cursor. You can also program the pad to respond to a 'tap' as a 'click,' or scroll as you sweep your index finger along the pad's right edge. Touchpads come in various sizes; the larger ones let you move the cursor farther across the screen without lifting your finger. Some new models let you use multi-fingered gestures for zooming and rotating images. An alternative system uses a pointing stick the size of a pencil eraser in the middle of the keyboard. You can attach a USB or wireless mouse or trackball if you prefer.

Keyboard

Most computers come with a standard wired keyboard. Some keyboards have CD (or DVD) controls that let you pause, play back, change tracks, and change the volume. Some also have additional keys to expedite getting online, starting a search, launching programs, or retrieving e-mail. Like mice, keyboards can also be wireless.

Sound system

Computers for home use feature a high-fidelity sound system that plays CDs or downloaded music files, synthesized music, game sounds, and DVD-movie soundtracks. Three-piece speaker systems with a subwoofer have deeper, more powerful bass. Surround-sound systems can turn a PC into a home theater. There are connections for an external audio source (such as a microphone) and for headphones.

For laptops: The small speakers built into laptops often sound tinny. And a brand name like Altec Lansing or Harmon Kardon doesn't mean that they'll sound good. Headphones or external speakers deliver much better sound. But some larger laptops include much better speakers and even a subwoofer for deeper bass.

Speakers

Most desktops come with a basic pair of two-piece speakers. The only exceptions are Compaq and HP, which do not bundle any speakers with most of their retail desktops. Computers with three-piece speakers include a subwoofer; these tend to sound much better than two-piece speakers. If you plan to turn your computer into a home theater, consider six-piece speakers, which add a front speaker and two rear speakers for surround sound.

If you're buying a laptop, in most cases don't expect good sound. If you plan to listen to music on your laptop, consider a good set of headphones or a separate set of three-piece speakers.

Most computers offer connections for a pair of headphones or a microphone. Some offer digital coaxial or optical connections so you can plug the computer into your home theater system.

Ports

The ports to look for on a computer include USB, FireWire, Ethernet, and S-video or HDMI. USB ports let you connect many add-on devices, such as digital cameras or external hard drives, as well as a memory drive for copying files to and from the hard drive. Having these ports at the front of the case makes connecting devices more convenient. An Ethernet port or wireless network card lets you link several computers in the household to share files, a printer, or a broadband Internet connection. FireWire or IEEE 1394 ports are used to capture video from digital camcorders and connect to other peripheral devices. An S-video or HDMI output jack lets you run a video cable from the computer to a television so you can use the computer's DVD drive to view a movie on a TV instead of on the computer monitor. Media-center PCs (equipped with TV tuners) can also capture video from a VCR, letting you copy tapes to DVDs. The once-ubiquitous modem port is disappearing from new PCs as dial-up Internet access marches toward oblivion. Other slots to look for on a new computer are memory-card readers for flash cards.

For laptops: Most laptops let you attach those devices without the docking station. At least two USB ports for easy hookup of, say, a printer, digital camera, or scanner are standard. A wired network (Ethernet) port is also standard. A FireWire port for digital-video transfer is common. An internal wireless-network (Wi-Fi) adapter is standard. Another option is an internal Bluetooth wireless adapter to link to a Bluetooth-capable cell phone, camera, or another laptop.

Card slots

For laptops: Portable computers usually include at least one PC-card or ExpressCard slot for expansion. You might add a wireless-network card or a cellular modem if those are not built in.

Docking station

For laptops: Some notebooks offer a connection for a docking station, a $100 to $200 base that makes it easy to connect an external monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, network, and power in one step.

Log-on security

For laptops: A growing number of notebooks include fingerprint scanners as a convenient alternative to typing a password when logging in. Some of Lenovo's laptops use face-recognition technology, as do some from Toshiba and other manufacturers. Lenovo's new IdeaPad uses VeriFace technology when you log in. With VeriFace, your face is scanned, via the laptop's webcam, and then scanned again to make sure it matches the initial scan every time you log in.

See also:

Inkjet & laser printers

Monitors

Data backup options

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