# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Mike Jackman explains the differences among nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride, and lithium ion batteries, and how to properly maintain each for optimal performance.

It's vital hardware, and your laptop isn't going to get very far without it, but how often do you give a thought to your battery? In this Daily Feature, I'm going to give you some powerful facts that will get you charged about batteries.

What's under the hood?
Three types of batteries power the laptops you'll find in service today, nickel cadmium (NiCad), nickel metal hydride (NiMH), and lithium ion (Li-ion), with Li-ion being the most common in newer laptops. Each battery type has a different chemistry for generating a charge and, therefore, different characteristics.

Capacity
The capacity of batteries is measured by power delivered per battery weight, rate of self-discharge, and useful cycles. Power is often measured in watt-hours per kilogram, or Wh/kg. Self-discharge refers to the fact that all batteries lose power when they're stored. Cycle refers to how many times a battery can be taken from a full charge to a full discharge before the battery can no longer hold power.

The fact that batteries discharge over time is affected by temperature. At higher temperatures, the discharge rate is faster. The general rule to follow is to store them in a cool place and use them at room temperature.

Nickel cadmium
In tests performed in a lab by Cadex Electronics, Inc., nickel cadmium batteries had a life of 1500 cycles, which means they went from full charge to full discharge 1500 times before giving out. Because of the chemistry of this battery, however, NiCads can suffer from a so-called memory effect. The memory effect is a chemical reaction that takes place if the battery is not fully discharged before recharging. In this reaction, crystals form that inhibit a full charge. The battery seems to "remember" a lower level of charging. Incidentally, full discharge never means taking the battery down to 0 volts, which can irreversibly damage the battery. It means taking the battery down to a rated End of Discharge Voltage (EODV).

Cadex found in its tests that if NiCad batteries are not "exercised," or periodically maintained by full discharge and charge cycles, their useful life could be reduced by up to three times. In that case, the batteries would last only 500 cycles. Therefore, it's important if you're using a computer (or any other battery-powered equipment) that you maintain these batteries. Of the three types, NiCad cells have a middling shelf life. If stored at room temperature, they'll lose about 20 percent of their charge per month. In fact, they lose 10 percent of their capacity within 24 hours after you take them out of the charger. Within five months, you'll have dead batteries unless you maintain them. On the other hand, if they're properly stored and maintained, they have the longest useful life of the three. They're great performers, too. If taken care of, they'll be able to store nearly the same charge late in life as they did when they were young. Wouldn't we all like to have that capacity?

Nickel metal hydride
The chemistry of this battery gives more power for its weight, which is why it seemed to be a good replacement for NiCad batteries a few years ago. On the other hand, it has a very short shelf life. NiMH cells discharge 30 percent per month. In only three months, unless you maintain them, you've got dead batteries. Another disadvantage is that they last for only 500 cycles, making them the lowest performer in the useful life area. And like NiCad batteries, if you don't fully discharge and recharge them periodically, their useful life is reduced. You could potentially get only 175 cycles out of them. On the other hand, they do better than NiCads when you discharge them only a little bit before recharging. Unlike NiCad cells, you increase the number of cycles when you work with your laptop unplugged for just a little while, then plug it in and recharge the batteries. Remember, NiCads like to be fully emptied, NiMH batteries prefer to be only partially drained.

Lithium ion
Of the types of batteries mentioned here, lithium ion cells have some powerful advantages. They have an energy density of 150 watt-hours per kilogram. Like NiMHs, Li-ion batteries have no memory effect. That is, they don't lose the capacity to fully charge if they aren't fully drained. Left on the shelf, they lose the least power. Their discharge rate, at 10 percent per month, gives them a good storage life (but they must be used within two years of manufacture). This means that you can grab one that you charged up three months ago, and it will still have about 70 percent of its charge left. If you're maintaining a number of laptops, that's good news.

These batteries also have some important disadvantages, however. They have a volatile chemistry. Each lithium ion pack in your laptop must have its own electronic protection circuit that protects against overcharging, over-discharging, and too-high current. Each cell of the battery pack incorporates a built-in safety vent. All three battery types have a safety vent, but unlike NiCad and NiMH batteries, which can withstand some overcharging, the vent in lithium-ion batteries is designed to disconnect the battery permanently if it ever has to be used. It does not reseal. The potential danger of this type is why Li-ion batteries come as a sealed unit including safety electronics. As a helpful part of the circuitry, each Li-ion battery provides a charge indicator. Pressing a button will cause a row of lights to be lit, indicating the charge, as shown in Figure A.

I was surprised to learn that of all the batteries, lithium-ions have the worst useful life. Though they have a slow discharge rate on the shelf, all Li-ion batteries irreversibly lose capacity over time. Even after one year, they lose the ability to be charged to full capacity. Cadex tests indicated that their practical service life is only two years. According to Cadex' document, Batteries for Mobile Computing, "Li-ion batteries should not be stored for long periods of time but consumed like a perishable food." On the other hand, while they don't deliver as many cycles as NiCad batteries, they do provide up to 1000 cycles if they're used within that two-year lifespan. They are also maintenance free. Not only do they suffer no memory effects, they don't need to be periodically discharged and topped off. Like NiMH batteries, shallow discharges actually increase the number of cycles. Unfortunately, these cells are expensive. Keep in mind that your IT department might be better off with a smaller, rotating inventory.

How should I maintain my inventory?
Store batteries in a cool place, preferably refrigerated and placed in a sealed plastic bag to avoid condensation. Bring them up to room temperature before using. To store NiCads, first fully charge and then discharge. When charged NiCads are allowed to self-discharge, they create crystals (the memory effect), which reduces their capacity. NiCads as well as NiMH batteries need to be primed with a slow charge when they come out of storage. On the other hand, Li-ion batteries need to be stored charged. If not, they can lose the ability to charge to full capacity in as little as three months. Further, cells may leak and corrode. When coming out of storage, both NiMH and Li-ion batteries need several charge/discharge cycles for the battery to come up to its optimal capacity.

These days, batteries often come with extra circuits that can tell a charger how best to recharge them. These units are sometimes referred to as "smart" batteries. Consider buying a number of smart chargers that can understand this coding. The charger will automatically apply the right type of voltage, will know whether to use a trickle charge or not, and will basically be able to sense any of the three major battery chemistries discussed here. In addition, superior models will also handle "dumb" batteries. There are even Windows-based software packages that allow you to schedule battery maintenance and monitor battery analyzers/chargers. In any case, get the most advanced chargers you can and use the right charger for the battery chemistry. Many problems with battery life and capacity are due to incorrect charging and recharging. Using the wrong charger for your battery type can be dangerous.

More resources
Much of the information in this Daily Feature came from resources published online by Cadex Electronics, Sony, and Anton Bauer. If you want to learn more about batteries, the Cadex Electronics Web site has excellent content that non-engineers can read and understand. Try The Battery Book, The Battery Faq, and their Articles links. Sony has a good primer on Li-ion batteries, the Lithium-ion Battery Home Page. Anton Bauer, maker of batteries and charging systems for professional video operations, has an online resource called The Video Battery Handbook. While this book covers batteries from the perspective of one type of use, you'll find the technical information to be excellent, especially on chemistries, charging, and capacity.

If your company has many mobile users, then this simple and often overlooked piece of vital hardware can cause your IT department to waste a lot money if it's not correctly maintained and inventoried. In this Daily Feature, I've discussed some of the basic features of the three major types of batteries currently used in notebook computers, and I've also explained how you might best maintain and inventory these batteries.

Mike Jackman is an editor in chief of TechProGuild, an editor of PC Troubleshooter and Windows Support Professional, and also works as a freelance Web designer and consultant. In his spare time (when he can find some), Mike's an avid devourer and writer of science fiction, parent to two perpetually adolescent cats, and a hiking enthusiast.

The authors and editors have taken care in preparation of the content contained herein but make no expressed or implied warranty of any kind and assume no responsibility for errors or omissions. No liability is assumed for any damages. Always have a verified backup before making any changes.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Understanding and maintaining laptop batteries

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Mike Jackman explains the differences among nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride, and lithium ion batteries, and how to properly maintain each for optimal performance. It's vital hardware, and your laptop isn't going to get very far without it, but how often do you give a thought to your battery?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Shop Lenovo's range of stylish & secure laptop bags, backpacks & cases ✔️ Keep your tech protected on the go ✔️ From Lenovo, Targus & more ✔️ FREE SHIPPING

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Monitor or TV Screen?

LCD televisions and larger monitors are similar enough to be used interchangeably. The output of your computer's video card can, with the right connectors, be displayed on your flat screen television. Likewise, with a TV tuner, it's possible to watch television on your monitor. For the sake of argument, our definition of "monitor" here will include similar devices that can be and often are used as such.

Measuring Up

The largest dedicated computer monitors are used for specialty operations such as medical imaging, air traffic control, security, and utility monitoring. Consider Barrco's NSL-4601. Although it is comprised of four tiled LCDs, its total size is 46 inches. At a cost of nearly $6000, it carries a considerably large price tag, but it is still a far cry from the biggest of the big.

Moving beyond this size range brings us to the realm of LCD panels that function primarily for HDTV viewing, but can still be viably used as monitors for computer video. Check out the Sony KDL-70XBR3. According to the specifications, it has inputs for composite, S-video, and component video. Weighing in at 204 pounds, (including its pedestal) with a 70 inch screen, and a price of $33,000, this monster monitor makes the Barrco NSL-4601 look puny by comparison. However, it's still not what could be considered the biggest computer monitor.

LCD and PDP

The absolute biggest LCD monitor in the world, is the Sharp Aquos LB-1085, which, at 108 inches, and weighing 430 pounds, can be purchased for the price of a small house or condominium. It's a bit steep at $150,000.00, but owning the biggest LCD monitor in the entire world means no more worries about "keeping up with the Joneses."

There is a plasma TV in existence that is actually larger than the LB-1085. Meet the LG 120 inch PDPTV. It's actually four tiled 60 inch PDP TVs. As of this writing, it is not yet available and no price has been indicated, which means there's plenty of time to start saving up.

LED Screens

LED technology is what powers the tremendous HDTV screens used in live sporting events and concerts. An example of how big these can get is at the Sun Life Stadium (formerly Dolphin Stadium) in Miami, Florida; its main screen has a width of 137 feet. The Tokyo Racecourse screen is even larger at 8000 square feet. However, the biggest of them all is at the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. At 71 feet, 4 inches high and 159 feet, 7 inches across (just over 11,000 square feet) it is currently the largest screen, bar none, in the world.

The Biggest Computer Monitor

The point at which a monitor ceases to be a computer monitor and becomes a TV screen is subjective, but now you have an idea of the range of possible sizes in context with intended usage.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Monitors have come a long way since the days of the monochrome CRT. The biggest computer monitor available today far exceeds the practical requirements of the individual workstation user. Since LCD monitors and televisions can be used interchangeably, this article includes the biggest HDTV screens, as well as stadium LED screens - the largest in the world!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
How much memory and storage do I need for my computer?

A computer operates in a strange way. It needs a combination of hardware and software systems to process the given information and provide a given output. All of the hardware components become interconnected to each other in a virtual order as soon the power is ON. As a result, the BIOS searches and loads the operating system and other applications (the software) from Read Only Memory (ROM) to Random Access Memory (RAM) that makes the computer ready to use.

Random Access Memory - An Overview:

Random Access Memory or RAM is a temporary memory that accesses data in a random order. These devices are used as the main memory in computer systems. RAM's are the expensive form of data storage devices but their faster access to data outweighs the cost. A key function of this dynamic memory is to read and write data as long the power is connected. It stores the input data ( input as a result of running a particular program) in a temporary manner. The processor then accesses the data from RAM for further processing.

RAM is both used for storing the information temporarily and other massive amounts of non-random data ( permanent mass storage) such as the Hard Disk Drive ( HDD). Depending on the usage requirements, every type of personal computer uses a certain amount of Random Access Memory for faster access to data. The storage capacity of RAM is directly proportional to CPU performance. Higher memories improve efficiency of computers and enhance system capabilities during routine processing of information.

Memory And Storage Requirements For A Computer:

In a typical computer system, the maximum amount of RAM might be 8GB or more which is minimal as compared to the amount of HDD capacity it may have. This difference in the memory size reflects the efficiency and performance of RAM which makes them relatively expensive as compared to other storage devices. Depending on the usage necessities, memory and storage requirements for a normal computer can vary from user to user. Here is a brief explanation of the case with memory size recommendations from experts for better performance and enhanced CPU capabilities.
Casual Usage:
Computers which are used on a casual basis do not need a higher memory size. They are mostly used on an occasional basis for a few tasks. Some of the common tasks that are infrequently performed include internet browsing, emailing and listening to music. The recommended memory size for similar computers is 1 GB-2 GB; however, one may further improve it for better performance.
Frequent Usage:
Some users use their computers more frequently for a range of processes. They often need more operations on a daily basis. Together with browsing the internet and sending emails to friends, they may also use word processing applications and other graphics programs. To allow a multitasking capability, experts recommend a 2 GB-4 GB memory size for computers which are frequently used.
Power Usage:
Computers are more frequently used in the education fields as compared to others. Unlike frequent or casual use machines, these computers are used for intensive multitasking that needs quite a noticeable memory size. Students mostly use them for photo and video editing, gaming, and graphical programs. Experts recommend a minimal of 4 GB-8 GB memory size for similar computers.
Professional Usage:
A computer that is used for professional purpose needs more memory as compared to others. These computers are mostly used for multimedia editing, high-performance gaming, 3D modeling, and graphics designing. Both performance and improved efficiency are the key objectives in a professional environment and this is why an 8 GB-16 GB memory size is recommended for similar computers.

When To Upgrade Your RAM?

Users with 2GB or less memory size can benefit from a RAM upgrade to enhance system capabilities unless they hardly use their computers just for a single application at one time. Depending on your system usage, you may observe Task Manager to check if the memory usage is crossing the limit. If the memory is reaching its limit, it's better to go for an upgrade so that the system performance is improved.

Users must also analyse the proper utilising of memory before deciding to upgrade. The best tool to analyse it is the Resource Monitor which is included both in older and latest versions of the leading operating systems. Resource Monitor gives a quick view of resources that are being used. This also provides a detailed analytics on why resources were being used and how often the operating system was forced to push into Page-File due to lack of RAM.

Benefits Of Upgrading Your RAM:

When computer problems come up on a regular basis that affects its functionality and performance, a memory upgrade is the most cost effective and efficient solution. This involves adding more RAM chips into the computer. There are different reasons that cause computer problems and this is why a memory upgrade is considered. Users can get the following benefits from upgrading to a higher memory size.

Avoid Computer Slowdowns:

More memory means more operations can run at one. Upgrading memory highly beneficiate those who process multitasks at once. Computers with small memory size may experience a major slowdown when working on multiple programs at a time. This problem is eliminated with RAM upgrade and extra memory is allocated for future use which avoids the option for using HDD as a virtual memory.

Extra Programs Availability:

Every single program needs a specified amount of memory. If the memory usage reaches its limit, not even a single program will run properly. Upon upgrading the RAM, users can easily enhance their PC's overall capabilities and performance. A memory upgrade can make a computer clever enough to run programs that it may have been unqualified to run before.

Faster Browsing:

Faster browsing is a major problem for internet surfers with limited memory size. This experience tends to be noticeably faster after a memory upgrade. Computers with higher RAM's can load web pages faster irrespective to the speed of internet connection. Upgrading memory to a higher size reduce the chances for a computer to use HDD memory which slow down the overall performance.

Enhanced Network:

Computer systems which are operating in an enterprise environment are connected to a network for using shared resources such as a printer. These computers can experience a massive boost in the network capabilities once the RAM is upgraded. Printable items with heavy graphics need more time on the network which may results in a slower printing experience on the network.

Enhanced Gaming:

Upgrading memory is beneficial for users who love gaming. This upgrade can make their games run smoothly with boosted response time. RAM upgrade can avoid those jerky movements and poor visuals that users can experience before. The memory upgrade can improve a computer's efficiency in making the images cleaner and brighter with improved 3D rendering capability.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How much memory and storage do I need for my computer?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
How much memory and storage do I need for my computer? A computer operates in a strange way. It needs a combination of hardware and software systems to process the given information and provide a given output. All of the hardware components become interco

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
When it comes to video games, console platforms like Xbox and Playstation tend to get all of the attention - but if you're looking for the absolute cutting edge of gaming technology, you'll need to get a gaming PC.

Gaming computers are like gaming consoles on steroids: They can include a faster processor, a better video card, and can even work with headphones that support audio innovations like Dolby Atmos. Top-tier games, and even some exclusive titles, are easy to find for PC, and best of all, gaming computers can be easily upgraded, so you can always customize it to create your perfect gaming setup.

If you're ready to level-up your video gaming experience, or you're ready to take your first step beyond console gaming, you're in luck. Gaming computers are more powerful, and more affordable than ever - here's what you need to know to find the ideal one for you.

What is a gaming computer?

A few factors make gaming computers different from regular computers. These are things that most computers have (like a video card, CPU, and RAM), but in a gaming PC, you'll find maxed-out versions.

You can play games on a standard PC, but you just won't reach the level of performance that most serious gamers crave. If you want to play the newest games online with your friends, a gaming computer is the only way (though most of the time, you can't play online games with players on consoles like the Xbox One and PS4).

Below are some of the defining features of a gaming computer.

Cpu (central processing unit)

This is the "processor" - the part of a computer that does the thinking and heavy lifting. The CPU attaches to the motherboard and carries out instructions and processes.

Gpu (graphics/video card)

This is the component that renders graphics, performs texture mapping, and maintains a smooth and high frame rate (ideally 60 fps). Graphics cards in most computers will not be able to play games on the highest settings. The main function of the GPU, beyond rendering polygons, is taking work from the CPU.

Ram (memory)

Distinct from internal storage (i.e., a hard drive), RAM allows for high-speed gameplay and helps your CPU handle a lot of things going on at once. You can't run out of RAM the same way you run out of storage space - think of it as temporary storage space - but RAM capacity and speed significantly impact how much your computer can handle at once.

Cooling systems

Since most people use their computers primarily for web browsing, or at the very most, graphic design, they aren't pushing their computers to the limit in terms of processing and rendering. Top-of-the-line GPUs and CPUs generate a lot of heat. Heat is the primary cause of lag (drops in frame rate) and thus should always be dealt with using an efficient, often water-based cooling system. A heatsink can also keep your CPU from slowing, especially when paired with a great cooling system.

Storage

Game files are big, so a big hard drive is often necessary. Your hard drive is where your computer stores information - your games, files, and operating system all live here. 512GB or 1TB is usually enough, and if you have free USB ports, external drives are always an option. But as far as performance goes, the question isn't how much space, but what type of hard drive to get. A solid state hard drive (SSD) is the fastest choice, as it will reduce load times significantly. Traditional hard disk drives (HDD) are cheaper by the GB, but load times will be slower. This choice comes down to your price range and patience.

Laptop or desktop?

This question is as much about lifestyle as it is about your gaming style. If you travel frequently and need something to distract you on planes or in hotel rooms, you might consider a gaming laptop.

Laptops

A decent gaming laptop will be able to handle the latest games, albeit not always on the highest settings. But for a flexible, portable gaming experience, a laptop is ideal.

There are two drawbacks to a laptop:

The compact design of laptops makes them naturally more difficult to upgrade, meaning you're almost guaranteed a shorter life span, assuming you're playing the latest games. There is also the risk of theft, laptops being easier targets than desktops. If you're looking for a one-and-done purchase and aren't worried about maxing out your games, a laptop may be right for you.

Desktops

A desktop will almost always outperform a laptop when it comes to power, longevity, ports, and customization.

There are a few drawbacks to a desktop:

If upgrading your computer and staying on the cutting edge of performance are exciting ideas to you, choose a desktop. It's often a bigger investment on the whole, but after the initial purchase, replacing your GPU and RAM won't seem like a big deal, compared to replacing the whole machine.

Features to consider

It's nice to have options, and you don't want to plug in your computer only to realize it's missing a functionality you need. On the other hand, don't pay for extra features that you'll never use.

Vr compatibility

If VR is something you're interested in, make sure your computer meets the minimum requirements of your VR system of choice. And even if it does, make sure you have a quiet cooling system that can handle the processing power required by VR. Nothing takes you out of an immersive digital experience like buzzing fans.

On the other hand, if VR isn't for you, don't get a package deal that includes a VR headset. Put that extra money toward features you care about - or just save it.

Connectivity and ports

Most towers won't do much moving around, so WiFi might not be a feature you're interested in. On the other hand, make sure you've got enough USB ports for your accessories.

Windows and lights

Admiring the inside of your machine is fun, particularly if you've done some customization and cable management. This is a stylistic choice, and if your tower's going under your desk, fancy visuals might not be worth the extra cost.

Upgradability

For future-proofing your computer, be sure it's easy to upgrade. Check to see what tools you need to get in the case, and whether the motherboard has one, two, or four RAM slots. It's good to have options, if you need them.

Included accessories

In some cases, you'll pay for just the tower or laptop. In others, the package will include a keyboard, mouse, or monitor. Each of these items deserve as much consideration as your computer, so if they're part of the deal, do your research. You may not like the style of the keyboard or mouse, or you might want a 4K monitor instead of a 1080p monitor.

FAQ

Q. How long will my gaming computer last?
A. This depends on how frequently (if at all) you upgrade parts, and whether you're playing newly released games. You can expect your computer to handle new games for five or six years before you need to consider upgrades.

Q. How do I know if my computer can handle certain games?
A. Most games will list both minimum and recommended specifications on the manufacturer's website. You don't have to run every game on max settings, but if you can, go for it! Required specs will include your video card, RAM, CPU, and OS ratings.

Q. How much should a gaming computer cost?
A. Most gaming computers start around $600, with laptops running slightly cheaper. Many will be closer to $1000. This varies, based on brand, accessories, and technical specs. Don't pay more for features you won't need.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
5 Best Gaming Computers - July 2021 - BestReviews

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
When it comes to video games, console platforms like Xbox and Playstation tend to get all of the attention - but if you're looking for the absolute cutting edge of gaming technology, you'll need to get a gaming PC.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
{{currentCategory.title}}
No Upgrade Items

{{item.qty}} x {{item.qty}}x {{item.name}}
Total {{calcTotalMemoryCapacity(item.qty, item.specs.capacity) }}GB {{kitInfo.memory_channels_string}} Channel Memory
{{item.promo.text_a}}

{{item.short_description.length>90 ? item.short_description.substring(0, 70) + '...' : item.short_description}} More

No Upgrade Items

Dual {{item.qty}} x {{item.qty}}x {{item.name}}
Total {{calcTotalMemoryCapacity(item.qty, item.specs.capacity) }}GB {{kitInfo.memory_channels_string}} Channel Memory
{{item.promo.text_a}}

{{item.short_description.length>90 ? item.short_description.substring(0, 70) + '...' : item.short_description}} More

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Mid Tower Pc Case, Mini Tower Pc, Best Gaming Computer Builders

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

It can be tricky to choose the right laptop for a child. If they're very young, it's a matter of balancing the laptop's performance with its physical size and durability. If the laptop is too big and heavy, it may make it difficult for them to type on or carry around, which increases the chances that it'll get dropped. Look for enhanced durability features like those seen in the ASUS Chromebook C202SA at Walmart. Spill-proof keyboards and impact-resistant frames-you don't want a single tip-off the table or a spilled cup of juice to wipe out your investment. Some kid-friendly laptops like the ASUS VivoBook S15 at Amazon also come with features like tamper-proof keys and lay-flat hinges to protect against common types of mishandling. In terms of software, you can keep an eye out for parental control features like content filtering and screen time limits. And no matter the age of the child, automatic security updates are always a plus.

If you're buying a laptop for an older child, then rubber bumpers probably aren't a priority. Speed, performance, and price are likely your top concerns, and you want to make sure their laptop has the right kind of specs for effective multitasking. For more deals on laptops and other remote learning essentials, make sure to head over to our guide to deals on homeschool supplies. The best laptops for kids will incorporate a powerful processor and a decent amount of memory to facilitate quick app switching and smoother performance when they're browsing the internet, running complex applications, or attending virtual classes.

If you're shopping for an older child who needs more power and multitasking capabilities, a bigger screen and a better processor can go a long way. Most mid- and budget-priced laptops have small displays. But the ASUS VivoBook manages to offer a spacious 14-inch screen while staying in an affordable price range. The secret is super-thin "NanoEdge" bezels that maximize the size of the display without adding unnecessary bulk to the laptop body. A larger screen makes it easier to open multiple windows at once, and the VivoBook S14 supports this kind of multitasking with impressive processing power. It comes with a powerful 11th gen processor from Intel, 8GB of memory, and a 512GB SSD. Also, unlike the many Chromebooks on this list, the VivoBook S14 runs the more full-featured Windows 10 operating system. With fun color options, a plethora of ports, and impressive performance for the price, the VivoBook S14 is an all-around great value and a solid choice if you need a laptop that's a little more sophisticated.

Final Verdict

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet is a great option for most kids because it combines affordability and easy-to-manage security features with a versatile 2-in-1 design. If you're shopping for a younger child, we'd recommend the Asus Chromebook Flip for its ultra-durable build and kid-friendly keyboard.

About our Trusted Experts

Emmeline Kaser is a former editor for Lifewire's product round-ups and reviews. She is an experienced product researcher specializing in consumer tech.

Thanks for letting us know!

Other Not enough details Hard to understand

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. It can be tricky to choose the right laptop for a child.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
How do you choose a laptop from the hundreds on the market? Here are our top 10 tips.

Laptops offer brilliant portability and power, but they're ultimately less flexible than a desktop. Once you've made your choice, you've made it.

You could just decide upon a budget and grab whatever a big manufacturer such as Dell, Lenovo, HP, or Acer is selling for that price, but what if the machine doesn't do what you want? What if the keyboard or screen isn't right, or it doesn't have all the ports you need? You can't just swap out your keyboard monitor and while you can do things like upgrade the RAM or move up to a bigger or faster hard drive, doing those things is not as easy as it is on a desktop PC.

For this reason you need to think carefully about what you need your laptop for before you hand over your cash. In this buying guide, we'll cut through some of the confusion by taking you through the different kinds of laptop available, providing an overview of the different specifications you'll come across.

When you're done, read our best laptop round-up

Video: How to choose a laptop

There's no best laptop overall; it really depends on your own requirements and budgets, and size will play a big part in that.

Laptops tend to be divided into categories based on the diagonal size of their screens, in inches. This is because a laptop's screen size also determines the overall size of its chassis. A laptop with a huge 17-inch screen will be fantastic for work and gaming, and is likely to feature a decent-sized keyboard to make typing easier, but will be far bigger and heavier than a 13-inch model.
Gaming notebooks are technically laptops, but most of them aren't what you'd call portable

You need to think carefully about whether you'll be travelling with your laptop or using it only at home; there isn't much point buying an ultra-light 13-inch model (£500-£700 approx) if you're going to use it on a desk at home most of the time. Likewise, a 17-inch powerhouse (around £600-£1000) makes a good replacement for a desktop PC, but is unlikely to fit in a rucksack, and if it did, you might not be happy with lugging around something that weighs something a little shy of 3kg, like Acer's Helios 300.

A 15-inch model (around £300-£500) offers a decent compromise between ease of use and portability: as long as it weighs around 2kg or less, you probably won't mind taking it on the train. If you want something super-lightweight, opt for a laptop with a display of 11-13 inches.

The size of the screen isn't everything; resolution should also be taken into account. The minimum resolution you'll generally find is 1,366 x 768 pixels. This is fine for the majority of tasks. It's even possible to work on two applications side by side with this many pixels, especially since so many modern web pages reformat themselves to suit the available screen space.

The Dell XPS 13 has a high-resolution 13.3-inch screen, which means you'll have to scale it up to see it clearly

On laptops with smaller screens, a larger resolution doesn't always mean more space. When a laptop has a greater number of pixels in a small area, the operating system has to scale everything up, or else text and icons would be too small to see properly.

There isn't a huge amount more space for applications on a 15-inch laptop with a 1,920 x 1,080 screen than on a 15-inch model with a 1,366 x 768 screen. However, the higher resolution does mean that text and icons will be far smoother, and therefore easier to see.

To get an idea of exactly what it is you're looking for in a screen, it pays to go into a store and try a few out. Your eyesight and working preferences will decide what sort of screen you go for.

Most laptops still offer a traditional clam-type design, with a screen that folds down onto the keyboard and touchpad. There are a few that buck the trend, however. Some laptops keep the traditional shape but add a touchscreen, which can be fun for creative tasks such as drawing or making music. Others have a touchscreen that can fold back behind the keyboard, turning the laptop into a tablet - these are typically called 2-in-1s.

Models such as Microsoft's Surface range and the various Asus Transformers have screens which detaches entirely from the rest of the device, to make a proper tablet free from the weight and bulk of the keyboards.

The Microsoft Surface Book is the most expensive 2-in-1 you can buy

These specialist tablets are fine if you want to use the specific applications that take advantage of a touchscreen, such as design or music programs, but they're far more expensive than standard laptops. If you're not 100% sure you what or need this flexibility, you're probably better off sticking with a normal laptop.

Due to the constraints placed on them by the laptop's physical size, laptop keyboards tend to be more varied than desktop models. For a start, there's room for a numeric keypad on only larger laptops, and then only on certain models.

Also, many laptops have small arrow keys, or backslash keys that are on the right rather than the left of the keypad. Only some laptops have Home, End and Page Up and Page Down keys, too; if there isn't a physical key for such functions, you'll need to use a Function (Fn) key combination instead. If you rely on these keys to navigate around a text document look for a laptop where all these functions are replicated by separate physical keys.

The 12-inch MacBook has 'Butterfly' keys, but their shallow travel won't suit everybody

Laptop keyboards can vary wildly in quality, too. Some are unpleasant to type on thanks to horrid flex in the middle of the keyboard tray when you type. If you're unable to try out the keyboard for yourself in a shop, we'd recommend that you at least read some reviews to see if there are any major problems. After all, you'll have to live with a sub-standard keyboard as long as you have the laptop.

The same is true of a laptop's touchpad. This is one of the foremost ways in which you interact with your laptop, so it needs to work well. Unfortunately, many laptop touchpads are awful. There's a trend for making the buttons part of the main touchpad, which, when implemented poorly, can mean your cursor jumps all over the place when you perform a click.
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 has an excellent Precision Touchpad

Plenty of touchpads don't respond accurately to finger movement, or have squishy buttons that make it difficult to determine whether you've registered a click. Most modern touchpads support gestures, where you can use two fingers to scroll or to pinch-to-zoom - but, again, how easy these gestures are to use varies widely between laptops.

Nowadays, many laptops come with Microsoft-approved Precision Touchpads, putting an end to years of mediocre Windows laptop touchpads that were massively outclassed by those found on Apple's MacBooks. If you do pick up a laptop with a poor touchpad, there's always the option of carrying a USB travel mouse in your bag, which brings us to...

A laptop has limited room around its base, so has far fewer ports than a desktop PC. For this reason, think carefully about what you need to plug in. For a start, some laptops have as few as two USB ports. If you have a printer and a mouse plugged in and want to grab some photos off your camera, you'll need to unplug something - unless your laptop has a built-in SD card reader, as many do. Many current laptops have at least one USB 3 port for faster data transfers, too.

Larger laptops tend to have at least three USB ports, which will be fine for most people. Also bear in mind that many modern laptops don't have built-in DVD drives, so if you want to read and burn discs then you'll need to budget around £20 for a USB model - and make sure you have enough spare ports.
The Asus ZenBook Pro UX501VW has a decent selection of ports

USB 3.1 ports are starting to appear on the latest high-end laptops. These ports are usually of the smaller Type-C variety, but they open up a world of possibilities when it comes to transfer speeds and peripherals. A single USB 3.1 port can host a load of high-power and high-performance peripherals such as displays and external hard disks via an external dock, which can be expensive but extremely practical.

Also consider networking: Although all laptops have built-in wireless networking (if you have a fancy 802.11ac router, check your laptop's wireless chip supports AC, so you get the best transfer speeds), not all have an Ethernet plug. We find this is an issue mainly when travelling, since some hotels offer poor wireless connections but fast Ethernet networking in each room. USB-to-Ethernet adapters are available for as little as £10, but bear in mind that this will use up one of your precious USB ports.

Video outputs are important, too: HDMI is the most common video output on laptops, which will serve to connect to most TVs and monitors (if not 4K models - very few laptops have the necessary HDMI 2.0 connector). Only some business models now have VGA outputs, which you may need to connect to an office projector in the boardroom. HDMI-to-VGA connectors cost less than £10, so this isn't a big deal.

Hopefully by now you have an idea of what the outside of your laptop should look like, so now it's time to worry about the innards. First up is RAM. Unless you're buying a seriously cheap laptop, opt for at least 4GB, so you don't have to worry about how many browser tabs you have open at once. If you're going to be editing video, you'll ideally need at least 8GB, although this amount of RAM is now common even in inexpensive laptops.
You don't need a beefy gaming laptop to get things done, but it helps

Processor choice is trickier. You should aim for at least an Intel Core i3 processor, which will comfortably cope with web browsing and office work, and consider a Core i5 chip for more intensive tasks such as dealing with large images and editing and encoding video. Laptops with Core i7 chips are expensive but super-quick, so are worth considering if you want the best possible performance.
Video: Intel Core i3, i5 and i7 processors explained

Be aware that not all Core chips are created equal - special low-voltage versions can muddy the waters. See our Core i3, i5 and i7 Explained article for more detail.

There are, of course, AMD-powered laptops on the market, but these are still much less common. Look for an AMD A8 or A10 processor to make sure you're not getting an underpowered laptop.

Most laptops rely on their processor's integrated graphics chipset, usually called something like "Intel HD Graphics". This can play simple 3D games at low resolution at low to medium detail settings, but if you're serious about games then you'll need a laptop with a dedicated Nvidia or AMD graphics chipset. It's hard to determine how quick a graphics chipset will be from the model number, so we recommend searching for graphics benchmarks online to see how a chipset performs in the latest
titles.

Only very expensive laptops can play the latest games at very high detail levels, so if you have the space it may be worth buying a normal laptop and a gaming desktop PC (or a games console) instead.

Related:Best graphics cards

Along with size and weight, this should be a priority if you're planning to travel with your laptop. It isn't always possible to get a seat on a train or in a café near a power socket, after all. Small, light laptops generally offer superior battery life to larger models, chiefly due to being equipped with less powerful low-voltage processors and a smaller screen.

Again, read reviews to see how long a laptop's battery will last; expect five to seven hours for a general-purpose 15-inch laptop, and eight to 10 hours or more from a small, highly portable one. Some high performance laptops are thirsty beasts, mind and may well only give you around four-four and a half hours of unplugged use.

Finally, we come to storage. As is the case on a desktop PC, an SSD will make your laptop boot faster and feel far quicker and more responsive, so is worth looking out for if you can afford it. Unlike on a desktop PC, you can't just buy a small SSD for your operating system and stick in a cheap hard disk for your personal files.
It's not hard to upgrade your laptop's hard disk to an SSD. Read our guide to find out more

The vast majority of laptops have room for only one disk, so you need to make sure it's big enough. Some very cheap netbook-style laptops such as the Acer Aspire One Cloudbook 14 have 32GB of storage, which is barely enough for Windows 10 and some downloaded updates. We'd recommend a minimum of a 120GB SSD, and that's only if you store most of your files in the cloud.

If your laptop is destined for home use and storing gigabytes of photos and music, you should opt for a model with at least 500GB storage. Some have hybrid "SSHD" drives, which combine a slow mechanical hard disk (HDD) with a small SSD cache. These drives store frequently used data, so can speed up boot times and make the programs you use most often load faster. They're a good compromise if your wallet can't stretch to a large SSD.

Nowadays, high-end laptops have SSDs that use the PCI-Express (PCIe) standard. These are often several times faster than a regular SSD and can make a huge differene to performance.

Now you've read our top 10 tips, take a look at our guides to the best laptops you can buy, the best gaming laptops, and the best laptops for students.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Laptop Buying Guide: 10 tips to help you choose the right notebook | Trusted Reviews

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
How do you choose a laptop from the hundreds on the market? Here are our top 10 tips. Laptops offer brilliant portability and power, but they're ultimately less flexible than a desktop. Once you've made your choice, you've made it.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Custom Gaming & Enthusiast PC Blog | Velocity Micro

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Are you thinking of buying a new computer but are still on the fence?

We would all enjoy updating our workstation PCs or gaming computers with each new wave of systems, but this wouldn't be practical or financially possible for most of us. That's why computers are an investment. When you buy one, you know you'll have it for several years or more, with the possibility of upgrading some of the parts. But if you've had your computer for a while and you're seeing signs of it slowing down, how do you know if it's really time to start fresh?

Here are 8 signs that you may need a new computer.

1. Your computer is a major part of your daily life. If your computer is integral to work, school or even gaming, it's time to update it. Slow systems and computer downtime mean lost revenues, more headache and time wasted.

2. Your workstation PC is slow. Before you do away with your PC, clean up the hard drive, run your antivirus software and reinstall the operating system. If that doesn't work, it's probably best to purchase a new machine that can run the newer programs.

3. Your PC is making odd noises. All gaming computers make some type of noise from the fan, the CD drive or the hard drive, but clicking, scraping and other strange noises are not the norm. In fact, it could signal a failing hard drive.

4. You can't run the latest software. If your media creation PC is having a hard time running the latest office applications, or your gaming computer isn't running graphic heavy games, it's time to upgrade so you can take advantage of the latest software.

5. It will cost more to upgrade your computer than replace it. It's wonderful when you have the option to upgrade parts, but sometimes it's more economical to buy a new PC. It makes financial sense to invest in a machine that includes the latest technology rather than putting money into an old system.

6. You've already upgraded your computer. If you've already updated your CAD workstation PC with the latest operating system and hardware, it may be maxed out. Most older machines have limits as far as RAM and hard drive space.

7. You need more space. There may come a time when your computer can no longer hold all of your documents, images, videos, movies and programs. If you have to keep transferring these files onto external storage, you'll benefit from a new system with plenty of space.

8. Your computer has hit its lifespan. Computers don't last forever, even when they're custom made or pre-built to your standards. Your machine may be up and running, and it may even be fine to check email, but if you're struggling to get your work done or play games, you need a newer PC.

If you are in need of a new computer, you're in luck. The holidays are just around the corner, so now is a great time to take advantage of new technology, new programs and new systems at a discounted price. Or, just add it to your list for Santa.

The following two tabs change content below.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
8 Signs You Need a New Computer | Velocity Micro

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Are you thinking of buying a new computer but are still on the fence? We would all enjoy updating our workstation PCs or gaming computers with each new wave of systems, but this wouldn't be practical or financially possible for most of us. That's why computers are an investment.