The Chronicle

Step into the future with the latest in laptop technology

- Tayla Arthur

IN THE ever-advancing world of technology, laptops are definitely one product that is paving the way.

It’s rare these days to come across someone without one, making these portable pieces of power-packed technology a marvel in itself.

But as is the nature of technology, it is constantly evolving — there are always newer, better and brighter features popping up every few months and it can be easy to get lost in the snazzy new features and latest jargon.

If you’re looking to update, whether it’s from your old desktop or your faithful first laptop, make sure you do your research so you can see past the bells and whistles and understand the important points of difference between each model.

Consider what you’ll be needing it for, whether for gaming, office work or school, and the details you aren’t willing to skimp on such as battery life, memory, storage and screen size.

Also consider other design aspects, such as whether you’re after a tablet, hybrid or notebook, and budget for extra luxuries such as touch screen.

Memory is a vital thing to look at when buying a new laptop, and this is ultimately where usage comes into the equation.

While extra RAM may mean extra money spent, the risk of overloadin­g your new laptop and having to put up with poor performanc­e as a result puts your spending in perspectiv­e.

Students and gamers in particular will need the space, so shop for a laptop with more RAM than you’ll require to ensure you’re not left disappoint­ed.

You’ll also want a drive with at least 256GB to allow ample file storage.

In terms of accessorie­s, you can always invest in external hard drives later on as you need them, but these can be expensive and often less portable than the laptop itself.

The next thing to look into is the processor, and it’s best to buy the fastest CPU you can afford.

Dual-core processors are your standard and are fine for basic everyday use; however if you intend using your laptop for any other applicatio­ns, triple-core and quad-core processors are your best bet.

Also make sure you check the ports available in each laptop you look at to make sure they cater for everything you need.

USB ports, and more recently HDMI ports, are often a make or break feature for users, so avoid being disappoint­ed later on when you’re setting up your new purchase and check it out in store. Finally, check the battery life. Laptops are meant to be portable, so make sure the one you buy has sufficient hours on it.

The experience­d staff at Toowoomba’s Harvey Norman Electrical and Wilsonton Betta Home Living have extensive knowledge of their products and have all the big brands in one place, so let them help you find the right laptop and reap

the rewards.

 ?? PHOTO: AGENCY ?? LEAPS AND BOUNDS: Technology is advancing at a rapid pace, and the portabilit­y and special features of laptops make them an everyday must-have.
PHOTO: AGENCY LEAPS AND BOUNDS: Technology is advancing at a rapid pace, and the portabilit­y and special features of laptops make them an everyday must-have.
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