Steez: style with ease (Form Factor)
Hand-in-hand with size is the form factor or style of the computer. What type of handheld computing device do you need? Do you really need a laptop, or will a tablet do because it is much more travel-friendly? Maybe you should look at getting a 2-in-1 combination, which is more portable than a regular laptop, but more powerful than a regular tablet? This choice comes down to portability versus functionality.
The other side of style is construction. If purchasing from a brick-and-mortar store, take a hold of your potential new device if that is an option. See how it fits and feels in-hand. Does it seem flimsy, like one or two drops would put it out of commission? Or does it feel solid and well made? Sometimes one tablet will feel right in your hand, and another one just wont. A test like this can help avoid some major buyer’s remorse in the future.
You don’t have to break the bank (Price)
PC buyers can rest easy in the knowledge that there are many more price points as options as compared to Mac buyers. If the computer fits your needs, you’ll have no issue at all finding something on or around the $400 range. Having said that, make very sure of one thing: that the computer actually fits your needs. Don’t buy more (or less) computer than what you’ll need. Check to be sure that the capabilities of the device meet your expectations, and you won’t be let down.
One thing to look out for when it comes to pricing is the new Intel Core i4 series CPUs (also known as the Haswell). If the need for a computer with that type of bleeding edge tech is required, then spend the extra cash. However, if your budget is smaller and don’t mind last year’s technology, look specifically for computers that don’t have the Haswell built into them, as they’ll most likely be on the discount shelf, if not now, then soon.
