Laptop computers really are a terrific invention that allow for maximum flexibility. By learning all you can about this type of technology, you will be well-equipped to be an on-the-go worker and really get things done. Keep reading for some great information on what you need to look for and how to get the very best deal.

Get the right sized screen when you buy a laptop. Look at the screen of your computer right now, and decide whether that is going to be a good screen size for your new laptop. In fact, take a look at bigger screens as well. Just keep in mind that the larger the screen is, the more the laptop will weigh.

Consider walking into a store and physically trying a laptop, even if you plan to buy it online. Buying a laptop online is a great idea for a number of reasons, but it can be hard to get a clear idea of what the machine looks like. If you can handle it in a store, you will be more comfortable buying it, whether you buy it right there or online.

When purchasing a new laptop, ask if you have the option of trading in your old computer. Many manufacturers will allow this, and it can save you several hundred dollars on your new laptop purchase. The old laptop is often refurbished and resold, meaning less waste going into landfills as well.

If you're buying a laptop online, know how to ask questions about it. Find out what the brand name is, and tell the person to give you the specs. If they can't tell you then it's probably a good idea to avoid buying from them. Unless you can look over it in person, it's not worth the risk since you don't know what you'll be getting.

Ask your friends about their experiences with laptops that they own. Your friends and family can give you a lot of intelligence on what their favorite brands have been. Look for friends that have similar use cases as you, as those are the laptops you should be targeting in your search. .

If you need to squeeze as much life as possible from your laptop and a recharge is far away, then set your screen to the dimmest setting possible. This will effectively double your battery life. It has been shown that the screen uses the majority of the laptop's battery power.

Be careful when dealing with add-ons. Some laptop manufacturers may sell additional add-ons. Without proper research on them, you shouldn't consider them. It may seem beneficial to get a scanner, printer, camera, etc. you could pay a premium for the add-ons, or something like ink for the printer. Do proper research to make sure anything extra suits your needs so that you don't waste money. Be careful with free add-ons. You need to make sure they don't have a price that's just added to the total computer price.

When you buy a new laptop, spring for a DVD drive on it. While going without one may seem feasible, especially considering the lower price, you could really be up the creek when it comes to installation or repair. When you need to put new software on, update it, or perhaps fix an existing problem, being able to use a disc is essential.

To get to your most often used programs quickly, use the 'pin' feature for easy access. It will pin the program to the Start bar. Right click on the program and click Pin to the Start Menu option. That program's icon will now show up in your Start menu.

To make application icons easier to find on a laptop that uses Windows 7, you need to uncombine the icons. Right click on an empty section of your taskbar, and choose Properties. Then choose "Never Combine" on the buttons menu for the Taskbar. You will never have to separate the icons for your favorite programs again.

If you expect to have your laptop for more than a few years, consider how upgradable the laptop is. You may want some additional memory or better graphics down the line, so a few empty card slots will be a big deal when buying. A laptop that isn't upgradable means less of a shelf life.

Make sure the laptop has a wireless Internet connection. This really comes in handy when you are traveling with your laptop. Many public and private places offer free-wifi so you can access the Internet. You will need a laptop that has a wireless Internet connection in order to do so.

To keep anyone else from using your laptop, choose one that has facial recognition or fingerprint scans, so that only some users can get access to particular documents. You don't want just want anyone viewing your information or proprietary files, so use that extra layer of protection to give yourself peace of mind.

Look for good deals online. When you are in the market for a new laptop, you will want to shop. There are many websites where you can purchase a new laptop at a big discount from retail stores. Starting with a general search can sometimes lead you to amazing prices.

To keep someone else from getting away with your laptop, consider installing a program that reports the location of a stolen computer. Whenever the laptop connects to the Internet, the program reports the precise physical location of the computer. Some programs even allow you to remotely disable your computer or delete or retrieve data.

Go to a store and pick up the laptop model you are considering buying. Put it in your lap or fold it up and attempt to carry it in a bag, with the staff's permission. This will show you exactly how it will feel once you own the machine.

There is no denying the tremendous convenience and portability that laptop computers can provide. However, not everybody has the facts in hand when it comes time to buy one. With your new knowledge now at the ready, you ought to be prepared to hit the market and get exactly what you need.