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Laptop ScreenHow big and what resolution a laptop screen do you need?On some systems only one screen resolution is offered, but on others there is a higher resolution option. Both screens take up the same physical size, but on the higher resolution screen, you can fit more programs at once, see more of a web page without scrolling, or see more rows and columns in an excel spreadsheet without zooming. As for size, it is very much a matter of preference. 14.1" or 15" screens (including widescreen versions) are fairly standard right now and provide average size and a pleasant viewing experience. Some laptops come with larger screens which might be perfect if you don't plan on using the laptop in small spaces, or plan on playing lots of games. At home or school, screen size probably is not limited by space around you, but opening one of these large screens on an airplane can be a challenge. A few smaller laptops are available with 13.3" or 12.1" screens. Getting a 12.1" laptop will save you some money, and also will probably be part of a smaller overall system. If portability is your biggest concern, a smaller screen might not be a bad choice at all. Additionally, don't forget that an external monitor can be a great addition to any laptop. Using the laptop screen and an external display at the same time gives double, or more than double the screen real estate for programs and web pages. Getting a smaller or lower resolution laptop monitor could be a good way to save money if you add an external monitor to your system. Recommendations My general recommendation is to go to a local store and actually see the different screen sizes and resolution for yourself. Even if you aren't going to buy a computer there, it's hard to get a good idea of what screen size you want without seeing your options first. Budget System A 14.1" or 15" screen is nice and big, and still can fit into a value system. It'll be hard to find anything inexpensive that's bigger, but dropping down in screen size could save you some money. Be sure to see some screen sizes in person first. As for resolution, 1024x768 or a widescreen variant is probably your only option if you're on a budget. If you can find a deal, you're lucky, but high resolutions screens are expensive, and more pixels will cost you. Value System A 14.1" or 15" screen really is a fine size for a value laptop as well. It provides comfortable viewing while retaining portability. I recommend getting something higher than a 1024x768 screen resolution if you can. Fitting more on the screen simply makes you laptop more usable. You can still get a fine laptop with 1024x768, but go to a store and see for yourself. The difference is dramatic, and the ability to fit more on a screen is a worthwhile upgrade. Alternatively, external lcd displays are cheaper than ever and the extra screen real estate they offer will allow you to get the most out of your laptop. High End System Again a 14.1" or 15" works for this type of system, but also consider even bigger displays. These certainly might be a good choice if you really do not plan on traveling much with the laptop. A high resolution display is a must. 1024x768 just will not cut it for a high end system, unless you really are certain that is the only resolution you are comfortable viewing a screen at. A large, high resolution display can truly make a laptop a worthy replacement for a larger desktop computer. Again, an external monitor makes a lot of sense for this type of system. |
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