Shopping tips

Buy à la carte

If you've settled on a model and prefer not to buy in a store, order from the manufacturer's Web site. Configure-to-order is now common practice for laptops as well as desktops. Menus show you all the options and let you see how a change affects the overall price. You might decide on a less-expensive processor, for example, but spend more for wireless capability or better graphics. Configure-to-order will often give you choices that you won't get if you buy an off-the-shelf model. And it means less chance of overlooking important details. But be sure to double-check your choices before ordering, and look for unwanted items that some manufacturers include by default.

Play down the processor speed

Current processors deliver all the speed most people need. Instead, get at least 2 GB of RAM.

Get all the storage space you paid for

You may have noticed when you bought a new system that a significant chunk of hard-drive space had already been used up. Of course, the operating system and certain preloaded applications eat up a few gigabytes. That's why the average new system uses about 30 to 40 GB out of the box. But how to explain the systems that use 50 or 60 GB?

Think green when you buy

A new, voluntary Energy Star standard for computers went into effect last summer. It should result in more efficient power use. Energy-use guidelines now cover three operating modes—standby, sleep, and running—with systems entering sleep mode within 30 minutes of inactivity. Power supplies will also need to operate more efficiently.

You probably won't notice much difference in the operation of your computer but your electric bill might go down a bit. Look for the Energy Star label on qualified desktops. Prices won't increase because of the new standard, according to a spokesman for the Energy Star program.

Most manufacturers also have recycling programs that help you to dispose of your old computer, but the programs vary considerably from one company to another.

Computer manufacturers offer a variety of recycling options. When you buy a computer or monitor from Apple, the company will recycle one computer, one monitor, and peripherals at no charge. You can recycle Dell products free at any time. When you buy a Dell product, you get free recycling of any brand of computer or monitor. Shipping is included with the Apple and Dell programs.

HP will recycle any brand of computer, monitor, printer, and other items for $13 to $34 per item, and offers up to a $50 coupon for HP products. Gateway lets you trade in any brand of computer for credit toward a new machine, assuming the item still has some value. Sony has a free drop-off recycling program at 80 locations nationwide, or you can ship to Sony at your cost. Lenovo recycles for $30, including shipping, but gives you a $50 credit toward a future purchase.

Check it out in the store

With a laptop, ergonomics and style are important. The best way to assess those features is to try the laptop at a retail store. Make sure that the keyboard and pointing device are comfortable to use. Also note whether there's glare on the display and how heavy the laptop feels.

Ergonomics can make or break a laptop

Look for a keyboard with keys that don't feel mushy. Touchpads should be large enough so that your finger can cover the span of the screen without repeatedly lifting it, and touchpad buttons should be easy to find and press. The touchpad should also have a dedicated scroll area.

The laptop shouldn't get hot during use (89 to 100 degrees is a good range), and it should run quietly. Glossy screens are now standard on most laptops. Several have added antireflective coatings, with mixed results.