Background

Since laptops first appeared they have only been thought of as a business tool i.e. sales people being able to show potential customers fancy graphs etc. Over the last few years the gap in processing power, graphical power, screen quality, upgradeability, function, between desktop computers and laptops, has narrowed.

Laptops have become popular due to the fact that they are able to run under their own battery power source, are portable and almost as powerful as any modern desktop computer.

They do have one major disadvantage at the moment which is that they are a lot harder to upgrade than a desktop. Therefore it is best to get what you want when you purchase a laptop and not rely on what possible upgrades might be available in the future.

Laptops have become so popular that there are different distinct types available, including:

Work Stations computer-aided design and modelling work

Desktop Replacements playing the latest computer games

Portable watching DVDs

Ultra-Portables surfing the internet

However they all have there own advantages and disadvantages and it is worth conducting some research and asking for advice to get the laptop that best suits your needs.

Advantages

Laptops are just really cool

Disadvantages

Not a single one. Honest... I'm not biased ;)

OK, OK maybe they are responsible for a disproportionate amount of production waste.

Advice

Imagine a laptop that has minimised its impact on the environment, not left you 'out of pocket' over its life time and you actually feel happy about your purchase. Then keep on reading as this guide will provide you with some ideas on how to find your sustainable laptop.

If you are in the market to buy yourself a laptop, then it might be worth considering the following factors:

ADVICE it is important to get a laptop that is going to provide you with everything you require for the next few years. This will help guarantee that you don't pay over the odds or that you have to spend more money prematurely replacing a redundant laptop.

WARRANTY The best warranty available has four main components, including:

3 year warranty meaning the laptop is built to last

Parts and Labour meaning you don't pay for either.

Collect and Return the laptop will be collected, repaired and returned to you. At no extra cost.

Insurance backed if the company goes 'under,' then an insurance company will have to either provide a repair or refund.

ISO14001 This is an international 'Environmental Management' standard that ensures the company is monitoring their resources and efficiency. The company also makes gradual improvements that help both the business to remain competitive and to help improve the environment by reducing waste and energy use.