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What are my laptop cpu, screen, and memory options? The CNET editors' guide to laptops clues you in to what you need to know, from finding the type of notebook that fits your lifestyle to all of the latest trends. What are my cpu, screen, and memory options?Notebook specs vary widely depending on what you need to get out of your portable computer. Manufacturers make trade-offs--slower processors allow for smaller batteries, for instance--so it's important to know what you'll have to sacrifice to get the notebook of your dreams. Many vendors offer configuration choices when you buy your notebook. We've broken out the most important specs so that you understand your choices. Options: Processor | Memory | Display size ProcessorSometimes referred to as the CPU, or central processing unit, the processor is the brains of the computer. It's the most important chip in a notebook, and it has power-management features that extend battery life. Notebooks use a variety of processor types depending on their focus. The chart below shows all of the laptop processors currently available from AMD and Intel; in practice, most manufacturers offer laptop configurations using only a handful of the most recent chips.Note that this chart shows only the relative performance and battery life of each processor within the product lines of AMD and Intel. The rankings are not based on independent test results, and the actual performance and battery life of a laptop will depend on many factors, including the display, the size of the battery, and the optimizations made by the manufacturer. The only way to accurately gauge performance and battery life is through hands-on reviews based on objective labs tests.
MemoryEvery computer comes with a certain amount of physical memory, usually referred to as main memory or RAM (random-access memory). Computers store currently running applications and data in this area. To find out how much memory you'll need, take into account your operating system and the applications that you plan to use. A general rule of thumb: You'll want at least 1GB (though 2GB is preferable) for Windows Vista or Mac OS X and 512MB for all other Windows and Mac operating systems.If you're planning to hang on to your notebook for a long time, look for a laptop with easy-to-access memory slots, as memory is typically one of the first specs you'll want to upgrade. Display sizeUnlike traditional desktop CRT (cathode-ray tube) monitors, notebooks ship with thin, liquid-crystal displays (LCDs). Notebook LCDs range in size from 10.6 inches (diagonal) to 20 inches; display size is a key factor in the laptop's overall weight. For comfortable viewing at the preferred Windows resolution of 1,024x768, most people like 14.1-inch or larger LCDs.Notebook LCDs once varied widely in brightness, color, and sharpness, but today, you'll find much better quality across the board. Unfortunately, when it comes to LCDs, the specs reveal little about actual picture quality, so if you're picky about screens, compare some at your local dealer. The latest in notebook display technology incorporates LED backlights; currently found on only a few models, backlit LED displays can be brighter, thinner, less power-hungry and more expensive than traditional LCDs. More laptop resources from CNETTop productsBest 5 laptops
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