Do you know the difference between a gaming laptop and an ultrabook? Do you know exactly what you need out of a laptop, but not which system will work best to match those requirements? If you need a solid education in buying a new laptop, the experts have provided it to you below.

Before beginning laptop shopping, get an idea of the kind of work that you expect to get out of it. You may find that you really don’t need the super-expensive top of the line model for the work you really need to do. This can save you a lot of money.

If you plan to use your laptop for gaming or watching DVDs or movies online, look for one that has a dedicated chip for graphics. Some laptops cannot be used to play with advanced games. Educate yourself to make an informed choice about whether to get a dual core processor or a quad core chip.

When you are buying a laptop, think about spending a little more than you first budgeted. New technology can make your new laptop seem like a dinosaur. Just a slight upgrade may make you laptop last an additional year or two.

Make sure that any new laptop you buy comes with a way to return it if it doesn’t work right. Sometimes if you buy a new laptop they will give you a certain amount of time to return it if you have a receipt. Be very careful about this so that you don’t end up with an expensive broken computer.

Understand what the specs mean. Pentium and AMD CPUs are today’s lowest price processors, with faster dual, quad and multiple core processors more expensive. RAM affects the speed in which tasks are performed almost as much as the processor. SSD drives are the latest, faster versions of hard drives. For displays, generally speaking the higher the pixels the better the display.

Consider the operating system. Most laptops will come with one of two operating systems. Those systems are Mac or Windows. There are advantages and disadvantages to each operating system. Consider what you will be using the laptop for, and the features you will require. This will help you make the best decision.

Be sure to get a case for your new laptop. The fact is that dropping it, having someone bump into it or watching helplessly as someone’s coffee spills all over it will all break your heart. If you protect your laptop, it will last longer, so the investment in a case is worth it.

Because laptops are designed with mobility in mind, consider a laptop with a locking mechanism. Unfortunately, we live in a world where others may not value your privacy or personal property. A laptop that locks down can deter thieves and prevent others from trying to access the personal information you keep private.

Check out the fan’s load on any computer you are purchasing. If it is running full tilt all the time, the fact is that it will need to be cleaned, and this isn’t a job for the faint of heart. If you have never popped open a laptop before, now isn’t a good time to learn how.

After you choose a model to buy, check out reviews online. This can be an easy way to avoid buying a computer which is reported to blow a power supply or have the screen conk out after a year or two. Check multiple sources to ensure you see a broad spectrum of opinions.

The research you’ve completed today on buying a laptop will serve you well. As you begin to shop, you will find that you understand what is expected of you. That will ensure that you locate the laptop you need at a great price in no time flat, making the process simple and fun.