When it comes to laptops (or any type of computer, really), many companies lump users into one of several categories.  You can use these categories to get an idea of what type of laptop is best for you.  Just pick the one that seems to match you best.

The Home User is the user who plans on using their laptop as their main PC, mainly because they can move it from room to room as they desire.  These users want a fast processor, at least a gigabyte of memory (more if they’re running Vista), and a good sized display.  A wireless network card is also necessary.

Students, on the other hand, generally want a lightweight, small laptop that they can carry anywhere.  They also need a good processor and memory, although since they will be using their laptop mainly for typing and doing online research, they may not need a high-end graphics card.

The Traveller will also need a lightweight laptop, plus they may want a laptop that has a good amount of hard drive space since they might need to take a lot of data with them.  A laptop with a very long battery life is also a good idea for frequent travellers.

If you’ll be using your laptop mainly for business, you’re going to want many of the same features.  However, you may also want to make certain your laptop comes with a DVD burner so you can back up all of your data. 

Finally, there’s the gamer and the artist.  Both need great graphics cards, a large amount of RAM (possibly even 4 GB), a large hard drive, and a top of the line processor.  A large screen size is also helpful, as is a full-sized keyboard for some gamers.  While other laptop users can get away without the newest and best, those looking to use their laptops for graphic arts or games need the best.

We all want to save money these days, but if you are looking for a cheap laptop for your gaming needs, you need to make sure it has the essentials. Here is an easy word to help you in your search: GRADS

That is: Graphics + RAM + Display + Speed.

G = Graphics. Graphics are essential to gaming. Get the most advanced graphics chipset you can afford and make sure you can upgrade the graphics card at a later date. A cheap gaming laptop isn’t cheap if it will be obsolete next year.

R(A) = RAM or random access memory. Most gamers agree that you need at least 256 MB in order handle the graphics on a laptop. . Look for VRAM if you want to play 3-D video games. VRAM can be accessed by two devices simultaneously, so while your video processor is handling new data, it can also provide screen updates. VRAM is more expensive than ordinary RAM, but it is worth it if you like 3-D games.

D = Display. A sharp display makes all the difference in the gaming experience. Display is determined by picture resolution. Resolution is formed by the number of dots (or pixels) placed in a grid. This can also be a subjective matter: some people feel they can sacrifice resolution to get a less expensive gaming laptop, while others cannot. Take a look at several laptops in your price range and decide which is the best for your needs.

S = Speed. Who doesn’t hate it when the screen freezes up in the middle of a hot game?  Look for Serial Advanced Technology Architecture (SATA) rather than Parallel Advanced Technology Architecture (PATA). SATA transfers data almost 30 times faster. Also get the fastest microprocessor you can afford. This is measured in megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz). Lastly, look for the fastest hard drive speed, measured in revolutions per minute (rpm)

To get the best gaming laptop at the best price, you may have to sacrifice the most advanced technology. However, by careful searching, you should still be able to get a quality machine for your gaming fix.