by Millie Tulle

Created on: July 25, 2010   Last Updated: September 01, 2010

The extensive selection of laptops on the market today can overwhelm students looking for a new computer. To make the decision easier, it helps to know how you expect to use your system. Students wouldn't benefit from a laptop designed for business. Instead, writing papers, research, music, movies, and games are students' main considerations.

However, to find a laptop optimized for these functions you have to translate logistics like "processor speed" and "RAM". As a general guide, a student's laptop should have at least a 1.2 GHz processing speed, 1 GB RAM and a minimum hard drive capacity of 120 GB. Other basic requirements include a 2-3 hour battery life, ethernet and USB ports, a CD/DVD drive, at least 64 MB of graphics memory, and naturally WiFi. Also, students should have at least a 13 inch screen (trust me, your eyes will thank you as you type away those late night papers.) These requirements are quite rudimentary and most laptops satisfy all, and then some.

Having met these mandates, you've guaranteed yourself a decent computer that will get you on the Internet for writing and researching papers. To get the most out of your laptop experience though, you should find a system that fits your individual needs. Here to guide you is a list of the best back-to-school laptops this year.

-The Movie Buff

Do you plan to have a lot of dorm movie nights? For many college students, their laptop also functions as a TV, especially as instant streaming sites such as Hulu and Netflix become more popular. This student should seek out a laptop with a minimum 256 MB graphics card. For streaming video, or running media programs, a good processor speed is helpful, so aim for the 1.8 to 2.4 GHz range. A larger screen and good speakers are a major plus. As a side note, if you plan on storing movies and films, you might want to invest in an external hard drive. 

Suggestion: Dell Studio 15 - this laptop boasts a widescreen HD 15.6 inch monitor, great sound, long battery life, and either a 256 or 512 MB graphics card, depending on the model. Bonuses: comes in different colors, with a high resolution webcam at 2.0 megapixels. Price: $850 - a little on the expensive side, but worth it.

-The Student On-the-Go

Some students get more work done outside the dorm. Whether at class, the library, or the campus cafe, this student makes sure they have their go-to gadget. Naturally, for easy portability, a light-weight laptop is ideal. At the same time you want a sturdy casing,

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