5 of 12

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

crashing and losing my work. I also burn my work to CD for a permanent copy. While ports may not seem essential to writing, you never know what you are going to use the computer for in the future. I didn't have a digital camera when I bought the laptop, but now that I have one I am glad that the computer was all set up for it. My computer doesn't have an S-port to connect to my TV, so I can't hook it up to my TV to watch videos or slide shows of my photographs and I wish it did!

A few other things to think about are a comfortable keyboard, weight, and wireless Internet connection. When I switched from a desk computer to a laptop I thought I would have problems with the laptop's compact keyboard, but now I love it and find I can type faster on the laptop than on a standard keyboard. The only thing I miss is the separate number keypad when I am doing my accounts.

Although I move all over the house, I don't drag my laptop all over town like some people, so weight isn't a big issue for me. If you are planning to lug the machine to libraries and cafes, look for something light and tote-able. The few times I have taken my computer with me, I was soon wishing for something lighter!

Wireless Internet is essential, but is pretty standard on laptops these days so it shouldn't be a problem.

One last note. I found that laptops are not as reliable as desk computers. In two years, I have had my laptop in to be fixed four times and I've known other people with similar laptop durability problems. So be prepared for expensive repairs and always save your work to a flash drive, CD or other external memory.

The most useful accessory I bought for my laptop was a lapdesk. It's a board about the size of the computer with a beanbag back. It's a lot more comfortable when actually using the computer on your lap (which I do quite a lot) and even on a desk will make the position of the computer easily adjustable to relieve typing fatigue. It also protects the desk from heat.

Learn more about this author, J. Goodman.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about Recommended laptops for writers?
We want to hear your view. Write now!