• These are portable computers, typically small enough to set on your lap while seated, that you can view, type, and otherwise conduct normal computer operations as on a desktop.

  They are typically less powerful than desktop computers (they can run on battery power in addition to AC power) but have the same functionality, utilizing a built-in keyboard, a touchpad and a liquid crystal display screen.

  Also called Notebook Computers they range in screen size from 10-inches to over 17-inches. With a smaller sub-sized product called Netbooks, having even smaller sizes and reduced capabilities.

• 1. AKA: Notebook computers; Notebooks; Notepads
  2. Top-selling brands: Dell, HP, Apple, Lenovo, Acer, Toshiba, Sony
  3. Top operating systems: Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, Linux
  4. Main advantage is ability to be used anywhere with or without AC power
  5. Usually less powerful than desktops, but many are equivalent.
  6. Graphics and sound capabilities are less advanced
  7. Outsold desktop models beginning in 2005

• How to Be an Informed Buyer

  Desktops are generally designed such that hardware upgrades are simple to perform. But because of their compact size, it is still notoriously difficult to tinker with the innards of your laptop. Your laptop's hardware configuration at the time of purchase is likely to be with you a long time. For advice on how to buy the best laptop for your particular needs, check out Mahalo's guide on How to Buy a Laptop Computer.

• Guys: Use Your Lap Sparingly

  Although laptops are engineered to emit much less heat than desktop models, there is still concern that if used on the lap the heat from the device may affect males' sperm count and contribute to future infertility. Not nearly enough research has been done on this topic, but it couldn't hurt for concerned men to use a desk for their laptops just in case.

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