Buying a computer for student use is a confusing adventure at best. There are so many choices out there ranging from Netbooks to Desktop Replacement Laptops to Desktops Computers. On top of those choices there is the ongoing discussion that borders on religion: Mac or PC. The "i's" Have it.
The newest chip sets out there run Intel's "i" series processors. You will see i3, i5 and i7 machines in both portable and desktop configurations. These are the machines to get if at all possible because the processors are higher performance in many ways over the older "Core Duo" systems.
Another point to consider is that both PC and Mac based platforms will be using these processors to run their current offerings of computers, so operating systems now and into the future will be worked around these processors. i3 processors while the least expensive of the Intel line are very capable:
Great for everyday tasks like web browsing and email and most applications, as fast as previous generation lower end Core Quad processors, support for 64 bit operating system.
- i5 processors hold the middle ground of the line but should not be seen as slouches for performance:
these processors are faster than the i3 processor,with both duo and quad core variants, i5's offer possibilities for advanced graphic capabilities at reasonable prices:
i5's offer platforms that can handle changing and more intensive demands from students for advanced computer applications, * for multitasking
i5 will provide solid performance for most mainstream software.
- i7 processors allow users to enter a whole new realm of computing power:
With up to six cores these processors are lightning fast and can handle both complex multi-tasking and have the grunt to handle complex operations, * i7 will have no problems with 3D rendering when coupled with a respectable video card, * i7 Extreme Edition processors are at the top of the line and offer user optimization profiles that can be developed for different application and use settings, * gaming is taken to a whole new level with any i7 processor and is breath taking with the Extreme Edition.
AMD makes processors with similar performance characteristic to the Intel line. There are some differences in performance, but for the majority of users these will not be evident. Apple does not use AMD processors in their products at this time. Laptop or Desktop?
Really, there is no reason to tie a student down to a desktop computer. Laptops allow students to work at the kitchen table or the kitchen island while supper is being prepared, an advantage to today's busy families. And if the kids have friends over, it's much better to have them up in the common rooms surfing the 'net than hidden away at a desktop in a closed room.
Laptop sizes range from Netbooks to 19 inch screen gaming machines. Netbooks are cute but unless you have a real computer they are difficult to use as an only computer. Laptops up to 15 inches screen size are ideal for students. They are light and fit into a backpack with books and papers. Larger laptops are nice to watch, but the increase in size and weight of these machines may make them a burden for less enthusiastic students.
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