Buying a New Laptop – Laptop Selection Helper

Buying a new laptop?  Thinking about it?  Customers call us all the time looking for advice on a new portable computer.  In response, we created a list of questions.  With the questions, we try to collect as much information as possible so that we can help get the customer a machine that will not only fit their needs, but their budget as well.  We hope you find in useful.  Feel free to share!

What sort of software applications are you going to use on the new notebook.  (e.g.) E-mail, word processing, spreadsheets, QuickBooks, web browsing.
What is your budget for this laptop purchase?  Keep in mind that quality, warranty features and overall performance are usually commensurate with price.

• Less than $1,000
• $1,000 to $1,350
• $1,350 to $1,500
• $1,500 to $2,000
• Ultraportable
• 5-6 lbs

A typical business laptop weighs about 5lbs.  However, for frequent travelers or those who prefer a lighter machine, there are “ultraportable” units as light as 3lbs.  Keep in mind that, lightweight always translates to smaller screen size.  So, would you prefer a traditional laptop in the 5-6lb range or an ultraportable closer to 3lbs?

What size screen do you prefer?  (See above question on how this affects weight)

• 13.3” (Ultraportable only)
• 14”
• 15.6”
• Spare no expense; I want the best that money can buy!

What type of “parts and labor” warranty would you like to attach to your new laptop?

• One-year (return to mfr. for repair)
• Three-year (return to mfr. for repair)
• Three-year, onsite service (a favorite, since most users hate to part with their laptops)

Not all repairs are covered under warranty.  (e.g.) damage as a result of dropping, cracked screen, etc.  Would you like to add “accidental damage” coverage for an extra fee?

• Yes
• No

Will you need a carrying case for your new laptop?

• No
• Yes, a very inexpensive canvas or nylon one
• Yes, a leather, executive style one
• Call me, I have very specific needs

Would you like to have Microsoft Office installed on the laptop?

• No, thanks.
• Yes

Do you need Microsoft Access installed on the machine?

• No
• Yes

Virtually all laptops utilize a touchpad for mouse movement.  Would you like us to add a separate wireless travel mouse to your quote?

• Yes
• No

Do you want a Port Replicator?  A port replicator will allow you to “dock” the laptop when working at your office (or home) and use a full sized keyboard, monitor & mouse.

• Yes, add a port replicator
• Add two port replicators, one for my office and one for my home
• No

If you chose yes to the above question, what size LCD monitor would you like us to add?

• 19” (standard)
• 22”
• 24”
• Not applicable

Will you require the assistance of an technician to setup and configure this/these machines?

• Yes
• No