• type of input device
• keyboard
• size
• weight
• case
• feel
• software
• carrying case

• trackball - rotating the ball allows you to move the cursor on the LCD screen (usually built-in, but add-on ones that clip to the side of your laptop are available)
• trackpoint - pushing your finger over the point moves the cursor
• touchpad - moving your finger across the pad moves the cursor

Some laptops have a touchpad input.

The type of device you want is purely a matter of preference. Some people prefer the feel of a trackball over a touch pad. If you can, try out various input devices to see what feels right to you. Remember, most laptops have a port that allows you to hook up a mouse to your laptop; but again, that will be another device to carry around if you want to use it on the go.

Keyboard
Because space is a premium for laptops, their keyboards tend to be smaller than desktop keyboards. Although you won't find an ergonomic keyboard, like the Microsoft natural keyboard, on a laptop, most laptop keyboards have some ergonomic features, such as being located at the back half of the unit to provide wrist support. The arrow keys will most likely be in different places to conserve space, and you may not have a numeric keypad. If you can, try out several laptops to see if the keyboards feel comfortable; this is especially important for touch typists.

Size and Weight
The size of the laptop is an important feature, seeing as the key advantage of a laptop is its portability. Consider the length, width and thickness, and make sure it will fit in whatever you plan to carry it around in, if you have something in mind. If you can, when you are shopping for your laptop, pick it up and carry it as you would a notebook. Does it feel comfortable? Like size, weight is an important feature. Laptops vary in weight from 4 to 10 lb (2 to 5 kg). If you will be traveling frequently, you will probably want a light laptop (under 5 lb or 2 kg). Again, pick up the laptop that you are interested in. Can you carry it easily?

Case
Because you'll be carrying the laptop, there's a chance that you'll eventually drop it. Find out what material the manufacturer uses for the case. For example, the IBM Thinkpad has a titanium composite cover. This is a hard criteria to test out (the store won't be happy if you drop every laptop you're interested in), but it would still be useful to know.

Feel
Again, check out several models of laptops before you buy. Does the keyboard feel comfortable in combination with the input device? Is the screen large enough to see easily? We have talked about individual features separately, but it is important to check them out together to assess the overall feel of the model. Comfort is key in a laptop.

Software
Keep in mind what you intend to use your laptop for when you're shopping. Many laptops have software packages pre-installed or included in the box. Most tend to be word processing software, like Microsoft Word, or integrated software such as Microsoft Works or ClarisWorks. Check to see if the included software matches your needs; otherwise, you may have to spend several hundred dollars extra to get the appropriate software. Also, does the computer have sufficient memory and microprocessor speed to run the software you plan to use?

Carrying Case
Although carrying cases are not standard with laptop computers, consider spending the extra money to purchase a good one. Look for a carrying case that has the following features:

• lightweight
• rests comfortably on your shoulder (padded shoulder strap)
• waterproof or water-resistant (after all, you may have to walk in the rain)
• has enough space for your computer and accessories (disk drives, disks, AC adapter)
• has a padded compartment to protect the laptop should you drop the carrying case