HP Pavilion DV6—124OUS

Over the years, it has become more practical for students and business professionals who are constantly on the go to purchase a laptop. In the modern workplace, most, if not all, tasks are conducted using computers. At school, teachers require that essays be sent by email, and most teens are now using their own personal computers to satisfy their entertainment needs.

But how does one find the perfect match, when factors of price, purpose and practicality are taken into consideration?

Business - HP Probook 4710s ($117,500)

It is a desktop-replacement laptop, targeting individuals in the business sector. The simple, black casing plays host to a 17.3-inch LCD screen and a black keyboard, and the laptop itself is mostly made of plastic. Don't be fooled, however; this computer is relatively heavy, and, therefore, it's not advised that it is lugged around.

The installed speakers are not extraordinary, which alludes to its not being ideal for recreational activities. The resolution goes up to 1600x900, so one can expect highly detailed images. As a plus, manufacturers have added an anti-glare display, so that light is easy on the eyes.

For the businessperson who tends to store important files on laptops, HP's 3D DriveGuard will assist in the protection of your hard drive if your 'precious' is dropped or bumped. Putting its large size to good use (dimensions: 32x410.6x270mm), the Probook is equipped with a full-size keyboard, inclusive of a dedicated number pad (which proves useful for those who are number crunchers).

Additional details

Connectivity: Bluetooth, Ethernet

RAM: 4GB

8-cell 63WHr battery

Integrated web cam

Hard drive: 320GB

Optical drive included

Memory-card reader

Battery life of up to 4.5 hrs

School - ACER Aspire D250-1165 ($43,000)

The Acer Aspire One D250-1165 netbook is a cheap and practical option for the average student. This ultra-portable laptop can be tossed in one's knapsack without worry of damage (except for some minor scratches).

This laptop is a good choice for students who only need a computer for research and to complete assignments. It can be used for minor recreation, such as watching movies or listening to music. However, reviews have indicated that the stereo speakers are weak, both in volume and in sound quality.

Although a student will appreciate the small size, this comes at a cost, as one gets a cramped keyboard in the process. It comes with a resolution of 1024x600 pixels, and although the images will be clear and crisp, glare will eventually become a problem. Also, it carries a three-cell battery, so one shouldn't expect lengthy use without having a steady power source.

This particular netbook was made without Bluetooth in mind, but if it's any consolation, it has three USB ports and an SD-card reader.

Additional details

RAM - 1GB

Hard drive - 160GB

Connectivity - Ethernet

Integrated web cam

On/off switch for wireless connection at the front

Movies & Music - HP Pavilion DV6-1240US ($97,500)

Dubbed an entertainment notebook, the HP Pavilion dv6-1240US is just that. Its sleek, glossy design is only a preview to its modern style. At 16 inches, its large screen will lend itself to an incredible movie-viewing experience. It has a complete keyboard as well, making it that much easier to search for and play your media file. At six pounds, it's relatively easy to carry, so no matter where you are, you've got a very mobile boom box.

The notebook also carries a HP Brightview wide-screen display, which allows for resolution of 1366x768 pixels, adequate for vivid cinematography. Built with high-strength plastic, it should endure the test of time, and even pressure, from whatever other items you carry along with it.

Additional details

RAM - 4GB

Hard drive - 320GB

Installed optical drive (DVD burner with LightScribe technology)

Has a digital media reader

Four USB ports

Has integrated web cam and microphone

12-cell lithium-ion battery

Email feedback to saturdaylife@gleanerjm.com.

Devices provided by Royale Computers & Accessories:

Shop 31, Pavilion Mall

13 Constant Spring Road

Ph: 876-906-1067/8, 876-754-5048

The HP Probrook-4710s

Acer