What to find in a Computing Device Part 7 of 9: Weight

In the 7th part of our “What to find in a Computing Device” series, we look at another important aspect of the device – The weight of it! You need to carry that new device around in poly you know? 😉

Most people would not want to lug around a heavy computer. So how do you choose a computer which is light? Easy, you look for a certain type of notebook. There are a few types of computers these days:

Ultrabooks

Light notebooks are usually called ultrabooks. They are usually less than 2kg. 1.73kg is the average for an ultrabook.

These types of notebooks are usually thin in size sufficient average computing power, and while it can run most applications, it was not intended for heavy gaming. Its specifications may not be as high compared to a normal notebook of the same price range. Also, Battery life may take a slight hit, in order to reduce the weight of the ultrabook and make it thinner. Check with the seller for information as these factors vary across different ultrabooks

Mainstream Notebooks

Mainstream notebooks have also been improving their weight over these days, thus blurring the ultrabook and notebook segment. They are usually above 2kg. Some may want to just get a mainstream notebook as it is usually cheaper and may have more powerful specifications or battery life. Most gamers would have to go with this type of computer as more powerful components can be squeezed in.

Tablets

Tablets are usually extremely light compared to any type of notebook. In fact, a windows tablet is one of the lightest forms of computers you can find, in some cases less than 1 kg. However, when buying tablets, remember to buy the keyboard dock as it can get very tiring to type on a tablet for long hours. Tablets may also be small (10 inches screen), so text may appear small also.

Do try it out before buying. Also, tablets may also have less battery life as they were made to be as thin and light (portable) as possible. Check the specs to see if it suits your needs. Do note that a good tablet would cost much more than an ultrabook or mainstream notebook as they are relatively new in the computer market.

Conclusion: Look around and try the different types of computers (notebook, ultra book or tablet). Carry the sample and see if the weight is something you can tolerate. For people who want the lightest, go for an ultrabook or tablet. For people who don’t bother about weight, they may just want a notebook.