The proliferation of Internet cafes around the world has made travel laptops less necessary. Yet, sometimes a person just needs to have their own word processor, DVD player, or favorite photo editing programs on hand. Different travelers emphasize different traits – here are few to consider when purchasing the perfect laptop for traveling.
Travel Laptops Should be Cheap
Many travelers prefer to have an inexpensive laptop that is easily replaceable if lost, stolen, or inadvertently dropped. Certainly a traveling laptop exposed to the world is less safe than those sitting at home on a desk.
Travelers who do not want to spend thousands of dollars on a laptop that might not last very long often turn to Craigslist or Ebay to find deals on old or slightly used computers. Although deals change day to day, a decent laptop can often be found on these websites for less than $300. However, as companies improve technologies – new laptops are becoming cheaper and more lightweight.
Lightweight Laptops Can Be Inexpensive
Some people like to travel with lots of luggage and are prepared for anything. Increasingly though, travelers are finding that less is more and few people want to lug around a computer weighing several pounds.
The MacBook Air markets itself as the “World’s thinnest notebook” and comes in at 3 pounds for $1,799 or $2,499 depending on the gigahertz installed. Fortunately there are now many inexpensive lightweight laptops on the market. In the May 8 2009 Los Angeles Times article, “Weighing in on the laptop lightweights”, Terry Gardner lists a few including:
- ACER Aspire 10.1” for $349 at 2.95 pounds
- Dell Inspiron Mini 10” for $399 at 2.6 pounds
- Lenovo Idea Pad S10 for $399 at 2.82 pounds
- Sony VAIO P Series for $899 at 1.4 pounds
Rugged Laptops for Hardy Adventurers
Some people are willing to pay a little extra or carry a little more for a travel laptop that will work no matter what. Rugged laptops are built to withstand dropping, extreme temperatures, dust, and some are even water resistant.
These travel laptops often meet military specifications tests and the cost reflects their durability. Here are a few of the rugged notebooks the website Laptoping lists for 2009:
- Dell Latitude E6400 XFR for $4,299
- Panasonic Toughbook 30 for $3,649
- Lenovo Thinkpad T400 for $1,350
The Perfect Travel Laptop
Ultimately the perfect travel laptop is one that meets the specifications of the user. Different travelers will have different requirements for their computers. However, keeping price, weight, and ruggedness in mind is a good place to start.