Laptop computers are now very common - from students to professionals. If you are planning to buy one, here are just my simple tips. I hope this helps...
The general question: What's the intended purpose?
a. Simple email and web surfing
b. Business (tablet PC or not)
d. Special laptops (gaming laptop, multimedia laptop, adventurer's laptop)
I classify laptops as shown above. If you may buy, it is wise to consider where you will always use the laptop. If you are a student, and will only use for simple email and web surfing, you may only need a simple one like the Asus (r) EeePC or the Acer (r) One. Some models have SSD (solid-state device) for their data storage instead of the conventional hard disk. So if you think you have a lot to save, choose the model with a "hard disk" on it. SSDs are faster, immune to shock, but usually smaller in capacity compared to Hard disks.
Links below.
http://eeepc.asus.com/global/
http://www.acer.com/aspireone/
Note the models above have a small LCD screen.
These are for the budget users. Consider other models if you've got extra bucks.
If you are a professional, many laptops are suitable with you. Things to consider.
a. LCD size (at least 14.1 inches, smaller displays are available. Good if you travel always.)
b. Weight - if you are always on travel, choose a lightweight one, around 2 kg (4.42 lbs.) or below
c. WLAN - hotspots are everywhere. Be sure your laptop has a built-in WLAN (wireless LAN). You can buy an external accessory, though. Be sure it is capable to at least 802.11 g networks. Say NO to 802.11a ONLY. 802.11n is the newest and is backward compatible to 802.11a/b/g networks.
d. Processor - choose at least a Dual-Core processor. Core Duo/Core 2 Duo are much better but more expensive - I recommend Intel, since AMD also has dual-core processors.
d. Express card slot - many uses (from TV tuners to modems)
e. With external video out (for displaying to external monitors/projectors)
f. You may consider a touchscreen/tablet PC.
For other purposes like gaming, the video/display adapter dictates the power of the gaming laptop. I recommend laptops with ATI Radeon display. The memory should be at least 256MB and should not be "shared". Ask your dealer about this. Some cards have lower memory but advertised as 1024MB "turbocache". The actual physical memory may only about 128MB! I would prefer the 256 MB without the "turbocache" feature.
Here is a nice website in comparing videocards for laptops.
http://www.notebookcheck.net/
Processor is the next important thing to gaming. I recommend an AMD Turion dual core processor. Next in line is AMD Athlon dual core and Intel Core 2 Duo.
RAM/Memory plays an important role too. For better gaming experience, at least 2 GB or RAM should be used. Newer RAMS have speed of up to 800 MHz, near-outdating the 667 MHz.
For other purposes, like you always want to view movies/videos, some dedicated laptops are avaliable. Usually they have bigger LCDs (17-inch).
Other specialized laptops like, for outdoor uses are available. Usually with a built-in GPS receiver and are relatively smaller, as shown above.
(Photo from http://www.laptopgpsworld.com)
General rule: A cheaper one usually is less powerful. This may not be true in comparing processors of the laptops. AMD is usually afforadable (not cheap!) compared to Intel.
Good luck in selecting.
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