If you are to review anything, you need a consistent system of review.  The question for laptops is what criteria the laptops should be ranked upon.  Of course what one person is looking for is drastically different from what another person is looking for.  A writer, a student, and an engineer all have different needs from their computer.  Given how far computer technology has come, I believe that now a portable laptop exists that can fill every computing need (except perhaps dedicated servers, and other such computing activities that require computers running 24/7).  So what are these basic criteria?

Portability – This category hinges strongly on weight and size.  Laptops run the gamut in portability from ultra-light ultraportable laptops all the way to hulking desktop styled laptops.  In the smaller ones you sacrifice some functionality for great portability, but of course the reverse is true.  If you only need a laptop for, for example word processing, a ultraportable laptop may be exactly what you need.

Versatility – This determines what kind of functions the laptop can perform.  Losing a disc drive in exchange for extra processing power or less weight has strong affects on this.  The wifi and usb drives also have a hand in it.  Processor power also has a hand in this.  However, when it comes to most software, technology seems to be advanced enough so that almost any program can run on almost any laptop.  If there are any limitations, this is where it will be discussed.

Durability – If you’re moving your laptop around everywhere and relying on it for your livelihood, breaking it is not only easy but a potential disaster.  I’ve had a few laptops that have broken easily, and others which are paragons of durability.  Some other things factor strongly into this.  For example, I’ve had several laptops which overheat readily and shut off.  If this happens over time it can cause lasting damage to the computer, which makes it an important component of this durability classification.

Usability – I’ve had computers which were extremely easy to use, and some with some confusing features.  For example, I have one which opens certain programs when I press certain buttons.  These features are somewhat difficult to use or turn off.  In addition many laptops come bundled with somewhat useless software that you may not want or need.

Miscellaneous – These are factors which are difficult to classify in any of the other categories.  Any special factors that I come across with laptops that I use or have used will be mentioned in this category.  Chances are this section will be empty most of the time, but of course any time it is included it will be very important.

In addition to laptop reviews, I’ll include any software I use that will make your life easier.  Accessories will also be included, but admittedly I don’t use too many aside from what I consider necessities.  I might even include a few games that are especially good portable.