Apple makes both desktop and laptop computers, featuring the OS X operating system. Laptops include the MacBook, Mac Pro and MacBook Pro.

Apple is based in Cupertino, California. Apple laptops are available worldwide via Apple distributors.

Laptops are readily available online, from dealers, and from second hand auction sites, such as e-bay.

If you’re considering making a purchase in the near future, keep these tips in mind:

* Processor speed
* Storage
* Size and style

Consider the purpose of the laptop.

If you’re a minimalist user, go for a simple system. Almost any new computer will be more than fast enough. If you like viewing photos and editing movies, go for a system with a lot of storage and a fast processor. If you take the laptop on the road a lot, low weight might appeal to you. If you’re a gamer, look for a laptop with high end graphics capability, preferably in the form of a separate graphics chip.

The following companies manufacture laptops:

• Acer
• Apple
• Dell
• HP
• Lenovo
• Toshiba
• Sony

Most can easily be obtained online. Try searching Google Product Search to obtain the best deals.

Some manufacturers also sell direct. Both Apple and Dell have online stores.

To find reviews on the latest laptops, check out leading publications such as PCMagazine, CNet, and PCWorld.

Great savings can be achieved by buying used laptops, however buyer beware – it can be difficult to judge if a part is about to fail, and hardware failures in laptops can be expensive, and sometimes uneconomic to repair.

So how can you tell if a laptop has a problem?

The easiest way, of course, is to switch it on. Listen for any odd noises during startup. If the disc drive has a problem, you may hear a harsh or grinding sound. This may indicate excessive wear.

Next, check the screen. The screen should be uniform. There should not be dark or light areas, or black pixels. Problems with the screen can be costly to repair.

Next, check the physical condition. Cracks and chips may indicate the laptop has been dropped.

Ideally, it is best if the laptop is still under a manufacturers warranty. Check that the warranty is transferable to you, and doesn’t just cover the original purchaser.

Where can you buy a used laptop online?

Here are a few reputable places to get you started:

• UsedLaptops.com
• Laptop Outlet.com – Includes refurbished laptops
• Ebay - some very cheap deals here.

Toshiba have come out with a great line of laptops, but how do you choose which one is best?

The most important consideration when buying a laptop is this: what are your requirements? Do you want a general all-round machine, that will play games and run your applications? Are you a dedicated gamer? Is business your main priority? Do you run a lot of graphic applications?

To help decide which Toshiba laptop is best for you, check out these hand-picked, independent review sites:

• Toshiba Laptop Reviews on NoteBookReview.com
• PC Mag Laptop reviews – includes the latest Toshiba reviews
• Laptop Magazine – includes Toshiba and other related brands.

You may also want to compare prices, to find the best deal:

• Google Product Search

So, do you buy a laptop computer online, or do you go to a store?

Either way, the internet is a great tool for researching your laptop choice. If you already know what laptop you want, then try an independent price comparison service, like:

• Google Product Search

If you want to compare different laptops and specifications, check out dedicated laptop review sites, such as these top resources:

• NoteBook Review
• PC World Top Laptops
• C/Net Laptop Reviews