Since the early 70s when the idea that you can have a computer that is compact and portable, consumers have made the laptop computer one of the most popular electronic items on the market. And with so many versions available that range in price from around $500 to more than $2,000, consumers read ratings and reviews to see if the are getting a good deal.  Laptops reviews are as popular as reviews on the latest vehicles that come out each year. And companies want to receive positive ratings so they can market the rating to consumers.

What does a review contain? Companies can claim a new laptop has all the bells and whistles, but if the bells and whistles don’t work, you will feel jilted. Laptop ratings examine all of the claims of the companies down to the weight of the laptop, which has been a strong selling point for many of the newer laptops.

Since laptops are often used for more than just work-related task, many look for laptops that are compatible with gaming systems or that are available to play videos. These consumers are looking for screens that are vibrant. The laptop ratings will feature these screens.

Laptop ratings are important to many consumers. These reviews are conducted by some of the top electronic experts in the industry. These experts use these laptops for an extended period of time and put a lot of thought into the reviews. They know that consumers depend on the reviews when they decide what type of laptop to purchase.

So you have seen the commercials for laptops, you have an idea of what you want in a laptop and you want to find out what others are saying. What brand is better? How many megabytes are available? All of these issues are found in ratings. But where do you find them?

• Magazines. “PC World” will usually review a new laptop close to its release date. These reviews range from the lower priced Acer series to expensive Macintosh laptops that can be quite expensive due to their enhanced features. “Consumer Reports” also issues a yearly guide to all items that includes laptop reviews. Like “PC World,” the guide contains all brands and price ranges. Many people won’t consider purchasing any major item without consulting “Consumer Reports.”

• The Internet. While “Consumer Reports” was publishing its guide long before the Internet became the most popular way to get information, their laptop reviews are available online. You can also find information from “PC World’ about laptops on the magazines website. One of the latest review sites is www.cnet.com. This website has become one of the most visited sites for all things electronic including laptop reviews. Another website, www.consumerresearch.com also lists many of the laptops with reviews of the features.

• The less formal route is to ask friends and family how they rate their laptops. Word of mouth is often the best laptop rating. If you are talking to a friend or family member, you can also ask to use the laptop to see if it will meet your needs.

Whether you choose a Dell, HP or Toshiba, you want to make sure the laptop you purchase lasts. In this economy, your dollars need to stretch as far a possible. Reading laptop ratings can help you make an informed decision on your purchase.