Most homes have more than one TV. Maybe two, three or more. They are installed in different rooms - in the kitchen, in the living room, in the bedroom or in the nursery. Depending on the place of “registration”, the requirements and selection criteria change. So it turns out that choosing a TV is not so easy.

To choose a TV, you first need to decide at least on the technology by which it will be manufactured. They all have their pros and cons. But even the disadvantages can be used “for good”.

Plasma screens

The design of a plasma panel is fundamentally different from all other technologies. Between two glass plates there are cells filled with gas - xenon or neon. That’s why such TVs are sometimes called gas-discharge TVs. When current passes, the cells glow, the brightness of the glow depends on the magnitude of the current.

The main advantage of this technology: high quality of the “picture”, which is preserved even in very dynamic moments. Other advantages of this technology are no less impressive:

Very good indicators that contributed to the rapid growth of popularity. But there are also disadvantages:

If you want to choose a TV with a large screen, high-quality images and good color reproduction, pay attention to plasma panels. This is exactly them. Only if you want, you will have to look for appropriate brackets and the wall must have good load-bearing capacity. Drywall or foam concrete will not hold such a mass.

Properties of LCD TVs (LCD)

LCD screens use a digital image transmission method. They are so named because the cells are filled with liquid crystals, which in an electromagnetic field polarize the light passing through them, changing the degree of their own transparency. To obtain an image, a matrix with liquid crystals is illuminated from behind (cold cathode lamps), and color filters are used to convey shades.

The advantages of LCD TVs are as follows:

• Recent models have low power consumption.
• Higher resolution (compared to plasma).
• Possibility of playback in FullHD format.
• Light weight.
• There are screens of different sizes - both small and large. The image on them has the same quality.
• Good image geometry.
• Low level of electromagnetic radiation as they are powered from reduced voltage.
• There is no screen burn-in or see-through.
• The screen does not attract dust.

A similar set of qualities contributed to the rapid spread of televisions with liquid crystal screens. But they also have a number of disadvantages that are worth knowing about:

If you want to choose an LCD TV with good resolution, you will have to shell out a substantial amount. If the requirements for image quality are not so strict, it is quite possible to look at models from the mid-price range.

LED technology

The difference between LCD and LED TVs is in the various lamps used to backlight the matrix. LED TVs use LEDs. They are smaller in size, which allows for very thin screens. They are also more durable and consume less electricity. There are two types of LED screen backlighting:

Through the use of LEDs, LCD TVs receive additional advantages:

If you decide to choose a TV with high image quality, take a closer look at LED models. They have, perhaps, only one drawback - the high price. A good quality LED TV costs $600-1000. Compared to conventional LCDs, they cost 40-50% more. However, these are not the most expensive models today and many people opt for LED TVs.

OLED and QLED technology

This technology for making televisions appeared already in this century, and they have been mass-produced for only four years. The image is formed by organic light-emitting diodes, which emit light themselves and do not require backlighting. In English they are designated OLED, which gives the name to this type of TV.

Today there are two main technologies for producing OLED TVs:

Not so long ago, the presence of a flat-screen TV in the house indicated the high social class of its owner. It confirmed the status of a respectable person and was accessible only to a few. Now such models are on the shelves of all digital equipment stores, and they are not that expensive. In any case, they are not considered luxury, so anyone can buy. But what parameters should you use to choose a TV?

We will answer this question today.

One of the main reasons that makes models affordable is the cheaper technology and its gradual improvement during production. Consequently, competition in the market is growing and in the fight for buyers, companies are forced to reduce prices. This plays into our hands and gives us the opportunity to use excellent equipment at an affordable price. BUT! Along with the improvement of technology, many different criteria have appeared, each of which is important because... affects one or another parameter of the TV: size, image quality, color rendition, etc. Let's start from afar.

Screen size and resolution

An important visual parameter is the screen diagonal. The larger it is, the more expensive the TV is - take this into account. People usually believe that the bigger the screen, the better, but this is only partly true. You need to choose the diagonal wisely, and one of the criteria for choosing a diagonal model is the size of the room.

If you buy a model with a huge diagonal for a small room, then when watching analogue channels or videos of not very high resolution at close range, you will see pixels on the screen, which is very uncomfortable. To create the integrity of the picture, you will have to step back, and in a small room you simply won’t have space. Approximate table of correspondence between the TV screen and the distance from the viewing point:

Those. If the room parameters allow you to view the TV from a distance of 3-4 meters, then it is optimal to buy a TV with a screen diagonal of 32 inches. Otherwise, you will spend more money on a model with a larger screen, but will lose in quality.

As for resolution, things are a little more complicated. The best picture quality is achieved only when the resolution of the video content matches the resolution of the matrix. However, analog and sometimes digital television signals have lower resolution, so the system has to stretch or contract it. This contributes to a loss of quality. Therefore, models with PAL/VGA resolution are better suited for watching television channels, i.e. standard. But if you plan to watch HD movies, then the ideal option is a TV with Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080) or at least HD-Ready (1366 x 768).

Choosing a TV by type: plasma, 3D or LCD?

Flat screens can be of three types: plasma and LCD. The only thing they have in common is their flat appearance. The first are plasma TVs, consisting of a matrix and cells. These cells are filled with an inert gas, and when voltage is connected, the system gives a discharge to each cell of the matrix, resulting in a glow. This is how the picture is formed.

LCD screens consist of liquid crystals placed between two plates. These crystals transmit light from the backlight behind. Depending on the voltage applied to the crystal, it can transmit light in different ways, resulting in an image.

Of course, each type may have its own advantages and disadvantages. Plasma can boast a large viewing angle and picture saturation (especially for black). However, plasma can burn out over time, resulting in reduced brightness. But this will happen in about 10 years, when your plasma will be the same rarity as a black and white telephone is today. Plasma also makes more noise and generates heat, which is also a disadvantage.

LCD panels are, of course, more durable. But in one percent out of a hundred, when viewing dynamic colors in high resolution, trails from the movement of the picture may appear on the screen. Previously, this problem was very relevant, but now the technology has greatly improved. In addition, plasma does not burn out at all, and the service life of such a TV is 2 times longer. Those. it will work for another 10 years after it becomes a rarity.

3D models are the new TVs. They are just flooding the market and manufacturers are trying in every possible way to attract customers with this new product. There are different technologies for forming three-dimensional images. One of them involves the use of special glasses, the other does not. But the technology is not particularly in demand now, because... There is very little 3D content (i.e. movies). Therefore, we recommend waiting a little and not overpaying for almost useless surround image reproduction technology.

Contrast and brightness as important selection parameters

The higher the brightness, the less the eyes will be loaded, so this criterion should be considered. In addition, higher brightness contributes to greater comfort, especially during daylight hours.

It is believed that the minimum screen brightness value should be 450 cd/sq.m. Almost all models of modern TVs satisfy this requirement, but it is possible to stumble upon some old or cheap model from an unknown manufacturer. So you can’t let your guard down. Also, modern devices should (very desirable) have a sensor for detecting room lighting, which will allow them to independently set the screen brightness.

Contrast is the weak point of LCD TVs. However, this problem is partly solved thanks to modern dynamic contrast technology, which improves the quality of the picture and especially the black color. But still, in terms of image contrast, LCD models are inferior to LCD TVs. You need to remember: the minimum acceptable contrast value is 600:1. Ideally, the value should be 7000:1 or 10000:1 (achieved using dynamic contrast technology).

On average, most models have a contrast ratio of 1600:1, which is normal in principle, but the shortcomings are very noticeable in strong room lighting.

We described the main parameters for choosing a TV - these are the basics that you must take into account when considering this or that model.

What parameters should you use to choose a DVR? How to buy the “right” device with such a variety of models and manufacturers? Driving instructors answer all questions.

Main settings

Car instructors advise paying attention to the following characteristics when choosing a DVR for a car:

1. Resolution

Choose a resolution of at least 1080 pixels per line or FullHD. As a rule, this parameter is included in the name of the device. Note that often the matrix resolution corresponds to the image resolution. There is a so-called interpolation, thanks to which a small picture is stretched to the required size, in particular up to 1080. In this case, a blurring effect is obtained, and the image quality deteriorates.

2. Frame rate

The standard frame rate today is 30 units. Pay attention to the smoothness of the video, that is, the recording should be continuous and stable.

3. Auto start and loop recording

The names of these functions speak for themselves. It’s better not to buy a DVR without them.

4. Memory card

The optimal option for a memory card is 32 GB. A smaller size for a DVR simply won’t be enough, otherwise you’ll have to settle for low-quality and blurry recording. For example: 16 GB is enough for 2 days when driving 3 hours a day.

5. Video codec

In the years of the MPEG codec, the image quality was not very good, and the video took up a lot of space. Now DVR manufacturers have switched to H.264. Here, losses during recording compression are minimal, and the space occupied on digital media is used as rationally as possible.

Unnecessary functions

Drivers often overpay for completely unnecessary features. For example, the presence of GPS navigation in the device. Most car owners believe that a DVR with GPS is a real evil, especially when it records the real speed of the car on video.

The presence of speed can play a bad joke when analyzing an accident. Conversely, it is unlikely that you will be able to prove to a traffic police inspector using a video recorder that you did not violate the speed limit. So there is no point in overpaying for GPS.

A few words about the number of cameras. The more of them, the better, you say? But no! Two cameras in the DVR are two image sources. That is, the “brain” of the device must process more information. This is done by the processor, which, as a rule, costs quite a lot. But manufacturers are cunning: they install two cameras, but reduce the resolution. The second option: reduce the shooting frequency below 30 frames per second. So before choosing a dual-camera DVR, think about the recording quality.

The video snooze function, on the one hand, is a useful thing. But, as experience shows, they use it very little.

Battery and display

It is better to purchase a DVR with a built-in battery. There's nothing even to discuss here. Moreover, you will have the opportunity to use the device as a video camera.

The display is also very important. For example, you need to prove that you are right or show a video of a traffic accident to traffic police officers. Thanks to the built-in display, you can view the recorded video at any time. The Touch Screen display makes it easier to make adjustments and make the necessary settings.

Recorder mount

An important parameter for a car DVR is its mounting. There are two options for fixing the device on the car glass: suction cups and double-sided adhesive tape. It is impossible to say unequivocally which is better, since in both cases there are pros and cons.

If you are the kind of motorist who every evening, when parking your car near your house, removes the radio panel, then you will probably also remove the DVR.

So adhesive tape will not work for you, as it is not designed for repeated peeling and sticking. Moreover, when re-fixed, such a tape will not securely fasten the device.

A suction cup is ideal for frequent removal of the recorder. When purchasing, pay attention to the fixation of the suction cup itself to the device. The DVR must be firmly connected to the mount, there should be no backlash or gaps. The length of the connection should be minimal, and the mounting location itself should coincide with the center of gravity of the recorder. For example, it is better not to consider the option where the suction cup is attached to the leg of the device. Otherwise, the recorder will vibrate and dangle while the car is moving.

Of course, the suction cup will not hold the device as tightly as the adhesive. But by following some simple rules, your recorder will always “sit” securely on the windshield: the surface where the suction cup is attached must be clean and dry; The pressure should be such that the device is fixed to the glass the first time.

So, if you park your car in the garage, then take a DVR with adhesive tape. If you are afraid of robbers, then your option is a device with a suction cup.

Manufacturer

The range of DVRs is quite wide. Manufacturers such as DOD, Mio, Neoline, KarKam, Lexand inspire trust. But we advise you not to tie your purchase to a specific company; it is better to choose a device with the parameters you need.

A nice addition will be the presence of such a function as sound recording. For example, it is not always possible to remember the license plate number of a violator’s car, but you can always dictate this number and listen to it from the recorder at any time.

It is better to choose models with a USB connector. So, you can transfer information from the DVR to a Flash drive and view it on your computer.

Having even the cheapest DVR in your car is completely worth it. The main thing is that it has options for setting the time and date.

Video on how to choose a DVR:

Do not violate and be careful while driving!

The article uses an image from the site 3dnews.ru

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Modern video recorders are devices, from a technical point of view, quite simple, if not primitive. The recorder differs from compact point-and-shoot cameras that can shoot video only in two fundamental features - convenient mounting on glass and the ability to record videos “in a circle”, displacing old information with newer information (“cyclic recording”). Therefore, the prices for DVRs are relatively low: the simplest devices can be bought for 1000–1500 rubles.

Save space on the windshield: review of compact DVRs

Mounting methods

The DVR is attached to the glass using a regular suction cup. The stability of the image during shaking depends on its size: the larger the area of ​​the suction cup, the correspondingly less “jitter” of the image will be on a bad road. The suction cup is large and holds better, especially in winter, when sticking anything to cold glass is problematic. But a large suction cup (as well as an immodestly sized recorder) will significantly obscure the view, so a compromise is needed here. Obviously, for small cars, small size is more relevant than for minivans and SUVs.

The fastening mechanism is also important: a simple bracket with only height adjustment can be very compact and convenient to hide in the glove compartment. But it does not allow you to turn the recorder to the side, for example, in order to record a conversation with a traffic police inspector.

Guide to DVRs: choosing the best

There are several models that are attached to the glass not with a suction cup with a bracket, but with Velcro (double-sided tape). These are very small recorders, usually without a display. It is understood that the user will not remove the device every time he leaves the car, which, of course, is convenient. But you need to keep in mind that the criminal interest in navigators and recorders has not gone away, and the risk of finding a car with a broken glass the next morning when installing such a recorder increases. There are models for completely hidden installation, with a remote video camera. But, unfortunately, they are still unreasonably expensive and have worse recording quality than monoblock ones.

Recording quality and optics

The recording quality is determined by several technical parameters, the main one of which is the resolution of the photosensitive matrix. Until recently, HD resolution (1280×720) was considered very high, but now inexpensive FullHD matrices (1920×1080) have become widespread. The cost of HD and FullHD recorders is almost equal, so all other things being equal, it is better to choose a higher resolution. This will give a clearer “picture” in which not only cars, but also their license plates, as well as road signs and inscriptions on signs will be distinguishable.

Particularly picky consumers may be interested in how to obtain FullHD resolution in the recorder. The fact is that some not entirely conscientious manufacturers build FullHD on the basis of HD matrices (old, lying in warehouses). This is done programmatically: a second one, exactly the same, is artificially added to each pixel. There are twice as many pixels, and formally the picture meets the FullHD requirements. But its real quality does not improve, but even worsens. This simple technique is called interpolation, so in a conversation with the seller you should casually ask: “Is there interpolation in this device?”

Car DVR: 8 selection criteria

All FullHD allow you to switch to a lower resolution (via the corresponding menu item). This is necessary so that more information can fit on the memory card. In the case of “prolonged” accidents or other troubles that last for quite a long time (for example, sorting out relations with traffic police officers or neighbors along the traffic flow), this can be important. But it’s better, honestly, to buy a larger memory card. 16 GB is enough to record any incident.

The transition to a lower resolution is also justified in the dark. The fact is that in low light conditions the dynamic range of the light-sensitive matrix decreases (its ability to respond to both bright and dimly lit objects). And with increasing resolution, this effect becomes more noticeable. So at night, in most cases, HD resolution will give a better “picture”. In addition, HD is typically recorded at a higher frame rate.

Another important aspect: image quality depends on the type of optics. If the lens is glass, the quality will be higher. Plastic lenses are inferior and become cloudy over time. But they are, of course, cheaper.

If there is a built-in shock sensor, select medium sensitivity (as a rule, it is the default). The impact sensor will allow the DVR to create an “unerasable” file at the time of an accident, in case the DVR loses power or the energy in the built-in battery runs out. Such a file can only be deleted from the memory card by formatting.

Tech guide: car video recorders

And yes, of course, it is better to choose recorders with more or less capacious built-in batteries, at least for half an hour of battery life.

Does the recorder need a display? The registrar itself does not, but the user needs it. It makes it easier to set the lens angle and configure parameters through the menu. For these purposes, the most modest-sized monitor, 2–3 cm diagonally, is sufficient. This allows the recorder itself to be made small. Those who boast about large, high-resolution displays clearly do so for marketing purposes. It’s still more convenient to watch videos on a computer rather than on the display of a DVR, no matter how widescreen it is. And for quick viewing (for example, to prove to a traffic police officer that you did not cross a solid road), a small screen is enough. Moreover, the very fact of the presence of a video recording and the readiness to defend their own innocence on its basis has a sobering effect on the valiant knights of the traffic police. And it doesn’t matter what resolution the display is.

A built-in GPS receiver will also not be superfluous: if the analysis of relations with the traffic police or a participant in the incident reaches the court, then displaying the location of the car on the map can serve as a compelling argument. Police officers can often make mistakes in protocols by indicating the wrong address. What lawyers sometimes use to ruin “deprived cases.”

But LED backlighting, no matter how it is advertised, will not bring much benefit. Even more than that: at a certain angle of the glass, infrared radiation will be reflected into the lens, illuminating the matrix. And weak LEDs are not capable of illuminating any significant space - in the headlights everything is visible without them. In fact, the presence of backlight is only necessary in the “night watch” mode, when the recorder works in a “sleeping” car, recording what is happening around it. But why does a car owner need this? There is a minimum of anti-theft protection here - they will steal it along with the recorder if they want. Unless it will be possible to figure out the theft attempt that failed for some reason.

It is generally better to avoid unnecessary functions. They unjustifiably increase the cost of the registrar and make setup confusing. Perhaps there are gadget addicts who are ready to manually set white balance every time or change the duration of recorded videos, but they are a clear minority.

And one last thing. DVRs receive power from the cigarette lighter connector, and it is worth asking about the length of the cable included in the box. An excessively long one will get in the way under the right hand, and its mass will tend to pull the connector plug out of the recorder. Too short, on the other hand, will greatly limit installation variability in larger vehicles. The optimal cable length is 1 meter; Anything larger is intended for hidden wiring and, accordingly, professional installation.

See also: Is dash cam footage evidence in court →

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Which DVR should you choose and what should you consider when purchasing a device?

Today, DVRs have become very popular. These devices are used as components of video surveillance systems, as well as in the form of stand-alone devices that are installed in cars. As a rule, users do not have problems or difficulties with choosing recording equipment for a video monitoring line. But choosing a high-quality car gadget sometimes becomes a significant problem. Almost every motorist wonders how to choose a DVR that is efficient. Due to the wide variety of modern models, when choosing a recorder, you need to take into account a number of basic aspects.

To figure out how to choose the right DVR, you first need to study the technical parameters of the device and its functionality.

Modern electronic video recording systems are suitable for cars of any brand. A car enthusiast needs to know that all video recording devices are divided into three main categories depending on the number of functions performed simultaneously. Devices can be duplex, triplex and pentaplex. Experts advise purchasing pentaplex models because they are capable of performing five functions simultaneously, for example: recording video, displaying footage on the display, projecting an image onto the screen in the current mode, creating a backup copy and transmitting it to the client.

What design should a car recording gadget have?

Regardless of which recorder will be installed in the car, every car owner should have an idea of ​​the design of this gadget. There are several design types of video recording equipment:

• With one built-in video camera;
• With two or more built-in cameras;
• In the form of a rearview mirror.

Experts recommend choosing DVRs equipped with one built-in video camera. This equipment is distinguished by its compact overall dimensions, as well as reasonable cost. Devices that have multiple cameras have an expanded functionality, but are also more bulky in size. The advantage of multi-channel devices is the ability to obtain a large-scale and wide-angle viewing angle. Having studied user reviews, one can trace the trend that recently many of them give preference to video recording equipment made in the form of a mirror. Such a DVR has the shape and appearance of a standard mirror, and is also practically invisible to prying eyes. It is not possible to give a definite answer to the question of which DVR is better, since the choice of this equipment is purely individual.

What class types of DVRs are there?

Of course, it is important to choose a DVR according to its parameters, but it is also recommended to pay attention to the class to which this type of equipment belongs. Conventionally, video recording devices are divided into four classes:

• Budget;
• Camcorders;
• Black boxes;
• Professional devices.

Economy class video recording devices are the cheapest and most accessible. In everyday life they are called budgetary. Due to the introduction of modern and innovative technologies, equipment belonging to the middle price range is distinguished by the quality and efficiency of its work. Such devices have one video camera, and the information is stored on a removable storage device. Power comes from the cigarette lighter.

The video shows how to choose a DVR:

Black boxes are considered multifunctional equipment. These devices not only record ongoing events, but also in the event of an emergency traffic accident, they can provide a complete picture indicating all the parameters and reactions of the vehicle driver. Compared to budget recorders, it is better to choose a black box, due to the transmission of more complete information about what happened. Camcorders are considered universal devices. When installed on the windshield, the camcorder functions as a video recording device, and when disconnected, it functions as a portable video camera. This combination has a negative impact on the quality of the recorded video signal.

Professional video recording devices have up to four video cameras that create an all-round view.

The device can be controlled remotely. The gadget transmits all the necessary information to the built-in monitor, and control over the connected devices in the car is performed automatically. Professional devices are distinguished not only by a wide range of functions, but also by high cost.

What aspects should you consider when choosing a DVR?

In order to choose a good DVR, it is recommended to pay attention to the following technical parameters and functional features:

• Viewing angle;
• Permissiveness;
• Recording format;
• Video compression codec;
• Fastening mechanisms;
• Support for removable drives and built-in memory;
• Availability of built-in speaker and microphone;
• Additional connectors and slots;
• Possibility of remote access;
• Built-in display;
• Recording speed;
• Recording modes;
• Power supply;
• Availability of built-in rechargeable battery;
• Additional modular mechanisms (GPS modules, G-sensor, radar detector);
• Number of video recording channels.

The above characteristics are basic, and each of them separately creates an overall picture of the operation of the device. It is recommended to purchase video recording devices at specialized retail outlets. In order to recommend a DVR that excels in quality and performance, the person providing the advice must have information about the user's preferences and individual requirements. By selecting a specific model, you can perform a test survey, which will reflect the actual parameters of the recording equipment.

In the video - how to choose the right DVR:

It is more advisable to connect one or two video cameras. An excessive number of cameras for a car becomes redundant. When choosing a DVR, first of all you need to pay attention to the resolution and viewing angle. Almost all modern car gadgets transmit video images in HD or Full HD format. The higher the number of pixels, the clearer and better quality the incoming video signal. The viewing angle must be at least 90°. This value in all devices ranges from 90 to 170° (per video camera).

The laptop has already moved from the category of luxury to the category of necessary things, just like a mobile phone once did. Choosing a laptop is not an easy task, especially for beginners. What should you pay attention to when buying a laptop? ? You are buying a laptop computer that will be convenient to carry with you everywhere. The compactness and lightness of the laptop will be important to you, and only after that its configuration. First, decide what you need: a laptop, netbook or tablet.

Ergonomics

Manufacturers offer ultra-thin models, thin, standard and special-purpose laptops. What lengths do manufacturers go to ensure that the laptop is the thinnest and most compact? First of all, rarely used peripheral devices are removed. This is a floppy drive, which can no longer be found anywhere, or a drive for reading disks. They also use the latest energy-saving technologies. The logic is simple: the more technologically advanced the device, the less space it can take up, the less it will heat up and, accordingly, the less space the cooling system will take up.

Thin and light gadgets are designed for those who use a computer not in the office, but perhaps in a car or on an airplane. These could be journalists, businessmen, emergency services employees whose activities require mobility. Thin laptops are very elegant and therefore loved by women. Appearance should be given a lot of attention when choosing. After all, you may need it during a business meeting. The laptop should be stylish, just like you.

In a computer store

When you come to the computer salon, look at the shelves and mark the laptop that you liked the most. Listen to what the manager tells you about him. If you look only at the price list when purchasing, you can buy an expensive but unpresentable laptop.

Of course, you need to choose a laptop based on its hardware. In the question of what parameters to choose a laptop for, you should not rely only on the words of the sales consultant, because selling you a laptop is his goal. In addition, improving it or repairing laptops is quite a troublesome task, so pay due attention to quality.

Brief parameters of laptops you should choose from

The mobile processor differs from the desktop processor with lower power consumption and advanced energy-saving technologies that extend battery life. The essence of energy-saving technologies is that, when powered from the mains, the computer works at full capacity, and in offline mode - at half capacity or even less. The majority of laptops are powered by an Intel processor. Its competitor AMD also has suitable options, but they run fewer devices. The more cores and their frequency, the better, but batteries can be used up faster.

When asked how much RAM there should be, a counter question will arise: what for? If you want to work in Windows 7 64bit and heavy software packages, then you need at least 4GB of memory. If there is a shortage of it, programs will not launch, and the operating system will create a huge paging file on the hard drive. In this case, the hard drive motor will rotate all the time, wasting the energy of the batteries. You can buy an inexpensive laptop with a memory capacity of 1-2GB and buy additional memory for it separately.

The laptop video system includes a built-in or external video card and monitor. Ultraportable laptops typically have 13-14 inch screens, while regular ones have 15-19 inches. Visually choose the most suitable size for yourself in terms of ease of use and compactness. As a rule, laptops are purchased to solve office problems. You should pay attention to the power of the video card only if you are going to play modern 3D games (simple toys and online games will almost always work). But I want to warn you that a powerful gaming laptop will be too expensive, and laptops often fail due to overheating during games. Therefore, it is better to buy a computer with a powerful video card just for gaming. If there is a slot for an external video card, it is easier - it can be replaced.

Energy consumption does not depend on the size of the hard drive, so it should be as large as possible. Choose a hard drive with a capacity of 160 GB or more, this is quite enough for average needs. Laptops use 2.5″ hard drives with reduced power consumption. Solid-state hard drives (SSDs) will provide a dramatic boost in performance, but they are smaller in capacity and cost much more. Don't forget to optimize your SSD drive.

Communication tools (modem, network card, Wi-Fi) must be present in laptops today. A network card allows the owner to quickly connect to a corporate network and transfer files or programs to a hard drive, print documents on a network printer, access the Internet, the additional presence of a Wi-Fi adapter will allow you to connect to a wireless network where it exists, including in restaurants, hotels and parks. Modern laptops must support the Wi-Fi standard 802.11g and 802.11n (not critical).

The modem will allow you to establish communication with the world from anywhere where there is a telephone line. If you have a mobile phone connected to a laptop at hand, you can receive electronic information from a remote office at any time. You will be able to control your business absolutely everywhere, of course, spending a lot on communications. The infrared port is no longer needed or used in laptops today.

It is also important to have slots for reading flash cards (SD, microSD, xD, Memory Stick, etc.). Even if you do not use such cards, you may have to read information from other people's memory cards. Also pay attention to a sufficient number of USB ports. There should be at least two or three of them.

Modern laptops may also have additional interfaces, such as a miniHDMI connector for connecting to LCD TVs. Check the availability of eSATA and USB 3.0 connectors for connecting high-speed devices, if you have them.

Additional features such as a webcam with a built-in microphone for using Skype, a fingerprint scanner, a digital S/PDIF output for connecting to a digital receiver, a TV tuner - if you need any of this, don’t forget to check, then it will be late.

Battery life is important to every laptop. Inquire about the actual battery life beyond what is stated in the specifications and see if it suits you. Please note that this time will decrease over time.

All modern laptops have expansion slots for PC Cards (PCMCIA slots). PC Card has various peripherals: network cards, modems, drives, adapters, user authorization tools, etc. This connector will be extremely useful if the hardware is not built-in. Such expansion cards are expensive, so many connectors are built into the laptop by default.

Now you have an idea on what parameters to choose a laptop. You can also read about laptops on this site.

UPD: read the new, more extensive article on how to choose a laptop for your home.
For dessert today, a video about a jumping man