Buy: Recommended and Certified for Windows Vista products

Recommended and Certified for Windows Vista products

Music, pictures, stories and more come together with Windows Vista. To get the most out of your camera, computer, and other gadgets, look for the Certified for Windows Vista logo. It goes on products that are easy to use and take advantage of the latest Windows Vista features.

Know your budget
Here are some considerations to ensure you get the biggest bang for your buck:
- Before you buy, understand what laptop specifications you need to meet your needs. These top tips and the Laptop Features Glossary is a great place to start!
- Do your homework! Check out the selected range of Windows laptops so you know what specifications to expect with your budget.
- Technology prices trend downwards, so recheck prices with retailers just before you buy.
Portability
There are a number of laptop categories to choose from, from the ultra-mini Netbooks (usually less than 1.5kg), through to the mainstream models (3 to 5kgs), and high powered desktop replacements (more than 5 kgs). Here are some things to think about before you make your decision:
- The level of functionality you achieve in a laptop increases with size. For example, a Netbook's sole function is internet usage and word processing, whereas the mainstream models offer the key features of a desktop while still providing portability.
- Look for a laptop that has integrated wireless networking (Wi-Fi) so you can use the internet on the move.
- Make sure your laptop has a good battery life.
Video / Multimedia
If you want to watch, create and store movies, videos and music on your laptop, here's what you need to know:
- Your laptop will need at least 2GB of RAM.
- Consider a 2.4Ghz or a 2.66Ghz processor to ensure an optimal viewing and listening experience on your laptop.
- Look for laptops that come with high-end graphics cards to ensure that all of your visual output is of a high quality.
Gaming
One quarter of Australians enjoy regularly playing computer games on their PCs^*. To ensure your gaming experience is flawless, here's what your laptop will need for the ultimate experience.
- A minimum of 2GB of RAM is necessary for a high quality gaming experience and crucial for 3D gaming!
- Look for laptops that come with high-end graphics cards to ensure that all of your visual output is of a high quality.
- Look out for packaged deals that include any gaming accessories you might need, as it may be cheaper than buying them separately.