If you're looking for a powerful laptop with a potent feature set—a large display, a discrete graphics card, a full-size keyboard, and the latest processor—consider a desktop replacement.
PROCESSOR
When you’re choosing a CPU, configure your notebook with a powerful processor such as Intel's Core 2 Duo or AMD's 64-bit Turion 64 X2. For maximum power (and longevity) from a mobile CPU, strongly favor the Core 2 Extreme if it's an option. Some large desktop-replacement systems can be configured with Core 2 Duo, Core 2 Quad, and Core 2 Extreme desktop processors. While these speedy chips are a great choice for increased performance, be aware that they often run hotter and drain battery power faster than mobile processors.
MEMORY
Don't be frugal with your system's RAM—inadequate memory can drastically slow overall performance. You'll want at least 1GB, but gamers and power users should aim for 2GB or higher. As for the memory speed, 533MHz DDR2 SDRAM will support the Windows Aero interface, but we recommend 667MHz or faster for better overall performance. Some vendors may offer the option to add Intel Turbo memory to your system. These flash-memory modules, available in 512MB or 1GB varieties, reduce the time it takes for your computer to power up, access programs, and write data to the hard drive.
GRAPHICS
If you play games, opt for the latest graphics processor with dedicated memory from ATI or nVidia. Some newer notebooks even manage to pack two video cards in a Scalable Link Interface (SLI) configuration. If you're not a gamer, save a little money by opting for 256MB of dedicated graphics RAM, a decent mount for running Windows Vista's Aero interface. You should avoid integrated graphics.
HARD DRIVE
A 100GB drive may be plenty of space for casual users, but those who have large digital media collections, play lots of advanced games, or edit digital video should opt for 250GB or more. We’ve seen desktop replacement notebooks with drives as large as 500GB, and some can even be configured with two drives in a RAID Level 0, RAID Level 1, or RAID Level 2 configuration. Make sure each drive has a rotational speed of at least 5,400rpm; some high-end notebooks offer desktop-caliber drives spinning at 7,200rpm, though you'll pay a premium for the speed increase. In addition to standard hard drives, some vendors have introduced solid-state drive (SSD) options for their desktop notebooks. These flash-memory-based drives, which have no moveable parts, offer faster boot times, lower weight, and increased resistance to shock. This technology is currently quite expensive, however, and drive capacity is usually limited to 32GB or 64GB. Unless having the added durability and speed boost is a must, we recommend sticking with a traditional hard drive.
OPTICAL DRIVE
Look for a multiformat (DVD±RW) DVD burner, which writes to CDs as well as plus- and minus-format DVD media. The drive's write speed is a secondary consideration, and slower drives are cheaper. Several desktop replacement notebooks can be configured with a high-definition Blu-ray drive, which can play compatible HD movies and write up to 50GB of data to dual-layer Blu-Ray disc. This upgrade is pricey, however.
CASE
Don't be put off by heft and weight, because you probably won't be traveling much with a desktop-replacement notebook. Powerful components do tend to run hot, though, so ensure that the case provides proper ventilation. Note that magnesium and other molded-metal enclosures usually dissipate heat better than plastic cases do.
WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY
Integrated Bluetooth and 802.11 wireless networking (Wi-Fi) are essential features. Look for a notebook with a Wi-Fi card that supports the 802.11a, g and Draft N wireless standards. Draft N makes use of multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) technology, which reduces signal interference and provides greater range and throughput, up to a theoretical maximum bandwidth of 300Mbps. Bluetooth is also standard on many laptops, though some configurations provide it only as an option. For maximum compatibility with other Bluetooth devices, make sure your laptop supports Bluetooth 2.1 + Enhanced Data Rate (EDR). If you want to be able to get online when you’re out of range of Wi-Fi networks, look for notebooks that can be configured with a built-in WWAN module, which lets you tap into a cellular mobile broadband networks from Verizon, Sprint, or AT&T for a monthly fee.
DISPLAY
Since portability is not an issue, look for a wide-screen 15.4-inch or larger display; for crisp text and smooth DVD or Blu-ray movie playback, go with the maximum resolution available on the screen size you choose. Whether you'll be watching movies in all their letterboxed glory or merely viewing several documents at once, more screen real estate is always better. While the sweet spot for desktop replacements is 17 inches, we’ve seen screens as large as 20 inches. LCDs are still the norm, but look for notebooks with displays that use LED backlighting instead of the traditional fluorescent tubes, which offers less weight and increased power savings. Many screens now come with a reflective coating that provides a better viewing experience when watching movies. Some people don't like the reflectivity of these glossy screens, however, so be sure to check out a laptop's display in person before you buy. If you want to use your notebook for video conferencing, opt for a system with a Webcam built in to its display bezel.
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