Laptop Accessories - Which Ones Are Necessary?

So you have your shiny new laptop ready and waiting for you. It's still in the box, but you're certain that your purchase is complete, right? Wrong! If you think the sticker price on the computer is the only cost associated with a new laptop you'd be right on track to go over budget on your purchase. That's because a new laptop without any laptop accessories is no more useful than your desktop is, it's merely smaller and more expensive.


Some laptop accessories are merely frivolous customization options, while others are a necessity for anyone who actually plans on leaving their desk with the computer. Which you buy depends on your budget and your tastes. This article aims to display some items that fall into both categories.
First, we will cover some of the more essential laptop accessories. Topping that list is a laptop bag. Why a bag? Well to explain this, just take a look at oh... twenty different laptop models. Did a single one have a handle? How about a pouch for carrying the power cord? Laptops are meant to be as portable as possible, but that doesn't make them a good candidate for lugging around under your arm. In fact, it lends them to being carried around inside something else, namely a bag or case. In addition to the function implied by the name, a laptop bag will also serve the same functions as a purse or briefcase does, allowing you to minimize what you need to take with you. Hands down, a carrying case is the most common add on to purchase.

Another common laptop accessory is a mouse. Sure the laptop has a touchpad, and the touchpad has come a long way since the old days. But the fact is that if you have anything that's control intensive you'll want a mouse to do it with. You'll also be wishing for a mouse if you need to do something for an hour or more on your laptop.
One of the most aggravating things about laptops today is the battery life issue. Certain models will claim to have up to 5 hours of battery life... what they don't tell you is that the models will only last for five hours if you leave them idling on the screen saver. So realistically, you've got an hour or two of battery life, regardless of what model you choose. So how should you deal with your limited battery life? Purchase an extra battery. As long as your model disconnects the battery from the computer itself, an extra battery will allow you to double your computer's usage between charges.

Those things are all functional laptop accessories, but what if you want your laptop to have that extra style it seems to be lacking? Never fear there are plenty of means available for you to make your laptop stand out from the crowd. One of the cheapest ways is decals. Yes, you can buy stickers that will instantly make your laptop recognizable in a lineup. Or there are covers for those that want to go all out. They're like a full-laptop version of the sticker, or similar to those book covers you used in high school.
Regardless of whether you want to upgrade your laptop's functionality or its looks, there are accessories out there for you to do so. Check out your local store or the internet for more information on specific products.