Everyone looks for the best notebook computer, but what's best for one person might be different for another. So I've created this guide to help you determine for yourself which notebook computer is best for you.

Pre-made or Custom Built?

In trying to determine the best notebook computer for you, you'll need to know whether you need a custom built notebook or a pre-made laptop. Do you have very specific needs? Are you looking for a powerful business notebook computer for presentations? Or do you just want something to take with you to the Cyber Café? Are you a hard-core gamer looking for intensive graphics and a notebook that can handle heavy games? Or do you just need to send the occasional email to friends and family?

If a pre-made notebook computer is adequate for your needs then you have a few good choices. Hewlett Packard, Compaq, and Apple makes laptops that you can buy off the shelf with pre-determined features. All of these companies are reputable and provide decent support for your product.

If you really want your notebook custom built then you'll want to check out Dell.com. They have the best choices, prices, and support available. You won't be able to cash in on that great Best Buy sale but you'll get exactly what you're looking for.

Productivity or Media?

This is an important decision that most people don't like to make. But if you're going to find the best notebook computer for your needs, then you'll need to decide. Are you going to use your laptop primarily for business or college productivity (word processing, spreadsheets, email) or for high tech media (music, movies, video, gaming). The reason I ask is that some say that the Apple Mac notebook is best for media uses, while the Dell notebook is better for productivity.

The Mac vs Windows debate has gone on longer than I care to remember, but it's a personal choice that everyone must make. Many Mac owners claim there are less problems with the Apple system when compared with the Windows crashes. I have never had that much of a problem with Windows so I prefer the flexibility of the PC. Most applications and software are developed for Windows operating systems, but that's a choice you'll need to make for yourself.

When answering the question "Which is the best notebook computer" you'll want to look at your budget, your needs, the customer service level of the brand you choose, and what degree of customization you require.

In the end, go with your gut, don't buy something you've never heard of, demand customer service (if the sales people can't explain the system to you then don't bother), and remember you can always get a refund if you absolutely hate it. Get as much system as you can reasonably afford since technology advances so quickly. Enjoy your new system!