Need advice about replacing desktop, with laptop?

Question

I need to replace my old desktop. Know nothing about laptops! Would like to clear my spare room of computer desk and junk! Would a laptop serve the same purpose, as a desktop?
I'm a retired lady and mainly use my computer for email, internet surfing and some games.
I would not use for traveling.
How would I connect to my broadband? Can I plug in without relying on battery? Can I still use my printer?
In other words, can I use a laptop just as use my desktop?
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Answer 1

Hi Patsy.  I am confused on why so many are trying to steer you away from the laptop when it sounds like that is just what you are wanting.  Personally, I think you would love a laptop.  Like you I don't travel all that often, but the biggest advantage of the laptop for me has nothing to with travel and everything to do with the mobility of it within my own home.  If I want to lay on the couch and play on the internet, go outside on the patio and read an article or sit in bed and play a game on the computer or watch a DVD, it is no problem.  I have had my laptop about a year now and it is hands down more convenient than the desktop in my study. 
In answer to a few of your questions, yes a laptop would work with your internet in exactly the same way as the desktop, BUT you would need to purchase a wireless router in addition to the laptop.  This router is what allows you to be wireless in your home.  You can then plug in anywhere in the house or work off the laptop battery, whichever you so choose.  The printer is the same way.  You could hook the printer directly to the router or if the printer has wireless capabilities, it could be recognized by your router and be wireless too, meaning it simply needs to be plugged in and not connected to anything else and you could still send documents straight from your laptop to it.
As for computers, if you ever see a poster start talking in detail about graphics cards, more than likely they are high-end gamers.  In other words, not simple computer games but very graphic intense games that call for really good graphics cards.  From what you describe your use as, which is very similar to mine, you are just wanting it for internet/email, basic computer games and maybe some word processing abilities.  Most laptops you get today will probably have a graphic card that supports all you need.  The following is just my opinion on laptops based on needs that sound close to mine, so hopefully I won't get jumped on too much by other computer experts.  I would encourage you to avoid taking the cheapest route with a laptop.  That isn't to say avoid a good deal, just go for a good brand.  In my opinion the good brands do not include Toshiba (just personal experience based on several people who have gotten one in the last couple of years and reading up on them before buying) or Gateway (although I think they may have been purchased by Asus as was eMachine, so the quality might be better now.  They use to be crap!).  I would stick with HP or Dell myself.  I have a Dell, which again high end gamers are not as fond of because they have an integrated  graphics card.  For what you would use it for, a Dell would be more than fine, and they have been around a long time for a reason!  That is what my old desktop is too, and they have always responded to my issues, even when not under warranty anymore with that desktop.  As for what to look for, you should be able to get a decent laptop for $400-$550, maybe cheaper, but get a little more to the laptop and it will last you a little longer. I would look for something that is a Core2Duo versus simply Dual Core.  Try to go for at least 3GB memory, 4GB is better. As to the size of the hard drive, if you mainly just save pictures and documents like me a 160GB hard drive is more than enough, but if higher, even better. The huge retailer that starts with W, which apparently can't be written here, has some good deals on both HP & Dell, and they offer relatively cheap extended warranties.  Which by the way, I would highly encourage an extended warranty on a laptop.  Here are 2 other good deals I just came across on good laptops {Links removed per Community Guidelines} The 2nd deal has a bigger hard drive and a 17" screen versus a 15.6".  The bigger screen means it is going to be a little heavier though.  I originally wanted the bigger screen myself, but ended up going with the 15.6" as it was just easier to lug around.  They are so close in weight though, I don't know that it would matter that much to some.  As to hooking all this stuff up, such as configuring your router, printer etc.  If you know anyone that is good with computers it is usually a pretty simple task for them.  Most of kids in high school can do it with their eyes closed now.  If you don't know anyone, Best Buy has a service called the Geek Squad that will come and do it for you.  Have no idea the cost there, but I do know it doesn't have to be purchased at Best Buy for you to buy that service. 
Anyway, I know I wrote you a book, but I hope this info help.  I really think you will be more than pleased with a laptop once you get the purchase and setup out the way anyhow!   Good luck, Leigh.