Know what you want. If you decide you want a Macintosh, your search for a computer is now over. Only one manufacturer, Apple Computer, makes computers that run the Macintosh platform. If you decide you want a Windows-based machine, you have many options with regards to the manufacturer. The next choice you need to make is desktop or laptop.
Desktops are stationary and laptops are portable.
Laptops, however, will usually carry a higher price tag. You should consider whether mobility is something you want. If you want your computer with you in the library late at night or if you want to run a presentation off of your computer in class, then you should consider a laptop. But if you just want a computer in your dorm room, then you should consider the less-expensive desktop. RAM, MHz, and Ethernet connectivity.