You need a new something. How do know if you want a new laptop or a new tablet? Both have their pros and cons, but to make the right choice, you need to consider your desired functionalities.

Laptops are mobile personal computers and you can generally perform, while on the move, all tasks that you would do on your desktop. Over the years, laptops have become lighter and more compact, while increasingly offering greater performance and features.

Tablets are effectively computers targeted toward social uses. They have onboard cameras, and are great for news reading, watching online movies and surfing. Tablets are a great communication tool and provide easy access to your loved ones via Skype, mobile messaging and multimedia. They are however, effectively used in certain commercial applications like order taking in restaurants.

While brands, models and features vary somewhat, especially in higher end models, the following is generally true: Both machines typically have similar amounts of RAM memory but vary greatly in hard drive space, with laptops being the clear winner. Tablets don't have CD or DVD drives, and usually don't allow (many) 'plug-in' devices, but can access printers via blue-tooth or other technologies. Laptops usually have larger screens but tablets are more convenient. Tablet costs start about $60 vs. $250 for a laptop, but everyone buying a tablet should invest in a protective case ($20-100) because screens are easily cracked.

Being fairly new to the marketplace, lots of the software, including titles you commonly use, might not be compatible with a tablet.

Our suggestion: Make a list of the 4-5 most important features/tasks you want your new device to accomplish, bring the list with you, and shop accordingly.