As technology has improved, many people are taking advantage of the fact that computer systems are getting smaller while still managing to perform better and offer more functions than previous, larger models. This can be seen with the sheer number of laptops and notebook computers that are being purchased on a daily basis. In fact, more people are now buying laptop computers than desktop computers. Laptops, however, do fail to provide several things due to their small size and they come with certain drawbacks that some consumers may not like. In this article, we will list a number of affordable laptop accessories that will enhance your laptop to the point that you would never dream of having a better piece of technology.

External Monitor
Laptop computers, especially the smaller models, have the drawback of smaller screens. This can make it rather difficult to get work done as your icons and on-screen applications are harder to see. Smaller screens also give you less workspace to perform the tasks that you wish. This can easily be remedied, however, with an external monitor. Notice that your laptop has the same blue monitor port that desktop computers have? This allows you to connect a separate monitor to your computer and bypass your laptop's built-in monitor. There are also various ways to connect a wireless monitor to your laptop. A flat screen monitor that costs around $50 and hangs on your wall would be perfect for your home laptop use.

Wireless Mouse
A wireless mouse can be essential to using a laptop. Sure, notebook computers come with a mouse pad but mouse pads can be difficult to use if you are not experienced with them. A wireless mouse, on the other hand, is portable and can be used anywhere you take your laptop. A wireless mouse also relieves you of extra cables running all over the place while using your laptop in public. Wireless mice do not have the same rubber ball that older, desktop-oriented mice had so you can use them on any surface without worrying about traction.

Signal Enhancer
Signal enhancers go by many names, including wireless adapters, signal boosters, or reception boosters, just to name a few. What these products have in common is that they all strive to increase your laptop's wireless signal without affecting mobility. Your laptop already has a wireless adapter and antenna built into it but it is often a generic model that doesn't get too good of a reception. Purchasing an external signal enhancer that plugs into a USB port could significantly increase your laptop's wireless reception so you can pick up more networks or just get a better signal strength for the networks that you can already access.

Carrying Case
A laptop carrying case is a good way to protect your laptop from falls, rain, and dust. A carrying case will allow you to take your laptop with you without having to hold on to wires or worry about dropping it. Whether it is a briefcase, professional carrying case, or just a normal backpack, purchasing some sort of permanent laptop bag is a wise investment.

Charger
For some reason, laptop chargers break a lot. If it has not yet happened to you, count yourself one of the lucky ones. Whether it is the cable, the port, or the part that plugs into your computer that is in jeopardy, laptop chargers do not have much of a lifespan. Because of this fact, it would probably be wise to purchase an additional charger for your laptop in case the first one breaks. This will at least give you the opportunity to order a replacement without having to go without your laptop for several weeks.

Cooling Pad
Another drawback that laptops and notebook computers have is that the built-in fan is usually not as powerful as you would like. Laptops often overheat which can cause burns, data loss, or complete computer failure. To avoid this, it would be wise to purchase a cooling pad that fits comfortably beneath your laptop and pulls heat away from the computer through the use of dual fans and ventilation systems.

Bluetooth Adapter
Many products now run, or are capable of running, on bluetooth technology. Bluetooth allow for multiple devices to communicate with each other on a private connection. In order to send pictures, videos, songs, and other files to your computer, however, you will need to purchase a bluetooth adapter that plugs into your laptop's USB port.