Should a laptop have a surge protector?
 

I've had my laptop plugged into just a wall outlet, I've had a couple ppl tell me I should really have a surge protector for it. Is this true?

Should? I'm not sure (no computer expert here). I personally have two on mine, but then I've had desktop computers fried several times, so I'm extra careful.

Mine is plugged into the power adapter all the time. So I should have one. Dont. But should. If lightening hit it would definately hit my computer through the outlet it's plugged into.

In an ideal world, all electronics should be plugged into surge protectors.

I have one and I use it, but when my kids use it, they ALWAYS "forget" to use it. So far no problems, but if it blows one day, I'll blame it on them! $1700 is hard to throw away when a surge protector costs so little.

If you plug it into the wall, it's under the exact same risk as a desktop computer.

Mine is always plugged into a power strip with a surge suppressor .. but that's because I need the extra cord length anyway (under the sofa, or at my desk upstairs) and so it's just as easy to buy a strip with the protection as not. :)

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Yes, should have a surge protector. They make a small one that is a single outlet specifically for traveling with laptop - I think mine is a Belkin. It plugs into the outlet, then the laptop plugs directly into it. Mine doesn't even block the second receptacle on the outlet. I think it cost $25 or so, a little more expensive than some because it is a specialty item.

Yes, unless you have enough extra cash that replacing your laptop is not an issue - get a surge protector. Even a "brown out" where the lights flicker - can cause a power surge that will fry equipment - you don't have to take a direct lightning hit.

As other posters have said - $25 is pretty cheap for an insurance bet.

YES! Get a surge protector, if you don't you might be sorry in the future.