Purchasing a new computer can be an overwhelming experience for the unprepared consumer. On top of the fact that you are going to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars, the sheer magnitude of computer styles, manufacturers, and performance levels makes the buying experience feel like a monumental task.
Three of the internet’s most well-respected electronics publications agree that the best way to make an informed PC purchase is to ask a few simple but important questions.
By using these questions to analyze different makes and models you can be confident in your purchase, whether you choose a Lenovo, Dell, Apple, or any other computer brand.
It may seem like a no-brainer, but many computer purchasers do not take the time to ask themselves, “What will I be using this device for on a day-to-day basis?” Do you need a gaming computer, an entertainment computer, or a high-performance computer?
Manufacturers throw fancy-sounding technical specifications at the consumer, hoping to “wow” them with the machine’s high-performance abilities. The truth of the matter is that for most computer users, these expensive high-end capabilities will rarely be used.
Many computer publications explain that the key to getting a great value on your computer purchase is to avoid extras that you do not need. Add-ons like a high-powered graphics card are great if you are a gamer, but if you are only using the PC to browse the web and run simple applications, all of that money and performance is essentially wasted.
Another important aspect to consider if file storage. PCMag.com advises that it is important to know where and how you will be storing data, because it is possible to save money if online or Cloud-based storage will suffice. Otherwise, the buyer must pony up the extra money for the appropriate amount of local storage.
The next question you must ask yourself is, “Where and in what settings will I use this computer?” The circumstances in which you plan to use your PC or Mac go a long way towards deciding whether you need a netbook, a laptop, or some style of desktop.
A netbook is a compact notebook with a 10” to 12” screen and a design that prioritizes battery life over high-performance – in fact, according to LaptopMag.com, many netbooks essentially double as a tablet. Netbooks are perfect for consumers who have basic, on-the-go computing needs and do not mind a slower-running system.
Larger and more powerful, laptops have higher performance capabilities but sacrifice battery life. For this reason, it is important to inquire on the number of cells in the battery.
Most laptop batteries range from two to four cells, with four-cell batteries offering the most power. If you value a larger keyboard, built-in optical drives, and some gaming capabilities, a laptop is the right choice for you.
Desktop computers have traditionally held the lion’s share of computer purchases. However, laptops and netbooks have made a sizable cut into desktops’ dominance. That being said, desktops are a good choice for users seeking high computing performance and customization.
If you decide that a desktop is right for you, next you must choose between an all-in-one CPU or a traditional tower-style CPU. Towers provide the most power, speed, and memory, plus users are able to add or remove components. Techspot.com offers a handy pricing guide that gives consumers a better idea of how much they should pay for their desktop needs.
All-in-one desktops have their “guts” built into the monitor – this style of CPU constitutes the largest growing segment of the computer market. These computers are great because they offer a small degree of portability and the ability to double as a secondary entertainment system. However, they are less powerful than CPU towers and if there is a monitor problem you may need to purchase a brand new computer.
Technical specifications are typically the most overwhelming aspect of the computer-purchasing process. With so many numbers and components, it is easy to go overboard and pay too much for features you may rarely use or need.
Though electronics publications like CNET.com, TechRadar.com and PCWorld.com recommend that several lower-level specifications can be ignored, there are a couple of key specs that make a world of difference in the user’s experience.
The first decision is finding a computer with a processor that fits your needs. Most computers are built with processors from one of two manufacturers – AMD or Intel. AMD offers a slower performance, and it is no surprise that Intel processors are far more common.
Intel offers three versions of its “Core” processor – the Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7. Intel still makes the Pentium and Celeron processors, but they should be avoided if possible. The i3 is the lowest-tier processor and is good for basic computing tasks; the i5 is the most common of the Core series and is available in most computers; the i7 is only necessary if you plan to partake in serious gaming or complicated video editing.
The next decision to make is hard drive type. There are two types of hard drive – the large platter-style HDD, which is found in most desktops or the faster SSD drives which offer less capacity and come with a far-greater price tag. Most publications are in agreement that your hard drive should offer at least 750 GB, and to avoid skimping on your memory (get a minimum of 4GB).
By asking yourself each of preceding questions, consumers can easily narrow down the options and make a confident purchasing decision.
One great way to save money on your computer purchase is to pay close attention to PC vendors’ sites like Dell or Lenovo and diligently comparison shop at stores like Cowboom or Tiger Direct. These companies often offer instant-rebates or deep sales at random; keeping tabs on these sites can lead to huge savings.
By taking the time to evaluate and identify your basic wants and needs, a great deal of money and frustration can be saved on your next computer purchase. While it seems that computers become obsolete at an ever-more-rapid rate, PCMag.com states many of the best mid-range PC should be able to remain technologically relevant for three to five years.
