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Desktop Buying Tips

Introduction

Purchasing a home or business computer can be a big and sometimes costly decision. Below is a listing of helpful suggestions on what to look for and what to ask when purchasing a new computer.

New vs. Used

If you're looking to save money buying a used or refurbished computer can save you a lot of money. A refurbished computer is a computer that has been returned to the company has been checked out as good but cannot be sold again as new. All major computer manufacturers will have a refurbished section showing all their available refurbished products. Buying one of these computers instead of a new computer can save you hundreds of dollars. In addition to refurbished computers individuals and companies for various reasons will also sell their used computers. When buying these look out for the following. Verify it has no physical damage by inspecting the ports as well as the inside and the outside of the case. Make sure you're getting what you pay for. Make sure computer comes with any CD's for the operating systems or programs that are promised to be installed. Realize that many computer manufacturers will not transfer the computer warranty from the old user to you.

Mac vs. PC

The decision between buying a Macintosh and PC computer running Microsoft Windows is always a heated debate.

What to look for

When purchasing a computer it is likely that you will have a general idea of what you may like in the computer or how you would like to configure the computer. Below is a listing of the various components likely to be found in a computer and recommendations and tips when considering any of the below components.

Case

The case or chassis is often overlooked when buying a new computer. Below are some things to think about regarding the case. Do you want a desktop or tower case? Will the case fit on top of or below your desk? Will the drives be accessible or will they be positioned the way you wish them to be positioned? Does the case support the standards of motherboards, for example, the ATX motherboard standard? This is important if you wish to upgrade the computer in the future.

CD media

Most newer computers today have an included disc burner in the computer. If you wish to make your own CD's or DVD's make sure the computer supports it.

Memory

Memory is one of the more important purchasing decisions on a computer. The more memory in the computer, the more efficient the computer will run.

Network card

Almost all computers today have a network card or network option on the motherboard. The network card is what will allow you to share files between computers in your home and connect to a broadband Internet connection.

Processor

The computer processor is and will always be one of the most important considerations when purchasing a computer. Today, with multiple CPU/Processor manufacturers, it may be more confusing as well as more cost efficient to look at all options for computer processors.

Sound card

Today, the standard sound cards that are included with a computer are sufficient for almost all computer users. However, if you plan on doing sound editing or mixing make sure to look at the sound cards capabilities.

Video card

For computer gaming the video card has become one of the most important factors behind memory and processor. If you plan on gaming with your computer make sure your video card GPU and video memory meets the requirements.