What does it take to buy a great desktop computer? Do I need to take an IT course to learn all about how they tick? Should I bring along my computer whiz cousin? No, you don’t need to do any of that, just read this article in full and take notes.
Consider the disk burning capabilities of any desktop computers that you are looking at. Consider whether you plan to just watch media or to make your own CDs and DVDs. If you plan on doing the latter, make sure sure the computer that you want supports it. Not all desktops come with these capabilities.
When searching for a desktop computer be certain to shop around. With the growing popularity of laptops, tablets, and mobile devices, desktops have fallen out of favor. As such, sales are struggling. Use this to your advantage and look for the best deals out there when purchasing a new desktop computer.
When you are building your own PC, choose the products carefully. Some motherboards can only be used on certain processors. Same with the RAM and their compatibility with motherboards. When purchasing your pieces, ensure cross compatibility. This saves time, hassles and money as you build your own rig.
Look at what is included for the servicing of your desktop computer. Check to see if there will be onsite service, or a technician that arrives at your location to do repairs for the duration of your warranty. Find out what you get if onsite is not offered, along with how long. Check to see if your machine can be serviced at a local service center. Also, look at the time frames for replacements, repairs, and if you receive a loaned computer in case the time frame is unacceptable.
If you want to save money when purchasing a desktop computer, consider buying a refurbished model. You can look at the websites of major computer manufacturers such as HP or Dell, where you will find great deals on computers that have been returned to the company, fixed and sold at a discount rate.
Keep your desktop computer’s tower away from places where you set your drinks or other things that could spill. It’s really hard to fix a computer if the parts were to get wet. If you must set a drink on your desk, make sure it’s on a side of the desk away from the tower so if you do spill something it doesn’t get on the main part of the computer.
What sort of internet connection will you be using? This is an important question to answer as you seek out a desktop as it has to have the right hardware to connect. Your options are typically wifi, ethernet or bluetooth, all of which require a special device to connect.
Before you go shopping for a desktop computer, take the time to really assess your true needs. If you only plan to send emails, do a bit of Internet surfing and type documents, there is no need to buy a costly machine with all the bells and whistles. Do not be talked into buying more computer than you really require.
When desktop computer shopping, don’t solely focus on one brand alone. There are so many options out there these days, especially on the PC side. From Dell and Toshiba to HP and and Sony. And then there are Macs as well. Keep an open mind and play around with a few to see what works best for you.
Hard drives come in two different types, and the choices are based on these two options. HDD drives are standard, but SSDs are newer. SSD drives will be faster but also hold less data and cost more.
When a computer you plan to purchase is offered with software, be sure to ask if it is the full version or just a trial copy. A trial version runs out in a certain period of time, meaning you have to purchase the full copy to be able to use it again.
Just buy the accessories that you need. Don’t let a retailer sell you too many unnecessary extras. Make sure you examine what comes with your computer and whether or not they’re charging you extra for any of it. It may be cheaper to buy the bare minimum from the retailer and purchase your computer accessories elsewhere.
Keep in mind that the term desktop refers to both flat desktops and tower cases. Know where you plan to put the computer once you buy it. Measure it to make sure there’s enough room and check to see that it can support that much weight. Full size towers can easily reach just under 20 inches tall and long, and weigh 15 pounds of more.
With your notes in hand, you can now conquer the world of computer shopping. Be sure to utilize every tip you read here for optimal results. The harder you work at finding a great computer, the better the results will be once you plug it in and get down to business.
