Trying to figure out which desktop computer to buy can be quite difficult. You might not know about all the current specs and other features that are available right now. If you need some help, this article is going to provide you with some necessary information in order to guide you through the process.
Join an online group for people who know about computers. They can help you find a desktop computer that suits your needs. And because they know computers, they can help you avoid the brands that will not serve you well. Try to soak up as much information as you can, and you’ll get a computer you can be proud of.
When buying a desktop computer, you need to know what you plan to use it for. Knowing what you’ll use the computer for is important, because it dictates how much storage space you may need, the kind of processing speed you need and the kind of monitor you need. When you know what you need to use the computer for, you’re going to find it easier to find what you need.
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.
If you plan on storing a lot of music or videos, make sure you get a hard drive that will cover your needs. In general, the more hard drive space that you can get, the better off you are. That is, unless you only write emails and surf the web on your desktop. You need the space especially if you shoot video.
Buy a computer with a writable DVD drive to transfer large files. CD drives are not big enough for some of the new multimedia files. The DVD drive will give you the space you need. It’s an additional cost, but it’ll save you trouble later.
Before you buy a desktop computer, ask yourself what you plan to do with it. Figure out if you are only going to use it for work, play, or both. You need to consider the programs and media that you need to use. Check the desktops that you want to ensure the sound cards and graphics cards are enough to support them.
Try to customize your purchase when ordering your computer. If you are ordering directly from the manufacturer, you should be able to upgrade individual components. For example, you should be able to get more storage space for a higher fee. You might be able to get a different video card by paying a bit more. Look into different companies to make sure you have this option.
If you really want to save money on a new computer, check out refurbished models or open box systems. These can typically be had at deep discounts or even fractions of the retail price of a new one. Do check out what kind of warranty and certification they come with. Ideally, you want a refurbished system that has been checked out twice.
Always check the customer reviews of a computer model before you purchase it. Customer reviews are available on most online retailer websites. From these reviews, you can find out if a particular model you are interested in overheats, has speed issues or other problems that you do not want to deal with.
When looking for a computer system, keep an eye out for what kind of graphics chipset it has. Cheaper systems tend to have video cards that are called on-board, or integrated. This means it is actually part of the motherboard. You are going to get far better video quality and gaming from a dedicated video card that is attached in a slot.
Before you buy a new desktop computer, decide on a budget that is comfortable for you. There are many options for desktop computers. You can pick the ones you need to put into a desktop package that fits the amount you can afford to spend. Check to see if you can add more RAM at a later time if you can’t afford it now.
A cheap sub $300 desktop may sound great, but do your homework before buying. Are the specs good enough for your needs? Often these entry-level machines are underpowered. Is the case made to be durable? You’ll often see cheaper desktops with poor quality plastics and hinges. The $300 may sound nice, but really you are buying something that may only last a year.
How do you feel about your knowledge about personal desktop computers now? Use what you’ve learned to help you make a smart purchasing decision. There are many brands and different types of desktop computers, so now that you know more about them you can decide which one works for you.
