Getting the right price on the right type of desktop computer for your particular needs is not always easy. The fact remains that many people lack the knowledge necessary to shop wisely. However, this article is here to help you learn more about the market and what you can do to make the process simpler.

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.

As you look for the right desktop computer for your needs, pay close attention to your intended type of Internet connection as well as whether or not a potential desktop model has a modem. If you are not able to connect to broadband due to your location, you will need a modem. Otherwise, you can purchase a computer that does not have one.

For the best deal when buying a new desktop computer, shop during and after back to school time or just before Christmas. These are the times when computer companies offer great deals on many of their best selling computers. Computer companies will also offer bundles of desktops and printers that can save you extra money.

If you would like to move large video files, think about a computer with an optical DVD drive that is writable. A CD drive may not be enough for bigger multimedia files. You will need the extra space that DVD media provides. It will cost you more, but you’ll eventually be thankful you upgraded.

How much hard drive space do you need? Look at the sizes available in terms of how many photos they can hold for an easy reference. A 500GB hard drive holds 100,000 photos, for example, or the equivalent of 38 hours of video or 125,000 MP3 songs, which is more than enough for most.

If you are looking for a simple computer, such as one for a student or someone who just doesn’t do much processor-heavy work, look for an all-in-one unit. They often house the computer within the monitor, meaning setting it up is a breeze. On top of that, the price is usually quite reasonable.

If you’re a gamer looking for a new desktop computer, check computer requirements on the games you want to play. That way, you’ll be sure to have the right computer for the games you are going to play. You can also check with gaming sites and forums to see which computers stand up best with regards to games.

Don’t forget to consider used computers when shopping. These are often purchased from the current owner directly as opposed to in a store. You can find them on classified sites and they can be bought for a steal. When you don’t need the latest, greatest machine, this is an affordable alternative.

If you’ve got a raucous family or you tend to be clumsy yourself, really do consider getting insurance on your desktop. You’ll here some people say insurance is a waste of money, but in the cases where you know accidents happen too often, you definitely need to cover yourself.

If you are shopping for a computer that you intend to watch high quality video with, make sure the back of the system has an HDMI out port. That way you can hook it straight up to a high definition television. Even if you only plan on watching YouTube videos, an HDMI port tells you the computer is ready for video playback.

Think about the case of the computer before you move on to any other feature. Measure how much space you have on your desk for your new computer. Consider whether you want it to stand up or lay down. If the case doesn’t fit in, you’ll end up disappointed.

Wait until the right time to buy a desktop computer. You probably already know when there are big yearly sales, so it is smart to wait until then before buying something, if you can. You’ll kick yourself if you see the computer you just bought on sale for hundreds of dollars left, so try to wait for sales.

People who are not terribly knowledgable about desktop computers may experience real dread when it comes time to buy a new one. However, if you needed a bit of insight in the subject before heading out yourself, take heart. You now have all the tools you need to get a terrific machine that you can actually afford.

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