5 tips for buying a new computer

Posted on January 12th, 2012

Are you considering buying a new computer?

You might be feeling a little bit overwhelmed. Not only do you have to decipher all the technical jargon, but you also have to shop around to get a good price and deal with salespeople who often complicate things further.

Here are a few tips to make your job easier.

Tip #1: Know the Accessories

When you buy a new computer you will need extra stuff. This will include Antivirus software and an office suite to do word processing and spreadsheets.

Get an extended warranty too if you can get a discount off the normal price. Otherwise you only have a 12 month warranty on most brands. Surge protection is also a very good idea to prevent your new computer from being fried by a power spike.

Tip #2: Windows or Mac?

I am commonly asked whether people should buy a Mac or a PC.

I am a huge fan of the Mac computer. They are beautifully designed. They are less prone to common virus problems that plague the PC. If you are willing to invest some time learning how to use a Mac then it is a good option.

On the other hand PCs have their advantages too. All of the latest games will run primarily on a PC. You will have a wider choice of software programs. And so far, Windows7 has shown some very positive signs and seems to be a very nice well rounded Operating System to use.

Tip #3: Laptop or Desktop?

Both laptops and desktops have their advantages.

Laptops are portable so work well if you travel frequently. They are also very compact and don’t take up much room. You will typically pay more due to the compactness feature.

Desktops are generally a good option if you intend to have it sitting in one place most of the time. You will normally get a larger screen size. There is also more room inside the box for future upgrades. Having said that – many desktop boxes are getting smaller now.

Tip #4: How to Survive all the Jargon

Today’s computers are immensely powerful. Many of us will never use the full capabilities of them. If you want a computer to do email, surf the internet, talk to friends and family on Skype or view a few photos from your digital camera – then the technical specifications are mostly uninmportant. Even the most basic entry level computer will perform these tasks with relative ease.

Just bear in mind that the more powerful a computer is – the better it will be able to handle whatever is created for it in the future.

Tip #5: Get Broadband

If you buy a new computer – do yourself a huge favour and invest in broadband too. Not only are the prices coming down – but broadband just allows you to do so much more with your new computer.

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