Top Ten Tips - Buying A New Computer
By Tip Diva | Mar 18, 2008
Categories: Adult, Budget, Computer, Conversation, Digital, Google, Internet, Mac, Macintosh, Money, PC, Scams, Selling, Services, Shopping, Stores, Support, Technology, Tips, Web Search, Websites, Word Processors
Like purchasing a car, buying a computer is a personalized, and sometimes nerve-wracking, experience. Which model should you buy? Does it have all the features you need? Are you considering the right computer? Here are some tips on where to start:
- Determine Your Budget - If you only plan on spending $1,000, don’t expect a top-of-the-line computer or good laptop. Determine your budget first, because it will narrow down your choices and you won’t be disappointed by looking at fancier products.
- Determine Your Computing Needs - Are you going to be mainly using the computer for word processing and Internet connectivity? Gaming? Photo and video editing? Make sure you know what you need ahead of time, because it will affect everything from the software installed to the video card and processors.
- Determine Your Mobility - If you’re going to be sitting at a desk 99 percent of the time, you’ll ultimately want a (cheaper) desktop. But if you’ll need the computer at work, home and on the road, it would make more sense for you to get a laptop then shifting files from computer to computer.
- Consider Both New And Used - You can get a decent computer either way, but you’ll ultimately be saving money on the latter. Just make sure that a used computer is covered under warranty, and if the warranty is the same as the original user’s, that it can be transferred to you. Another issue with used or refurbished computers is that many have illegal software; ensure that yours doesn’t.
- Ask Friends For Suggestions - Ask your friends with similar computing habits what type of computer they use and if they are happy with it. Ask them about their past experiences. Weigh these in to your decision, but remember to consider bias. For instance, Tip Dude will tell you to buy a Mac, no matter what.
- Read Reviews - Read Internet reviews about your potential computers on websites like CNET, PC Magazine and PC World. If Tip Diva had only done this before purchasing her laptop a few years ago, she would have discovered that she couldn’t upgrade the RAM much higher or that it had a poorly-performing DVD burner.
- Consult With A Computer Expert - Whether through a computer company or a local computer technician, have a discussion about your needs and what you’re looking for in a computer. They can start your search off on the right foot by suggestion certain brands, software, hardware and more.
- Check The Service/Warranty - Make sure you get a good service contract and warranty with your computer, especially if you plan on using it for years to come. Sometimes, it’s worth to pay the extra money for extra years of service.
- Check Upgrade Availability - If you’re planning to use the computer for years to come, also make sure it has the ability for upgrades, including RAM. You want to keep it purring like a kitten.
- Don’t Be Pressured Into Buying - If you buy your computer through a salesperson, they might pressure you into buying extra gadgets, software or things you don’t need. So, don’t be pressured into buying things outside your basic needs. You have a right to say “no,” and stick to it.
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