What To Look For In Buying A New Computer

It's always hard to believe how quickly time passes by, and even more hard believing how fast the technology goes with it. Each year technology improvements seem to creep up upon us, placing our once groundbreaking devices at the bottom of a barrel. Working in the Technology field, I am often approached by others with questions regarding the purchase of a new PC. Most commonly asked are the questions below:

• Is it time to buy a new computer?
• Can I upgrade it?
• Should I get a laptop or a desktop PC?
• What should I look for in buying a new computer?

Is It Time to Buy a New Computer?

Generally, I would begin by asking how old their current computer is. If the computer is more than 5 years old, it is definitely time to start looking at a new purchase. After five years, the warranties are most likely expired, and if a part was to break it would have to be replaced out of pocket. Bringing your computer in to be fixed, can be quite a nightmare with tech people overcharging for simple fixes. I was brought a computer recently that had been completely refitted with new hardware, only to find the real cause was a simple computer virus obtained through improper surfing habits.

Can I Upgrade It?

The answer to this question is the fun and ambiguous: it depends. It would almost never hurt to upgrade the RAM in a computer, as it is one of the primary speed determining factors of a computer. Users will most likely see a boost in application and overall computer performance from such an upgrade. If it is a Desktop unit, and you are more of a gamer, you might benefit from replacing it with a newer Video Card. However, video cards seem to advance quite quickly in technology and the requirements they need to run them. Make sure to check the specifications carefully, as you could be in need of replacing the power supply and a fan or two as well. Cost will be your primary determining factor here. If it will cost you 300$ or more to upgrade your computer, you might want to consider putting that money aside and saving up for a newer computer.

Should I Get a Laptop or Desktop?

Laptops have come a long way from what they were years ago. Even then, they have always had that small portable and sleek appeal. The key factor here will be where and how you plan to use your computer. If you are always on the go and like to have everything at your fingertips, you might want to consider saving up a bit more and spending it on a nice Laptop. Gamers can even get in on the action and grab a cool desktop replacement laptop, or something like the Alienware M11X (a cute and powerful netbook for gamers). Other times I recommend laptops are for home users who like to be all over the house and not restricted to one room for browsing. It's a great feeling to be able to sit out on your outdoor patio and shop on Amazon. Primary benefits for choosing a Desktop are found when it comes time to upgrade. It is much easier to replace parts in a Desktop than have to replace them in Laptops (this is however changing some). Also Desktops (usually) will have more power than their smaller counterparts and if spent correctly you can get more power for your money.

What Should I Look For In Buying a New Computer?

The easiest way to answer this, is with a question about your planned use of the computer. What do you plan to use it for? If you plan to surf the web, shop, and play simple flash games then you won't need the latest gaming beast. However, if you plan to use your computer for CAD, 3D Modeling, Hard Core Gaming etc, you will want to invest in a more expensive unit featuring the latest technology.

Choosing a computer can be a frustrating task for many people who don't feel experienced enough to make the decision. If you have a technology department at work, stop by with some doughnuts and coffee and ask them a question or two about their choice for a new purchase. Let them know what you plan to spend, and what you plan to use it for. It never hurts to get friendly with your local I.T. Guys!