How to Buy a Computer for the Lowest Price Online

Before you start your online search for a computer, you should have an idea of what you want it to do so you can buy one that best meets your needs. Read on to learn how to buy a computer for the lowest price online.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer With Internet Access

1. Find a computer that will best meet your needs by conducting a search on the Internet.
2. Decide on the model you want. Conduct another search for the computer that you have chosen.
   
3. Compare three to five computers. Write down the specifications, information and prices of each so you can choose the one that is best for you at the lowest price.
4. Make your final choice. Check the Web site you’re buying from to find out more about your purchase options. In many cases, online retailers have financing options that you may be interested in.
5. Find out the terms of the financing, including the interest rate. The interest rate could significantly increase the price of the computer. Most online computer retailers also take credit cards and online checking accounts.
   
6. Order and pay for your new computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Have a good idea of what kind of computer you want before you start shopping. For example, if buying a computer to play graphic-intensive games, you'll need a more powerful machine than if you are only going to use it for word processing, email and browsing.
• Don't forget to include shipping, insurance and sales tax in the price.
• Check the peripherals you get with the computer—a monitor, keyboard and mouse are essential if you are buying a desktop computer. If the package you are purchasing doesn’t have these extras, you will need to add them to the price.