How to Get the Best Deal for a Computer Online

If you are looking for a computer online, the best thing to do is research, research, research. Don’t fall prey to flashy online ads that promise the moon and stars in your computer when the offer doesn’t totally reflect the model of computer you will be receiving. When you are searching for a computer online, know what you want and need in a computer. It is easier to search for a specific type, brand or model of computer than ‘computer’ in general. Once you have an idea of the kind of computer you want and what capabilities you want it to have then you can begin to search. Read on to learn how to get the best deal for a computer online.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer With Internet Access

1. Go to a search engine. Type in the name, brand or model of computer you wish to purchase.
   
2. Read reviews on different Web sites. Make a note of the information so that you can compare the prices and models. Have at least three computers to compare to ensure you get the best deal.
   
3. Look for ‘free’ deals. Deals that include a free monitor, printer or other products. Keep in mind that sometimes the addition of a free monitor can really reduce the price of a computer.
   
4. Print out your spreadsheet, note or document and review the computers you have there. Make sure you look to see if printers, monitors and software bundles are included. Try for the best ‘apples to apples’ comparison possible. Allow for some differences in software, hardware and the like, but not at a huge expense.
5. Choose a computer. Now go back to the Web site to find out your purchase options. Many online companies will offer financing, but you can also pay with your credit card or online checking account.

Tips & Warnings

• Check to ensure you know exactly what you are getting. Watch out for words like ‘refurbished’ and ‘used’ which mean that the computer you are getting is not new.
• Look out for computers that do not come with a monitor, keyboard or mouse. You have to pay more for those extras. Include that into your pricing when you are comparing products.
• Make sure that the company you are purchasing from is legitimate. You can do a quick search on the company to make sure it is legitimate. There is likely opinion blogs and other information available online about the company. If there is a lot of bad publicity from the public about the company, then you may want to look elsewhere.
• Ensure that you have included the cost of shipping in the price of your computer. Sometimes shipping charges are very high to make up for the low cost of the computer.