How to Know What to Look for When Buying a New Computer

Whether you are in the market for a desktop or a laptop computer, this article will give you the information you need to make the best purchase. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Information
• Advertising
• Notebook
• Fountain pen

1. Gather the local newspaper ads! Or, do some price hunting on the Internet, on the websites for Walmart, Circuit City, Best Buy, Office Depot, Target or any other retailer. This will give you a picture of what is currently available. Pay careful attention because your ideas may be outdated. Markets and new technology emerge daily.

2. Maximize the computer's memory; try for at least 1GB RAM (or more).

   RAM (Random Access Memory) is the black "memory stick" (silicone chip) inside of the computer that helps it to run quicker. It lessens those blank screens that often appear when switching in between programs. It is good to have as much as you can. If you can get more than 1 GB, please do so. You can add memory easier at a later time, if you choose.

3. Hard Drive (HD) space is often confused with "memory." This is the hard drive space. All of your programs are stored on here, including your Operating System, which is Windows Vista (or XP), in most cases.

   You will want to maximize this as well. Photos, videos, games and software take up the most room. Think of your future needs. You will have the computer for awhile. Your family's items will be stored on the PC, as well.

   Go for at least 100GB or more of HD space. GB is short for Gigabytes.

4. Buy a brand of computer that does not need a lot of repair. Because I work as a computer technician, I can tell you that the following have the least amount of service calls: HP/Compaq, emachines, Toshiba and Acer.

5. Laptops can require different specifications, including those listed below. Again, make sure you have as much memory as you can.

   Check out the screen area. Make sure it is a damage-resistant screen. A pen can end a laptops beautiful display in a heartbeat.

   Get a built-in wireless card and bluetooth, if you use that.

   Feel how heavy the laptop or notebook computer is.

   See if the keyboard lights up. It is a nice feature.

   See if you can try out whatever computer you are considering in the store.

   Check out the sound to see if it will be loud enough for you. You can also purchase extra speakers.

   If you need a built-in screen webcam, look at laptops that include those.

   Also, you will want as many cells as possible in your battery. This will extend its life. Get an extra one if you can so you have a spare. They tend to wear down and lose their charge with age.

   If you can swing it, get damage protection in case you drop the machine or it falls.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time making your decision, if possible. Gather all the facts.

• Do not be pressured into making a purchase "today."

• Steer clear of off brands or custom built PC's unless you know the people making them.

Resources

• Best Buy link
• Compusa - online only most places
• Target's website
• Walmart's website
• Cnet's reviews of laptops and desktops