How to Time a Computer Purchase

Can you get a better deal by buying at the right time, as with other products? Do one-time discounts for packages and other deals have a catch? Find out here.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• CD-ROM Drives
• CD-RW Burners
• Zip Drives
• Computer Keyboards
• Computer Mice
• Computer Monitors
• Printers
• Scanners
• Computers

1. Buy when you need to buy. No matter how long you wait for the best deal, the configuration you buy will cost less in six months. But the features will improve as well and you'll end up wanting a computer that costs as much as the one you are considering today.

2. Find the "sweet spot" when reading ads for processors. Look for the third chip down from the top of the line. Make sure it's of the current generation of processors.

3. Understand that current-model computers normally aren't selling at a discount. Advertised prices are regular prices.

4. Look for long-term financing promotions, especially during the holiday season. Typically, a six-month "same as cash" option provides a discount by saving interest.

5. Consider Internet service rebates if you are willing to make a long-term financial commitment to analog Internet service from a national provider.

6. Consider a manufacturer rebate if you aren't required to also purchase the same brand of monitor and/or printer.

7. Avoid a product that is already six months "behind the curve," unless you're certain your computer needs won't expand or you're willing to replace the machine in six months.

8. Buy a machine that originally sold for a higher price whenever you can.

9. Choose a three-month-old clearance model if your needs are basic and your budget is limited.

10. Consider buying refurbished or repaired units of current or recent models.

11. Think about online auctions.

12. Consider saving 5 to 20 percent by purchasing a last-of-a-kind floor model or a unit that has been returned in working condition by another customer.

Tips & Warnings

• Assume that upgrading today's computer in four years will be equivalent to converting a tractor into a race car.
• Manufacturer and retailer bundles are typically poor values; they tend to include high-priced, but inferior, monitors and printers. No manufacturer is highly rated in all three categories and only a couple are respected for both computers and monitors. Savings are small and artificial.
• Avoid processor and computer brands that have been discontinued.
• Ask about return policies and restocking fees when considering a computer that isn't sold new in a box.
• Ask yourself "What's the catch?" when you find a low price.
• Expect the recent computer industry decline in the quality of building and parts to boomerang eventually, but don't wait for that to happen.
• Most chain retailers will give you a price adjustment if the price on a product is reduced within a week or two of purchase. Check policies.
• Make sure you get a warranty on a computer that isn't sold new in a box.
• Be aware that refurbished computers usually contain used or refurbished parts and have shorter and more limited warranties.

on 11/22/2005 When at retail stores search open-box buys, or previously returned computers. These usually have the same warranty and sell for at least 20% less than the retail sitting on display. Most stores run tests on these computers before they put them back out and this is sometimes better (they don't run tests on the computers still in the factory sealed box).