Computers 101: Everything You Need To Know About Desktop Computers

Are you someone who has purchased a lot of computers, but now are confused as to which is a good one to buy? That is something that happens a lot, because technology moves so fast. The process is actually easier than it appears. The following information has great advice that will help you when it is time to buy a new computer.

When searching for a desktop computer be certain to shop around. With the growing popularity of laptops, tablets, and mobile devices, desktops have fallen out of favor. As such, sales are struggling. Use this to your advantage and look for the best deals out there when purchasing a new desktop computer.

Take an audit of your uses for a desktop computer before buying one. This is important so that you can really understand how much power you really need. More power means more money. If super powerful desktop won’t be of any real use to you, why shell out the additional funds?

If you are considering a Mac instead of a Windows desktop, but have Windows programs you like to run, think about getting Parallels for Mac. This will let you run a PC OS on your Mac. That way, you are able to run all your PC programs! You will also need to make a separate purchase of the operating system for the PC to go along with it.

If you aren’t a gamer, don’t get suckered into gaming desktop computers. These computers have been souped up with the biggest and baddest video cards, sound cards, and processors. If all you do is email and light photography, this power is major overkill. You are better spending your money on a lesser computer and investing in some peripherals.

Shopping for a desktop computer always brings the question of which sorts of accessories or add-ons are necessary and which are not. Take care to learn which items are included with the computer itself so that you do not end up wasting money on redundant equipment that a savvy salesperson convinced you was crucial to have.

Which processor you need depends on what you want to do with your computer. If you aren’t sure, then you are likely better off with something cheaper and less powerful, such as an i3 or i5. If you are playing video games, go for something bigger like an i7 instead.

If you want to run many programs at once, you’ll need at least 4GB of RAM. If you just want to do simple tasks, less than 4GB will be okay. Want to play video games? Look for 10GB and above to ensure your games aren’t lagged and hard to play.

If you really want to save money on a new computer, check out refurbished models or open box systems. These can typically be had at deep discounts or even fractions of the retail price of a new one. Do check out what kind of warranty and certification they come with. Ideally, you want a refurbished system that has been checked out twice.

Don’t ever get concerned over the idea of buying a new desktop. Just remember the computer basics even as technology advances. Use the advice here, as well as that given to you by sales people at the computer store; you will find the computer that is perfect for all of your needs.