How to choose a new computer
"I want a new computer, but I need help with which one to choose..."
How many times have Isle of Wight PCs been asked that question?
So here is a short list of things to think about when choosing your new computer.
Budget :
Probably the most important aspect to most people, but do remember that you get
what you pay for - the cheapest computer usually has a lower
specification, slower components and underpowered power supply. Fine if
you are using it for undemanding tasks, but it may limit what you can
do with it later. Consider the cheapest computers disposable...
New computers are now so reasonably priced, that it is hardly worth
buying older second hand models - in fact you may end up paying out to
have them upgraded when you find it can't do what you want it to do.
Mind you, if somebody gives you an old machine as a gift that's a
different matter...
Expected Use :
The next most important thing to consider. Easy if you already have a PC,
but perhaps not obvious to the complete beginner.
If you only intend to use the computer for undemanding tasks such as an
office PC (writing letters, spreadsheets, e-mail and Internet) then you
only have to consider budget - any new computer will do all of this and
more.
If you will be using the computer for graphical or resource hungry
programmes (play the latest games, edit video etc) you will need to
bear several other things in mind - faster processor, more RAM, larger
hard drive, better graphics card and perhaps a larger or higher quality
monitor.
Also think about a notebook computer. These are a little more expensive
and cannot usually be upgraded very easily, but offer a very compact
and portable solution - may be worth it to eliminate that pile of
technology and wires sitting in the corner of the room!
Manufacturer and Supplier :
Well known names such as have a reputation to keep, and will often use
better quality components. Pricewise, the gap has got smaller recently
and you can now pick up a named brand for the same price (or less) than
an unnamed box from a small retailer. Also consider after sales service
- how long is the warranty, do they call, collect or do you have to
return it should something go wrong?
Display / Screen :
Often overlooked when purchasing a computer, but the screen is the most
used part of the PC! Buy a poor quality screen and you may find you get
problems like flickering. Too small a screen can be frustrating - think
about what you are going to use it for, and for how long in a single
session. Go for a minimum size of 17 inches - this size will be perfect
for most users. Flat LCD screens of this size are now available for 50
- 90 pounds extra (over a traditional monitor), and unless you are on a
tight budget are well worth the extra for their physical size and
appearance alone - don't underestimate how much desk space a
traditional monitor takes up! A larger monitor may be needed to display
or edit large or multiple documents.
Software :
Falls into two categories - the operating system and applications.
The most common operating system at the moment is Microsoft Windows XP.
Available in 'home' and 'pro' versions. You will pay more for the 'pro'
version, so for a home user or simple office the 'home' edition is
enough.
Applications - PC systems are often supplied with 'bundled' software,
which should only be considered as a bonus if you would have actually
gone out and bought it. A good example is Microsoft Works - OK for
casual home use, but if you are expecting to use it for serious office
use in a working environment, you may soon find it doesn't do
everything you want. You may then end up paying a few hundred
pounds extra for MS Office. There are also free alternatives to much of
the software that you may need, such as the excellent MS Office
compatible
OpenOffice.org (we use it all the time here).
Multimedia:
It shouldn't cost any extra, but make sure you get a DVD reader/CD reader & writer. These are often combined into a single unit, but separate DVD and CD drives are useful for copying
discs. The faster the drive the better, and a DVD writer is a bonus.
Cheaper computers will have an 'onboard' sound card, which means it is
built into the main computer circuit board. This is more than adequate
for general use and many even feature surround sound now. Speakers come in all shapes and sizes - again you get what you pay for - an office PC doesn't really need anything special,
but if you want to watch DVDs or play games, surround sound speakers,
sub-woofers and the like will enhance your experience.
Printer :
It is difficult to imagine running a computer without a printer of some kind. The main types are
colour inkjets (cheap to buy but can be expensive to run) and
monochrome lasers (cheaper to run but more expensive to buy). Colour
lasers are available but cost more. It really depends on how much
printing you anticipate doing (you will do more than you think,
especially if young children are involved!). Lasers are
generally quicker and produce better quality documents, but higher end
inkjets have caught up. For general purpose, low output home or small
business use, a mid-range colour inkjet is probably the way to go, but
check the price of replacement cartridges before you buy, as some cost
nearly as much as the printer itself!
Modem :
If you will be using a dial up Internet connection or need faxing
capabilities, you will need a modem - most computers come with an
internal modem, but not all, so check to make sure. This should add
only a few pounds to the price.
General :
If you don't understand all the jargon and numbers thrown at you, just
remember that usually the higher the number, the better! This is not
always true of processor (CPU) speed, but is a good guide if you
are not sure. See my
jargon buster for any terms you do not understand.
These are just a few of the major points to consider - hope it helped.
If you are based on the Isle of Wight and need more information, call
Chris for a chat on 0789 150 9466 or email chris@iwpcs.co.uk
