Desktop Computers and Monitors

Contents[Hide]
Buying a desktop computer is the best way to have a powerful system that you can easily update and modify.  Not only are desktops commonly cheaper than laptops, but you can easily open them up and upgrade components so that they don't become obsolete.  For example, you can plug in a new video card  on desktop computers to play the latest games, or add RAM sticks to maximize performance. Add a High-Definition LCD monitor and you have future-proof home PC.

Desktop Computers and Monitors Guides

Desktops

  • The fastest desktop computers currently use an Intel Core 2 Quad  processor.
  • Make sure your new computer has at least 2 GB of RAM, and is capable of additional RAM sticks. Some desktops are capable of 24 GB of DDR3 RAM. 
  • Most modern computers are 2 to 3 Ghz in processor speed.
  • For gaming, look for a graphics card with at least 512 MB of memory to play the latest, high-definition 3D games.

Monitors

  • Most monitors are CRT  (Cathode Ray Tube) or LCD  (Liquid Crystal Display), however most brands have stopped CRT production and adopted LCD technology.
  • HD LCD  and Plasma  monitors are the current cutting edge technology.
  • Make sure your desktop and monitor are HDMI  capable for true, high definition display.
  • If you are looking for a larger monitor (over 32 inches), you should buy a plasma monitor.

Desktop/Monitor Packages

Desktop and computer packages are typically cheaper than buying the two items separately.

Value Buys

  • Acer Aspire : 2.5 Ghz, 4 GB DDR2 SDRAM, 640 GB Hard Drive
  • HP Pavilion : 2.6 Ghz, 6 GB DDR2 SDRAM, 640 GB HD
  • Apple iMac G5 : 2 GHz, 512 MB DDR SDRAM, 160 GB HD, ATI Radeon 9600 Graphics Card

High End

Related Guides

Blu-Ray

RAM Guide

Computer Speakers

PC Games

Building a Computer