Desktop Computers
Whether you're buying a computer for your daughter starting university, your digital photographer father, or for yourself, there is a desktop computer that will suit your needs. Before you start to oggle super-fast processing speeds and contemplate how much music would fit on a terabyte hard drive, there are two important questions to consider: how much are you able to spend, and what tasks do you plan to do on your computer?
Desktop or Laptop?
If you haven't quite made up your mind that you even want a desktop computer, this section should help you come to a decision.
In brief,
desktop computers offer greater flexibility in design than
laptops with price tags that are astonishingly low. Once a laptop is built, its specifications are set and upgrade options are restricted because of space constraints. However, a desktop comes with empty bays which can be efficiently used to upgrade RAM or install a faster chipset. In addition, most upgrades cost less for desktops as compared to laptops. You can spend as little as £600 for a desktop and upgrade the specifications over time as your needs expand, making it a cost effective option in the short and long run. This chart highlights the advantages and disadvantages of each.
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How Much Computer Do You Need?
One of the first concerns most shoppers are faced with is budget. How much can you realistically afford and do you really need to spend that much? Computer prices are continually dropping, and these days you can find deals on decent systems for as little as £400. On the other hand, powerhouse models can soar up to over £1000 and even higher. The key is to find a happy medium between your budget and your needs. Below, take a look at the difference in system capabilities for an economicallyline model. Also consider how much money you can realistically spend before you go shopping; it will help you steer you in the right direction.
Layout
Choosing a layout is a matter of how much desk space you have and how much space you want to save. Keep in mind that slimmer computers are usually more expensive for the same components. Computers with snazzy exteriors also cost more . Below you'll see how desktop towers (the heart of the computer) stack up. Don't forget though that monitors will play a part in how much desk space you'll use up. A basic CRT monitor (like a CRT TV) is big and bulky, while a flat screen monitor (like an LCD TV) is slim, sleek, and more expensive.
Computer Specs
If you've never bought a computer before, you might find yourself bombarded with lots of unfamiliar terms. Despite the urge to shrug off learning what all these things mean, it is rather important to understand what you are getting yourself into before talking to a salesperson or comparing products online.
As a general rule of thumb, the higher the numbers, the better the quality. If there are any specific programs that you know you want to run, such as a digital imaging or gaming programs, you will want to verify that the system you want to buy meets those requirements.
'''Processor Speed'''
* This is the measure of how quickly the CPU (central processing unit, aka the microprocessor) runs; sometimes referred to as clock speed.
* Measured in Gigahertz (GHz). A decent desktop will start at around 2.0GHz, but at least make sure to get something with a minimum of 1.5GHz.
* The CPU is like the brain of the computer. If you want the machine to think quickly, you need to have a fast processor or clock speed.
* The speed of the CPU is how fast the CPU can access and process information, which translates to how fast you can work on your computer.
'''Processor Make and Model'''
* If you have shopped around at all for a computer you will have seen things such as this: Intel Pentium M, Celeron D, Athlon or Duron. Certain makes are designed to be faster than others, but don't worry about their names, just go for the highest speed processor.
'''RAM'''
*
CD/DVD drives have pretty much replaced floppy drives for data transfer, plus they are essential to burning CDs and watching DVDs.
* If you plan to burn any disks, check for an integrated DVD/CDRW drive.
* Some offer CD burners only (CDRW plus the ability to watch DVDs.
* If you opt for a budget model, you may eventually want to invest in an
sound card that is up to snuff. However, sound cards are fairly easy to upgrade if you decide later on that you want a better one.
* Remember that a sound card is only as good as the
speakers.
'''Graphics Card'''
* A topcards'>graphics cards.
* Higher processor speeds are needed, as is more memory.
* Always check for system requirements and compatibility between programs/games that you plan to use before buying a computer.
* If you plan to use yourcomputer mainly for word processing, checking email, and otherlow-intensityuses,
'''Software'''
* When you look at a particular model and make of computer it is not always clear what software packages will come included with the price. When in doubt, ask.
* Most often software bundles come at an extra cost, such as those for managing finances, editing images and even doing word processing.
** Also, there are many products that manufacturers will say come included, however, they are often only trial editions.
New, Used, or Refurbished
Most manufacturers offer refurbished computers at decent prices. Generally, buying directly from a company that specializes in such models is better than buying a used computer on EBay. Also consider the upgrade options available for your existing computer before buying a used one. Generally, computers will last about two to three years before they need any repair or revamping. After a few years they will certainly require updating, and at around 7 years, it's usually time to say farewell. Research all the available resources and get as much relevant information you need to make an informed purchase. In some cases, it might make sense to hold off a purchase for a couple months in the interest of buying an improved upcoming model. Look for companies to roll out their new product lines just in time for the holidays.
Major Manufacturers
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Dell
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Apple
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Alienware
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Evesham
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HP
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Packard Bell
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Sony
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Acer
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Shuttle
International Resources
For this resource in your home country, please see:
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NL: Desktop Computer Shopgids
