Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Tips to buying computers

By Michael Gordon

If you are not a techie person, buying a new computer might seem like a nightmare. Although, it's overwhelming to think that you need to know terms like ram, mega bite, hard drives, and monitor sizes, just following a few guidelines can help you buy the computer that's right for you. Below, are 8 tips to help you buy the perfect computer.

1. Size The size of your computer makes a huge difference in the way you work. For instance, some people work for long periods of time, so computers equipped with larger monitors work best for them. Laptops also come in a variety of different sizes. Average display screen sizes are 15" to 17" however, as technology improves, laptop screens have become smaller and smaller. Before making your final decision, play around with a few different monitor sizes to see if you favor one over another.

2. Computer use As long as computers have been around, PC's and Mac's have competed against each other. Many techies will say that Macs are best, while others argue that PC's are the absolute best. What I have found is that as I delved deeper into these two completely different types of computers, is the one that best suites you is based off what you will use it for. For instance, writers mostly favor PC's because of its vast word processing programs. On the other hand people skilled in graphics tend to favor Macintoshes. Evaluate what you will be using the computer for to better determine which type of computer to buy.

3. Manufacturer While Mac's are made by one manufacturer, Apple, PC's are not so simple to choose from. PC's are made by Dell, Toshiba, Sony, Gateway, and HP. Each of these manufacturers competes against each other for quality, price, and reputation. However, currently, Dell ranks higher than the others.

4. Storage The worst thing that could happen after purchasing a computer is that you use up all your storage too soon and have to buy additional storage. Before you buy a computer, take time to carefully examine how much hard drive you need. To help, if you think you will need lots of storage, consider getting over 80 gb.

5. Ram The amount of ram you have is another area to consider. If you plan to store pictures on your computer, you might want to consider using 1 gb. For those using a computer strictly to save written documents, 512 mb may suffice.

6. Price The amount labeled on the display may not be the actual price of the computer. Before making your purchase, be sure you have in mind a set price range and do your best not to go above that price. When buying computers be sure to factor in additional costs for programs, security, service, and warranty. The best place to buy cheap computers today is Ebay.

7. Network connections. As computer technology enhances, more laptops have become equipped with built-in wireless connectivity WiFi. Although there are still PC's available that include only landline connectivity, many consumers prefer to take their computers mobile; making laptops a preferred choice. For consumers that don't have a need for mobility, DSL hookup to a modem that route to their computer may suffice. The Laptops with wireless adapter is best choice to buy.

8. Battery life When looking for a computer, one important feature to take note of when buying a computer is the battery life. The Battery life of lap top computers ranges from 30 minutes to 2.5 hours. It's important to get as long of a battery life as you can. You wouldn't want your batter to die when you need it most. The longer battery life is better for modern computing.

Buying a computer doesn't have to be a challenge. Take these notes with you on your next journey to find a perfect computer.

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