Everybody uses computers nowadays and the task of picking a new personal computer seems like an easy, mundane task but it actually really is not. For a person that is planning to purchase a computer such as myself, learning about the basic considerations for the purchase is essential in getting the right product specifications and value for money. I am fortunate to know a great deal about computers although a lot of people are basic users only and have no clear idea on what to look for or require from their devices. Computer upgrades have been changing at a very rapid pace and therefore knowing what one needs and finding out what is available and what is coming out soon will pay huge dividends in terms of performance and value.
The first question to ask is what the computer will primarily be used for. Different models have different capabilities and buying a computer may mean buying more or less of what you actually need (Fallon). Experts say that the best metric is to buy a little more than what you actually desire but not so much that you spend more money than what you originally intended to. Your budget is the next consideration. Knowing how much is personably “reasonable” is the general rule of thumb. It is also important not to scrimp on components that matter – processors, hard drives, memory storage are critical while some peripherals are not. It is also important to know if software is included and if not, any buyer discounts for bundling the software with the hardware.
Conducting research is also ideal. Know first before buying and do not buy the first item you see. Know the product and know the seller, ask for discounts, for after-sales services, for warranties, for return policies, etc. Advices from users are plentiful and it is important that experts are consulted (PC World).
Buying a personal computer is an intimate process. The computer user and his device will have to live with each other for a foreseeable amount of time. As a consumer and a value-for-money advocate, I believe that knowing the fundamental considerations is the key to finding a suitable and satisfactory product.
Works Cited
Fallon, Olly. Basic Considerations in Buying a New Computer. 2013. 23 May 2013 <http://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/156697/hardware/basic_considerations_in_buying_a_new_computer.html>.
Staff, PC World. PC World. 23 May 2008. 23 May 2013 <http://www.pcworld.com/article/125649/DesktopsBuyingGuide.html>.
