Technology is constantly evolving, and with it, the options for computing devices. So if you’re in the market for a new computer, it can be difficult to know where to start. Should you buy a laptop or a desktop? What kind of specs do you need? And what about the software – which programs do you need pre-installed?
In this blog post, we’ll outline everything you need to consider before making your purchase. So whether you’re looking for your first computer or just want to update your old one, read on for some helpful advice!
1) Laptop or Desktop?
The first thing you need to decide is whether you want a laptop or a desktop computer. Laptops are more portable, so they’re ideal if you need to take your computer with you often. They’re also typically less expensive than desktop computers. However, laptops have smaller screens and keyboards, and they can be more challenging to upgrade. So if you plan on using your computer primarily at home and don’t mind sacrificing portability, a desktop might be the better option for you.
In addition, if you’re looking for a computer that’s specifically designed for gaming, you’ll want to opt for a desktop. Gaming laptops exist, but they tend to be more expensive and have shorter battery life. Finally, keep in mind that if you do choose a laptop, you’ll also need to buy a separate mouse and keyboard – unless you get one with a touchscreen.
If you decide on a desktop computer, there are still some things to consider. For example, do you want an all-in-one computer or one where the monitor is separate from the CPU? All-in-one computers are convenient because they take up less space, but they can be more difficult to upgrade. If you decide on a traditional desktop set-up, make sure you have enough space to accommodate all the components.
Another thing to consider is whether you want a Mac or a PC. Macs are typically more expensive than PCs, but they’re also easier to use and come with some tremendous pre-installed software. You can also easily learn how to clean your mac here if you decide to go with Apple. If you’re not sure which operating system you prefer, it might be worth visiting an Apple Store or a Microsoft Store to try them out before you make your final decision.
2) Processor
The processor is the heart of any computer, so it’s important to choose one that will meet your needs. If you’re a casual user – someone who uses their computer for email, social media, and light web browsing – you can probably get away with an Intel Core i three or an AMD Ryzen three. These processors are designed for basic tasks and won’t break the bank.
If you’re a power user – someone who uses resource-heavy programs like video editing software or games – you’ll need a more powerful processor. Intel Core i seven or AMD Ryzen seven processors are good options for power users. They’re more expensive than lower-end processors, but they’ll provide the speed and performance you need for demanding tasks.
Finally, if you’re a professional user – someone who uses their computer for design work or other intensive applications – you’ll need an even more powerful processor. Intel Core X-series or AMD Threadripper processors are designed for professionals who need the absolute best performance. These processors are very expensive, but they offer the highest possible level of power and speed.
3) RAM
RAM, or random access memory, is a type of computer memory that stores data temporarily. It’s used by the processor to store information that it needs to access quickly. The more RAM you have, the faster your computer will be. If you’re a casual user, you can probably get away with four gigabytes (GB) of RAM. Power users and professionals will need at least eight GB of RAM, and some may even need sixteen GB or more.
In addition to the amount of RAM, you’ll also need to choose the right type of RAM for your computer. The two most common types are DDR three and DDR four. DDR three is older and slower than DDR four, so if you’re looking for maximum performance, you’ll want to choose DDR four RAM. However, DDR three is still widely used and is compatible with most processors and motherboards. If you’re not sure which type of RAM to choose, check your motherboard’s specifications to see which it supports.
4) Storage
Your computer’s storage is where you’ll store all your files, programs, and other data. The two most common types of storage are hard drives and solid-state drives. Hard drives are cheaper and have more capacity than solid-state drives, but they’re also slower. Solid-state drives are more expensive, but they’re much faster than hard drives. If you can afford it, choosing a solid-state drive for your computer might be better.
When it comes to storage capacity, how much you need will depend on what you use your computer for. For example, if you only use your computer for email and social media, you can probably get away with a smaller capacity drive. However, if you download a lot of music or movies, or if you have a large photo and video collection, you’ll need a larger drive. A good rule of thumb is to choose a drive with at least one terabyte (TB) of storage.
Once you’ve decided on the type and capacity of your storage, you’ll also need to choose the right interface. The most common interface for hard drives and solid-state drives is SATA three. This is the standard interface for most computers, so unless your motherboard has a different specification, you should be able to use any SATA three drive.
Finally, if you’re looking for even faster performance, you can opt for an NVMe drive. NVMe drives are the newest type of storage available, and they offer much higher speeds than SATA three drives. However, they’re also much more expensive. If you can afford it, we recommend choosing an NVMe drive for your computer.
These are the most important things to consider when choosing a new computer. If you keep these factors in mind, you should be able to find a computer that’s perfect for your needs.