6 Considerations When Choosing a New PC So You Don’t Have Regrets
When it’s time to buy a new computer, the last thing you want to do is spend your hard-earned money, only to have buyer’s remorse a few months later. When your old PC needs replacement, it can be confusing looking over all the different specifications to choose the best system.
Computers can look the same on the outside, while what’s inside the case can be very different. If you’re not paying attention to some of the key features of a new PC, then you could end up with a system that lacks the memory or performance that you need.
Following is a list of some of the key things that you want to consider before you buy a new computer.
1. Budget vs PC Lifespan
One of the first things that most people consider is their budget. How much can you afford to spend on a new computer? Unfortunately, many people go for cheap deals and then end up having to replace the computer one or two years later. They find it wasn’t such a great deal after all.
When considering what you want to spend on a new computer, also consider that computer’s longevity. Cheaper computers don’t last as long as well-built systems. And this doesn’t mean you need to buy a “Cadillac” PC to get a decent lifespan, you just need to do a little homework.
Check out the reviews online for systems that you are considering. If you see that a particularly low-priced PC has a reputation for crashing, then it’s not going to save you money and may cost you more in the long run.
2. Memory (RAM)
Many a user has been frustrated by a new system that locked up and froze when they opened too many browser tabs. Memory is a big contributor to the speed and performance of a computer.
Each action that’s taken – opening a program, seeing videos in browser pages, typing a document – all take up some system memory. If you have a meager 4GB of memory, then be prepared for freeze-ups if you try to do much more than open a document and send emails.
As a rule, you want to look for a computer with at least 8GB of memory, and more if you work in memory-intensive programs, like a graphics or video editor. If you see a system that you want with only 4GB of RAM, make sure it has upgradable memory slots. If so, then we can help you upgrade the computer’s memory. But beware of cheap sales on PCs, these often stick you with 4GB of non-upgradable memory.
3. Storage Capacity
Another important component of system performance is storage capacity. This is not only the capacity needed to store your own files but also the temporary files that generate as you’re working in various software. Storage is also used to store your operating system and any software you’ve installed.
Today, many people use cloud storage for their videos, photos, and other files. If this is the case, then you may not need as much hard drive storage and can save some money by buying a system with less.
But if you do like to store most of your data on your PC, then make sure your drive has enough storage to meet your needs. And don’t forget that this includes the software you install as well as your files.
4. HDD or SSD?
Hard disk drives (HDD) are what we’ve all known since personal computers first came on the scene. This is a type of disk that has a spinning platter. As the platter spins, data is written to it by a “head.” You can often hear a whirring sound when searching for a file or saving information. This is the platter doing its work.
Solid-state drives (SSD) are a newer technology. In the past, SSDs have been too expensive for many consumers to consider. However, in the past few years, the price has come down quite a bit and now they’re well within reach of most PC buyers.
SSDs use a flash memory system to read and write to the drive. There is no spinning platter or moving parts. This makes the drive less likely to have problems. The performance is also faster than traditional HDDs.
For example, here are the average boot times for both:
- HDD: 30-40 seconds
- SSD: 10-13 seconds
So, be sure you check the drive type and get the one you want.
5. How the Computer is Used (Personal/Work)
It’s important to consider how the PC is to be used. Just because you may be buying one to use at home, doesn’t mean it’s not for work. You may be working remotely or doing freelance work and relying on your computer all day, every day.
If you’re using a PC for work, then you want to consider a business-grade PC or a very high-quality consumer computer. Otherwise, you could have problems with performance, security, and longevity.
Standard consumer computers are not designed for every day, all-day use, like business systems. So, get something that matches how you plan to use your new PC.
6. Processor Type & Speed
Trying to decipher the different processor names and models is difficult for most people. Processors vary in manufacturer, and then each manufacturer may have different versions, such as an Intel Core i9, Intel Core i5, or AMD Ryzen 7.
Do your homework on the various processors or ask us. The friendly team at Quantum Technologies will be happy to steer you in the right direction.
Get Fast Computer Repair & New System Support in Sturgeon Bay
Don’t choose a new PC without help from a friend. An IT expert friend is preferable. Quantum Technologies can help you choose wisely when investing in a new PC.
Contact us today to learn more! Call 920-256-1214 or reach us online.
