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Selecting The Right Computer For Your Needs

Buying a new computer can seem like a complicated task, with all the various options and specifications around. However, if you follow a few simple guidelines, buying a new computer can be easy. The most important thing is to do proper research, and to decide what your real needs are. Once you have decided what you want, then you can shop around for the best prices. The best place to buy computers is usually online, as you can compare prices easily and usually get some great bargains. But before you begin hunting for the right computer, you need to decide what you really want by looking at the main aspects of PC specification.

Processor speed

The processor speed of a computer is an important factor, and generally speaking the faster the processor the quicker your computer will run. Look at the needs that you have, and decide how fast you need the processor to be. The fastest computer processors always sell for premim prices, so only buy this if you can afford it and really need it. The most common process are Intel Pentium and Celeron and AMD Athlon. The processor speed of your computer is measured in Megahertz or Gigahertz. Processor speed is constantly increasing, so before buying a computer check what the current standards are.

Memory (RAM)

RAM, or Random Access Memory, is the memory that gives your computer the power to perform tasks. RAM is measured in Megabytes, and the greater the RAM, the faster the computer will run. RAM is one of the cheapest ways to make your computer faster, so try and get a computer with as much RAM as possible. If you cannot afford a computer with lots of RAM, you can always upgrade later. But remember that if you want to run image editing or music and video programs, lots of RAM is required to make these programs run efficiently.

Hard drive space

Hard drive space is important, because the more space you have then the more data you can store. Think about what sort of things you will be saving onto your hard drive. If you plan to edit videos or play modern games, then a bigger hard drive is a must. Hard drives are measured in Gigabytes, and generally you should opt for a computer with the biggest hard drive that you can afford.

Monitor size and type

Monitor size is measured diagonally across the screen in inches, and also by resoluton in dots per inch. Monitor size and type is important, both for the look and viewing capataibility of your computer. Old CRT monitors that look like televsions are cheaper, but more and more computers are now coming with LCD monitors, which look better and save space. Try and get a computer with a modern LCD screen if you afford it. Unless you need to view large images or videos, monitor size is less important, and anything around 15 to 17 inches is a good size.

Graphics card

Graphics cards affect the quality of the screen display, and also the speed at which graphics can be shown. A good graphics card is essential for video editing and gaming. If you use your computer for simple things such as word processing or email, then a powerful graphics card is less important.

IBM compatible vs MAC

There are two main types of computer on the market. The usual, Windows based IBM compatible PC, and the Apple MAC computers. Standard IBM compatible computers have a much wider range of software and options, and are generally cheaper than Apple computers. However, MAC computers are very good for image and video editing as well as music creation and playback. They also tend to look much nicer. Have a look at both types of computers, and think about the software you want to run. If you want to run software that is only available on one of the systems, then that is the right option for you. If you are used to IBM compatible computers, it is generally a good idea to stick with what you know unless you have some specific needs.

Desktop vs laptop

Both types of computers can be bought in desktop or laptop forms. Obviously the major advantage of a laptop is the portability. If you need to be mobile for work, then a laptop is a good option. Laptops are also good if you want to save space. However, remember that laptops cost more than a similar specificaition desktop, and are more prone to malfunction. They are also harder to upgrade and fix than normal desktop computers. Think carefully about your needs before you decide.

Software

Most computers come with some software already installed, including the operating system. Think about your software needs, and how much the software you want is going to cost. If you can find a computer that comes with the software that you need, then this might be a cheaper option. If you need to buy the software separately, then add this to your budget.

Decision time