Desktop Computers Buying Guide
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Desktop or Laptop?
The first consideration for those shopping for a home computer is to decide whether you're in the market for a fell-fledged desktop or you think you might enjoy the mobility of a desktop replacement laptop computer
Desktop computers
How much computer do you need?
One of the first concerns most shoppers face is budget. How much can you realistically afford and do you really need to spend that much? Computer prices are continually dropping, and these days you can find deals on decent systems for as little as $400 (mind you the monitor is usually extra). On the other hand, powerhouse models can soar up to over $3000 or more. The key is to find a happy medium between your budget and your needs. Below, take a look at the difference in system capabilities for an economically-priced machine and a top-of-the-line model. You might find that while you could spend over $1500, all you really need is something that costs $900.
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Budget PCs PROS
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Media Centre PCs PROS
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Workhorse PCs PROS
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High Performance Machines PROS
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Windows or Mac?
Before you go any further on your hunt for a desktop computer, you should think about whether you want a PC with Windows or a Mac with OS X. Apple products are the rage lately, and for reasons worth mentioning. However, Microsoft Windows is still the dominating operating system on the mainstream market. Most programs are created to be compatible with PCs, plus, PCs are produced in higher volumes, so they are often less expensive than Macs. On Apple's behalf, I must say that their operating system -- OS X is very user-friendly and much more minimalist in feel than a Windows system. Macs have the lowest repair and recall percentage rates, plus they are MUCH less likely to get viruses. Besides that, their tech support is twice as good as any PC. Lastly, who can deny that Mac's are some of the best looking computers around. The only downfall with buying an Apple Macintosh is it's pricier than a PC, and sometimes you have to buy or download extra software in order to use certain programs and to play or view certain types of images. Despite these issues, many people say once you go Mac, you never look back.
What Layout Do You Want?
Choosing a layout is a matter of how much desk space you have and how much space you want to save. Keep in mind that the slimmer you get, usually the more you'll have to pay. Likewise, the snazzier looking the system, the more money you'll have to dish out for the aesthetic you want. Below you'll see how desktop towers (the heart of the computer) stack up. Don't forget though that monitors will play a part in how much desk space you'll use up. A basic CRT monitor (like a CRT TV) is big and bulky, while a flat screen monitor (like an LCD TV) is slim and sleek.
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Standard and Mini Towers Towers are the simplest and the easiest cases for customizing your computer. They are also the most common type of desktop computers because of their simplicity and accessibility for upgrades. Towers come in both vertical and horizontal configurations. The main problem is that these are often large and bulky. Connecting new devices can be difficult if the requisite port is located at the back of the case. |
Compact Cases There are two options -- short squat computers like the Mac Mini (pictured) or towers that are slimmer than the usual hulking PC. The minimalist design saves desk space and money on the CPU in order to have more to spend on a large monitor. The only problem is these cases don't offer comparative storage for the price. However, external storage drives are available for moderate prices if you need extra storage. Be aware too, that usually the video quality is inadequate for gaming or video editing. |
All-in-Ones These are both functional and slim. Unlike tower forms these models combine all the hardware in one convenient spot that's easy to reach. This layout doesn't allow for expansion or upgrades and it makes repairs difficult. Also, you can't pick and choose the best combination of monitor and computer, however, if it works for you, then you've got it made. Look for the Apple iMac |
CPU? GB? RAM? DVD?
If you've never bought a computer before you may be wondering what CPU, GB, RAM, DVD etc. is about. Fear not, these letters and numbers all add up. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the numbers, the better the quality. If there are any specific programs that you know you want to run, such as a digital imaging or gaming programs, you will want to verify that the system you want to buy meets those requirements.
Processor Speed
- This is the measure of how quickly the CPU
- Measured in Gigahertz (GHz). A decent desktop will start at around 2.0GHz, but at least make sure to get something with a minimum of 1.5GHz.
- The CPU is like the brain of the computer. If you want the machine to think quickly, you need to have a fast processor or clock speed.
- The speed of the CPU is how fast the CPU can access and process information, which translates to how fast you can work on your computer.
Processor Make and Model
- If you have shopped around at all for a computer you will have seen things such as this: Intel Pentium M
, Celeron D, Athlon. Certain makes are designed to be faster than others, but don't worry about their names, just go for the highest speed processor. - There are significant differences between the two major manufacturers, Intel and AMD. Visit CNet to read about the "prizefight" between Intel and AMD.
RAM
- RAM
- It allows multiple applications to function simultaneously without slowing down the computer's speed.
- RAM is usually measured in megabytes (MB) but now gigabytes (GB) are appearing on the market.
- Even the most basic computers will come with at least 256 MB of RAM. Most users will want at least 512MB, while gamers and people who do graphic-intensive work (photo editing, etc.) will want at least 1024MB (1 GB).
- Top-of-the-line computers now have 2 to 4 GB of RAM.
Hard Drive
- The hard drive
- Today's minimum requirement is least 60 GB for average users who want to store music or photos on their computers. Of course you can go as high as you want if you are willing to spend the money on large drives or multiple drives.
- Large drives are good if you plan to store your DVD and music collections on a computer and use it as a media centre.
CD/DVD Drives
- CD/DVD drives
- If you plan to burn anything, check for an integrated DVD/CD-R/CD-RW drive.
- Some offer CD burners only (CD-Recordable or CD-ReWriteable), and others offer both a CD-RW plus the ability to watch DVDs.
- If you opt for a budget model, you may eventually want to invest in an external CD-ROM drive
. Just make sure to check the drive speed and the transfer rate. Examples of this are 8x, 24x, 32x, etc., again the higher the number the better. - If you are getting a tower, consider getting a second CD-RW drive -- this will allow you to directly copy CDs from one drive to the other, frequently in only a minute or two.
Sound Card
- If you are interested in watching DVDs or playing games with surround sound, or even getting a rich audio experience from CDs and MP3s, you will want a sound card
- Remember that a sound card is only as good as the speakers.
Graphics Card
- Important if you are planning to game a lot or do graphics work on your computer. Many high-end models offer decent graphics cards
, such as the ATI Radeon or the Nvidia GeForce models. - Higher processor speeds are needed, as is more memory.
- Always check for system requirements and compatibility between programs/games that you plan to use before buying a computer.
Software
- When you look at a particular model and make of computer it is not always clear what software
- Most often software bundles come at an extra cost, such as those for managing finances, editing images and even doing word processing.
- Also, there are many products that manufacturers will say come included, however, they are often only trial editions.
New, Used, or Refurbished
Most manufacturers offer refurbished computers at decent prices. Generally, buying directly from a company that specializes in such models is better than buying a used computer on EBay. Also consider the upgrade options available for your existing computer before buying a used one. You can expect new computers to last about two to three years before they need any type of repair or revamping. After a few years they will certainly require updating, and at around 7 years, it's usually time to say farewell. Research all the available resources and get as much relevant information you need to make an informed purchase. In some cases, it might make sense to hold off a purchase for a couple months in the interest of buying an improved upcoming model. Look for companies to roll out their new product lines just in time for the holidays.
Products and Manufacturers
So you know all the basics: how much you want to spend and can afford, and what type of system you need most. Now it's time to check out what's available by price and product.