Buying A Computer
So you have decided to give in and take the plunge to buy a computer.
This can be an intimidating and rather large step if you are not fully informed about what to look for when shopping for a computer for the first time. There are an amazing amount of terms and features that it can really become overwhelmingly confusing and you can lose sight of what is really needed. The following are four simple tips to follow when shopping for a computer for the first time. They have being discovered from excruciating firsthand experience I had when shopping for my first computer many years ago.
Suggestion #1: Buy More Then You Need
Computers are a technology that is constantly being improved on and the latest version of products seem to be coming out weekly. It is nearly impossible to stay current with hardware when it comes to home computers. This can be both a plus and a minus. A plus because it enables most users to pick up high quality components at very affordable prices and a minus because it means you never have the cutting edge components.
This being said however it is always smart to buy current or fairly current hardware. Especially when it comes to your CPU, hardware can be difficult to upgrade later if desired. As you learn new skills on your computer and become involved with more advanced activities, your system requirements will increase. It is better to spend an extra $100 now then an extra $1000 in 2 years!
Suggestion #2: Don’t Be Afraid Of Refurbished
Many large companies buy new computers every 2 or 3 years on special lease programs from computer makers. This means that when the end of their term is up with a certain computer the company returns them to the computer manufacturer and they get the latest computers.
What this means for the consumers is that there are a whole whack of perfectly good perfectly good, generally underused, 2 year old computers that are left. The computer manufacturers “refurbish” these computers by completely checking them out and restoring them to the same condition they were in when they came out of the factory. I have owned MANY computers and never had any problems with Refurbished computers. They are also 30% less then what you would pay new!
Suggestion #3: Check Warranty Terms CAREFULLY
Especially in the computer industry, it is incredibly important to have a solid warranty. There is a lot that can go wrong with computers and many factors that can lower their lifespan. Make sure that your warranty does not have any holes in it. Some warranties have pitfalls that do not cover customers in common situations.
To avoid having a warranty with a pitfall stick to the larger, more reputable computer brands and stay away from computers that are made in mom and pop ships or a guys basement.
Suggestion #4: Be Wary Of Bundles
Many computer companies offer bundles that seem buyer friendly and are often mistaken for wonderful deals. The reality is that the price plus a premium is often built into the cost of these bundles. Many times you can get a better deal by just walking around the same store and buying the items separately. They also often bundle good computers with poor quality monitors and printers because they have become overstocked with these items.
Make sure you know your prices and don’t be fooled by common ploys and promises.