Computers
Deciding which computer to buy can be complicated, even when you have some basic computer knowledge.
What factors help you make a choice when shopping for a new computer?
Computers
WHAT THIS WEBPAGE IS ABOUT
Computers-Making choices.
Computer selection involves some basic decisions of what we need and/or want on our new computer. So many different brands, types, and features compete for our attention. As a computer user: you know what your new computer will be used for, what tasks will be performed, and how fast it needs to perform. This information helps you narrow down your choice. Don't forget: How much can you afford (price)?
PC or Mac? Both operating systems have their pros and cons, and in recent times, have become more similar. Each one has their cheerleaders!
Brand names seem important when buying a computer. If you had a good experience with a certain brand, chances are you will stick with that brand.
Cost is another factor. Will you be willing to give up brand loyalty for a better price, i.e., more bang for your buck? What about the warranty? How long is the computer protected and what does it cover? Ask the salesperson about this coverage, and make sure you can see it in writing.
What about technical support? Do they have a toll free number? Do you have to pay extra? If support is free, for what time period, e.g., one month, one year?
Some of us prefer to work on a large screen with a mouse, but sometimes we need take our computers with us to another location. Flash drives are nice, but sometimes compatibility issues arise if the other computer is running different programs.
Some choose to have an additional computer, a laptop, to ease the tension.
You can work on the laptop while away from your desk and synchronize the laptop with your desktop computer when you return.
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Where do you purchase your new computer? Do you go online and compare the best prices? Do you prefer to see the product on display in a store? Do you go to a mom and pop "local" computer shop or do you shop at the big box stores? Do you need a custom build involving some expertise from a person or can you "build" one yourself online and place an order?
Answering these questions depends on your level of computer expertise. It is very easy to order more that you need and, of course, pay the additional costs. Also, a salesperson might talk you into ordering more than you need or maybe they just misunderstand your needs.
The best consumer of computer products is an educated consumer. You should read up as much as possible about computers. You can narrow your choice down by using a checklist of features that you need or want. You can then narrow your search down to computers with these features.
Searching the various websites helps narrow down your search along with looking at the advertisements in the media, especially the Sunday paper! Finally, you will find a brand and model with all the "extras" that meets your needs. Now you need to find the best deal on that exact computer or something pretty close. This is where some knowledge of some basic computer terms comes in handy. The Computer Checklist on the next page will help you.
After reviewing the list, look at some advertisements and test your knowledge. You can now compare computers by comparing "apples to apples." (no pun intended). Sometimes what looks like a good deal really isn't because the ad doesn't supply you with enough details to actually compare.
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What effect does the brand that you learned on in school have on your purchase? Years ago, some car dealerships were eager to sponsor or lease a car to a school district (driver education classes). Some think that one reason this was done, at least to some degree, was to help brand future customers. In theory, the students get comfortable with driving a certain car brand, and this may lead to a future purchase. Does this branding effect work with students using school computers?
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Computer Selection Checklist
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