When it comes time to shop for a new PC, there are certainly plenty
of choices on the market, and making the right decision can at times be
difficult. One of the most difficult decisions for anyone in need of a
new computer for home or work is whether to purchase a new computer, a
used computer or build their own.
Let’s look at the choice between new and used first. The ever
changing technology associated with computers and laptops means that
there will always be a great many used computers, of various vintages
and values, on the market. For those who know what to look for, a used
computer can be a great value, but for those who are not attentive and
knowledgeable a used computer can be a trap, and end up costing more
than a new one in the long run.
When shopping for a used computer, perhaps the most important
consideration is the age of the technology. If the PC or laptop is more
than a few years old, it may be difficult to use the latest technology
with it, and it may be difficult or even impossible to upgrade. If you
plan to just read email and surf the internet, an older vintage PC may
be fine. If, on the other hand, you plan to use the PC for work, or
install the hottest new games, you may want to consider buying a new PC,
or at least a used PC of a later manufacture.
When looking at a new PC, it is important to know what to look for,
and what signs to look for when it comes to determining the health of
the PC hardware and the operating system. If you do not have at least a
passing knowledge of things like checking the event viewer, checking
the hardware configuration and the like, it may be helpful to bring a
computer savvy friend along when you shop.
When it comes to saving money, building your own PC used to be the
best way to go, and in some cases it still is. It is often possible to
purchase all the components that make up a PC, including the hard drive,
the CD or DVD burner, the modem, the video card and the like, a very
low prices, especially if you take advantage of the many rebate offers
that can often be found. Putting all these components together can add
up to a very low priced PC for those who have the skill to put it all
together.
Even if the price differential between buying and building is not as
great as it once was, there are other valid reasons for building a PC
from scratch, including of course the fact that you know exactly what is
in the PC. Knowing the PC and its components so well will allow you to
troubleshoot problems more effectively, and to build just the PC you
want, at a price you can afford.
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