It’s time to buy that new or refurbished computer. What am I supposed to look for? Desktop? Laptop? All In One (AIO)? There are so many choices out there. Different laptop screen sizes, back lit or non back lit laptop keyboard, how many and what type of usb ports? So many options. It does not matter what computer type it is because type is based on personal preference. The three key components that matter the most are the processor (CPU), hard drive and the amount of memory (RAM). One other major consideration is, can I afford it? Oh Yeah! What about the computer brand? For any desktop, laptop or AIO, it is difficult to measure the reliability of the brand. I can only speak from experience. For laptops: HP’s, Acers, Dell and Lenovo’s can be problematic. Desktops: most brands are OK. Getting a custom built desktop is best. I have no info on AIO’s.
Important Notes: Desktops are always going to be faster than a laptop. AIO’s and laptops are self contained except for the AIO’s external keyboard and mouse. AIO’s are not portable where laptops are.
The computer you buy should contain:
One of these CPU’s (Processors):
INTEL:
i3 (Adequate Performance – Affordable) or
i5 (Fast – Good Performance) or
i7 (Faster – Higher Performance) or
i9 (Fastest – Greatest Performance – Most Expensive)
OR
AMD:
Ryzen 3 (Adequate Performance – Affordable) or
Ryzen 5 (Fast – Good Performance) or
Ryzen 7 (Faster – High Performance) or
Ryzen 9 (Fastest – Greatest Performance – Most Expensive)
STORAGE:
Minimal a 500 GB NVMe (Next generation SSD) or a SATA (regular) SSD drive. A MUST for better data reliability and speed!
MEMORY:
At least 12 GB’s of memory. The more memory the BETTER!
WARRANTY: Most brand new computers come with a 1 year limited warranty. Please check the warranty under computer specifications before buying. Refurbished computers usually come with a 90 day warranty but some are 1 year. Please check the warranty under computer specifications before buying.
Still confused or stressed? We can help you find the right computer. We also have a special to setup your computer for $99. We make the necessary configuration changes to get the computer to perform well for you.