Avoid the Megahertz myth.
Guide below provides for basic information on what parameters to look for when shopping for a PC class Desktop or a Laptop. It is intended for a novice user.
Many people ask – what kind of computer should I get and what parameters should I look for when buying one?
While the answer to that question is complex and it varies from each individual case (each person has a unique budget to spend, different uses for the computer, and distinctive expectations), there are a couple relatively simple “rules of thumb” which will help to get the most out of the purchase.
- Rule number one: The Megahertz myth. When buying a new computer (desktop and laptop) do not specifically look at the number of Megahertz or the Performance Rating (numbers like 2.66 GHz or 3000+). For the casual user, this specific parameter will not make a big difference. Don’t get me wrong, higher number is better, but it is not the most important feature.
The reality is that the Windows OS, the Internet, and the Office will feel very similar on a PC with 2 GHz Pentium 4, 2.53 GHz Celeron, or an Athlon 64 with the 3200+ performance rating. Of course there is a performance gap between these platforms, but for majority of people it will not be very noticeable.
In general, computers based on Celeron, Duron, and Semptron processors are considered to be “budget” processors. Computers based on Pentium-M (laptop), Pentium 4, and Athlon 64 processors are faster. In addition, Intel branded processors are thought to be better for laptop computers. On the other hand, AMD branded CPUs offer more bang-for-the-buck and performance for desktops PCs. - Rule number two: The amount of RAM Memory – the number that matters the most. This is THE parameter we should keep in mind when buying a computer these days. Do not buy a computer with less than 512 MB of RAM. This is the minimum for a comfortable computing experience.
Getting a system with 1GB of RAM will make it somewhat future-proof, so it will be a wise investment if you can afford it. Get as much RAM memory as you can, but once again - no less than 512 MB. Computers like RAM and this applies to any computer -PC, Mac, Desktop, or Laptop. - Rule number three: DVD Burners (DVD-RW drives) are cheap and affordable. Opt to have one installed in the new computer. DVD burner should be capable of burning dual layer DVDs for a whooping 8.5GB of storage.
If the drive can burn dual layer DVDs, rest assured that it supports all other burning standards as well. Also, DVD-RW drives will work with regular CDs just fine.
Select at least 512MB or RAM
- Rule number four: Fast and roomy Hard Drive will add to the overall performance of your computer. Get at least 80GB Hard Drive for a new desktop system.
Also look for the speed of the hard drive. The speed of the Hard Drive is measured by its spin rate in revolutions per minute (RPM). 5400 RPM hard drives are slower than 7200 RPM hard drives. Get the 7200 RPM hard drive for your desktop for better performance.
On the other hand, laptop Hard Drives are slower as design engineers have to cope with the smaller size of components and heat issues. In short, when shopping for a notebook, pick the one with 5400 RPM Hard Drive an at least 40GB of storage space.
All of these ports will come in handy.
- Rule number five: Get a Computer with plenty of high-speed USB 2.0 ports for easy, fast, and flexible connectivity options.
Printers, scanners, digital cameras, flash drives, MP3 players, and external drives are all going to need a USB port connection in order to talk to the computer. Therefore, make sure that the PC you are about to get has a total of at least 4 high-speed USB 2.0 ports. It should have minimum of 2 USB 2.0 ports on the front of the computer for an easy access. More than 2 USB ports on the front is a nice bonus and it will come in very handy.
When shopping for laptop, check to see if it has at least 2 USB ports, although 4 USB ports and more is a better option.
- Rule number six: Get an Optical Mouse. Optical mouse has a red light coming from the bottom of it. The light is a part of an optical sensor which precisely tracks the position of the mouse. It is very accurate, reliable, and it does not require cleaning.
In addition, the mouse should have a third "wheel" button which comes in very handy when navigating thought the Internet.
1 year warranty is a minimum.
- Rule number seven: Protect your investment.
Ensure that the computer you are about to buy comes with at least 1 year of hardware warranty. Unfortunately, many computer makers are cutting corners by limiting the standard warranty to only 90 days. This is not a good practice.
Consider getting an extra accidental damage protection when spending more than $1500.00 on a laptop, or more than $1000.00 on laptop for kids. The accidental damage protection costs extra, but it covers all damage to the computer, including spillage (coffee, tea, coke, water) and physical damage like cracked Laptop LCD screen which is still very expensive to repair.
- Rule number eight: Before committing to a brand, check their support options and the manufacturer’s web site. These are very good indicators of the overall quality of their products.
- Rule number nine: If you plan to use the computer to play the latest games, get it with a dedicated video card, at least 1GB of RAM, and avoid Celeron, Duron, and Semptron branded CPUs. Dedicated video card means that the computer has a specialized add-on card which handles the video processing and generates 3-D graphics. If the video is a part o the motherboard, it will not be adequate for most games. Also, good dedicated video cards are expensive and there are a lot of them.
If you don’t know which one to pick, determine your budget and ask around on the Internet. People in places like forums.anandtech.com will be more than happy to help you out get the most out of your money.