Shopping for a new computer can be a mind-boggling process. Technology advances so quickly that you’ll have a whole new vocabulary to learn if you’ve been off the market for more than a year. Yesterday’s ultimate laptop is today’s paper weight. On top of every other concern, computers are expensive–serious investments for most of us. If you’re on the market for a new personal computer, follow these guidelines to save money and get the best computer for your dollar.
Buy Only What You Need
When shopping for a new computer, the most important question to ask yourself is often the most neglected: What will you be using the computer for? If your computing needs are limited to surfing the internet, reading and writing emails, checking Facebook and writing the occasional paper, almost any computer made in the last 10 years will suit you just fine. Users whose computing delves into areas like graphic design, gaming, and other more advanced pursuits need more equipment. Take stock of what you need from your computer before you start shopping.