How to save money when shopping for a new computer

Buying a new computer can be a daunting task, especially if you are on a budget. Computers can cost anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. Find a computer that’s perfect for you and a perfect price!

Narrow down

While it may sound difficult, it actually isn’t very complicated if you use a step by step process. You can soon narrow down the hundreds upon hundreds computer options down to a select few before making the ultimate decision.

Desktop vs. laptop

The first thing you need to do is determine whether you should purchase a desktop or a laptop. Laptops are portable, sleeker and lighter where you can take them anywhere and get Internet connection in most places. Desktops are tend to have more memory and are for a more permanent area such as an office or room.

Power

Once you’ve figured out whether you want a desktop or a laptop, the next aspect you need to determine is how powerful of a computer you need. It’s always tempting to go with the top of the line model, however that is rarely the right way to purchase a new computer.

The speed of a computer is expressed in megahertz or gigahertz, while the memory is expressed in RAM. These are numbers you should consider when determining how much power and memory you need.

The reasons

Be truthful with yourself concerning how you will be using your new computer. If the computer will simply be for browsing the internet and word processing, you can easily get by with the cheapest computer models. Look for computer coupons or sales in your local newspaper. You can even consider purchasing a used or refurbished computer when your computer needs are limited.

Conversely, if you are going to be doing a lot of gaming or using applications that consume a lot of memory, you shouldn’t look in the bargain bin for your new computer. You should consider purchasing a custom computer. While there are mortar and brick stores that sell customized computers, it’s almost always easiest to purchase a customized computer online.

Companies such as Dell, Gateway and Lenovo sell customizable computers.

Next: Read on for more computer saving tips>>