Take your time and do your research when looking for a new personal computer. If you want to get the best value for your money, don't be in a rush to purchase the first deal that looks interesting!  

 

Here are some things to consider when you are trying to decide which PC to buy:

 

1 -- By far, the most important feature of a new PC is the amount of Random Access Memory (RAM) it contains.  RAM memory is important because it eliminates the need for the PC to swap programs in and out.  You need to have adequate RAM memory to handle all of the programs that you tend to work on simultaneously.  How much is enough?  I recommend that you purchase a PC with at least 2 gigabytes of RAM to ensure that the machine will keep up with the advances in technology during the life of your computer. If you can afford it, 4 gigabytes is even better.

 

2 -- Another important feature is a dual-core chip.  Dual-core processing increases PC performance by using more than one processing stream for computer tasks.  Dual-core processors allow multiple tasks to run at the same time.  This keeps your computer running faster.  It also keeps your computer running cooler than it would using a larger single processor, which will help the computer last longer. 

 

3 -- New software takes up a lot of space and storage is relatively cheap.  Make your life easy and get  at least a 300 gigabytes hard drive to store all of the programs that you will install on your computer.

 

4 -- Upgrade to a separate video card if at all possible.  Integrated video is cheaper, but a separate card with at least 128 megabytes of memory will give you a more satisfactory experience running Microsoft Vista, which uses a lot of video memory.

 

5 -- Try to get some of the expensive software that you want for your new computer included in the computer package you purchase.  All software is not available this way, but you can at least ask -- if the software you want can be included in your purchase, you could save hundreds of dollars.

 

6 -- Buy only the components you need.  If your monitor is still working, there is not reason to replace it just because you are purchasing a PC and the retailer is including it in the bundle.  Wait to replace the monitor until you need one.  It will save you money and help save the environment as well.

 

7 -- Make sure that your new computer has at least 6 USB 2.0 ports (8 is even better).  You will use these ports to connect devices such as printers, cameras, MP3 players and thumb drives.  Make sure that at least a few of these ports are on the front of the computer where they are easier to reach.

 

8 -- Consider purchasing a dial-up modem as a cheap emergency back-up even if you plan to use high speed service on a daily basis.  The dial-up modem is inexpensive insurance that you will appreciate if you only have to use it even one time.

 

If you follow these recommendations, you will not buy the cheapest computer, but the one that you do buy will perform better and won't become obsolete as quickly as less expensive models.