Thinking about buying a new computer? This checklist will help you through the process. This computer will be suitable for things like internet browsing, doing homework, watching movies, listening to music and saving photos. In fact it will be suitable for 90% of home users.
If you are shopping on a budget then the Budget Specs list is for you. If you want My Recommended Specs then jump down to them.
You can download this checklist here and take it to the computer store or to go shop online. It will make your decision much easier!
Budget Specs – if you are watching your spending:
PC or Laptop
CPU Intel Core i3
RAM 4GB
GRAPHICS on-board
HARD DRIVE 750GB or more
DVDRW – a read/write DVD drive should be included
OS Windows 8 or 8.1 – if you purchase a Windows 8 machine you will be able to upgrade to 8.1 for free when you get it home.
MONITOR – 20″ or 22″ LCD – If you purchase an All-in-One PC (AiO) then you won’t need a monitor.
Price Guide: $750 to $1000 for a PC or Laptop. $150 – $200 for the monitor. $1000 – 1200 for an AiO.
My Recommended Specs – best “bang for your buck”:
PC or Laptop
CPU Intel Core i5
RAM 4 – 8GB
GRAPHICS on-board
HARD DRIVE 1TB or more
DVDRW – a read/write DVD drive should be included
OS Windows 8 or 8.1 – if you purchase a Windows 8 machine you will be able to upgrade to 8.1 for free when you get it home.
MONITOR – 23″ or 24″ LCD – If you purchase an All-in-One PC (AiO) then you won’t need a monitor
Price Guide: $1000 to $1200 for a PC or Laptop. $200 – $280 for the monitor. $1200 – 1400 for an AiO
If you want to familiarise yourself with what is available you can check out store websites like Harvey Norman, JB HiFi and Dick Smith. Also check out the Dell website. You’ll be amazed how much you learn just by looking at what’s available and looking for the specifications I have listed. Fun hunting! 🙂
NOTES:
• These prices should include keyboard and mouse
• If you want to use video calling programs such as Skype you will need a Web Cam for your PC. Laptops should have a Web Cam built in.
• New PC’s usually come with Antivirus pre-installed. You should be able to get at least 12 months subscription included in the price of the computer.
• Do you need Microsoft Office? See my blog How to get Microsoft Office on 5 Computers for the Price of One.
• Ask about extended warranty. Reputable brands come with a standard 12 months warranty but they also offer an extended warranty. I always recommend 3 years for Laptops and 4 years for Desktops (PCs).
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