Your computer is the heart of your home office or schoolwork. If you’re buying a new desktop or laptop, you want to get the most bang for your buck. But choosing between models isn’t always easy. What should you look for before purchasing a computer?

Buying a good quality PC has never been easier. Inexpensive laptops and desktops have come a long way since their days of being bulky and overpriced. Today, you can choose from dozens of options ranging from budget-friendly to high-powered gaming machines.

Computer Shopping 

Before buying a computer, consider this list of 8 things to think about:

1) Which graphics card do I need?

If you plan on playing games at once, it’s best to buy one with an integrated graphics processor (IGPU). A separate video card will be needed if you just want basic tasks such as browsing or drafting documents.

2) How much memory should my system have?

Memory refers to the amount of storage space in your computer. Some people claim that having more than 6GB is unnecessary because programs will automatically install themselves throughout your hard drive, but others recommend 12GB to 16GB to avoid running out of room.

3) Do I really need an optical drive?

Once you’ve got RAM, a decent CPU, and a fast HDD, you probably don’t need an optical drive anymore. The only time you’ll use a DVD/CD reader is when installing software or transferring files. You can get away without one as well.

4) Are there any issues with the system?

Be sure to check online forums for potential problems. Forums are a great place to find answers to common questions like “How do I connect headphones?” or “Why am I getting a blue screen error?” When shopping around, you may not even realize that some systems come bundled with extra hardware. 

5) Is it worth upgrading to Windows 8?

While Windows 8 might seem like it would be faster, most users haven’t noticed much improvement. Plus, many older computers won’t fully support Windows 8 due to hardware limitations. That said, newer versions of Microsoft Office are designed specifically for Windows 8, so it might be worth waiting until later to make the switch. 

6) Can it run Linux?

As new operating systems continue growing in popularity, they tend to work on less expensive hardware than Windows. For example, Ubuntu and its derivatives have become popular among hobbyists thanks to low-cost options such as netbooks and Raspberry Pis. 

7) Does it have 3D capabilities?

Many games require this feature these days, especially those that take advantage of 3D graphics cards. Some inexpensive PCs cannot run modern games, which means you should wait until you see reviews before buying.

8) Will it run any program?

Most applications are available across platforms, but each device has unique requirements. Macs and iPads tend to be more compatible with iOS apps, while Android phones are preferred by users who prefer Google’s services. 

Conclusion 

So whether you want a PC for your online gambling hobby, video gaming, or just work, you have to make considerations appropriately before placing your or order. Also, keep in mind that technology keeps changing every day, so you have to be aware of updates when investing in a new PC.