When To Buy a New Computer
When is the time to say goodbye to your old computer and get yourself a new one? If your computer dies then the decision is forced upon you. If the old one is still functioning the decision can be a bit more difficult. For those of us who love our computers and our access to the internet it can be hugely appealing to consider packing in the old and splashing out a shiny new computer. Should you resist? Or is it time to move on?
° Is there a real problem? Or are you being seduced by new models that are desirable objects of style and beauty in themselves? Identify the problem with your computer and evaluate your options. Buying a new laptop for its slim lines and built-in webcam is all very well, but if you wait a little while you can take advantage of the rapid rate of technological improvements.
° Can you get the extra functionality you want without shelling out on a new machine? If your computer is slow then you could upgrade the memory (RAM) at a fraction of the cost of a new machine. Alternatively a tune-up (preferably by a computer professional) could solve the problem. If storage is the issue, an external hard drive might be the answer.
° Is now the right time in terms of software? It may make sense to kill two birds with one stone. If you’re a Windows XP or Vista user, a new computer with Windows 7 preinstalled can get you a double upgrade. Make sure you can transfer your preferred antivirus software to the new machine if required.
° Is a new machine going to require other upgrading? If you have X and Y computer peripherals, then a new machine with an upgraded operating system can cause you problems with your existing gadgets. On the other hand, there’s no point in upgrading selected components, only to find that you need to upgrade your video card and similar to be able to use it. Sometimes getting a new machine now is the economical and smart option.
° Can you save by waiting a while? For example, if you want a Blu-ray drive, then you will probably score by hanging on a bit - prices are expected to go down. In fact, when it comes to hardware, you can almost always save by holding fire.
° Could getting a new computer now interrupt your schedule? If you’re making a big change (to an unfamiliar operating system, for example) or if you’re adding gadgets, it could be. You will have to spend time learning how to ‘drive’ your new machine and familiar tasks might take longer. You’ll have computer ‘housework’ to do, like copying over your old files. Those state-of-the-art features on your new machine can be fun to play with, but very distracting! Getting a new computer when you have a deadline can be a mistake.
° Are you yearning to swap your desktop for a laptop? Bear in mind that laptops are more difficult to upgrade and date faster.
° Can you afford it? If you can get by with your existing computer, bear in mind that this is not the time to be maxing out your credit card.
Computers today may not cost the earth but buying a new one should still be done only after careful consideration. It’s the way to get the most for your money and avoid the costly mistakes that almost always follow in the wake of an impulse buy.
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