Chuck The Geek.com

How to Save on Buying a Computer

July 22nd, 2008 by Chuck Sharp

I found this neat little article with some great suggestions:

How to Save on Buying a Computer.

I would also add a few more suggestions:

1. Know, on paper, exactly what’s good enough. If you don’t need a flat screen, write that down. Do you need 1.75 terabytes of hard drive space? Probably not. Don’t buy a nicer computer than you need. It’s really, really easy to buy too much. Remember, you’ll likely want another PC in 3-4 years anyway. You can also upgrade or replace most components later if needed, and at lower cost due to technology efficiency increases.
2. Know how much support and service you want. If you are a do-it-yourself person, then a store-bought PC with a one-year parts warranty is probably fine. If the thought of you replacing a PC part freaks you out, really consider the cost of in-home service warranties through Dell and HP. Note that you really have to buy the PC online through these stores if you want the service. It’s the only way I’d recommend getting a PC or notebook warranty. Also, if your prone to accidents, and buying a notebook, if the notebook costs close to $1000 or more, buy the accidental protection.
3. Check online deal sites. Use sites like SearchAllDeals.com and DealDetectives.com to find really cheap deals.
4. Compare online prices, even within the same company’s site. On Dell and HP sites, check PC specs and prices under both Home and Small Business sections, the pricing for very similiar PCs can vary significantly.
5. Always check the local Sunday ads. I’ve bought my last several PCs and notebooks from Sunday ads from Staples and Circuit City, because the prices were in line with the bargains I found elsewhere and I could pick up the PC immediately.

Entry Filed under: PC Basics