4 Steps to Upgrading to a New Computer

So you’ve made the choice to upgrade your computer. You’re looking online when, all of a sudden, paralysis hits. With all the different brands, features, prices, and types, how are you supposed to know which one will be best for you?

Buying a new computer is a big investment. To help make sure that you get it right, here are 4 steps to upgrading to a new computer. By following these steps, you will make sure that you get exactly what you need.

Step #1: Know your purpose

Computer are used for a variety of purposes. For many, the main focus will be on simple, daily tasks (email, social media, word documents, etc.). Others want computers in order to play video games with high audio/visual demands. Others need one for business that can connect to a printer, scanner, and fax machine. And yet others want a computer that will keep them connected while on the road. Knowing the main purpose of your computer will help you determine the features that are essential to your lifestyle and which ones you can easily live without.

Step #2: Figure out your budget

Computer can range from a few hundred to a few thousands of dollars. The difference in price is determined by brand, size, and features. When you know exactly how much money you want to spend, and know what features are important to you (see Step #1), it will be easy to determine where you want to spend your money. Have problems with little screens? Then more of your budget will go towards purchasing a larger monitor. Spend a large amount of time FaceTimeing your family? Then an Apple device with a good audio/visual component will be the focus of your budget.

Step #3: Do your research

There are many different sites that provide information on the best-selling computers based on different needs. If you want something that is easy to understand, Consumer Reports provides simple, wide-ranging computer buying guide and product reviews. If you want something a little more detailed, CNET and PC Magazine have more in-depth technical buying guides and computer reviews for all types of devices. When doing your research, keep your list of needs, features and your budget in mind. Questions to ask include:

• Does this product meet my needs?
• What software and hardware comes bundled with the computer?
• Is this a reputable company?
• Does the product have good reviews?
• Does the device come with a warranty?

If you need help navigating through your choices, give your Bask Technology Advisor a call. He can help guide you through all the different reviews and guides. In the end, your research should help you narrow down your choices to a few devices. At this point, it’s time for step 4.

Step #4: Go to the store

Even if you’re planning on buying your new computer online, it is important to take the time to go to a brick and mortar store and try out your options. Seeing your choices in real life can end up changing your final decision. The biggest things to consider is how comfortable the device is to use and how it performs. Try turning it on to see how long it takes to start up, opening up different applications, and typing out a few words. A few minutes with your hands on the device will give you a good sense of how it will perform. And make sure you pay attention to its quirks. If the trackpad is slightly annoying to you in the store, chances are it will end up driving you crazy once you take it home. By trying out your top options at the store, you can make sure that you will be happy with your final purchase.

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