When Should I Upgrade My Computer?

When was the last time you upgraded a piece of technology in your life? Did you buy a new car? A new appliance? A TV? What about a new remote control? Upgrades are an essential part of the modern world. They allow you to take advantage of new features and programs (not to mention, they look all nice and shiny). One of the most common questions that we receive is, when should I upgrade my computer?

The average lifespan of a computer is 3-5 years. For those who use their computer heavily on a daily basis, it can be 2-3 years. Over that time, the different parts of your computer will slowly wear down, slow down, and become outdated. While performing maintenance and optimization programs can help extend the life of your computer, eventually you will reach the point where it no longer serves your needs. This is the moment when you have to decide between upgrading your computer hardware or buying a new device.

Upgrading your computer hardware means replacing current parts (such as your hard drive, RAM, or processors) with new, updated technology. This can be a great option if there is only one part of your computer that is causing you problems and can extend the life of your current device. Upgrading your hardware requires purchasing the new parts and then installing them. If you are a computer whiz, you can switch out the parts yourself. If not, you can hire a computer technician to do the work for you.

If your computer is suffering from a lot of problems, if you need multiple parts, and/or if the cost of installation is high, then it is usually more cost-effective to purchase a brand new computer. A new computer will come with the latest hardware available. It will be able to run the newest editions of all your favorite programs and use the highest levels of security. With proper care, it will provide you with years of work, communication, and entertainment.

Upgrading your computer can be an exciting time. If you can’t decide between upgrading your hardware and buying a new device, give your Bask Technology Advisor a call. He can talk you through the pros and cons of each option and help you decide what is right for you. He’ll even help you navigate the new computer buying process! This way you can be confident that your upgraded device will be exactly what you and your family needs.