Which Computer Should I Buy?

If you have to ask the above question to your tech geek friend or the IT guy at work, then take my advise, go cheep. Computer geeks already know what they need or want to complete the task they are using a computer for.  99% of the rest of the world wants a computer that can go on the internet, edit and organize their pictures, videos, and music, write an occasional letter, and maybe do a power point now and then. It does not take an $8000 gaming rig to complete those tasks. If fact, most people don't realize they could probably get away with a $200 net book and be very content. As an example, I am a web developer and real computer geek. I am writing this Blog on a $325 Toshiba Laptop.  I do more on the internet than most people, including creating and uploading web pages with Dreamweaver, graphic design with Photoshop, Video editing with Adobe Premiere, and on and on. This is all accomplished with my $325 laptop. To be honest I use my Blackberry for most of my email and communication anymore, and barely even use my computer for that.

So, let me now answer the question. The following is a list of guidelines you should follow when buying a new computer. Unless you are going to play videos games on your computer, in that case good luck.  My advice to the novice computer gamer is to buy an XBOX 360 (Sorry PS3).

• Never, never, never, buy a used computer.
• A duel core processor or higher (unless you get a smokin deal, like under $300)
• At least 2GB of RAM
• At least a 250 GB Hard Drive (Enough for lots of Pictures and Music)
• Windows 7 (If you need to remote desktop into your computer you must have PRO or higher)
• Things like USB ports, Wi-Fi, and network ports, should all be included in all new laptops.
• Everything else is personal preference.
• If you only go on the internet then a net book may be for you. The technical specs are lower but, they are designed for internet browsing.

If you want something small get a net book. If you like a laptop with a big screen, get one with a big screen. If you want a web cam, then get a web cam. These things are preferences that you have to decide you are willing to pay for. The above list is the minimum you should get so your computer will run smooth for at least 3 to 4 years from now. Do not plan on any home computer to be effective after 3 to 4 years, the industry moves too fast with new technology, it does not pay to try to keep up. My advice is to find the least expensive deal with the above requirements and then plan on getting a new computer in 3 years. For a laptop you should spend between $300 and $400. For a desktop, the same price, plus the price of the monitor that is to your liking. Good Luck!!!!