How to choose a computer.

These days, computers are everywhere - we use them at home, at work or for leisure. Unlike the TV box that sits in the corner, the advent of the internet has made computers the multi-purpose tool of the technological world, its uses ranging from leisure pursuits, to work spreadsheets to social networking. But unless you’re tech savvy or under 25, choosing a computer is still a bewildering experience for the majority of us. So how do we go about choosing the right computer?




Firstly we will decide on either a laptop or desktop. Both fulfil different requirements. On a price comparison, the desktop will win hands down, bringing a higher specification than a laptop at the same price. You can also transfer your work from home to the office using the internet, USB memory drives or CDs instead of a laptop if you so wish. However, if you travel a lot or think you'd like to do your spreadsheet in the garden, a laptop would be more suitable. Laptops are also space savers as they can be stored out of sight when not in use.

Secondly, it is important to ascertain what the computer will be used for. Uses like computer gaming, graphics designing or even video editing usually require higher technological specifications. Uses such as internet, email or work spreadsheets will just require a standard specification, thus saving you money.

So what are the basic technologies we need to look at when choosing a computer? Thankfully, all computers, either laptops or desktops, have the same basic components. Its just their power and speed which varies. We will first categorize these components and then give a sample of current high end and standard specifications.


Screen size - Important for laptops and computers alike. A laptop with a small screen will be easier to carry but may be harder to read. A computer with a large screen can display the latest graphics in full two zillion colour bit glory. Computer screens now also feature flat panel monitors as standard compared to the old CRT(big box) monitors.

Hard Drive - This is where your data and information is stored. Basically the 'memory' of the computer. Like a house, you can never have too much storage. The bigger the hard drive, the better.

Processor - Basically, this is the speed at which the computer can operate. - Usually given as a Gigahertz figure e.g. 1.8, 2.2 etc. The speed can also be affected by the amount of RAM. There are also different types of processor - dual core would be standard at the minute, quad core is fast hitting the shops. Unlike other components such as RAM or graphics cards, processors cannot be upgraded at a later date so its important you buy the best you can afford at the start.

RAM - This is what the computer uses to operate. The more RAM, the better. Think of its like this - you are trying to write an essay and are given the choice of a blackboard or a 2" square piece of paper. Which will be easier write on? The more RAM a computer has, the more space it has for doing calculations. Often, older computers who do not have modern processors can be upgraded with extra RAM to enable the computer work faster.

Graphics Card - These are what allow games or video editing to display. Because a game can utilize massive amounts of resources, using the computer's own RAM can hinder or even stop the application running. Therefore, a lot of machines come with a separate graphics card which have their own inbuilt technologies. Some laptops have integrated graphic cards meaning they share resources with the motherboard. The vast majority of integrated graphic cards are not able to handle modern games.

Wireless Card - This allows the computer connect remotely to the internet without the need for a physical connection such as a phone wire. Comes as standard on most new computers but check before you buy. Some manufacturers or retailers may include this as an optional extra which you must pay more for.

CD / DVD drives - Older computers have separate drives, newer ones combine the two. Most modern computers also allow the ability to burn or rip CDs or DVDs onto either your computer or a blank disc.

USB drives - most external applications are connected to the computer using USB drives. The mouse, keyboard, external hard drive, web cam, mobile phone - all may use USB drives or slots to connect to the computer. Ensure you have enough for the gizmos you wish to use.

Memory card readers - A recent innovation. Phones, PDAs or cameras all utilise memory cards which come in a variety of shape and sizes depending on the manufacturer. Some computers have memory card readers which allow you to take these memory cards and slot them directly into the computer itself, without having to connect the device with USB wires or leads etc.

Printers - There are as many printers out there as there are types of colours. If you are going to be printing masses of high quality photos, a high end colour laser printer might be the best option. If you are just printing boring work spreadsheets for tomorrow's meeting - Save money and buy yourself a black and white ink printer.


So we have the basics of a computer, but how do we distinguish what the difference is between a prima donna computer and a laggard? This is more difficult as computer specifications are constantly changing. What we can do is give you a sample specification of a high end and standard computer so at least when you hit the shops, you'll have an idea of the minimum standards you should adhere to.



High Spec

These will usually encompass the latest technology and will usually be the most expensive as a result. However for the price, you will get the latest cutting edge technologies plus a computer you hopefully won't have to upgrade for a long while. For those interested in gaming or video editing, we'll outline the minimums you should be adhering to at the minute-

Processor - A quad core processor is advisable if you want the best possible graphics. At least dual core.

RAM - At least 2 gigabytes of DDR2 RAM should be included, more if possible. Even 4 or 8 GB should come as standard for a high spec PC.


Graphics Card - An absolute essential for those involved in gaming - a minimum these days for the latest game such as Call of Duty 4 or GTA IV would be a 256mb Graphics Card. You can also upgrade the graphics card at a later date if you wish. 512mb graphics cards are becoming standard while 1gb ones are starting to appear in shops.

Hard drives - Hard Drives of 500gigabytes are now common. Shortly, we'll see 1TB of storage being offered.

Expandability - When purchasing a high end computer, you will usually upgrade it as you go along instead of having to purchase a new one next year. Make sure that there are expandable ports for extra RAM or a better video card. Even extra USB slots allow you connect all your gadgets and make sure there are easily accessible ones to the top, front or sides.




Standard Spec

For those operating on a budget or who will only be doing internet surfing or typing, splashing out on technologies you don't require is like buying an eighteen wheeler to bring the grocery shopping home. However, that’s not to say that you'll end up with a brick of a computer - standard specs will allow you type and communicate for years to come.

Processor - If you can afford to, get quad core, if not dual core will do. Ascertain the speed also from the details. Stay away from single core processors - these are positively ancient in computer terms. Make sure you purchase the best processor you can afford to as everything else can be upgraded. If you are utterly convinced that you'll never use your computer for anything other than spreadsheets, its safe to buy a single processor.



RAM - RAM isn’t that expensive so a perfectly decent criteria for a standard spec would be 2 gigabytes of RAM. Minimum one gigabyte. Avoid setups offering 256MB or 512 MB RAM. You'll either a) find yourself buying more RAM withing 6 months as your computer seizes up trying to open applications or b) revert to tree hugging and avoiding all technology as some distant alien life form that does not wish to communicate with you.



Graphics Card - Laptops may have integrated graphic cards due to their small size. these cannot be upgraded later. A computer should have at least a 125mb Graphics Card. Be aware, that a card of this nature will not be sufficient to play the latest games releases.

Hard Drives - Like RAM, hard drives aren’t that expensive either so a minimum of 160-250 gigabytes would be recommended. As you fill up this space with all your beloved holiday snaps, you can always buy an external hard drive on which to record your upcoming trips.

Probably the only thing that cannot be changed with modern computers is the motherboard and processor components. All the others such as RAM, Graphics Cards, Hard drives etc can be upgraded as time goes by.

Some retailers, faced with older processors, often compensate by enticing purchasers with larger hard drive storage or flat panel monitors. Be wary of these offers as you can always upgrade RAM, hard drives and monitors later but you’re stuck with the processor.

When choosing also, try shop around. Competition is cut throat in the technology market, especially between computer makers. Many offer complimentary accessories such as webcams or USB memory sticks.

Be careful also of extended warranties and service options which may require you to pay upfront or on a monthly basis - this can add hundreds to the cost of a new computer if people are opting for 3 or 5 year terms. Also check the cost of any finance offered. It may be cheaper to take out a small bank loan rather than accepting a retailer’s finance option.

Only in the most extreme cases, will it be necessary to change a computer yearly. Most should last for 3-5 years or even longer, the majority of people changing computers to upgrade the technology rather than because the workhorse is on its last legs. If you are savvy enough, you can order directly off the internet for a cheaper deal. Otherwise find a retailer you are happy with and who is able to explain thoroughly the pros and cons of any particular computer. Above all, happy computing!