Choose the right computer for you

If you're looking to buy a computer you'll need to make a few decisions. In this article we will look at both portable and desktop computers, explaining what the choices are, what to look for and how to make sure you do not spend more than is necessary.

Desktop, laptop or netbook?
The first big decision is whether to go for a desktop or a portable computer. Desktops are falling in popularity, due to their cumbersome nature, but they do have their advantages. Perhaps the biggest selling point of a desktop is that you get a better performance-to-price ratio.

For example, it’s possible to buy a £400 desktop PC that has the power required to play the latest 3D games, something a laptop at the same price would have no chance of doing. Desktops are also easier to upgrade, allowing you to buy a basic computer and then add more memory, a faster graphics card or extra storage at a later date.

Laptops, on the other hand, offer far greater portability, can run off battery power and are perfect when space is at a premium. They also combine a monitor and keyboard into a single, compact package.

The emerging range of netbook PCs – smaller laptops with less powerful processors – offer some great advantages, as well as some significant drawbacks that we will come to later.

Know what you want
Before rushing out to buy a new computer, it’s best to get a clear idea of exactly what you are going to need. Walk into your local computer store without knowing what you want, and the sales people will have a field day getting you to spend as much as possible.

Think not only what you are planning to use the computer for, but also what you do not need it for. Are you likely to do little more than browse the internet and send emails? Will you be looking to play games? Do you want to be able to edit home movies and save them to DVD?

Being clear about the answers to questions such as these will help you not only decide how much the computer is likely to cost, but will also stop you from overspending.

Another big decision is whether to go for a Windows or Apple Mac-based computer. Macs are often touted as being more reliable and easier to use, while Windows-based computers are considered more versatile and have far more software titles available for them.

Furthermore, you can only buy Macs that have been manufactured by Apple, whereas anyone can build and sell a PC with Windows installed on it, so there is far more choice.