Things to Consider Before Choosing a Windows PC
Buying a new Windows PC can be exciting or confusing, depending on your level of knowledge. With so many options to select from, you may find it hard to match the features, prices, processor types, etc. if you don’t know what to look for. But if you have the right idea and information about the best system for you, the buying process becomes a walk in the park.
In this article, we’ll highlight what you need to consider before choosing a Windows PC. In the end, you will be able to pick the right computer that matches both your personal and budgetary preferences.
How you’ll use your computer
Use should be the first thing to consider before you even set out to purchase a computer. If you want a PC that you’ll use to send emails, browse the internet or watch videos, you won’t need a potent machine as if you were looking to use the system as a workstation or for gaming.
How much you want to spend on the PC
Your budgetary needs will determine the type of processor you get. Usually, the more money you are willing to pay, the better the system you can get. But still, even when money is not a factor, it doesn’t mean you have to go for the most expensive processor. As we mentioned above, the use will guide you in picking the right machine.
Security
With the rise of cybersecurity attacks, the importance of ensuring the safety of your data can never be overstated. Luckily, Windows is all about security. Recently, Microsoft asked its partners to pay more attention to Windows 10’s features. Today, Window users enjoy a range of security features like Windows Update, Windows Defender, Windows Hello, Secure Boot, Find my Device, Window Store and Apps, and BitLocker Encryption. Though downloading security software for Windows after purchasing the device can help, you should consider the built-in security features whenever you are choosing a PC.
Processor
Processors keep getting better and better with each passing year in terms of power and efficiency. If you have been researching about processors, you likely have noticed AMD and Intel – because they dominate the market. Both Intel and Athlon series processors are excellent, so let chip speed, number of cores, size of the cache, and price be your guide.
Basically, you should look at the speed (in Gigahertz) and the number of cores of the processor. The speed shows the amount of data the processor can process in a specific timeframe – meaning, a bigger number is better. The number of cores serves as a multiplier since the processor is a group of cores that each runs as the stated speed (like four-core 2GHz processor is faster than a single-core 2GHz).
RAM
RAM or the Random Access Memory is where active data from your systems processes and applications are kept. Analogically, a RAM is like the temporary scratchpad or canvas where a PC performs its real-time operations and calculations. Keep in mind that the amount of RAM in a computer can influence the amount of multitasking it can handle and its speed. RAM is measured in gigabytes, and in most cases, the more, the merrier.
Many people choose a RAM between 8GB and 16GB of RAM. However, your choice will depend on what you are planning to use the system for. A 16 GB RAM or more would be ideal for a high-end workstation PC for graphics design or video editing. An 8GB RAM, on the other hand, is perfect for a cost-effective gaming computer. In addition to the amount of RAM, you also want to look at its speed. RAM is a simple component to select for PC. What’s more, you can always upgrade it whenever there’s need.
Hard drive
Of course, you will need storage space on your computer. While RAM stores some of your data, a significant part will go to the hard drive. If you’re planning to store all your data on your computer, a good idea may be to choose the biggest hard drive (measured in terabytes or gigabytes). Otherwise, you may select a smaller hard drive to cut back on costs.
Peripherals
There are numerous peripherals in the market, but you only need a few that you’ll be using. For example, you may need several HDMI ports to output AV resources but not a single CD drive. It could also be that most of your operations are online, and you only need a few ports in your PC. Take time to look at PC’s USB, HDMI, SD slot, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi features and see whether they match your plan of use. Your ideal Windows computer should include the peripherals that matter to you. Again, it’s essential to future proof your purchase so that you won’t need to replace your unit soon enough.
Conclusion
Purchasing a new computer is definitely something most people look forward to. But with the availability of so many options, it can be difficult to narrow down to the right one. Taking time to understand your needs and the elements mentioned above is the best way to identify the right windows PC for you.