Trying to figure out which desktop computer to buy can be quite difficult. You might not know about all the current specs and other features that are available right now. If you need some help, this article is going to provide you with some necessary information in order to guide you through the process.

Keep your desktop computer’s tower away from places where you set your drinks or other things that could spill. It’s really hard to fix a computer if the parts were to get wet. If you must set a drink on your desk, make sure it’s on a side of the desk away from the tower so if you do spill something it doesn’t get on the main part of the computer.

Parallels for Mac

Is a good idea for desktop buyers who are moving from a PC to a Mac. This is a software program that essentially allows you to use a PC’s operating system right on the Mac. This will let you run your PC programs. Do note that you must buy a PC operating system along with parallels to get this set up going.

Shop Around

When it comes time to purchase a desktop computer, shop around. You may be surprised to find stores often have sales on computers, and sometimes, the computer you want will be at a much lower price at one store versus another store. You may even choose to look online to find which of your area stores are having sales.

File Management

If you would like to move large video files, think about a computer with an optical DVD drive that is writable. A typical CD optical drive may not do enough for you when you’ve got big video files. DVDs offer much more space. Sure, it’s more money, but it’ll be a real help over the course of your desktop’s life.

Only Get Features You Will Use

When searching for a new desktop, go into it with the idea to maximize your buy based off of your specific needs. Desktop computers come in a ton of shapes, sizes, and processing speeds and abilities. There’s a huge variety, so it’s important to take a look at your workflow to make the best choice based off of you. Don’t get fooled into a more expensive item than you need.

Just the right amount of memory

Does your computer have an optimal amount of RAM memory for your needs? When it comes to desktops, memory is important. Are you planning on keeping a lot files on your hard drive? Do you take photographs that you need to store? These questions are important when you have a computer and are looking to get exactly what you want.

Though you may be intimidated by the prospect, it really does pay to verify that you have actually received the equipment for which you bargained. It is not uncommon for unscrupulous sellers to fudge the statistics on a computer’s processor or memory. Therefore, it is important to perform a real inspection yourself.

What sort of internet connection will you be using? This is an important question to answer as you seek out a desktop as it has to have the right hardware to connect. Your options are typically wifi, ethernet or bluetooth, all of which require a special device to connect.

Refurbished computers are a great choice when looking for an inexpensive machine. You know that they will work well as they have been rigorously tested before being offered for sale. On top of that, they often come with upgrades which make them as good as new devices on the market.

Beware of scams when purchasing a desktop computer from a private seller. While they may promise you a fast, working computer, you won’t know if it’s true until you test it. Insist on being able to see it in action with a monitor, mouse, keyboard and internet access at the least.

Find out if the desktop computer you want has included programs. You need to know what they are. You need to know if it has a word processor or spreadsheet program that you will use. This is important to many for their work. Also, find out if the software included are full versions or demos. The demos expire after 30 or 90 days, which require you to buy the full versions yourself.

A cheap sub $300 desktop may sound great, but do your homework before buying. Are the specs good enough for your needs? Often these entry-level machines are underpowered. Is the case made to be durable? You’ll often see cheaper desktops with poor quality plastics and hinges. The $300 may sound nice, but really you are buying something that may only last a year.

Wait until the right time to buy a desktop computer. You probably already know when there are big yearly sales, so it is smart to wait until then before buying something, if you can. You’ll kick yourself if you see the computer you just bought on sale for hundreds of dollars left, so try to wait for sales.

When desktop computer shopping, don’t solely focus on one brand alone. There are so many options out there these days, especially on the PC side. From Dell and Toshiba to HP and and Sony. And then there are Macs as well. Keep an open mind and play around with a few to see what works best for you.

If your plan is to buy a computer for a young student, don’t waste your money on the fastest, most powerful machine. Instead, buy something simple and affordable as they’ll likely do little more with it than watch online videos, surf the web and complete their homework, so you can save money.

Try to hold off purchasing a desktop computer until you see sales. Computers, in general are very pricy, but you may be able to get a very good deal if you can hold off until there are sales. Look for sales around the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, and around the beginning of a school year.

How do you feel about your knowledge about personal desktop computers now? Use what you’ve learned to help you make a smart purchasing decision. There are many brands and different types of desktop computers, so now that you know more about them you can decide which one works for you.