What does it take to buy a great desktop computer? Do I need to take an IT course to learn all about how they tick? Should I bring along my computer whiz cousin? No, you don’t need to do any of that, just read this article in full and take notes. If you are buying a desktop computer online, be sure to see it in person if you can. For example, if you are going to buy a Dell computer online, attempt to see it at a store near you before you buy it. You may find that the keys are too close together for comfort, or that the screen is not as big as you thought. If you’re able to see a physical model, it will help make your decision easier. When you’re shopping for a new desktop computer, find out whether there are any add-ons available. It’s not uncommon for there to be some great accessories that you can purchase separately that will help make computing easier. Make sure you only buy the ones you need. You should also look around since add-ons can be cheaper elsewhere. Buying from the manufacturer can take a bigger chunk of your money. 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. When purchasing a desktop, don’t only think of your needs today, think about your future needs too. You’ll likely have this desktop for multiple years, so if you’re thinking about getting into photography or video work, you’ll want to get a computer that’ll handle your future work. It’s more of an investment up front, but it will save you from buying another computer too soon after this purchase. Consider upgrading your current desktop computer. If your computer is not doing what you want it to, or not working as fast as you’d like, you might want to consider making some internal changes to your computer. If you are not well-versed in this, you might have a friend who is or be able to learn how online. Many computer manufacturers now limit the amount of information in a manual that come with their computers, preferring instead to the put the info on the Internet. Be sure online information is sufficient, and that you’re going to be OK getting the software and driver downloads you need. Back up your desktop computer from time to time. Unfortunately, computers do crash and can take all of the data on the hard drive with them. Many times that data is important and it can be devastating to lose things like pictures, papers, or anything that you store on your computer. When shopping for a computer, don’t assume that a system new to you is actually new. Many of the greatest deals are refurbished systems, which is openly acknowledged. However, sales clerks will often say that these were just systems sitting on display shelves or bought and quickly returned. In some cases, these systems are as old as a decade and just came back from a business lease. Find out if there are any computer builders near you to get the exact machine you need. If you aren’t capable of building one yourself, you can always pay someone a little extra to get the job done for you. This will get you the perfect computer which matches your every requirement. If you are really a computer whiz, you can build your own desktop computer system. This requires extensive research of available specs and the ability to assemble the computer on your own. You may also be able to have a computer store do the assembly for you, and the result is usually a high-quality machine. Be really smart when shopping for a budget computer. Computers can be expensive. There are many great deals, but they require a certain level of computer know-how. It is important that you are familiar with its hardware. You should look for a balance. 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. You have to read reviews about a computer if you want to be sure you’re getting the best deal. Don’t choose a desktop solely on price or looks. Usually, very cheap computers tend to have issues. Completely measure the space where your desktop will go before making any buying decisions. Desktops come in so many size options. If you aren’t careful, you may choose one that really just doesn’t work for your space need. A little homework upfront can help keep you from problems down the road. Make sure you know the best resolution your monitor can display, and be sure to only buy a computer that can display that particular resolution. You might be just fine with a slightly lower resolution, but you want to avoid buying a computer that can’t handle your monitor’s potential. One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a new desktop computer is the customer service and tech support that you will have access to after you buy. Ask about warranty periods, extended care packages and online support. If the support offered is minimal, you may want to buy at a different store. With your notes in hand, you can now conquer the world of computer shopping. Be sure to utilize every tip you read here for optimal results. The harder you work at finding a great computer, the better the results will be once you plug it in and get down to business.