As a small business owner, you know that every penny counts. When it comes to making a large purchase like a new PC, you want to be sure that you’re getting the best possible value for your money while also offering the performance you need to keep your operation running.
In this blog post, we will outline some of the most important features to look for when buying a new PC so that you can avoid any post-purchase regrets.
Where to Start?
First and foremost, you will want to make sure that the computer you are buying is powerful enough to handle all of your business needs. If you’re planning on using demanding software or running complex calculations, you will need a machine with a robust processor and a healthy amount of RAM.
If you’re mostly just using your PC for tasks like email and web browsing, you can get away with something a bit less powerful and save some money in the process.
Let us take a closer look at some of these components:
CPU
The central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of the operation. It is responsible for carrying out all the instructions that make your software run. It is important to pay attention to the CPU type and speed when shopping for a new PC. Intel and AMD are the two most popular CPU manufacturers and you will often see references to “i3”, “i5” and “i7” processors. These refer to the Intel Core line of CPUs which are divided into the budget, mid-range and high-end models. AMD’s Ryzen line offers similar options with their Ryzen 3, Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7 and so on.
Generally, faster is better. However, if you’re on a tight budget, you can always start with a mid-range model and upgrade to a faster processor down the road. Just make sure the motherboard in your new PC can accommodate a faster CPU.
Memory
One of the most important things to consider when buying a new PC is the amount of memory (or RAM) that it has. Memory is what allows your computer to store and access information quickly and more memory will always result in better performance.
For small businesses, it is recommended to have a minimum of 8GB of RAM. However, 16GB or more is even better.
Storage Space
Another important consideration is storage space. There are two main types of drives in this category:
- Hard Drives (HDD)
- Solid-State Drives (SSD)
The kinds of files you work with will determine which is the best option for you. If you’re working with large files or dealing with a lot of data, you will need a computer with a sizable storage solution.
Hard drives are generally slower than solid-state drives but they offer more storage for the price. Solid-state drives are much faster than hard drives. If speed is a priority, you will want to choose a computer with an SSD.
Both HDD and SSD drives come in a variety of form factors so you will need to choose the right size for the needs of your specific build.
Display
Displays are your window into the work you’re doing. You will want to make sure that it is the right fit for your needs.
If you are going to be doing a lot of graphics work, you will want to make sure you get a higher resolution. If you are just going to be doing basic work, you can save some money and go with a lower resolution.
There are also other considerations like display size and color accuracy.
Display size is simply how large the physical display is. If you have a small workspace, then you will want to make sure that you get a smaller display. If you are doing any sort of color work, you will want to make sure that the display’s colors are as accurate as possible. This is usually not a problem with higher-end displays but it can be an issue with lower-end ones.
Peripherals
Once you have decided on the specs of your new computer, you will also need to think about the peripherals. In addition to a monitor, keyboard and mouse, you may need additional devices like a printer, scanner or an external hard drive for portable storage needs. Make sure to factor in the cost of these items when budgeting for your new PC.
Warranty
As a small business owner, the last thing you want is to need to shell out more money for a new PC because something went wrong with the one you just bought. Make sure the PC that you are buying comes with a warranty that will cover you in case of any unforeseen problems.
Assess Your Needs
Before making a decision, sit down and assess your specific needs.
- What type of software will you be using?
- How much storage space do you need?
- What is your budget?
Once you have answers to these questions, you will be in a much better position to choose the right PC for your business.
We Can Help You Choose the Best PC For Your Needs
No matter what size company you have, picking out the right computer is important. Contact us at (860) 577-8060 or via our contact form to learn more.