8 mistakes people make when buying a computer (Topic)

Computers are everywhere. You have to use them even when you don't want to. Without a computer, this article would not have been written. For non-tech savvy people, buying a computer is not an easy task: it seems that sellers are trying to confuse buyers with their technical jargon and lure more money.

Indeed, it is very easy to come to the store and buy something completely wrong. And to avoid unnecessary frustrations, here are some of the mistakes you shouldn't make if you want to buy a reliable, functional computer for years to come.

You do not consider your needs

If you go to buy “that cool computer” that you saw in advertisements on TV, you are definitely making a mistake. Advertisers don't know your needs, they don't know if you are doing 3D modeling, editing videos or just watching movies.

It would be right to buy a computer with such a power that will allow you to perform all the actions you need. If you write books and listen to music, 32GB of RAM, a 16-core processor, and 8 USB 3.0 ports can be dispensed with. It's foolish to overpay for something you don't need.

You don't know the capabilities of the operating system

There are many computer operating systems - Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS. Each handles the software differently. So if you want to transfer programs from your old computer to your new one, rest assured that half of them may not start at all. In addition, when switching to a new OS, you will find out what the word "porting" is - software optimization for different systems. For example, Skype has been ported for Mac and Windows, but there is no version of Skype that runs on Chrome OS yet. This brings you back to the first point: you must consider your needs when choosing an OS.

You think your computer has everything

If you want a computer with a CD / DVD drive, make sure you have one. Click on the button, open it, check that it works exactly. Want to listen to music? Make sure you have speakers, play some track. It is even worth checking the presence and number of USB ports. But never think that because this is a computer, it should have everything.

You think the components can be easily replaced

Computer performance requirements increase over time. Software changes, compatibility problems arise. But replacing some components may not give a visible result: for example, if you want to replace the processor, you will have to find out which processor socket the motherboard has and look for the one that will be compatible with the motherboard. If you want more RAM, first make sure your computer has enough slots and that the OS supports the amount you want.

There is another problem called the bottleneck. Its essence lies in the bandwidth of the computer. There is no point in buying a high-speed RAM or graphics card if your processor cannot handle that speed. The equipment will not work at its maximum capacity, and buying it will be a waste of money.

Before purchasing, you do not test your computer for performance

If you have the opportunity to test the car a little before heading to the checkout, do it: test the keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, touchpad, etc. No seller will deny you this opportunity if he really wants to sell the product and is confident in its quality.

You always buy the cheapest things

Cheap and old hardware will wear out faster and will soon no longer meet the growing demands of new software. A $ 100 laptop can last for a couple of years, but it will be more headache than fun to use. You will be more likely to buy a reliable, durable computer if you set aside more money for the purchase. Nobody forces you to buy the most expensive device, but it is still worth being aware of the main models on the market and how long they last.

You don't shop much

If your shopping is limited to a couple of nearby stores, you most likely believe that the market has nothing more to offer than the models presented there. You are wrong. Even if you decide to purchase a particular device, look for it in other stores. Finally go to the manufacturer's website (or Amazon). This is how you can find very favorable price offers.

You do not know that the software has a trial period (trial period)

Trial versions of programs are very common, and they can be for anything - photo editor, antivirus, or the entire OS. This period is set so that you can evaluate the program and decide whether it is worth buying. So before buying, be sure to check if the software is on a computer with a limited validity period. A Windows license can cost about $ 100, and if one "fine" day the computer refuses to start, it could be an unpleasant surprise.

You can save a lot and avoid a lot of unnecessary problems if you do not make the listed mistakes. Good luck with your shopping!

The Topic of Article: 8 mistakes people make when buying a computer.
Author: Jake Pinkman