The decision to buy a new computer isn’t a hugely expensive proposition; however you want to make sure that you wind up with a product that does the job effectively. And you will no doubt want to avoid some of the pitfalls that can plague high tech purchases. Going into the purchase with a strong background of knowledge about the issues can save you time, money and the loss of productivity that can arise if you make the wrong choice.
Some considerations when buying your new laptop or notebook.
Consider some of these points when buying a new laptop or notebook.
1. Budget. How much can you afford to spend? It is a tempting trap to be lured into buying a more expensive model, often by entering into a credit arrangement, but this can be an expensive trap. Have a think upfront about what you can actually afford, and stay within that budget
2. Think about the intended function. What will you be using the computer for? Some models have functions that you may not need and will add to the cost. A laptop with all the bells and whistles may seem cool, but you may just be wasting money
3. Ergonomics. How does it feel to use? Give any possible purchase a good workout first
4. Appearance. You have to live with it a long time, so make sure you like how it looks, and that it is as portable as you need it to be
5. Finance. In house finance at dealers can be a real trap, and often plays upon the customer’s impulse desire to own the latest device. Have finance sorted out before you enter a dealership. There are many horror stories about people being caught in high interest finance arrangements with awful fine print details
6. How much memory do you need? Whilst basic word processing and email doesn’t take much, will you want to run more complex programs? You may need external hard drive
7. What comes in the package? If you will require a printer, does it come with one? Some come with ergonomic stands and other useful add ons
8. How long is the warranty? If it does need to be repaired, find out where you will have to take the computer to get that done. Read the fine print and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Some warranties are effectively useless because the onus is on the purchaser to deliver the device to a particular location
9. What do other people think of the brand you intend to purchase? Hit online opinion sites and ask your friends
10. If Australian content is important to you do some research and find out if the model you want has
Australian content or in some other way supports local industry
If you take your time and do some research, you are more likely to make a purchase that fits your needs and saves you money. If you are in the market for a new laptop, be very careful to avoid this scam, reported by the WA government; http://www.docep.wa.gov.au/ConsumerProtection/ScamNet/Scams/Confirmation_Orders.html.
Buying the right laptop computer
Do the research and you will wind up with a machine that you find functional and matches your own aesthetic tastes. The main thing to remember is to not make any snap decisions. Without planning, you can all too easily find yourself trapped in a finance arrangement you can’t afford, or you can find that you’ve bought a computer that isn’t ideal for your requirements. With the right research and attitude you will spend less and have exactly what you want.
Do the research and you will wind up with a machine that you find functional and matches your own aesthetic tastes. The main thing to remember is to not make any snap decisions. Without planning, you can all too easily find yourself trapped in a finance arrangement you can’t afford, or you can find that you’ve bought a computer that isn’t ideal for your requirements. With the right research and attitude you will spend less and have exactly what you want.
Nigel Price is from the Australian online retailer Big Brown Box which stocks a wide range of notebooks, desktop PC’s, Appliances, exercise equipment & digital camera’s.