How to buy … a Desktop PC

The vast majority of people buy a PC to browse the web, check and send email, and perform word processing or spreadsheet work. Today, processor power has gone beyond what any of these tasks demand: even the least expensive, lowest-of-the-low-end PC can perform any of those jobs admirably. For less than $2,000 you should be able to pick up a PC and monitor that, a year ago, would have resided at or near the top of our reviews chart. The only reasons to exceed that price are if you want the latest doodads, if you’re a gamer or you’re interested in digital video and strain your PC for every iota of performance, or if you include additional peripherals like a printer or scanner. Mid- and high-end systems also feature digital audio, which may sway your decision.

Most vendors let you customise and upgrade their base-model PCs with a mind-boggling selection of features. Need extra storage? Pick a newer, larger hard drive. Want a bigger monitor, but don’t want to pay extra? Trade down to a slower processor or opt for a shorter warranty period (PC parts are more reliable than ever) to compensate for the extra cost of the CRT. Take your time and pick only what you need.

It pays to consider the expansion possibilities of your chosen PC. Make sure there is adequate space for extra drives and that the motherboard has enough PCI and memory slots. This consideration is applicable to all levels of systems.

When shopping for PCs it’s important not to get caught up in surfing for price reductions. If you need a new PC now, don’t wait a few months to see whether prices will drop further or if high-end performance will improve. You’ll find yourself stuck in an endless price-drop waiting game. If longevity is a priority (and if you can afford it), get something closer to the current top of the line. This will extend the useful life of your PC.

Below is a rough breakdown of some of your configuration options.