If you are searching for a new desktop computer, there are various factors that will guide you to buy the best one for your needs.
Whether you are buying a desktop computer for the first time or an upgrade to your old one, below are the things you must keep in mind:
RAM or Memory
A desktop computer has standardized on DDR3 memory for a lot of years that majority of people didn’t think about memory beyond the cost. Today, DDR4 is making its way to the market, which means consumers should know which kind a system provides. When it comes to the amount, it’s great to have at least 8 gigabyte of memory, yet 16gb provides a much better long-term performance. Take note that memory speeds may impact performance. The quicker the memory is, the better the performance is.
Processors
The choices for processors are more challenging today than before. But, it’s still a choice between an Intel and AMD processors. Intel is much better in terms of performance and AMD is great for budgets and efficiency. The difference comes on the number of cores in the processor as well as its relative speed. Now, every company features a performance rating system that isn’t easy to compare.
Optical Drives
Desktops are equipped with DVD burner, yet they’re not necessary these days, particularly with the existence of small form factor PC. Speeds differ slightly, yet it must be at least sixteen times for recordable speed unless it’s a mini or small PC that uses laptop class drive and must provide 8 times speeds.
Hard Drives
The storage for majority of computers depends on the usual hard drive, yet several desktops now have solid state drivers for caching or storage. Hard drives boil down to speed and size. The bigger and faster the drive is, the better the capacity and performance is. In desktops, it’s good to have at least one terabyte or more storage space.
Video Cards
The technology of video cards seems to change every 6 months. If you’re not doing 3D graphics, integrated graphics might be fine. Dedicated graphics card would matter if you will use your desktop computer for gaming. Some of the things you must consider are performance, output connectors, amount of card’s memory, and Direct X version supported.
Monitors
If you consider an all-in-one desktop computer, it usually features a built-in monitor, but you still have to consider the screen’s traits. Every monitor used these days are on LCD technology and the only real concern is more about the cost and size of the monitor. Some issues include color, which can be an important factor for those who want to use desktop computers for graphics projects.
External Connectors
A lot of peripherals and upgrades to computer connect through the external interfaces rather than internal cards. Check to know the kind of external ports and number of these ports available in the desktop computer. It’s perfect to have a computer with at least 6 USB ports.
