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Computer shopping Tips

By Douglas Chick
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5 Tips for Purchasing a Personal Computer By Douglas Chick

Before purchasing a new computer, here are some helpful shopping Tips

1. Budgets A $300 computer can easily turn into a $1300 dollar computer with "Extras". Microsoft Office, can cost as much as $400 alone, much cheaper if you are a student. Or you can use Open Office, a freeware program similar to Microsoft Office that can be downloaded at no cost. Extra memory, larger hard drives Make sure you really need all the bells and whistles before you buy them.

2. Extended Warranties Always be aware of how extended warranties are listed, whether you are purchasing from the Internet, or from a local retail store. Many companies lure you in with an inexpensive computer. Their real profits are in their warranty programs. This is especially true with Laptops. Sales people will tell you your laptops battery only lasts for a year and it will cost you $200 to replace. This is not true, I've seen batteries last more that 5 years or more. Just make sure if you do choose an extended warranty; that it is the right one for you... and not what a slick talking sales person wants you to have.

3. Check with the school first Many schools or universities provide computers to their students, that are already built into the cost of education.

4. Upgrades It can be less expensive to purchase a new computer, than it is to upgrade an existing one. Computers are inexpensive right now, so manufacturers can get rid of current inventories. Many local computer stores can make more on parts and labor from an upgrade than they can selling you a new computer.

5. Apple verses Windows? I am always asked: Should I purchase an Apple or Windows computer? Apple computers are more expensive, but are less likely to be infected with viruses; (at least for the moment) Windows based computers are cheaper and have more software available because software makers cater to the market share. Both types of computers have their pros and cons.

Blessed are the Geeks, for they shall internet the earth