Well I have to admit, Writing about computer hardware these days seems a lot like pricking a needle into your finger to remove a splinter!  It hurts, but it has to be done!!  There are so many choices!!

So how do we select the right computer to meet our needs? 

This is a difficult question to answer.  The choices seem endless.  With so many different manufacturers, processors, and hardware configurations, finding the right options will require that you really analyze the need.  Once we have determined our usage, then we can begin to narrow down the choices!

What will you use this computer for?  If you will only use it for web surfing and email, then almost any choice available today will meet your needs.  If you plan to use lot's of formula laden spreadsheets, high end graphics design, or heavy gaming, then a high end system processor and lot's of memory becomes more critical.  If you plan to use download movie services, then you may want a PC pre-loaded with Windows Media Center installed. Media Center PCs are specially designed to display on your TV and to operate by remote control. You can download and watch movies without leaving the comfort of your couch.  You can read more about Online Video and Online Music services services here at our site.

Do we choose a Desktop or a Laptop?  Once again, this depends on how we plan to use the computer.  If you plan to take it on trips, or prefer to sit comfortably on the couch while you work, then a laptop is surely a good choice!  Laptops today can be configured with reasonably high speed processors, plenty of RAM, and usually come equipped with a networking interface and wireless capability.  Everything we need in one small container.  The only problem here is...  High prices...  Laptops are sometimes double the price of a desktop system with similar performance.  Also, if you choose a laptop the weight becomes an important factor to consider.  Pick something as light as possible, and also has the features you need!

Toshiba and Fujitsu offer good notebooks and accessories for travelers
Here are two of MY picks!

If you require higher top processor speeds, high end desktops maintain the lead over most laptops because of heat dissipation issues.  This is because of the larger cooling fans required by higher end processors.  They simply won't fit into the smaller laptop cases.  For high end desktop systems, you can expect prices below $1000.  Many systems are closer to $500, and can still meet the needs of many users.

Two things that you MUST keep in mind when speed is a factor.  First is the hard drive.  All programs must load data from the hard drive in order to start.  If you have a slow hard drive, then even the fastest processor will sit idle waiting for data from the hard drive...  Look for a drive that operates at a speed of at least 7200 RPM if you have a Need for Speed.  Second, data moves around inside your computer using a complex Buss structure.  This speed is often referred to as the Front Side Buss (FSB) speed.  A slow FSB will result in all activities being slow.  Select the HIGHEST FSB speed that you can afford! Barn Busters are currently operating at 1066Mhz FSB speeds.

Check out the Desktop and Laptop computers at our BJC Online Store

Comp-USA offers a good variety of desktop and laptop systems, and it's a good place to browse around for almost any computer products.  They carry systems for both POWER users and the budget conscious.  They also have knowledgeable sales associates who can answer most of your questions. 

Best Buy stores also provide a variety of computer systems and knowledgeable personnel.  Any of these companies should be able to provide the information you need to make a purchase decision.  

In the end, don't let yourself get confused!  Decide what type of configuration you need before you buy!  Then, target your search for that specific requirement.  Remember that it doesn't matter where you buy the PC, as long as you get the power, performance, and reliability you need.  Chances are good that if you search around you will find a system that suits your processing needs and also fits nicely with your wallet!!  If you need assistance, feel free to contact us!

Top Brand Computers at Walmart.com