A First-Rate Buyer’s Guide for All Types of Desktop Computer Users

For a majority of consumers, the determining factor in purchasing a desktop computer will have to be price. However, with the myriad of different makes and models available in the market today, it would be very difficult to tell one from another especially for those who may not be too familiar with computer specs. Below is a very helpful buyer’s guide that will outline the suggested configurations for the basic types of desktop computer users.

General Use

Nowadays, a budget of $500 to $1,500 should be enough to get a system with a dual-core processor that is powerful enough to perform all the basic functions of a home desktop computer – run a majority of applications, handle music and audio files, view and edit pictures, and even install and play most of the latest games in the market. A dual-core processor is the standard for today’s modern computers so those with a budget above $500 should definitely look for a system with this particular specification on board. An Intel Core 2 Duo or and AMD Athlon 64 X2 processor should be able to do the trick.

Other important key factors should include at least 1GB of memory (DDR2), a hard drive with around 300 to 500 GB of space, and a 128-Megabyte graphics card compatible with DirectX 9 (preferably Nvidia or ATI). In terms of peripherals general users should look for a DVD burner, an LCD monitor (around 17 to 19 inches), and a 2-piece speaker set. Although Windows XP should suffice, most computers nowadays will have Windows Vista Home or Apple OS X Leopard once it’s out in October). Apple iLife ’06 or Microsoft Office 2007 should also be on board.

Power Users

In order to have a power PC that could serve as a competent gaming system or even a digital design computer, one will need to have a budget of around $2,500 to $3,000. The processor has to be one of the most important factors here. Although an Intel Core 2 Duo should be able to get the job done, most power users will be able to benefit more from say, a Core 2 Quad or a Core 2 Extreme processor. This should be teamed up with around 4GB of memory at around 1,066MHz. Most of these systems will need a lot of disk space so users may want to look at 1TB hard drives (or 2 500GB drives). Whatever graphics card is chosen, it is advisable not to go below 512MB.

Home Entertainment Systems

For those looking to use their personal computers as their own home entertainment systems, a bit more money will need to be spent. This is because most of the specifications here should be top of the line to ensure that the system will be able to satisfy the high demands of cutting edge multimedia features. Users should be looking for built-in peripherals such as an HD DVD and Blu-ray optical drive combo, a 21-inch and upwards LCD monitor, and a 5.1 speaker set. Another option is to have a direct connection from the computer to one’s actual home theater system. However, cool and quiet performance is preferred over raw power when it comes to what’s under the hood so a Core 2 Duo processor, 2GB of RAM, and a 256MB graphics card should suffice.

About the Author:
ITC Sales are a leading supplier of Dell and HP Laptops and Desktops such as the Dell Precision and the Dell Optiplex.