Buyer's Checklist: Desktops

From Computer Shopper.com
Before you buy any computing hardware—whether a new PC, peripheral, or under-the-hood upgrade—it's smart to review the issues and choices you'll encounter. These How to Buy guides will help you do just that. Whether you just need the answers to a couple of questions or want a full tutorial, these guides can help you on your way. Just click the answer to the question that most closely matches your needs.



Do I Want a Home PC or a Business PC?
Doesn't Make Much Difference
"Corporate" PCs Are Different
 
Which CPU Should I Choose?
Power Users: Pentium III, K6-III, and Pentium III Xeon
Good Values: Celeron and K6-2
Tight Budgets: K6-2
 
How Much Should I Spend?
Power Users and Gamers: $1,500 and Up
Mainstream: $1,200 to $2,200
Tight Budget: Under $1,000
Shipping Costs: About $60 to $100
 
How Should I Configure It?
Base Memory: 64MB of RAM
8GB or Larger Hard Drive
Monitor: 17-Inch or Larger CRT
CD on a Budget, DVD Otherwise
Sound Card and 2.1 Speakers
Almost Any 8MB Graphics Card
Removable Storage: Zip or CD-RW
 
What About Gaming?
Monitor: 19-inch CRT
3-D Sound, 4.1 Speakers
 
Should I Upgrade Instead?
New Motherboard's Best, but for Techies Only
CPU Upgrades Economical, if Limited
Check the Ports, Bays, and Expansion Slots
 
How Do I Get On the Web?
Internal 56Kbps Modem
Choose a Service Provider
 
What Software Comes With My PC?
Productivity
Internet Access
Edutainment and Personal Finance
 
How Should I Pay?
Always Use a Credit Card
Avoid Restocking Fees
Leasing and loans don't always pay off
 
How Can I Choose a Reliable Brand?
Know Thy Warranty
Ask Other Buyers
 
How Can I Choose a Reliable Merchant?
Ask Other Buyers
Check Out the Better Business Bureau
 
What if I Still Have Questions?
More Answers

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