Buying a new computer can be incredibly expensive, given the significant investment it requires. Also, the amount of choice available in terms of prices and configuration can make the whole process of buying a new device very overwhelming. Shoppers often make mistakes when buying a new computer, especially those who are less tech-savvy. In this article, we’ve listed a few common mistakes you can avoid when buying a new computer.

Purchasing a computer that does not meet your needs

Before buying a computer, it is important to determine your needs, whether you want to use it for home, work, or gaming. There is no reason to buy a computer with tons of RAM if you are not going to use it for heavy workloads or gaming. Shoppers often spend more money on features that they do not need. Before buying, you must list all the features you need and purchase the best one that meets your needs.

Not thinking about other costs

If you buy a gaming computer, be aware of what is included in your purchase. Most computer software is accessible on a trial basis, and you would need to pay after the trial period ends. It is best to look for deals where software is included in the price to help save money. For example – many computers come standard with Windows 10. Again, shoppers often forget to buy antivirus software, a must-have when buying a computer. Some computers may come with a 90-day free virus scanner; if you want to use it, it is best to purchase the updated software.

Paying for an extended warranty

Most computers come with a 1-year warranty, and it is better to skip the extended warranty when buying a new computer. Extended warranties are available for a fee, and companies profit significantly from them. It is not worth buying an extended warranty because the chances of needing a repair in a new computer are very low. Also, even if something happens, the cost of repairs will be less than the cost of an extended warranty.

Spending too little or too much

Many shoppers tend to underspend and later regret it as it is likely to have fewer features than they need. There are many computers on the market, giving you many options to select from. With some research, you can easily find a computer that offers the best value for your money. You can probably opt for something inexpensive if you need a computer for basic tasks. But hardcore gamers may need a pricier computer with the latest processor and large storage. Instead of buying immediately and paying a lot, browse through dozens of websites and find promotional offers from time to time.

Not buying the right OS for your needs

There are several operating systems to choose from when buying a computer, including Windows, Linux, macOS, and Chrome OS. Each has its advantages, and you must decide which one you want depending on your needs. Many shoppers often end up with macOS despite being a power user resulting in headaches later. macOS is usually best for those who want a computer for basic tasks, while Windows is a better choice for any other work.

Focusing on only the processor

Though choosing a suitable processor is very important, other factors should also be considered while buying a computer. This includes clock speed, thermal design power, cache size, and the brand- Intel or AMD. For example, an Intel Core i5 or an AMD Ryzen 5 will work well for a casual user as each has 6 cores and 65-watt TDP. For a gamer, an Intel Core i7 or i9 or AMD Ryzen 7 or 9 would be a go-to choice. They have eight cores and offer great single-thread and multi-thread performance for ultimate gaming performance.

When buying a new computer, thoroughly research the available options, and choose the one with enough memory and processing speed ideal for your needs.