The things to look at when buying a new computer include Operating Systems, Processors/CPU, Memory/RAM, Storage, Ports, and more.
Look at Desktop vs Laptop
When buying a new computer the first thing to decide is whether or not a desktop or laptop is desired.
Do you expect to carry your computer with you? If you do, then a laptop is better. If the user does not need portability, then a desktop can be a great choice.
Desktop computers provide more customization options. It is easier to build and replace parts in a desktop computer such as internal storage and memory boards.
Certain laptops can be customized, but it’s often not easy.
A desktop can be configured with better cooling power when compared to a laptop. A desktop can use liquid cooling and more fans. This means desktops are generally better for things that stress computer components for an extended period of time, like gaming.
Laptops in this modern age can also pack a lot of power into such a small device. There are external cooling options such as cooling pads if required.
Desktops are usually larger and weigh a lot more than laptops. There are some smaller ones available, but not many.
Laptops and desktops can be connected to the same externals devices. This allows users to use any monitor, mouse, and keyboard.
Look at Operating Systems
The biggest decision when buying a new computer, is which operating system to use. The three main operating systems are Mac OS, Windows OS, and Chrome OS.
Mac OS is made by Apple and only found on Macintosh computers.
Windows is made by Microsoft. There are many manufacturers using the Windows OS. These computers are generally known as PCs.
Chrome OS made by Google and can run on any hardware designated as a Chromebook.
Mac OS
Macintosh computers are usually not recommended for gaming in part because only the high end models have discrete graphics cards. This is changing as Apple puts more power into their devices. the MacBook Pro with the M4 Chip is said to be capable of handling a lot of AAA Game titles.
Apple provides excellent applications for graphic design, video and music production for example. These applications are free and come preloaded on all Macintosh computers.
Generally, more secure, less Malware is created for them. This is due to the much higher number of Windows computers in the world, as well as their robust security layers.
Some consider Macs to be more user friendly and directed, but much of that will depend on the users’ prior experience.
Windows OS
Most gaming and business computers run on Windows OS.
There are many applications written for the Windows OS. These apps are less integrated and the user needs to know what they want. There are fewer applications that are provided with the operating system, but there is a wider selection of apps that are available. Most require separate purchase.
Windows is less secure. There is more malware created for Windows. This is due to Windows far more open, sandbox, environment, as well as more widely available developer tools to test on.
Windows is phasing out their Windows 10 OS in October of 2025. It will eventually be entirely replaced by Windows 11. It’s rare to find a computer sold with Windows 10 on it these days, but if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of upgrading the OS make sure you purchase a computer with Windows 11 already on it.
Over the years Windows has made strides to become more user friendly.
Chrome OS
Great for school use, children, and website users.
Chrome OS is a browser-based OS that mainly utilizes Chrome. It does also have apps with all sorts of purposes, but only apps from their Google Play Store are available to the device.
These computers are very secure because Google controls the updating of the OS, the apps that can be downloaded, and the entire environment. In addition, software is not downloaded and executed in the same way as with Windows and Macs so most viruses won’t run in this environment.
Choosing Hardware and Components when buying a new computer
There are many hardware options to consider when buying a new computer.
Windows computers are made by Microsoft as well as other companies, such as Lenovo, Dell, HP, ASUS, Acer. Quality control is handled by each company separately. Customization is very common.
Macintoshes are only made by Apple. Customization is limited, but quality is very consistent.
Chromebooks are made by Google and almost all the computer manufacturers listed above who make Windows computers also make Chromebooks. Quality control is again handled by each one separately, although Google has set criteria for more powerful and advanced Chromebooks. These are called Chromebook Plus, and offer much more powerful performance with AI capabilities and higher quality parts.
Touch screen is available on some PCs and Chromebooks, but not on Macs. Apple has designated their touch screen devices to be only on iPhones and iPad. This is why their OS’s are designated as Mac OS for their computers, and iOS for their touch screen devices.
Chromebooks are usually cheaper than PCs and Macs, although you can find some very high quality ones if desired. Chromebooks don’t require much processing power to run smoothly but a lot of manufacturers will bolster their devices with faster CPUs, more ram, and things such as quality displays, keyboards, cameras and so forth.
The price of the device almost always reflects the quality. With so many manufacturers and more competition, it is easier to find inexpensive Chromebooks and PC. Macs are usually more expensive but a comparable Windows computer or Chromebook of quality will be similar in pricing.
CPUs – Central Processing Units
Speed and power are important when it comes to computing.
Processors/CPUs, Graphics Processors/GPUs, and RAM are the main determining factors when it comes to speed and power.
The CPU is the main processing in the computer. When buying a new computer, it is recommended that people purchase the fastest CPU that they can afford. When people complain that the computer is slowing down after five or more years, it is often that the CPU is just not able to keep up with modern applications, especially with how rapidly technology is advancing.
Older Apple models utilized Intel CPUs, but now all newer Macs have Apple’s Silicon chip. They currently have four different versions; the M1, M2, M3 and M4. These are comparable to higher end Intel Chips within their specific generations.
Windows and Chromebooks utilize mainly Intel and AMD Processors.
Generally, for Intel, an i3 would be the slowest intel processor, and i5 the mid tier, and i7 the high tier, and i9 the top tier. These also have speed differences within their own subsection of 3 core, 5 core, 7 core, and 9 core CPUS. It also varies based on Generation. Without technical knowledge about clock speeds and cores, identification lies within the numbers the product has listed. You can also look the chip up on benchmarking websites that compare the chips for you in a more digestible way.
The same ideology applies with AMD Ryzen CPUs. Categorized with the same numbers of 3, 5, 7, and 9.
Here is a list of CPU Benchmarks from Toms Hardware.
Simplified 3 and 5 are generally cheaper but slower. 7 and 9 are faster but more expensive.
GPUs – Graphics
Graphics can be built into the CPU or there can be a separate component – a graphical processer also known as a graphics card – that handles graphics.
These also have VRAM, which is RAM dedicated only to the graphical processing that is occurring.
These are useful for gaming, high speed rendering, crypto mining and other intensive tasks.
Lower cost Macs come with integrated CPU graphics instead of a graphics card, but high end models often have them.
Windows computers designed for gaming will typically have Graphics Processors/GPUs. Desktops generally have more powerful versions of them as they have the space inside the case and adequate cooling for it. Laptops can still have very powerful GPUs but a compact mobile computer can only have so much space and cooling for these chips to exist.
You must keep in mind that a Desktop with, for example, an Nvidia GeForce 5090 in it would be far more powerful than a Laptop that also has what is advertised as a 5090 in it.
Unlike CPUs that process everything, these are dedicated pieces of hardware used for whatever purpose it is given.
Computers with GPUs are typically more expensive than computers without. some GPU’s alone can cost upwards of $3000+ USD.
Chromebooks do not have GPUs and aren’t meant for heavy gaming or graphical processing.
RAM – Random Access Memory
RAM stores short term data that allows a computer to function.
The more RAM a computer has, the more it can process demanding programs. It can also do more different tasks at the same time.
8 GB was a standard amount of RAM, but is just not enough with the advances in software and AI.
16 GB is the new suggested minimum.
32GB or more removes any worry about capping out on it unless the user is doing a lot of stuff. It also gives room for future growth. If doing any gaming or heavy processing it is suggested to have 32+.
How much Storage and of which type does your new computer need?
With Cloud based storage growing more and more popular, massive physical storage may not be necessary.
Chromebooks are intend to rely mainly on cloud storage, and do not have a lot of internal storage.
Desktop PCs have the most flexibility and some can hold several storage devices.
When purchasing and Windows PC or a Mac, 256GB is the minimum that should be purchased.
512GB to 1TB is ideal for a laptop, and if you are a gamer or creating digital content 1TB+ is recommended. Any computer can utilize external storage as well.
It is recommended to choose a Solid State Drive over the older spinning hard drives. It will be advertised as an SSD whereas the other technology is advertised as an HDD.
Ports
These are the inputs along the sides of your laptop or the back and front/top of your desktop. They are used to plug in everything such as external storage, displays, keyboards, mice, headphones, charging cables, power cables, and almost all other peripherals.
While ports are crucial, every computer can also utilize adapters to add to the built in ports.
Newer laptops utilize USB-C, but many have slots for USB A, HDMI, and Ethernet. This varies widely and should be looked at closely and compared to your own needs. If purchasing a laptop on the premise of it being very compact it may have less room for ports, and might only come with USB-C options.
Desktops generally have a wide variety of ports.
Where to buy your new computer?
Some trusted retailers are Best Buy, Amazon, Newegg, and if you are local to Boston, Microcenter in Cambridge MA.
Apple stores are a good option for Macs. Manufacturer websites are also an option. Check prices on a variety of sites. It is difficult to be sure you are comparing the exact same thing, so take your time.
Companies such as CyberpowerPC and iBuyPower can build desktops with custom parts to your specifications. They also sell custom prebuilt machines.
There are many options for purchasing once you have decided what you are looking for.
Look at Warranty and Support
Most computers come with some form of manufacturer’s warranty. Each will be specific to the company.
Most retailers will offer insurance in addition to the manufacturer’s for a few hundred extra dollars depending on length of coverage.
This is entirely your decision based on whether or not you feel the computer may get damaged or if you just want the piece of mind of having the device insured.
If you would like help with this process, just call or email and we’ll be happy to assist you! If you have specific questions, or if our terminology isn’t clear, please use our contact form to send us a message. Thank you!
