How to shop for a new PC and get the best deal

Updated April 2012:

Shopping for a new computer can present people with confusing choices. Frequently I research the best deals on new PCs from local retailers and publish my findings. If you’d like to receive an e-mail from Computer Techs about the best deals on recommended computers from local retailers, click here and sign-up for our “new computer deals” newsletter. You can view our most current newsletter at newpc.CTreno.com.

Whether you take our advice or want to shop on your own, below are some tips to help you select a new PC and get the best deal:

• Don’t spend more for a faster speed of the same processor. For example, if a store is charging $100 to upgrade from a 2.8Ghz processor to 3.0Ghz – the extra money does not justify the small increase in performance difference.

• Don’t spend extra for a larger capacity hard drive unless you plan on editing & storing video files.

• Laptop, Netbook or desktop? If you need portability or don’t have the room for a desktop PC, consider a laptop. Laptops generally come with screen sizes of 11″-17″. They are nearly as quick and powerful as desktop computers these days. If considering a laptop, test it thoroughly in a store before purchasing – test keyboard and touchpad usability and comfort, and look at screen clarity. You may even want to consider getting a tablet computing device.

• Many major electronic and office supply stores offer tech services that will tune-up and customize your new computer by removing unnecessary trial software, etc. Computer Techs offers more complete service including in-home setup of your new computer, connecting your internet/home network, printer, and other devices, transferring your files and installing programs to your new PC – all at a better value than offered elsewhere.

• I don’t recommend buying an extended warranty. Stores make a huge profit-margin on extended warranties, and the sales people usually make big commissions to push them. Extended warranties often only cover hardware repairs after the manufacturer’s warranty has run out. Only about 10 percent of our service calls involve hardware repairs – so repairs that would be covered by an extended warranty are rare.

• If you’re purchasing a new printer or other device that needs a USB cable, many stores mark-up the cable’s price by a few hundred percent. You can purchase a 15-foot USB cable for a printer from Computer Techs for approximately $15. If you’re replacing a printer, you can likely use the cable from your old printer.

• If the thought of going to the store, fighting the crowds, salespeople and choices overwhelm you – then don’t do it. For a nominal fee, we will purchase your new computer equipment for you, set it up in your home, and teach you how to use it.