What to Consider When Buying a Computer
By djmarion
@djmarion (4898)
Philippines
November 19, 2008 4:03am CST
I posted here some things to consider when buying a laptop or a pc, these tips are helpful specially for beginners.
Things such as:
1. What will the backup service be like if there is a problem?
2. Will service be on site?
3. Does the vendor offer a collection service if there is a problem?
4. If not, is the vendor close enough for me take the computer back or will I have to pay to send it?
5. Is it worth paying a little more to a local dealer with immediate access to backup services if/when something goes wrong?
6. Will the vendor sell me something more expensive or complicated than I need?
7. Is an installation service offered?
Generally PCs (personal computers) are cheaper. Laptops take up less space and can be stored in a cupboard. A PC will always be on show but set up ready to use. A laptop can do EVERYTHING a PC can do (this is a question we are often asked.)
BEWARE of 'bundled' (free, included) printers.
Often the ones included are the ones they couldn't sell any other way because they are the most expensive to run. Check the cost of replacing the ink cartridges here BEFORE accepting the printer. It might turn out to be CHEAPER to buy a separate printer which uses cheaper, compatible cartridges.
Lastly, Talk to them and get a quote from more than one vendor. A reputable dealer will sell you what you want/need, not what they want to sell you.
1 person likes this
1 response
@smacksman (6053)
•
19 Nov 08
Most countries in the world have a standard 12 month guarantee that a product should be 'fit for purpose' - in other words it was sold to work and do a job.
With todays computers, if it works for a week it will usually work for a lifetime. The cost of insurance to cover repairs after the first year are not worth it in my view. In most cases the insurance covers mechanical repairs, NOT the recovery of data which is the really important and expensive part of a breakdown. So make regular backups of your data!
The exception to my rule is laptops. They are very easy to break and should be covered by insurance.
Is an installation service offered? I think it is far better for the user to install everything himself. Read the manual and do it. It will save him a lot of money later on if he knows how to check all the connections first if he has a problem before calling in an IT man.
