Buying a new computer?

WE RECOMMEND...

PC World
PC World stock a wide range of desktop computers, laptops and accessories. Also, you can reserve in store for same day pickup which is handy if you need a computer ASAP.
www.pcworld.co.uk

Dell Computers
One of the biggest and well known names in the world of computers. They sell direct, so can offer great prices.
www.dell.co.uk

Apple
Apple Mac computers look beautiful and have a very special fan base all of their own.


Commodore Gaming
Commodore is back! This brand has a proud history in computing. Now they focus on high end, funky PCs especially for gamers.

eBay.co.uk
Perfect place to pick up a bargain, including many reconditioned ex-corporate PCs. Check to see if there's any remaining warranty or if the seller provides any.

Do you want to buy a new computer?

When deciding what PC to go for, you will have to decide whether to go for a well known branded PC, or for an unbranded PC, maybe made for you by a local PC builder.

The advantage of a local PC builder is that he will most likely be able to source all the component parts cheaply and build you a decent spec PC at an attractive price.

Advantages of buying from a well known brand

The advantage of going for a branded PC is that you have a certain expectation of build construction and quality beforehand, and you will gain access to large support knowledgebase. Say , for example, you purchased a Dell Dimension desktop PC. If you had a problem with it, you would have Dell Technical Support at hand, both on the phone and also in the form of forums, discussion groups, online documentation and drivers for you to download.

If you were in a similar position with an unbranded, bespoke PC, you would be at a disadvantage when trying to find out what to do or try without going back to the PC builder who may or may not be minded to help you.

Laptop, Desktop or Netbook?

It really depends on the portability you want. If you think you will ever want to move the computer or use it around the house on a wifi connection, then a laptop is a good choice and you can always connect it to a conventional keyboard and mouse for the times you do use it from a desk.

If the computer is likely to stay in only one place ever, then desktops would still be my preferred option. Netbooks are a new breed of ultra portable computers, such as the Eee PC from Asus which are very light and compact and easy to take anywhere. They have small screens so not great for regular users but perfect for students or frequent travellers.

Where should I buy a new PC from?

We've listed on the right hand side resellers of computers that we recommend, having used them ourselves.

STOP.... maybe you could just upgrade your old PC?

If your computer is slow, you might be able to increase the performance by upgrading the PC. One of the easiest ways to do this is by increasing the amount of RAM inside it. The clever people at Crucial Memory have a utility that will scan your system and detect the type of memory you need and how much you can put in. Visit Crucial.com/uk