Buying a desktop computer

Thing #6

Retailers have mighty fine deals.

Don't assume online is going to have the best price (it may but don't assume it). Retailers are offering great deals as loss leaders to pull people in. Notebooks in particular are being offered at great prices in part, because notebook buyers buy more other added crap: check selection at Best Buy or frys.

Thing #7

Shoot for a 22-inch LCD monitor.

Prices are low enough that you should be able to buy one for about $300. Check out cnet.com for reviews of the best of them.

Thing #8

Don't buy a store warranty.

The decision on extended warranty is a bit of a toss-up. Most problems occur in the first year, so a one-year warranty should be fine. A two-or three-year warranty will add about $150 or $200 to your cost. Since PCs are often less than a $1000, for the most part, it's not worth it - take your chances. If, however, you're spending a lot more on the box or just feeling like a Nervous Nelly, then, call the manufacturer and ask about theirs. The manufacturers can sell you one that will fully cover your computer for about three to five years so you can stop chewing your nails.

Thing #9

Don't buy additional software unless you really need it.

Purchase an operating system (push for a free upgrade on a Windows machine), an office suite, and an antivirus package. But if you need more, look for vendors' software bundles to upgrade your software. For as little as $100, you can often upgrade from Microsoft Works Suite or a similar package to a full office suite like Microsoft Office XP Small Business Edition--a great value considering Office XP runs more than $300 off the shelf. Also, if anybody in your family is a student of any kind, check out educational packages. Oftentimes, any kind of mild evidence that you've even wandered by a graphic design class will get you things like Photoshop, Illustrator, Quark or Creative Suite for a third of the price. Same software.

Thing #10

For Christsakes pull the trigger!

Don't wait to see whether prices drop further or performance improves. If you need it now then go for it. If you have to have the absolutely best possible deal, then fine. Go ahead and sit on your bum and wait for Christmas or pre-school season when deals are sometimes better. Far be it from you to jump the gun.

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