I've recently read a few articles that stated that consumers buy their computers based almost solely on price. Initially I thought this to be a rational way to buy a product , but after some reflection I noticed how impossible it would be to make a smart purchase decision based on this alone .
The computer market is one of the quickest changing markets around, with commodities like sugar and gold about the only thing that beats it for price fluctuations through each product line. While the general price break has become lower, the middle and upper level computer markets have for the most part stayed in the comparable $1,000 to $4000 area.
The only way to avoid such high prices for an "extreme" machine was to buy discount computer hardware and put the computer together yourself.
Because of the extreme pace of advancement within processors, there is a huge amount of movement of products through these price breaks, beginning at the top end, and ending up at the tail within around 36-48 months.
While this seems to imply that buying on price is the most reasonable way to buy, you might end up buying "too much" processor, in other words beyond what you will ever need.
In today's market, even "middle level" users (basic video/music editing, gaming, etc) will be satisfied with an older processor so long as you have sufficient RAM and a quality video card.
In my opinion, the best way to buy a computer is to make it to your specs. Dell computers are a good place to start your search , to be able to tailor-make your computer to closely match your needs. Once you have you own computer spec'd out, then you can check out local and global companies looking for the best deal that matches your specs.
Maybe you can get away with the oldest processor they are presently selling if you push up your RAM and video card, or maybe you won't need much of either because of your needs.
I would definitely recommend talking to a professional or two about your needs if none of this is making sense to you! Make sure you talk to a couple of pros so to make sure one isn't a snake oil salesman!
If you are very comfortable with computers you can save big $ by putting it together yourself. You can find discount computer parts online that will deliver to your home . It is a comparatively simple process and you will be able to buy significantly more computer if you want a titan machine!
The top thing to remember in buying computers: buy for your needs! If you follow that rule, you will probably save money and long term angst!
