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Desktop Buying Guide
We know that computing can be confusing. There’s so much to think about when buying a new computer – how do you know you’re getting the right one? Don’t worry! Our handy buying guide will break everything down to help you understand the different features, functions and uses to make sure you pick out the perfect desktop.
Things to know
Input
Input is a techy name for the ports on your desktop. There’re a few different types for sharing data, sending audio-visual info, or even charging up your phone. It’s always worth checking which ports your devices have, so you’ll have no trouble connecting them.
Processor
The processor is your computer’s brain – it’s what makes apps and hardware tick.
It does all the clever stuff to make your computer work, and tells things like your RAM and storage what they need to do when you use them. You’ll need a powerful processor if you want to run lots of things at once. But for email and web browsing, a less powerful one will do the trick.
Storage
Storage is where your computer saves apps, files, and all the data it needs to work, including the operating system. There are a few kinds of storage to choose from, and they all come in different sizes. Some start up and load apps really fast, while others have lots of space for saving big files.
RAM
Your computer's short-term memory is also known as RAM. It stores all the info that your apps need to work properly when you launch them. If you just want to send emails or do some shopping online, you won’t need as much – 4GB of RAM is enough to handle the basics, while 8GB is ideal for multitasking. But for more demanding apps and games you’ll want 16GB or 32GB of RAM, while 64GB and up is usually only needed for professional video editing and 3D modelling work. Apple also has their own type of RAM called Unified Memory that lets the processor and graphics card access the same resources for a more streamlined experience.
Guides and advice
Best desktops of 2024
Want the low-down on the latest and greatest desktops of 2024? Check out our expert guide that’ll take you through the best computers for worktime, downtime, and everything in-between.
Upgrade your desktop
Whether it’s a new family computer or personal purchase for your home office, our desktop buying guide has all the info you need to make the right choice.
FAQs
- What should I look for in a new PC?
A PC has many capabilities, but in its simplest form, it stores, retrieves, and processes data, so you can use it to type documents, send emails, play games, watch videos, browse online and much more.
- Should I buy Windows or Mac?
The age-old question! Both Windows and Mac desktops give you a unique experience for different reasons. Windows gives you a familiar operating system, it’s good for gaming and general use, and their parts that can be easily upgraded. Whereas Mac computers give you a modern look with a sleek interface. They’re especially well-suited to design and professional work, while also being compatible with your other Apple products. It really comes down to preference.
- Which PC should I get for gaming?
There are plenty of PCs that are suited to gaming, but there are things to look out for to ensure you make the right choice. The PC should have at least 8GB of RAM and at least an i5 processor, as this will allow it to run most games. Games take up quite a lot of space, so it’s important that your PC has plenty of storage space – 1TB should keep you covered. As long as your graphics card is GeForce or AMD, you should be able to run most games, but the better the graphics card, the more you can get from your games.
- What PC do I need for studying?
To keep up with having multiple tabs and applications open at once, you’ll need a PC that has either an Intel or AMD processor, along with around 4GB of RAM. An integrated graphics card will be perfect for working, while still allowing you to watch films and shows in your downtime. Then a hard drive of at least 500GB will make sure you never run out of space to save your work.
- Which computer is best for creatives?
While Windows PCs can be very good for creative work, Apple desktops are perfect. They are optimised for design with applications such as Photoshop and InDesign seeing improved performance. With a sleek design and interface, they can also manage multiple applications at once.
- What’s the fastest desktop?
The fastest desktops are the ones that have the quickest processing speed. These are the desktops that have either an Intel i9 processor or an AMD Ryzen 9.
- How do I choose a monitor?
The main thing to think about with a monitor is the screen size. There’s no right answer for screen size, it’s just whatever you’re most comfortable with. You should also look to have a screen resolution that is full HD for a sharp picture no matter what you’re up to. If you’re into gaming or working creatively, then you’ll want a high refresh rate and a low response time for an ultra-smooth experience.
- How much storage do I need?
For general use, 500GB is a good amount of storage space, as it will allow you to store millions of photos, along with films and documents. If you’re into gaming or creative work, then you should look at having at least 1TB of storage space to make room for massive project files and game installs.
- What is the cloud?
‘The cloud’ is another way of referring to the internet, so if someone says something is saved ‘in the cloud’ that just means it’s been saved online. It’s a way to safely store files online and save yourself space on your hard drive.
- What is an SSD?
SSD stands for solid-state drive. It is a type of storage device that can be used in your computer instead of or along side a regular hard drive (HDD).
- What’s the difference between an SSD and HDD?
A regular hard drive (HDD) gives you loads of storage space for quite a low cost, whereas an SSD has less storage space but is quicker and more reliable.
- Do I need to buy a graphics card?
Nope. Every desktop we have available is pre-built and comes with a graphics card included. So, whether you just need an integrated graphics card, or want a dedicated one for gaming, they all come included with our range of desktops.
- What software should I buy?
When you get a new computer, you’ll want to make sure it’s protected from harmful viruses. The best way to do this is with some anti-virus software. We have a range of McAfee and Norton software to keep your computer covered. Another essential bit of software is Microsoft Office, which you can buy outright or through the Microsoft 365 subscription service.
- What is Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 is a subscription service that gives you all the essential apps from Microsoft Office, along with 1TB of OneDrive storage space. You can get it as a personal or family annual subscription.
