h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Buying a computer is probably something that most of us have either done or are going to do sometime soon. Here is some information to help you do it.

1) Money. The cost of your computer should reflect how much YOU think it is worth, and how much it will help you in whatever you intend to do with it. Remember, a computer is meant to help you, not hinder you or just sit in a corner gathering dust. An eletronic type-writer costs a lot less than a new computer, and can do the same job (only better), and takes up less space!
Also, a games console costs less and will not hog an entire desktop.

2) Hardware/power. This should reflect what your expectations for the next few years will be regarding the computers use. Expect bi-yearly upgrades for games and other graphics/CPU intensive tasks if using a PC. Don't under-power youself in the first instance, spend what you can afford on reasonable power and storage space.

3) Computer make. Consider your requirements before deciding which to buy. Investigate beyond mere PCs and Macs, there are other computers out there! Look on the internet. Don't be bamboozled by magazines.

4) Operating System. So you've chosen which computer to buy, now choose the most appropriate OS for your requirements. Some computers do not give a choice, but this should eliminate any conflicts the user may inadvertantly create by installing their own. Choose something that will last and be around and supported for a while, or one that is extremely stable as it is. I would NEVER buy a new computer without the OS on CDs as a backup, in case the computer fails after the guarantee runs out. Pay a little extra for this if necessary. Modern PC support from high street shops is often attrocious, it is often better to know someone who can do it for you for free.

5) Try to buy quality, spend some money. It's like the differance between buying Tescos Value recycled toilet paper and Andrex Premium toilet paper. You get what you pay for, bargains are only found in the second hand market.

6) Buying second hand. Tricky. Don't buy old tat, a dusty computer is not necessarily a bad one, look in private ads and car boot sales (but beware of stolen goods), avoid second hand shops because they often overprice computers, especially the monitors (14" monitors are worth no more than 20 Pounds). Companies who replace their computers sometimes don't know their worth so sell them really cheap, know someone who knows someone!