When you need to buy a new desktop computer, you may feel overwhelmed with all of the choices available to you. The fact is that a quick lesson in computer shopping is all you need to feel more confident. This article will take you through what you need to know.

Try and find somebody who is giving away their desktop computer. You may be able to get one very inexpensively because others are switching over to using laptops. These computers are usually in fine shape, but before you buy, make sure.

Check out the reviews of all computers online. This will give you a much better idea of what computer fits your needs.

Make sure there is some type of warranty offered when you buy your computer. This is important in case the computer locks up or becomes unusable. Generally, you can take it back to the store so that you can get it fixed or a new one that’s the same model.

If you like playing games online and want to buy a gaming computer, you need to remember some things. The computer should have memory that is 4 GB or higher, high resolution and a video card. Also, you can purchase special controllers and keyboards to boost your play.

If you do photo or video work, you’ll want a desktop computer with at least four cores. Called quad-core, this desktop will give you a lot of multitasking ability. Your computer won’t stutter when you have multiple big programs open. This will save you a lot of frustration during your work sessions.

When it comes time to purchase a desktop computer, shop around. You may be surprised to find stores often have sales on computers, and sometimes, the computer you want will be at a much lower price at one store versus another store. You may even choose to look online to find which of your area stores are having sales.

To transfer some large video files, you will need a desktop computer with a DVD optical drive that is writable. CDs tend not to hold much data, therefore they don’t work for large files. Many programs and files require the extra memory that a DVD offers. It costs a bit more, but the storage space is worth it.

Before you buy a desktop computer, ask yourself what you plan to do with it. Figure out if you are only going to use it for work, play, or both. You need to consider the programs and media that you need to use. Check the desktops that you want to ensure the sound cards and graphics cards are enough to support them.

Decide what you’re going to be using the desktop for first. Many people buy a computer that is upgraded for capabilities that they won’t even be using. Your personal interests and your planned uses for the computer should help you decide what specs should be included in your new machine.

When searching for a new desktop, go into it with the idea to maximize your buy based off of your specific needs. Desktop computers come in a ton of shapes, sizes, and processing speeds and abilities. There’s a huge variety, so it’s important to take a look at your workflow to make the best choice based off of you. Don’t get fooled into a more expensive item than you need.

Now that you have read this article, you should feel more than prepared to enter the shopping world to buy a new desktop computer. Don’t hold back – get out there and find your new computer! You’re ready to find the best option at an amazing price, so get to it.