Which computer should I choose?
Techniques
13 November 2008 09:17
Buying a computer can be tricky. With so many to choose from it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. In a way it’s a very similar process to buying a camera. You’re going to be forking out quite a bit of cash, so you want to make sure you make the right decision and purchase a computer that will serve you well for years to come.
This guide is designed to give you a little more information on the most important things to look out for.
1. Where will you use it?
Have a think about which type of computer is best-suited to your needs. If you’re on the move and fancy using your computer on a train or in different rooms of your house with wireless internet, a portable laptop is the obvious choice. If you prefer to sit down in a comfortable swivel chair in an office environment or computer room a desktop computer might be more comfortable.
2. How much memory will you need?
If you’re going to use the computer to surf the web and check emails you’re not going to need as much memory as those hungry image-editing software packages (such as Bridge, Lightroom and Photoshop) so 1GB Memory will suffice. Office programs such as Excel, PowerPoint and Word require more memory than you think, however, and if you’re dealing in just these programmes, we recommend either 2 or 3GB memory.
For editing image files using Elements, Bridge, Lightroom or Photoshop on a regular basis you’ll need more RAM (Random Access Memory). A 32-bit operating system like Windows XP or Vista will only address a maximum of 3.5GB of RAM so 4GB will be suitable, but if you're after more RAM you'll need to ensure you purchase a 64-bit operating system which doesn't have a limitation like that of 32-bit.
3. How fast will it be?
The central processing unit (CPU or ‘processor’) is the most valuable component that affects the running speed of your computer. Nobody wants a slow or sluggish computer so ensure you buy a computer with a fast processor. Most common laptops and desktop PCs are fitted with Intel Core Duo Processors, so you can run multiple demanding applications at the same time. Double check your processor speed with your purchase. Processor speed is measured in Gigahertz (Ghz): the latest laptop we’ve tested (the AW-series from Sony) had an extremely fast 2.8Ghz Intel Core Processor built-in. This is ideal if you’re using programs such as Lightroom and Element’s simultaneously and don’t want to wait for adjustments to be made.
4. What storage do you need?
The hard disk drive (HDD) stores all your data – images, text documents and video – but every computer comes with a limited hard drive capacity. If you’re taking the occasional set of images on a small 10MP compact camera it will take you quite a while to fill up a computer’s internal 120GB hard drive; if you’re shooting RAW files you’ll fill this up rapidly. It may be worth buying an additional extrnal hard drive for storing and backing up your images. These have dropped rapidly in price in the last couple of years and connect to the computer via a USB cable. PC users will be able to access an external hard drive through the ‘My Computer’ icon; if you’re running on Mac, a hard drive icon will pop up on the desktop. If you think you might need additional hard drive space be sure to read Digital Photo’s December issue that focuses on Storage solutions on page 104.
5. Which operating system?
There are two main operating systems to choose from. If you’re buying a laptop or PC it will come with the latest Windows operating system, currently Windows Vista Home Premium. If you’re buying a Macintosh the latest operating system is Mac OS X v10.5 Leopard. The choice of PC or Mac is a very personal one but if you’re used to working on the windows format through work or business you’ll find a PC more familiar. The Macintosh operating system is visually quite different to Windows so we recommend that you always try it first, if you’re making the jump from PC to Mac.
6. How much to spend?
Some of the best computer prices can be found on the internet so make sure you shop around to find the best price. Although you may not be able to test drive the computer as you can in a shop, online buying has the advantage in that you can upgrade RAM, Processor and hard disk drives with your purchase, so you come away with a tailor made PC or Mac that’s suitable for your requirements.
7. Where to shop?
We’ve compiled a list of ten online stores to help you find a computer that suits your needs and don't forget to visit our online compare and buy shop for the best deals.
www.pcworld.co.uk
www.apple.com/mac
www.very-pc.co.uk
www.comet.co.uk
www.dell.co.uk
www.uk.gateway.com
www.microwarehouse.co.uk
www.shoptoshiba.toshiba.co.uk
www.morgancomputers.co.uk
www.sony.co.uk
