Cheap Desktop PCsFind out how to get the best Cheap Desktop PCs and save money. Desktop PCs are available as low as $300, but always check for any "gotchas" when going that low. Desktop PCs are a commodity these days. Manufacturing methods, raw materials, and labor has all contributed to the entry level PC falling to $300 or sometimes less. But when you are dealing with very low cost items, there is some risk involved. When manufacturers start cutting corners to lower the prices, the quality and reliability can often suffer. And with modern day software becoming more and more hardware intensive, performance issues can raise their ugly head too. Another factor is that cheap to one person's budget may not be cheap to another's. The term is relative to your budget and even your purpose. If you paid $1000 for your first PC, and you find the same or similar one now for $500, that would be considered cheap. So it's all about what your budget is and what you need to accomplish with your with the Desktop PC. Often times you can find legitimate bargains like a discontinued model that's been reduced for a quick sale, or dent and scratch sale, and yearend specials to clear inventory. What Are Your Requirements? Decide on what features you must have on PC you buy. If you primarily surf the web and use email, your demands are much less than if you use high end software to do quantum physics. What about the software that comes with the unit, is there any special software you need to have to do your job or hobby? Everyone can have different requirements based on what their plans are for using a PC. Pay attention to the minimum requirements for the install operating system. Three components to look at are the dhipset, amount and speed of ram, and the video chipset and amount of ram. With the intensive software of today you should have at least a dual core chipset, at least 2 gigs of DR3 ram, and some type of enhanced video chipset with it's own ram. You can find computers that are super cheap that don't even have these minimums but I would pass on those Cheap Desktop PCs. Do You Have A Budget? Cost can be a relative factor as mentioned above. For buyers who have no special needs, cost could be the most important consideration. But be careful not to go so low in price that you fail to meet your needs, after all you often get what you pay for these days. And if your PC fails or breaks due to low quality parts it may not be the best deal after all. Even an extra $20 can make a big difference in quality. When you start breaking the less than $300 level you may be looking for trouble both in acceptable performance and reliability. What About Reliability? Does the PC have a warranty? Will the company be around to provide the warranty service? It's always a good idea to check out the PC manufacturer and model online. Look for reviews and recommendations. Ask around to friends and associates to get some real world user reviews, especially if they have the same requirements as you. Consumer reports has a lot of info on desktop computers too but there are so many variables that you need to find the exact model review if at all possible which can be difficult. Any Necessary Accessories? Watch out for Cheap desktop PCs that don't include accessories that you need for your particular computer chores. There are the standard monitor and printer that may not come with entry level PCs. Other accessories like speakers, DVD players, web cams, and other additional items that may be necessary for your needs. Look at the accessories, consider the real value (what they might cost if you bought separately) to make the best buying decision. |
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