If you decide to purchase a new computer system, your options are to purchase from a local retailer, or to purchase online. When you purchase locally, you generally have fewer customization options than if you purchase online. Local retailers may offer a system on sale at a great price, but the system is usually prepackaged and ready to transport. You can get a great bargain this way if the specifications suit your needs.
When you purchase online, you can customize just about everything, from the amount of RAM, to the sound card or graphics card, to the operating system, and so forth. Online retailers such as Dell and Gateway also have frequent sales. System prices are quoted with the default configuration, however, and it’s not hard to double your system price with a few customization changes.
So in making your decision, consider your needs and your circumstances. Here are a few questions you may want to ask yourself:
You may also be experiencing some problems that can be challenging to troubleshoot. For example, sporadic system crashes can be caused by a failing power supply, motherboard, RAM, or other component. Upgrading first one component, then another and another, can become a financial black hole. Taking your computer into the local repair shop can become a very expensive endeavor.
Speaking of finances, it’s equally important to consider whether you anticipate either your income or your expenses changing in any way in the near future (Kid going to college? Need to buy a new car?). Before making a financial commitment of any kind, take the time to look at the whole picture, and give consideration to possible changing of circumstances.
In conclusion, there are many variables to consider in your decision to repair, upgrade, or replace your computer system. However, if you consider the variables of your particular situation and research prices for both components and systems, you’ll be prepared to make the best decision possible.