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Know needs as you shop for second computer
Techno Buddy
Now that school has started, some of my readers tell me there often is a grumbly and impatient line at the family computer. Dad is getting bumped off in the middle of his computer game, and mom can’t peacefully shop for clothes.
Even families with two computers are feeling the pinch as school work demands computer time. For many, it’s time to shop for a second or even third computer. And that creates a confusing series of choices.
Know your needs
Sounds logical enough. But not enough people pay attention to this first step. You need a clear idea of how the computers you have fail to meet your family’s needs.
Can a little rescheduling solve your problem without buying a new machine? Do you already have a laptop? If not, perhaps it makes sense to add one to your arsenal. How powerful are the computers you already own? If they’re rapidly becoming antiques, maybe a modern desktop computer is the answer.
Do the research
Once you have a clear sense of what you need, start researching. The best place to start is Cnet.com. For years I’ve been impressed by the clarity and toughness of the reviews.
Look on the left-hand side of the site’s home page (www.
cnet.com) and you’ll see links for both laptop and desktop computers. Make your choice and you’ll see the reviews let you search by price range or manufacturer. You’ll also find general buying guides. Or you can let the editors pick up some of the load by clicking on a link that offers only the machines that got their highest marks.
When you’re done, you should have a list of two or three finalists – any more than that and the next step will be too confusing; any less and you lose flexibility in finding the best deal.
Shop for the best deal
Here’s where the Web is a wonderful tool. Start comparing prices for the machines that made your final cut. But stick to brand-name Web sites. In almost every case, if you find a price that’s too good to be true, it should raise warning flags. Also resist the temptation to click the order button before checking local merchants. Compare prices at the store with what you find online, and make sure you are comparing what the final total cost will be. That means factoring in shipping costs, sales tax and any other charges.
And take along any online price quotes when you go to the local stores. Don’t be afraid to show the prices to the sales person and ask if they can match them. Do a little bargaining.
Extended warranties
You’ll almost certainly be given the option of buying an extended warranty for your new machine. It will have, or should have, a 1-year warranty included in the price. My advice: If you’re buying a desktop computer, don’t consider an extended warranty. Even if that machine breaks down after the 1-year warranty expires, the repair cost likely will be less than the cost of the extended warranty.
Laptops are a different. They aren’t as sturdy as a desktop. They are more likely to be subjected to the bumps and bruises of travel. And their repair costs often are higher. So, especially if you buy an expensive laptop, at least consider an extended warranty. Do the math and see if it makes sense for you.
Bill Husted writes for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
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