What to consider when purchasing or upgrading a computer

Are you or your business in the market for new systems? Is the computer you have now running on its last legs? Looking to upgrade the current system? If you answered “YES” to any of the following, you’ll need to take into account these key components: CPU, RAM, GPU, Storage, Security, and Price. Keep reading to learn about what to consider when purchasing or upgrading a computer.

RAM

RAM stands for Random Access Memory and it’s an important component that determines the overall performance of your system. Its function is to allow for applications to temporarily store and access the data on a short-term basis. When multi-tasking or using high resource intensive apps, it’s important the system has a fair amount of RAM. In today’s world, the minimum amount of RAM the system should have is 8 GB with 16 GB being a nice sweet spot for memory.

CPU

CPU stands for Central Processing Unit. This is the brain of the computer which sits on the motherboard and allows for interaction with all programs and applications on the computer.
The speeds of the processor are measured in GHz and faster CPU’s cost more money. Processors vary in clock speed, cores, and threads. Intel and AMD are the two manufactures of CPU’s and each are broken down by model number iterations. You’ll need to determine the nature of work that will be performed by the system when deciding what tier level of CPU you’ll need. i5 and i7 processors by Intel are a solid performing middle-high ground group as well as 5000 and 7000 series by AMD.

GPU

GPU stands for Graphical Processing Unit aka “the graphics card” and is the driving force behind the systems display. Graphics cards can be integrated on the motherboard or bought externally. If you or your business demands high graphical output, an external graphics with a minimum of 4 GB card is recommended.

Storage

Storage comes in two different categories. Physical and Cloud. With the amount of data being consumed, it’s recommended that the system have at least 500 GB of internal storage.

1. Physical – There are two types of internal/external storage: HDD’s and SSD’s. HDDs are cheaper per GB and perform read and write speeds much slower than SSD’s. SSD’s have much faster read/write speeds but cost more per GB. In today world, where processing and data transmission is performed at a much faster rate, it would be more beneficial from a work productivity standpoint to go with an SSD (if it falls within your budget).
2. Cloud – online storage does not require data to be saved on the systems storage device. Many applications such as (Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, DropBox, etc.) provide this option. This is becoming more popular because if a system were to crash beyond repair or not (all data within the cloud storage limit) can be transmitted back to same device (if wiped) or another device by the means of Cloud Restore. Also storing data on the cloud also allows for team based collaborative efforts (if shared). Cloud storage can be very costly as the GB count gets much higher but having it as a secondary source is beneficial during disaster data recovery.

Security

This is an option that gets overlooked by individuals and businesses. The last thing you want to do is cheap out on Antivirus and fall victim to a virus or hackers. By default, Windows Operating Systems come with Windows Defender but there are other options out like (MalwareBytes, MacAfee, Webroot, Avast, Norton, etc). These products are either a one-time payment or a subscription based. All products offer real time web and security protection.

Price

Always have a budget in mind when planning on purchasing or upgrading a system. It’s not uncommon to slightly go over budget but make sure you don’t plan to go cheap either. Spending the little bit of extra money can make the difference in the computer parts longevity and overall happiness of the end user.

Final recommendation

When it comes to buying computers and parts, it really determines how the system will be used in the work or personal setting. One must remember that computer parts are always evolving and newer models of those parts will always hit the consumer market at some point in time.

If your company is planning on upgrading your workstation environment, we at Beringer Technology Group can help. Our team consists of highly knowledgeable technicians and sales team members who would be happy to assist and also speak to you about the various Managed IT Services we provide as a company.

Beringer Technology Group, a leading Microsoft Gold Certified Partner specializing in Microsoft Dynamics 365 and CRM for Distribution also provides expert Managed IT Services, Backup and Disaster Recovery, Cloud Based Computing, Email Security Implementation and Training, Unified Communication Solutions, and Cybersecurity Risk Assessment.