If you’re not especially tech-savvy, the idea of buying a new computer can be a little stressful. First, it can be hard to determine what you want, especially if you don’t have a good grasp on what your needs are.

For example—a few weeks ago one of our clients was telling us how her boyfriend was determined to buy the newest MacBook. His current laptop (a PC) is about seven years old, she said, and it was most certainly on its last leg.

Any MacBook owner will tell you that no one will ever accuse that laptop of being inexpensive, so she asked him why that’s what he was leaning toward.

“I want it because it’s the best,” he said.

When she pointed out that he’s always owned PCs, that learning how to use a new OS can be a challenge, and that he really only needs a laptop for email and web browsing, he agreed that the added expense of a MacBook wasn’t needed.

Remember- when it comes to choosing a new computer, you need to figure out what you most need to use it for, because that will help you narrow down your options.

As such, you’re about to buy a new laptop, you’ll want to be sure to consider the following.

Screen size is important

If you spend a lot of time looking at your computer, you’ll want something with a decent sized-screen. We have one client who purchased a laptop that’s an absolute beast. But, she chose it because it has one of the largest laptop screens that’s out there. She doesn’t travel with it, but instead, it sits on her home office desk and it’s connected to a dual monitor. For her, a laptop with a big screen was ideal.

If you’re someone who plans to use your laptop for work, when you travel, you may want to consider something a bit smaller.

Choose your keyboard carefully

If you do a lot of accounting, or you tend to work with a lot of data that requires a lot of number entry, you’ll want to make sure your keyboard has a separate number keypad (this is generally located to the right of the standard keyboard.) If you don’t need to input a lot of numbers, then a smaller, standard keyboard might meet your needs.

Also: some laptops have backlit keyboards, which are ideal if you’re going to be using your computer on airplanes or in other dimly-lit spaces.

How much RAM do you need?

Simply stated, RAM is the amount of memory your computer has. If you need to run a lot of programs or apps at the same time, you’ll need a lot more RAM than you would if you only use your computer to check email and do some online shopping.

Remember, the more RAM a computer has, the more expensive it will be.

Have questions? Call RMCS today!

If you’re in the market for a new computer and you have questions about which type of system may work best for you, we can help. Call Rocky Mountain Computer Specialists today at 303-371-7214 to learn more.