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Everything you need to know to buy a new computer

Buying a new computer? Why buy from Willis IT Services?

For buying a computer yourself, see Choosing a new computer is complicated.

I can build you a custom specification desktop computer to order. These are some of the benefits: 

Bought a new computer elsewhere? It's not ready to use yet!

Unfortunately no mass produced laptop or desktop is simply ready to use once you have unpackaged it.

Choosing a new computer is complicated

Here's some of the many variables I take into consideration when choosing a new laptop for a customer. If this seems overwhelming, I'm not surprised. This is why I'm happy to offer my services to choose your next new laptop. This guide is also relevant if you need to source any type of new computer (laptop, desktop, all-in-one) independently.

Desktop computers (see above) can be custom built. All laptops are mass produced, therefore the same problems and necessary work applies to new laptops as with all other mass produced computers. As per the previous topic, any new laptop bought via Willis IT Services has all this work carried out, so the computer is genuinely "ready to use".

For a quote, please see the sales page to fill in the new computer enquiry form, or contact me directly.

The processor is the most important part of a laptop, as it determines the speed of everything, and is therefore linked to it's useful lifespan. It is the only part of a laptop that can not be upgraded, so choosing the right one is essential! Both memory and storage can often be easily upgraded over the lifetime of the laptop.

Windows 10 is still supplied with many new computers, although increasingly Windows 11 will be installed instead. Windows 11 is also a free upgrade for nearly all computers manufactured after 2018. It is not possible to install a Windows version older (i.e. XP or 7) on to a new computer as the manufacturer do not provide the necessary support to make all the components work properly and reliably. Also, older versions of Windows significantly shorten the life of the computer as it will be quickly out of date.

Components and features to avoid:

Processors made by AMD: A4, A6, A8, A9, A10, Athlon

Processor made by Intel: Celeron, Pentium.

These are all low performers, definitely a budget processor that will show it's poor performance early in life and be frustrating to use - not a good investment.

Good components, and average expectations:

Processors made by AMD, in order of performance, weakest first: Ryzen 3, Ryzen 5, Rzyen 7, Ryzen 9. Look for the generation number, which changes approximately every year. Current new computers include 5th, 6th and 7th generations, so a typical model number will be Ryzen 5 6600U (note the number 6 at the start).

Processors made by Intel, in order of performance, weakest first: Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, Core i9. Look for the generation number, which changes approximately every year. Current new computers include 12th, 13th and 14th generations, so a typical model number will be Core i5-13500H (note the number 13 at the start).

Memory (RAM): 8GB and upwards is average and will provide ample for the future. Memory is the computer's working space for programs or files you are currently working on. The more it has, the greater amount and bigger programs and files you can work with.

Storage: This is the amount of space available to store your programs and files. Currently two different types of technology are available for storage, but most use the newer standard:

CD / DVD / Blu-Ray: Both DVD and Blu-Ray drives will be able to read and write all types of CD and DVD. Most new computers do not have any form of CD or DVD drive, as the majority of software, music and films can be obtained via the internet. Cheap external DVD drives are easily available.

If weight is also an issue, laptops under 2KG are lighter than average.

Screen sizes also vary. 14.1",  15.6", and 16.0" are the most typical sizes. Anything bigger or smaller will cost more than average. The choices will also be slightly limited.

Good Brands:

Many brands are reputable manufacturers. It is more important which components are on the inside than the brand name on the outside, as all the manufacturers use the same sources for components like processor, memory, hard drive and screen. Some however, in particular those sold via PC World / Currys, are just a sales name, whereby the machine is made by a different company. This makes it hard to find some replacement parts. The best brands are known as top-tier manufacturers. They offer a good source of replacement parts should you need them in the future. Top tier manufacturers include: