5 Tips For Saving On A New Computer

So your computer finally died.  You need a new one, but they can be so expensive! Here are some tips on how you can save on your purchase.

1.) Skip extras

If you buy your computer at a commercial retailer, you’ll probably be sold a package deal. This contains duplicates of items you likely already have, like a keyboard and monitor. Purchase a PC on its own and save as much as $100.

You can also save on software. Most new computer “deals” include word-processing tools valued at several hundred dollars. Before including them in your purchase, shop around. Most software manufacturers offer student discounts, and some employers offer purchasing agreements that can save you several hundred dollars.

2.) Know your needs

Buying a top-of-the-line PC seems practical, because the best computers stay relevant longer, right? This mistaken belief actually leads people to overspend on their computers.

With a premium PC, you’re likely paying for more than you need, like a super-powerful graphics processor or extra processing power. Determine what you want your computer to do, and shop in that range only.

3.) Buy two instead of one

Laptops are among the worst deals in computing. They’re portable, but considerably more expensive and wear down more quickly. Also, a laptop battery is designed to last 2 years and its internal pieces are difficult to replace.

If you need a high-end machine for gaming, photo- and video-editing or other processor-intensive functions, it’s cheaper to buy a more powerful desktop computer and an inexpensive laptop. If the laptop is for checking your email and web-browsing on-the-go, a cheap device like a Chromebook can satisfy you for less than $300. A top-of-the-line desktop computer could cost $1,200, bringing your total to $1,500. A top-of-the-line laptop could cost as much as $2,000! You’ll save $500 and have two devices that suit your needs better than one could.

4.) Go custom

A great way to save big money on a computer is to build your own. It sounds daunting, but with online tutorials, anyone can do it. Ordering parts individually can save you as much as 50%.

If you’re uncomfortable building your own, you can talk to your tech-savvy friends or check out a local, small computing business. Many of them may agree to build you a custom PC for much less than the cost of a big-brand manufacturer.  Even better, a custom computer will come loaded with only the software you want, and have only the power you specify, helping you avoid unnecessary expenses.

5.) Do your homework

As with any purchase, use coupons, shop sales and find rebates to knock the cost of your computer down. You can also look for used, refurbished, or open-box models for significantly less money.

Your Turn: How did you keep the costs of your computer purchase down? Share your best tips and tricks in the comments!