When a computer starts to fail, it's often at the worst time. We rely so much on our technology for socializing and work that going without it is not really an option. However, the thought of trying to find a decent replacement is rarely anyone’s favorite thing. The average user can easily get overwhelmed by the glitz of advertising or get buried beneath the technical jargon. As such, how to choose the right computer for your needs is a common question.

Key Specs and Components

Whether you ultimately choose a laptop or tower pc, all computers have roughly the same components. What differs is the models installed, which vary greatly depending on the type and age of the computer. In particular, the most important parts for the average user to be aware of are the motherboard, SSD, RAM, GPU, and CPU.

The motherboard is the center of the computer and will ultimately determine which other parts are compatible. The SSD (or hard drive) is the file storage space. The RAM is essential for quick processing speed. GPU refers to how well your computer processes memory. Finally, the CPU is the primary processor which is attached to the motherboard. How to choose the right computer for your needs ultimately comes down to just how good you need each of these parts to be. Often when a PC starts to show signs it needs replacing, it’s because of one of these parts.

When To Choose a Laptop PC

While laptops all have the same essential five components, they are wildly different in form. Most notably, the parts within a laptop are compressed by comparison and are often fused. Laptops aren’t intended for customization at all, so each model will need to be assessed by investigating the performance of the five main parts installed. Often laptops are much more expensive despite having parts that are mediocre compared to their hand-built cousins.

Essentially the markup equates to buying convenience. If you aren’t interested in learning how to build or upgrade a PC, then a laptop is a great choice. Also, if accessing your files away from your office is a must, the easy to pack nature of a laptop can’t be beaten.

When To Choose a Tower PC

If you are considering a PC you can upgrade now or later, a tower is the best option. The bulkiness of the case allows for varying shapes and sizes of parts, making them highly modular. Virtually any computer can be built so long as everything fits within the case. The best time to choose a tower PC is when mobility is not as much of a concern as performance.

While there are plenty of high-powered laptops, it’s much more affordable to obtain each part and assemble it into a custom machine. Whatever your exact needs are, you’ll be able to optimize those areas by swapping out parts as needed.