What kind of computer do I need?

I’m going to buy a computer and think I want a laptop but I have a PC right now. Or do I need a MAC?

We get this kind of question frequently. Last to first let me address Apple. The MAC devotees hear angels sing every time they boot up. And for what they cost the angels should be singing. Do you get what you pay for? I think so. BUT, and here’s the big BUT, if there’s a problem you HAVE to go to Apple Land and turn yourself over to the Apple acolytes. In this area of the country that is in the city. It is a very proprietary platform and Steve Jobs hangs on to his boxes with both hands. So your neighborhood computer support can’t do much to help and once your warranty runs out there are some serious bucks involved in repair.

PC or Laptop?

If you’ve already got a monitor, a keyboard and a mouse you like then a PC will be much more cost effective. A PC can be upgraded and are generally less likely to have a hardware problem. If they do it is much less expensive to fix than a laptop. But they obviously take up space, cause serious wiring tangles and chain you to desk.

Laptops are mobile, compact, more expensive for what you get, usually smaller keyboards, not upgradable, generally don’t last as long.

Netbooks are EXACTLY the same as all other laptops but they are smaller and do not have an internal CD/DVD (an external one can be bought that does the same as an internal)
Netbooks cost the least. At about $411 for the excellent ones we sell they are a good value. Add the 3 year warranty and you have a very portable flexible and guaranteed computer for about $125 per year with the probability it will last long beyond that.

If you are doing only email and some online banking, a netbook may do you well.

Need to spend some time composing letters, doing a bit more business, surfing a little more but still want to move around? Then a larger laptop.

If you are doing anything that HAS to be backed up, takes time to put together (think graphics or music composition) or has a serious business orientation then a desktop is the best way to go.