With dozens of desktop computer brands on the market and many more models to choose from, shopping for the lowest prices on desktop computers can be a frustrating experience. Just figuring out which model is appropriate, and then comparing prices on desktop computers to find the best deal can be trying, especially when there are so many choices. Where do you even start?
This guide is designed to help you eliminate much of the frustration by understanding what types of desktop computers are available, and the features that are important given your needs. You will also learn how to find the best computer desktop price between the hundreds of online stores that carry them.
Step 1, Understand the types of desktop computers available
When setting out to find the lowest price on a desktop computer, the first step is to understand the tasks your computer will need to perform. Depending on your computing needs, there are a few basic categories that desktop computers fit into. Identifying the appropriate category that matches your needs will make choosing the correct model easier. Below we explain each of the categories desktop computers fall into and the needs they fulfill.
Home User & Small Business
Computers in this category appeal to those who require a basic computing device capable of accessing the Internet, composing documents, maintaining spreadsheets, storing images and other files, and managing all other aspects a home or business consumer would demand. They can also play DVDs, mix and burn audio CDs, and perform other light multimedia functions. Consumers who purchase computers in this category aren't interested in editing video, recording TV, or playing advanced video games that require high-end processors. The information below will help you choose a computer in this category that best meets your needs.
Price
The lowest price on desktop computers in this category is around $850, while the more expensive models can cost upwards of $1,100.
Processor & Processor Speed
Try to find a desktop computer with a Celeron, Sempron, Pentium 4, or Athlon 64 processor. Make sure the process speed is 2.2 GHz and up.
Memory
The lowest price of desktop computers in this category should have at least 512 MB of RAM.
Hard Drive
If you plan to use your desktop to store images and play videos, you should make sure the model has at least a 80-120 GB hard drive.
Screen Size
The lowest price of desktop computers in this category can be anywhere between 14" and 17". Keep in mind that the screen size often corresponds to the computer's price. A desktop unit with a 17" screen will be more expensive than a desktop with a 14" screen.Graphics Card
Make sure your desktop computer has at least a 128 MB graphics card.Gaming and Graphic Design
Although a relatively new phenomenon, gaming computers are much needed for those who require faster processor speeds and ample memory to power the high-end graphics that today's video games are capable of. Graphic designers will need the same capability to operate the complex programs like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Although this guide is designed to educate you about desktop PCs, you may want to consider shopping for an Apple Macintosh computer instead of a PC, as Macs are better at handling colors and fonts and are less prone to viruses and other maintenance issues. The information below will help you choose a computer able to meet your expectations as a gamer or graphic designer and are important when looking for a low price on desktop computers in this category.
Price
The lowest price of desktop computers in this category are around $1,400, while the more expensive models can cost upwards of $3,500.
Processor & Processor Speed
Try to find a desktop computer with a Pentium 4, Pentium 4 Extreme Edition (EE), Athlon 64, Athlon 64 FX, or G5 processor. Make sure the process speed is 3 GHz and up.
Memory
The lowest price on desktop computers in this category should have at least 500 MB of RAM. If your budget allows, try to find a model that has 1 GB of RAM.
Hard Drive
If you plan to use your desktop to store images and play videos, you should make sure the model has a 200 GB hard drive.
Screen Size
Computers in this category usually have 18" screens. We recommend a 21" screen if your budget allows.
Multimedia
If you're interested in editing video, recording TV, or using your computer to control your home entertainment system, a computer in this category is your best choice. The recommendations below will help you choose a computer able to meet your expectations as a video editor and are important when looking for a low price desktop computer in this category.
Price
The lowest price on desktop computers in this category is around $1,400, while the more expensive models can cost upwards of $3,500.
Processor & Processor Speed
Try to find a desktop computer with a Pentium 4, Athlon 64, or G5 processor. Make sure the process speed is 2 GHz to 2.5 GHz for normal use. If you plan to have many programs running simultaneously, make sure the process speed is 2.5 GHz or higher.
Memory
The lowest price of desktop computers in this category should have at least 512 of RAM.
Hard Drive
If you plan to use your desktop to store images and play videos, you should make sure the model has at least a 200 GB hard drive.
