Buying the Right Computer For School

The best bet when buying a computer is to spend more towards the high-end of the computer spectrum, but not the highest.

The best bet when buying a computer is to spend more towards the high-end of the computer spectrum, but not the highest. The performance improvements on the top models compared to those just below it do not justify the extra costs. By saving the money now, you can save money to either upgrade or even replace the computer in several years. For desktop computer systems, a good price point is between $1,000 and $1,250 including a monitor. Laptop systems are a bit more expensive so expect to pay between $1,500 and $2,000.

Desktop vs. Notebook

Buying the Right Computer For School
Desktop computer systems are less expensive that notebook computers. So does a desktop make a better computer system? Not necessarily. Desktops are completely acceptable for students entering high school. There is little need for the student to have a computer on campus, so portability is not an issue. College students need high mobility though. The ability to bring a laptop on campus to do work at a library or coffee shop between classes or to bring it along to study sessions and lectures for notes is very valuable.

Networking

Every computer system purchased today should have the capability of dial-up and wired network access. This means that it should at least be supplied with a 56-kbps modem and a 10/100 Ethernet controller. This will allow the computer system to be used through a dial-up Internet provider or through services such as DSL or cable modem. Many college dorms now have Ethernet ports in the rooms, so having an available wired port is also useful.

Wireless networking is also a must purchase for any portable computer system. It should have an 802.11b/g compatible wireless controller built into the system (or through an additional PC Card). This allows a college student to access the Internet through campus or local shop wireless networks to add to their mobile computing ability.