What to Look for in a Modern Home Computer
If your computer is starting to run a little bit slowly or doesn’t even turn on any more, that can be an incredibly frustrating experience. Maybe you’re even dealing with a permanent “blue screen of death.” Whatever the case, a non-functioning laptop or desktop computer is limiting you and your productivity.
As you begin your search for a new computer, it’s important to know what kinds of features to look for. Are you planning on using your home computer for work from home days? Do you need your computer for watching movies? Are you going to be doing advanced video editing or playing graphics-intensive games?
Once you know the answers to these questions, you can start to narrow down your choices. Here are the features to look for in a modern home computer.
1. Portability
While desktop computers are great if you’re planning on staying in one location, a laptop offers portability so you can work in a coffee shop or park. A laptop can go anywhere you go. Just make sure you have a laptop carrying case to carry it comfortably.
2. Great visual quality
Nobody wants to deal with fuzzy, pixelated images. If visuals are important to you, check out UHD laptops. UHD stands for “Ultra High Definition” and provides users with incredible resolution. With a high-end display, you can expect vibrancy, high contrast ratios, and depth to everything you see. UHD laptops are great if you’re planning on playing graphics-intensive PC games. After all, nobody wants to play a game and be distracted by visual artifacts as a result of a GPU that can’t handle the game’s designs.
3. RAM
Your RAM is your computer’s short-term memory. When you have 40 tabs open and your computer still works, that means your RAM is working overtime – but it’s handling it. Your RAM can fill up pretty quickly, so it’s important to ensure that your new laptop or desktop computer has adequate RAM.
With a good amount of RAM, you can browse and multitask online without worrying about your computer crashing.
4. Storage
Your computer’s storage is the long-term memory of your computer. Without enough storage, you can’t download new apps or keep files handy on your computer.
5. The right-sized keyboard
If you’ve ever typed on a keyboard that felt awkward, the keyboard was either too large or too small. Always look for an ergonomically designed keyboard that feels natural. You don’t want to strain your wrists while typing.
6. Fast processor
A high-end processor means you can expect fast loading times and a zippy experience during all computing processes.
7. Large screen size
There are few things more annoying than dealing with a screen that is too small. When the screen is little, all the icons and text are tinier, too. This makes it hard to have two windows open at the same time.
8. The right accessories
The best part about a laptop is customizing it so it fits your lifestyle. If you like to listen to music while you work, you can hook up an external speaker, headphones, or other auxiliary devices. External accessories can help expand your laptop’s potential so you can get a near-desktop experience.
9. Consider a 2-in-1 style laptop
If you’re considering a tablet in addition to your laptop, you may want to invest in a 2-in-1 so you can get the best of both worlds. A convertible laptop allows you to use the device in several modes: traditional laptop mode, tablet mode, tent mode for watching movies, and presentation mode. This orientation flexibility means your computer works for you instead of the other way around.
10. Ports
In order to use all the accessories you want, you need to make sure your laptop has enough ports. You’ll typically want at least two to three ports so you can plug in whatever you need.
Takeaways: Choosing your tech wisely
Picking a computer for your home office can be a little difficult. Especially if you’re not particularly tech savvy. But as long as you know your ideal working style and what you’re looking for, you can boost your productivity and easily finish your to-do list. Keep this list handy when you’re shopping for a new laptop and you might be surprised by how much faster your workdays go by.
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