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Computer Buying Guide

Meaningful differences in speed between desktops and laptops have largely disappeared. But each design has its own advantages and trade-offs. We give you the essential information to find the computer that's right for you.
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Getting started

Computers are going lean, mean, and green, with space-saving profiles, more powerful and efficient chips, and environmentally friendly designs. The best computers are also increasingly security conscious, offering features designed to keep your machine and your data out of harm's reach.

Many desktop computers are still boxy and bulky, but slimmer models are coming on strong. All-in-ones, which integrate the parts of a computer into the display rather than in a separate tower, are also on the rise. Most major brands now offer at least one.

Smaller, more efficient laptops are also available. Netbooks have 10- to 12-inch displays and weigh about 2 to 3 pounds. They aim to be your second computer, the one you use to surf the Web and check e-mail while traveling, or a child's first system. But their small size imposes tradeoffs.

Do you need a new PC?

If your old computer is sluggish, it might be time for a new PC. First try these steps to beef up its performance: Delete programs you no longer use. If that isn't enough, and the computer is no more than four years old, add 1 GB of memory. Adding memory is an inexpensive and easy way to upgrade your computer.

If you're running out of space on the hard drive, burn your old music, photos, and videos onto a CD or DVD and delete them off your hard drive. To add a lot more storage space, consider adding a hard drive. (An external hard drive is one of the easiest computer upgrades that even a computer novice can perform.)

Once you've cleared all your old files and moved any files to an external hard drive, run the Disk Defragmenter that's bundled with Windows. That will help your hard drive access files faster.

If none of that works, and the computer is more than four years old, it's probably time to replace it. Be sure to recycle your old computer, but don't forget to wipe your hard drive first. We recommend Eraser, available free at http://www.heidi.ie/eraser.

Windows or Macintosh?

Many people choose computers running the Windows operating system because it's what they've always used. Microsoft is releasing a new version of Windows, Windows 7, in October 2009. Pundits call it "Vista done right," and it's similar in many respects to Vista, but with some rough edges smoothed over and some performance gains.

Microsoft and computer manufacturers are offering free upgrades to those who buy computers running Vista Home Premium or above between June 26, 2009, and Windows 7's release. Apple's Mac OS X is a fine alternative to Windows. Apple computers can also run Windows, but you need to purchase and install it yourself. A new version of Mac OS X, called Snow Leopard, was released in September 2009.

 
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