Time to buy a new computer?
PCs have reached the stage when we often buy a new one because we want one rather than because we need one. Many people’s computing needs can be perfectly well satisfied with a computer that is five years old (or older). Computer components have become quite reliable and I know of many five-year old computers that are still going strong. Of course, if you are heavily into using multi-media, a heftier system may be something you need.
Whether you really need a more powerful system or are just looking for something new, now is a good time to consider a new computer. There have been several developments recently that make the current time especially propitious for new computer buyers. The convergence of the Mac and Windows is one important consideration. (See the entry Is there a Mac in your future? and also here.)
Then there is the recent announcement by Intel of a new family of chips and the fact that dual-core CPUs are the new norm. The rivalry between AMD and Intel is bringing the consumer some nice price breaks. Info World says Big bargains ahead for desktop PC buyers
Users should soon see the best bargains in years for a new desktop thanks to falling prices on the two most expensive components in a PC.
A battle between the world’s two biggest microprocessor makers and oversupply in the LCD (liquid crystal display) panel industry have sent prices tumbling. Users should see the mark downs showing up in stores any time.
“Over the next few months buyers can expect to continue to see PC bargains as the industry clears stock of older inventory,” said Charles Smulders, managing vice president of Gartner’s client computing group. He said the fourth quarter might also offer good buying opportunities as PC makers try to keep up sales prior to the launch of Windows Vista early next year.
Some may think that purchases should be postponed until the new Windows operating system Vista is released. Personally, I see little reason to wait for Vista. It won’t be available until January at the earliest and that date looks more and more problematical. Also, I don’t think the average PC user wants to get a new operating system when it is first released. Wait for the first service pack. Further, aside from some security features and more eye-candy, my opinion is that Vista doesn’t offer that much for the average home PC user.