Buying a New Computer
How to Buy a Computer for a Student
If you are in the market for a computer for a student, there are a lot of factors that need to be looked at. Assuming the computer will be used at school:
- Desktop or Laptop? Usually the portability of a laptop is more conducive to the school environment.
- Does the school have any requirements or suggestions as to type of computer? Do they require Mac or PC?
- What areas of study will the student be in? Some professions like Graphic Design, photography, writing, etc. predominantly use Macs. Business tracks more likely use PCs.
- Waht software does the school have available? Once again, this can go along with whether a course of study is Mac- or PC-dominant.
- Will the student have access to a TV and movies? His/her computer may be a major source of entertainment while at school.
- I know that school is about study, but is the student a gamer? They may want the gaming power and versatlity that a PC provides over a Mac. And a laptop will not provide the same gaming power that a desktop can, unless you are willing to pay for it. Or they may just use consoles for their gaming.
If you have access to other students or parents at the school, ask around, or look around while walking through the school's common areas.