Planning ahead can make it easy to choose the best computer for you business. Consider these factors when making your purchase. Pro Tip – Don’t let bargain prices be your deciding factor.
You may not need to buy a computer that has high-end features that you will never use if you are running a small company or working from home. When you’re looking for a new system to fit an office, it is important to consider what the space needs are.
Consumer-grade machines are a good option if your business uses are similar to what you do on a regular basis with a PC. Business-grade gear is the only choice if you have to do heavy-duty work every day. How to make the right choice if you are in this situation.
If the required software is not available on a cloud-based connection, then this assessment must be made. You can use a web-browser on almost any computer you purchase if the software is available via cloud connection. If you need to run the software locally then your new computer can do most of the work.
Initial Check for Power Users
Power users use high-powered, specialized applications that require advanced processing capabilities. If you fall into the category of power users, do not cut corners on your configuration. Focus on high-quality computers for business.
The consumer electronics available in retail stores may not be designed to endure this type of constant service. These conditions are often the most difficult for internal components, such as power units and hard drive storage. Dust and moisture-resistant cases are essential for mission-critical PCs.
Major manufacturers offer IT-based purchasing options to larger companies. Ordering from large manufacturers and supply houses is often more beneficial for small businesses and smaller firms because they offer set-up, tech support and business accounts.
The digital marketplaces and big box stores offer very little for business purchases, except extended warranties and Geek Squad style repair services.
Desktop vs. Laptops for Business Needs
The choice between a laptop and desktop depends on the environment in which you work, as well as your mobility requirements. The laptops of today offer performance and convenience as desktop alternatives, and have effectively buried the debate between portability and power.
Previously, laptop computers were considered less suitable for business purposes because they did not have the same hardware quality as desktop models. No longer is this the case. The technology of today has reduced the difference between desktop and laptop computers in terms of power, capability and price.
Buying desktop PCs is not a good idea for businesses unless you have a large number of employees who are confined to the office. Laptops allow for flexibility in workplace design and location.
The screen size no longer affects the purchase decision. Plugged into a large monitor, laptops with smaller screens can equal or even exceed the productivity of desktop computers.
The speed and efficiency of Business PCs
Prioritize two important specifications when evaluating hardware for office use: onboard storage and processor power. Businesses utilizing cloud storage and software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications might find it viable to adjust these specifications to align with budgetary constraints.
Central processing units (CPUs) are critical to determining a computer’s speed of operation and its multitasking abilities. The efficiency of CPUs is determined primarily by two factors, namely its clock speed (measured in GHz) and the number it has of cores. More cores and a higher clock speed equate to better performance.
The number of cores or threads on a CPU also enhances the multitasking capability, which allows it to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. This capability is crucial for applications that require high levels multitasking.
Intel chips are less important today. AMD-powered computers are typically several hundred dollars cheaper without compromising on quality. It is important to look at the specific processors used by each manufacturer. Choose products based on product testing.
Selecting the Right Processor
For basic office tasks, a dual-core processor is usually enough. It strikes a balance between performance and cost. Quad-core and even octacore CPUs are more suitable for complex tasks such as graphic design or spreadsheet calculations. These higher-speculated processors offer a significant performance boost, making them ideal for intensive applications.
RAM is also a factor in the performance of a computer. The more RAM you have, the faster your computer will run. Not all RAM are created equal. DDR4 is faster and newer than DDR3 RAM. Although it is more expensive, the price is well worth it.
Check whether the computer that you are considering can be upgraded with RAM. You can upgrade the memory of many computer models at the time of purchase, or you can add additional RAM chips later. A slower processor will perform better with more RAM. You can adjust the price by trading a faster CPU for more RAM.
Windows 11? Don’t be RAM shy
Microsoft Windows 10 and 11 are the most common operating systems on computers in offices. Both Windows 10 and 11 require more RAM than older Windows versions which worked well with 4GB.
Choose computers that have enough RAM. When purchasing a computer, many consumers forget to consider the additional RAM. This is a mistake that can prove costly for businesses.
For optimal performance, 8GB is the minimum requirement for business applications. However, 12GB, 16GB or 32GB RAM are more efficient and desirable to handle more demanding tasks. It’s important to not compromise on RAM.
Apple vs. Windows for Business: Buying considerations
Apple’s computers are standardised in terms of CPU and RAM, which makes the purchasing options for desktop and laptop models more simple, but also limited.
Note that upgrading Apple’s RAM and CPU configurations can be difficult, if it’s not impossible. Apple recommends that buyers carefully evaluate their needs and choose the right configuration when they purchase the device.
Windows desktop and notebook PCs are more flexible for upgrades and offer a greater range of features. They’re also less expensive, and they provide a larger selection of options. Windows PCs will be cheaper if you choose between macOS and Windows.
Storage Size and Business Efficiency
Data and application storage may be critical depending on the record-keeping methods of your business and the lack of cloud computing services. Choose the storage hardware of the computer carefully. Its overall performance is influenced by the speed at which it transfers data to and from its storage components.
Modern computers have two storage options. These are hard disk drives and solid-state drive (SSD). HDDs are an older technology but offer a cost-effective way to increase storage capacity. SSDs are known for their compactness, speed and durability. They provide a faster and more durable storage solution.
Hard drives are available in sizes ranging from 128GB to 2TB. Between 500GB and a 1TB hard drive is quickly consumed by business users. For business, you should never consider a laptop or desktop computer with less than 250GB of storage.
Monitor the Screen for Productivity
It’s important to take into account size, brightness, and resolution when selecting monitors or screens for desktop computers and laptops to create a productive, eye-friendly working environment. In well-lit offices, brightness, measured in Nits, is crucial. A minimum brightness of 300 Nits can compensate for ambient lighting.
The need to scroll is reduced with larger monitors. Productivity experts say that the minimum size of a desktop computer is 21″ inches. Go bigger if possible. A high-definition monitor (HD) is the minimum. Consider the 4K and 5K options for your office’s more demanding needs.
Consider using a dual-monitor system to increase workspace efficiency. By providing a larger and more flexible viewing area, connecting a desktop monitor to your laptop can increase productivity.
What to consider when buying a business PC
In business circles, it is not common to consider changing the operating system when buying a computer. Microsoft Windows, Apple products or other software that a business has invested in will be used on the new computer.
When buying computers, small businesses and office environments miss out on the chance to switch computing directions. Even larger organizations can save money by installing Linux on their existing computers. This is because many large companies use Linux to run cloud services or on-site servers.
To handle the daily workload in offices, more Linux adoption is needed. Linux is the best operating system for old and new computers.
Chromebooks and their web-browser user interface are also a good option. The hardware is much less expensive and organizations can run Apple, Windows, and mobile Android apps.
To streamline your IT expenses and ensure accurate financial records, consider using our free sample invoice receipt template. Check out our computer buying guide for consumers for consumers to learn more about the options available when buying a computer.