Table of Contents
Note:
- We have not offered new computers for several years.
- Instead, after some consulation, we were recommending specific brand and model computers.
- However, we have stopped doing that and instead offer recommended specification to look for in any computer.
- We have found there is little difference in reliability and features among desktop brands.
Recommended Specs
No matter the brand, these are the specification you need when purchasing any brand of desktop computer
- Intel i5 or greater. Intel offers i3, i5, i7, or i9 processors. i5 is a happy medium for nearly everyone.
- 8GB RAM or greater. You can get by with 4GB of RAM, but 8GB is recommended.
- 250 GB SSD ( Solid State Drive ). 500 GB is preferred, but most people without many pictures, video, etc can get by with 250 GB. Under no conditions do you get a computer with a conventional, spinning, mechanical hard drive. It must be a solid state drive (SSD)
- Click Here for more information.
Feel free to take these recommendations with you when purchasing at a store or online. We can help you order a computer online using your account and credit card, but be aware that it is not being purchased through Sauve's Computer. We are more than happy to service and support the product, but any warranty claims must be done through the manufacturer, which we can assist with.
We do not receive any type of commision or payment from any computer manufacturer.
Additional Considerations
Once you have the basis requirement satisfied, there are secondary issues to consider.
- CD\DVD drive: Built-in CD\DVD's are getting less common. Externally attached CD\DVD drives are available.
- Camera Card Reader: We prefer a full size "SD" card reader slot. Micro cards can be read with an adapter.
- USB ports: Most come with plenty of USB ports. Prefer at least one "USB-C" type port.
- Video Ports: Check if the provided video ports match your current monitor. Adapters can be used if needed.
- Multi-monitors: The number of video ports determines how many monitors can be attached.
- Extended Warranty: Typically not needed for desktops.
- Size: Will the physical size of the computer fit where you want to use it.
- Color: Personal preference. Match the monitor?
- Cabling: If the monitor, keyboard, mouse, or printer is more than 4-5 ft away, longer cables may be needed.
- Ventilation: The computer doesn't need much, but it does need some. If in a cabinet, prefer the back is clear.
More Information
Physical Size
It's always nice to get the smallest available. However, with small size comes several issues.
- Number of USB ports
- Is the CD/DVD mounted vertically, horizontally, or none at all.
- What video ports are available. See here for details.
Build Quality
Dell, for example, has different model lines such as Inspiron, Vosto, Optiplex, etc. Inspiron is the consumer line. Quality is not nearly as important with desktops as it is with laptops. We find Inspirons are now the way to go because they typically have all the features we recommend except for a DVD drive.
The same goes for any other brand. The consumer line of desktop computers is usually sufficient for everyone.
A word about "All In One" Computers
"All in one" computers have the computer part and the screen combined into one device such as this:
Considerations:
- It's a very clean, compact design with minimal cables. At a minimum all it needs is a power cord.
- Performance wise they run the same as similarily equipped desktops and laptops.
- Windows functions the same as desktops and laptops.
- If at all possible, a network jack along with wireless capabilities is preferred.
- Make sure you check what video connector is available if planning on a second monitor.
- We recommend a 24" screen size. Larger if vision is an issue.
- Most come with a built in camera and mic, but check to make sure.
- Sound quality isn't much different than a standard monitor with speakers.
- When it comes to repair, we're not a big fan of all-in-ones. Can be expensive to repair, especially the screens.
