3 Worst Reasons to Buy a New Computer

Considering a new computer?  Read this first!  One of the things that I dislike about my industry is that often times, consumers like you purchase computers unnecessarily and all too frequently, a salesperson (who usually knows very little about the item they are trying to sell) is eager to take your money.  So, since I’ve always considered myself a bit of an underdog for the user, I’m sharing with you a “techie’s” perspective on what you should (and should not) be considering before you buy.

# 1: It’s on sale

I get it.  You’ve stopped by Best Buy just to get ink and some batteries and, next thing you know you’re pursuing the computer isle rationalizing your “need” for a new laptop.  After all, your “old” laptop is just a 15 inch with a regular old keyboard but, the one that is calling your name has a finger-scanner and, it’s on sale!  It’s on sale, but so what?  A low price alone is never a reason to purchase a new computer, especially not on an impulse buy.  Purchasing a new computer takes time and planning:  making a checklist of the features you need, comparison shopping and, planning the timing so you don’t lose precious productivity setting up and getting acquainted with your new system.  The deal won’t seem so hot when its 11pm, you’ve spent the last six hours trying to get the blasted thing connected to the Internet and your client is waiting for reply to an important email.

# 2: Some told you (without facts in support) you need to

Just because there is a faster, cooler and shinier computer at the store or your friend just bought the latest and greatest, does not mean the computer you have isn’t getting the job done.  Never let anyone talk you into buying a computer unless they can give a convincing argument as to why the system you have can’t do the same thing (or you meet the criteria in part 2 of this article). Simply put: YOU are the one that has to use the computer and any purchase consideration needs to be based on YOUR work process.  Don’t let your friend, the social media butterfly, who just bought an iPad talk you into purchasing one for your business when you’ve used a PC all of your life. 

# 3: You’re launching a new business, product or project

I know that somewhere on your “New Business Setup Checklist” it may say to get a new computer.  Or, perhaps you figure that since you’re launching a new product now would be the perfect time to buy a new computer so you can start fresh. However, I advise you against it.  A new business venture or project alone does not give good reason for a new computer; in fact, it can be counterproductive.  The reason is that once you purchase a new computer, it’s the same as pressing “pause” on your current project (and your life) while you set it up, migrate your files, install software, install hardware, learn how to operate and, test your new system.  And trust me; this never goes as smoothly as planned; especially if your new computer comes with a newer version of the operating system or if you can’t find all of your software discs.   

Take my advice that an ill-timed computer purchase can put the deep freeze on your hot new business or project.

Be sure to check out Part 2 to learn the 3 Best Reasons to Buy a New Computer.