5 Features to Consider When Buying a Computer for Work

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When you’re buying a computer for work, you’ll want the right specs and configurations. After all, you’re seeking the right tools for your bread and butter, so you need the right knife to cut the bread and spread the butter.

According to Spherical Insights, the laptop market size in the US was worth $19.03 billion in 2023. The market is on pace to grow at a 1.89% compound annual growth rate to reach $22.94 billion by 2033. The growth is due to, firstly, higher consumer demand and, secondly, more use of laptops in educational environments. Spherical adds that companies are also increasingly getting on the bring-your-own-device (BYOD) bandwagon to simplify operations.

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When looking for laptops for workwhat should you consider? Here are five things to think about.

1. Operating System

Ensure you get a computer with the right operating system for the work you do. If your company uses devices with specific operating systems, for example, buy a computer with the same operating system. It will make things easier should you require help from tech support. If your company’s BYOD policy accommodates computers with virtually any operating system, you’ll have flexibility. But check with your company’s IT department to see what’s permissible so you get a machine you can use.

2. Random Access Memory for Your Work Computer

Random access memory (RAM) matters a lot when it comes to a computer. While some sources suggest a minimum of 4 GB, a work computer should have a minimum of 8 GB. And it might make sense to get twice that RAM capacity if you’ll be running applications that are RAM-intensive or if you’ll be storing massive documents and files. You’ll also find multitasking easier if you have more RAM than the bare minimum. The last thing you need is a computer that can’t keep up with your work demands. When on the hunt for the best laptop deals in the US or the best laptop deals in Canadadon’t forget to consider how much RAM different computers include. It might also make sense to get a model you can upgrade if you need additional RAM.

3. Hard Drive for a Work Computer

You should also consider the hard drive when seeking the right business computer. While you can save money by buying a laptop with a mechanical hard drive, you’ll be at a disadvantage because a mechanical hard drive has speed limitations. It’s best to pay a premium and buy a computer with a non-volatile memory express solid-state drive, or NVMe SSD drive for short. You’ll get better overall performance and more responsive boot times.

4. The Size of Your Work Computer

Size is another spec to consider. Some people prefer smaller screens since such laptops are easier to tuck into a bag or briefcase. But you might favor a larger screen for readability. A larger screen is also a good idea if you want something more like your PC than your tablet. While the screen size is worth mulling over, decide based on your personal preference.

5. New or Used

You can get a great deal on a used laptop, but there are good reasons to buy a new one instead. A brand-new unit will last longer than a used unit. You can also get a warranty when you go with new over used. Even if you get a warranty for a refurbished unit, it won’t be as extensive as the coverage you’ll get with a new laptop computer.

Yet another reason to choose a new computer for your work over an old one is that a used unit might have hidden problems you don’t see before you buy it. It makes more sense to purchase a unit that works as expected right out of the box.

Wrapping Up

Consider these five things if you’re in the market for a business computer. You’ll want a unit that can handle whatever assignments or responsibilities are on your plate, so ensure you get a machine with specs and configurations that match what you need.

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