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When buying a new computer, it's easy to become confused by the sheer volume of technical decisions that you'll have to make.

How to choose the best desktop PC for you? Well, you might wonder how much RAM you'll need, for instance, which processor to choose or which graphics card to pick, what display to look for, which hard drive will be best for you - there are so many issues that it's difficult to know where to begin.

There is a simple way to at least begin cutting down the choices on offer, though, and ensure you get the best PC for your needs.

And that's to forget about the low-level technical specifications, and fine details like the brand of graphics card just for the moment and instead concentrate on something much more fundamental and important: what you will be expecting your system to do.

So read on to find out how to buy the best computer for you, then check out our 10 best desktop PCs on page 2.

Best computer: using your new PC

Take a moment to think about the sort of applications you'll want to run on your new PC, as these will help to decide which features your system will need.

If you only intend to run basic tasks - browsing the web, sending emails, running office-type software like Microsoft Word - then the good news is that most computers, even at the budget end of the market, will be able to cope with your requirements.

An entertainment PC can handle those basic jobs, too, but might also be used to watch TV and movies, listen to music, play some games, perhaps share music and video files across a home network. Systems like this need a little more in the way of hardware power, like a larger hard drive to store all your music and movies, as well as a big screen, a good sound card and speakers, but they still don't have to be too expensive. Many entertainment PCs are all-in-one PCs these days.

If you want to play the latest games with the best possible performance, then you'll need a gaming PC. This can be much more expensive, as not only will you need a quality screen, a good sound card and speakers, but you'll also require a powerful graphics card, fast hard drive and a decent processor.

And if you're not a gamer, but need to run some heavy-duty software - editing HD videos, say - then you'll need a high-end performance PC. This should include a powerful CPU, plenty of memory, and a large, fast hard drive, so expect a sizeable bill. But you may not need the large screen or powerful graphics card of the entertainment or gaming systems, which will help to keep prices down a little.

Best computer: netbook, laptop or desktop?

With the basic applications of your new computer resolved, it's time to think about the type of system that might be appropriate: a netbook, tablet, laptop or desktop?

Netbooks are compact notebooks with small screens (typically 10 to 12 inches), and components that are more about saving battery life than delivering raw power. So expect a slow CPU, only a little RAM (1 to 2GB, usually), no DVD drive, not too much hard drive space, and so on.

This is all that you need for basic web browsing, emailing and similar tasks, though. Their small size makes netbooks extremely portable (most are only around 1-1.5kg), battery life is usually very good at 4 to 10 hours, and you can buy some great systems from as little as £249. Our articles on the best laptop, and best Windows 8 tablet and best Windows 8 laptop will tell you more.

Laptops can seem bulky by comparison to their tiny netbook cousins: they might be more than twice the weight, with larger screens, and more powerful CPUs, which means battery life may struggle to reach 3 hours in some cases.

Of course they can also handle much more powerful applications, though. If you'll be spending hours typing on the system then you'll appreciate the larger keyboard. The built-in DVD drive makes it easier to install software and create backups, and high-end laptops can even deliver very acceptable gaming performance.

Again, we've a guide to suit everyone: The best cheap laptop focuses on budget systems, while our article on the best student laptops and the best 13" laptops cover a wider range of systems.

The best gaming laptops guide reveals that you buy mobile gaming performance for as little as £599, while the more general Which laptop should I buy? article walks you through the buying process and explains how to make sure you get the right system for you.

If you don't need a computer you can carry around, though, a desktop will be your best option. These are larger, but deliver more power for your money, and are generally much easier to upgrade or reconfigure. So if you decide you need better gaming performance, say, you can just buy another graphics card at a later date, something that won't be possible at all with most netbooks or laptops.

But if you've already got a list of preferred PC manufacturers then it might be more interesting to think about the hardware that your new computer should include - and there's plenty to consider.

Best computer: technical specs

In the past, one of the first questions to ask about your new PC has been how much memory you'll need. These days, though, even many budget PCs come with 4 or 6GB of RAM.

If you're short of cash and only want to run very basic programs, perhaps to browse the web or send emails, then you might just about get away with 2GB. Maybe. But opting for 4GB will help to improve your system's performance, even here, so avoid skimping on memory if you possibly can.

If you're buying a more high-end system, though, you might also want to consider the type of memory it should include to deliver the best results. Our article on How to buy RAM will tell you more.

It's a similar situation with hard drives. If you're buying a budget PC (around £400, say) then look for the highest capacity you can afford; we'd recommend at least 750GB, although even many budget PCs now include 1TB drives.

If you've more cash to spend, though, it's worth paying more attention to the technical details. Read How to buy the best new hard drive for a grounding in the basics. And if you've a big budget, then solid-state drives (SSDs) deliver the best performance around, though their capacities are low. Our guide to the best SSDs, or solid state drives, will tell you more.

To help you choose between a hard disk drive and a solid-state drive, take a look at our guide SSD vs HDD: which is best?

Then of course there's the issue of your computer's processor: which one is the best CPU? The good news here is that even the cheapest PCs now include CPUs with two cores, essentially separate processors that allow you to run multiple tasks at the same time. But even if money is tight, look for something with more cores, if you can: something like Intel's Core i3-530 or AMD's Athlon II X4 640 offer decent performance at a budget price.

While we've hopefully covered most of your concerns here, there may be one or two other issues you want to consider.

If you aim to play the latest games on your computer, for instance, the choice of graphics card will be critical. Let us help you out with our guide to the best graphics cards in the world today.

And whatever you're doing on your system, a quality LCD monitor will be crucial - so be sure to read our guide to the technical details you really need to know before you buy a monitor.

It's a lot to consider, then, but doing your homework now will really pay off later. And that's because understanding the features you need (and the ones you really don't) will both save you money and help you choose the best PC that will serve you well for years to come.

Which, of course, is the best news of all, because your systems' extended life means you won't have to go computer shopping again for a long, long time.

Buying a computer for a business? Then check out best business laptops and Best business tablets

Liked this? Then check out Top laptops: the 20 best laptops in the world

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Best computer: how to choose the right one

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When buying a new computer, it's easy to become confused by the sheer volume of technical decisions that you'll have to make. How to choose the best desktop PC for you?

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Finding your next computer doesn't have to be a chore.

If you're looking for something you can easily carry to and from work, or bring with you on vacation, then a lightweight laptop could be in order. These weigh just a couple of pounds, have batteries that can now last several workdays before needing to be charged, and have more than enough power to tackle common productivity tasks like browsing the web and editing office documents. Some models, known as convertibles, can be used as a tablet of sorts by bending the keyboard backward and behind the screen using a 360-degree hinge.

A desktop may be a smarter and more ergonomic pick, however, if you're setting up a home office and aren't worried as much about mobility. Staring into a monitor puts less strain on your neck than staring down into a laptop. You also generally get more power per dollar spent with a desktop than you do with a laptop.

Some models come with a built-in display, while others require you to supply your own. Luckily, you can find good computer monitors for reasonable prices. In fact, while all-in-one models with a screen tend to be aesthetically pleasing and take up less desk space, they can cost a lot more than buying a desktop computer and monitor separately.

Mac or PC? It's really up to you. You'll find models on both platforms that score well in our labs. They'll support the most popular software options, too, from Adobe Photoshop to Chrome, Slack to Zoom. But there are benefits to pairing a Mac with an iPhone or an Android phone with a PC. You may be able to answer a text message with your keyboard, for example, or share copy-paste data between a computer and a smartphone.

For more, check out the full computer ratings based on our latest tests results, available to Consumer Reports members.

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Finding your next computer doesn't have to be a chore. If you're looking for something you can easily carry to and from work, or bring with you on vacation, then a lightweight laptop could be in order.

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Laptop Computers, Desktops, Printers, Ink & Toner

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Learn about HP laptops, pc desktops, printers, accessories and more at the Official HP® Website.

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DELL

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Computers, Monitors & Technology Solutions | Dell USA

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Shop the latest Dell computers & technology solutions. Laptops, desktops, gaming pcs, monitors, workstations & servers. FREE & FAST DELIVERY

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APPLE

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Explore the world of Mac. Check out the MacBook Pro, iMac Pro, MacBook, iMac, and more. Visit the Apple site to learn, buy, and get support.

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Opening the case

Preparing the case is the easy part. The instructions should introduce you to the basic layout of your case, as well as offer up special instructions regarding component installation.

Lay the case in your work area and remove the side panel that provides access to the interior. For most cases, this means the left-side panel (as viewed from the front). Also remove anything that's dangling inside the case, or if it's attached, push it aside. Many cases have permanent internal wiring that can become a hassle later.

Before we start putting other parts together, we're going to install the power supply, and then set the case aside for a few minutes.

The power supply

The first component to make its way into the case should be the power supply, or PSU as it's more often called. Typically located on the rear of the case, usually in the bottom or top corner, the slot is easily located by searching for a square opening. This opening will have screw holes on at least two corners, and the PSU sits in it with a switch and female socket facing outward. Consult your case's manual if you have trouble finding the proper location.

There are two main varieties of power supply: standard and modular (there's a hybrid semi-modular type too, but we don't need to worry about that for now). Modular PSUs have cables that detach from the main unit to avoid clutter. They're ideal for smaller cases and neat freaks.

If you have a modular supply, it's best to leave the cables out for now and run them as you install each additional component. If all the cables are permanently attached, carefully bundle them up so they're hanging out the open side panel of the case, for now. This will keep them out of the way while we install the rest of the components.

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Building your own PC is the best way to earn geek cred -- here's how to do it

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Page 2 | Buying a computer off of the shelf or from an online retailer is a perfectly valid way to get yourself a new PC. If you're feeling adventurous and want to save a few dollars though, building it yourself is the way to do. It's easier than you might think too.

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If you've ever spent any time looking for recommendations on a new computer, chances are someone has told you to "just build a desktop." There's a reason: building your own desktop is almost always cheaper than buying one from a manufacturer.

The problem, of course, is it that you need to get your hands dirty. But building a PC in 2017 is probably not as difficult as you imagine; it's kind of like putting together a lego set. And we're here to help.

One disclaimer: this is not meant to be an exhaustive guide for absolute beginners. There are plenty of those on the interwebs; I like this one by Lifehacker and this one by Tom's Hardware. Instead, this is for the tech-saavy user that already has a solid understanding of PC hardware (do you know what a PCI-E Slot is? Does DDR4 mean anything to you?), but has never taken it upon themselves to build a PC - or hasn't done so in a while.

Before you start

One of the more daunting aspects is making sure all the components you buy actually, you know, work with eachother. So before you get started, you should head on over to PC Part Picker. It's an excellent resource that allows you to collect your parts, view recommended builds, and see pricing from various sellers. PC Hound is another popular one.

More importantly, these sites will warn you if the components you are putting together are not compatible with one another. They are not foolproof though, so if this is your first time building a PC, I suggest you begin with one of the recommended builds, and tweak from there.

Lastly, don't worry too much about getting the latest and greatest. Trying to extremely future-proofing your PC isn't a very good idea; the most expensive components provide diminishing returns. You're better off getting mid-to-high end components that offer more bang for your buck.

What you'll need

Motherboard

Your computer's circulatory system, this is probably the component you should spend the most time researching. For one, it's the most annoying component to replace, since everything connects to it, and you'll probably have to reinstall your OS if you do.

For another, because it connects to everything, your motherboard also dictates what types of components you can use. Make sure your motherboard has all the features you want, else you might have to buy additional accessories, or miss out on some features altogether. For example, many motherboards don't include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth on board - yes, even in 2017. Companies expect you to use Ethernet or buy your own wireless card.

USB-C is another one to look out for. The new port has only recently started to be picked up by new motherboards, and many are only the slower USB 3.1 variety, not Thunderbolt 3. You also currently can't get Thunderbolt 3 on an AMD motherboard.

Lastly, motherboards come in three general sizes: ATX, micro-ATX, and ITX. You'll probably want an ATX case for your first build. It's the largest - which means a larger case - but gives you the most flexibility for expansion.

CPU

You have two choices in the CPU world, Intel or AMD. Detailing the differences is beyond the scope of this piece; I recommend you check out sites like Anandtech for more.

A quick, very generalized summary: Intel still makes the fastest chips at top level configurations, but AMD's Ryzen processors offer better bang for your buck.

Intel will provide generally provide better gaming performance, but AMD will better handling multiple threads - like simultaneous gaming and streaming - thanks to the extra cores. AMD's Ryzen 5 will probably offer the best value and performance for the vast majority of people, while Intel's Core i7 7700K is the your best bet for maximal gaming performance.

RAM

RAM may be one of the most important parts of your computer, but it's one of the easiest components to pick. 16GB will handle most tasks for the vast majority of people for quite some time, and is a bit of overkill for gaming. If you want to go crazy, get 32 GB.

If you need more than that, you probably don't need to be reading this guide anyway.

Don't fret over RAM speed. Anything 2400 Mhz and over is unlikely to bottleneck your performance. Just get whatever seems like the best deal

One point of advice: Buy RAM in pairs. Odd numbers of RAM sticks are often inefficient.

Graphics Card

Chances are you're planning on doing some gaming. If you're playing at 1080p, an Nvidia 1060 or AMD RX 580 will generally let you max settings out and hit a smooth 60fps.

That said, the Nvidia 1070 is a significant upgrade and I think is the sweet spot for most gamers.

For 4K gaming at max settings, you'll pretty much need an Nvidia 1080 or higher.

Hard Drive

If you want your PC to be as snappy as possible, install your OS on an SSD. Make sure its of the NVMe variety, and that it's using a fast connector like an m.2 or u.2 slot. Asus has a good guide on different kinds of storage here.

If you need a lot of storage storage for movies and games, a traditional mechanical hard drive gets you the most gigs per dollar. It's slower, but that doesn't matter much for some workloads like watching videos.

Power Supply

The most boring part of your build, the power supply handles all your electricity needs. The main thing to consider is whether it can draw enough energy for running your configuration. Assembling your computer on PC Part picker should tell you your system's wattage and whether your power supply is powerful enough.

Keep in mind power supplies come in a ATX and SFX sizes. unless you're going for a tiny build, you'll need an ATX unit.

Cooling

As nice as liquid cooling looks, it's absolute overkill for any first-time builder. Just get a decent cooling fan from a trusted brand like Thermaltake or Coolermaster. Get one with LED lights if you really need something pretty.

Note: Your cooler will generally come with thermal paste to transfer heat from the CPU, but double check to make sure.

Case

This is the a fun bit. There are a myriad of cases to choose from at a myriad of price ranges, fitting all sorts of aesthetics. Corsair, Thermaltake, NZXT, Cooler Master, etc make some good affordable ones.

Corsair's Spec Alpha strikes a nice balance between sleek and 'gamery'

Make sure the case is compatible with your motherboard size and power supply, and you should be good to go. Each case has its own idiosyncrasies regarding cable management and spacing, so I'd recommend looking for YouTube reviews before ponying up the cash. Also keep in mind many modern cases don't accommodate disk drives, so be on the lookout if you intend to install one.

Peripherals and Accessories

You'll need a monitor, keyboard, mouse and speakers or headphones. Keep in mind many motherboards and cases don't come with some of the features we take for granted on laptops, like Wi-Fi and an SD Card Slot, so you might have to pony up some extra cash there too.

Your OS: Unless you're planning on running a Linux distro, you'll need to pony up for a Windows License. An official Windows 10 Home copy from Microsoft is $120; you can get it on a USB stick or download and set up the install media yourself.

You can also find cheaper copies of Windows 10 licenses on various online marketplaces, but you do so at your own risk.

Oh, and you'll need a screwdriver. Duh.

Putting it together

Now comes the fun part. Once you know all the components you need to buy, the rest of the process is basically just putting together the puzzle pieces.

First things first: watch a video guide on how to assemble a PC, preferably before you get the components. It will help you be a bit less overwhelmed when get all the pieces arrive and you don't know where to start. You can watch it again as you're building your PC.

Here's a concise one by Austin Evans that goes through all the basics using modern components:

There are plenty more strewn around YouTube at varying levels of detail. Also be sure to consult with the manuals for each of your components (the motherboard, in particular) for any particular quirks these videos might not cover.

If you just want to read, the basic steps are as follows:

Install the power supply and plug it into the outlet. Triple check it is on the OFF position, or connect it to a surge protector (also turned off).

Ground yourself to prevent frying any components. Here's a guide, but it basically involves touching an unpainted metal surface on the case or power supply NOT other components). Many power supplies comes with unpainted metal screws; I like using those once installed.

Screw in your motherboard. Cases usually come with standoffs to lift your motherboard a bit from the case. Make sure you use them.

Install the CPU. Make sure it's in the right orientation, and pull the lever down all the way.

Install the cooler. Follow the guide for your particular unit, and make sure to apply thermal paste if it doesn't already have it, or else you'll fry your CPU.

Insert your RAM into the slots. Make sure it's inserted properly, such that the little clips at the sides snap all the way in.

Mount your storage onto your PC. This varies depending your case and storage type. An M.2 SSD plugs directly into your motherboard, while most others can attached to your case via screws or special slots. You'll attach them to your motherboard via a cable later.

Install your graphics card into the PCI-E slot. Make sure it's all the way in; it uses a clip similar to the RAM.

You'll then have to wire everything. Again, your motherboard's manual is the most useful resource, as it should precisely label which cable goes where. Most cables can only fit in one slot, so it shouldn't be too difficult to figure out.

Once you've dubbed checked all the connections, you can close up your case and plug in your accessories. Then insert your install media and follow the usual steps for installing Windows/Linux, and you should be good to go!

Building a PC is a right of passage for any tech geek. It takes a little patience the first time around, but you'll be rewarded with valuable experience and endless upgradeability. You should be proud of yourself.

Published July 30, 2017 - 21:27 UTC

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How to build a desktop PC: A reference guide

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If you've ever spent any time looking for recommendations on a new computer, chances are someone has told you to "just build a desktop." There's a reason: building your own desktop is almost always cheaper than buying one from a manufacturer. The problem, of course, is it that you need to get your hands dirty.

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Micro Center - Computers and Electronics

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Micro Center - Computers and Electronics - Thousands of products to buy: desktops, laptops, monitors, build your own PC parts, upgrades, digital imaging, printing supplies, portable devices, audio equipment, software, video games, movies, tech books, plus repair service, store hours, directions, and employment opportunities.

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