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Here is a list of ten things to consider before purchasing a computer.

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Top 10 things to consider when buying computer.
When entering into the world of computers it can get very easy to get confused and loose sight of your goals and sometimes your budget. Here's the top 10 things to consider;
1. Most importantly, know what you want to use it for and set aside a realistic budget.
Your budget
The first thing that most of us are constrained to is budget so this is the first thing you should consider. We always want the best but we need to be grounded on what we can afford. So Get a budget and stick to it.

Laptop or Desktop?
The next thing you should be looking at is your requirements. Do you need a laptop or desktop? What is the machine going to be used for? Once you have done this go back to number one and see if these are compatible often they are not first time round. You either need to adjust your budget or adjust your goals to make them more compatible with each other.

Now its time to look at the computer.
There are many things to consider when actually buying the computer, here I will list the most important so you can choose wisely.

2. The Processor
This is the most important factor when choosing a computer nowadays and there are many factors in processor choice the main thing is that in my opinion Intel are at the moment making the best chips and their core 2 duo range is the best so go for one in this family and you will be ok.

3. RAM (Computer Memory)
Essentially, the more rams you have, the more browsers and applications you can open. 4Gb is the most basic nowadays. 8GB is the sweet spot for most people. If you are a gamer, photo or video editor, or planning to do CAD/CAM work, you need at least 16GB of Ram. Make sure you get windows vista 64bit as your operating system.

6. Hard Drive
This is the next piece you should tackle. Computers today usually come with 250GB and 750GB of space in the hard drive. As more people are storing their information online on cloud storage, you may want to rethink of buying a huge hard drive space.

Google provides the 1st 15GB of free & monthly fee of $1.99 for 100GB and $9.99 for 1 terabyte.

Mega provides free 50GB

pCloud provides free 10GB

MediaFire provides 10GB

Dropbox provides 2GB

Where to get free cloud storage;

7. Graphics
Now all computers come with some form of graphics built in. But my recommendation is to go with something a little better possibly from NVIDIA or AMD. They make your computer resolution better. AMD cards are good for mining while NVidia is good for Adobe programs.

8. Computer Software
Most computers comes with microsoft software. The latest is Windows 10.

9. Anti-Virus Software
The last thing to do with the actual computer is a good virus and spy ware package. Don't be under any illusion this is possibly the most important part of protecting your computer. It will get attacked at some point be prepared when it does.

10. Your Computer Lifeline, Internet
Finally the internet, get a good internet provider broadband at least. No computer is complete without a good internet.

I hope this list is helpful in helping you make vital decisions when buying your new computer.

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Top Ten Things to Consider When Buying a Computer

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Top 10 things to consider when buying computer. When entering into the world of computers it can get very easy to get confused and loose sight of your goals and sometimes your budget. Here's the top 10 things to consider; 1. Most importantly, know what you want to use it for and set aside a realistic budget.

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Some questions to ask your self beforehand.

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Buying a computer is a big investment, so you want to get it right. This guide will help you understand what to look for when investing in computers for your nonprofit or library.

Buying a computer is a big investment. And with so many different options available, it can be hard to figure out how to meet the technical needs of your nonprofit or library and still stay within your budget.

This guide will help you understand the questions to ask when shopping for a computer. It will also provide a quick reference checklist with definitions of some basic technology terms (not too many!), as well as the minimum standards we recommend for computers.

Things to Consider When Buying a Computer

1. Do You Need a New Computer?

It's possible some basic maintenance tasks or a simple hardware upgrade can boost performance and give your old computer new life.

2. How Will You Be Using the Computer?

If you do need a new computer, one of the most important things to consider is how you will actually use it.

A technology plan, technology budget, and technology strategy are all helpful tools to make sure you understand your current and future computing needs. See TechSoup'sBusiness and Technology Planning section for resources to help you plan effectively.

What kind of work will your staff be doing? Basic office tasks, like creating documents and spreadsheets, checking email, and using the Internet? Or heavy-duty work with video, audio, or images? Audiovisual work tends to be resource-intensive and will require a more robust computer.

Will your staff be traveling, or only using the computer in the office?

How does the computer fit in with your existing technology?

What operating systems do you use? Operating systems, like Windows, use up a lot of your computer's resources. If you barely meet the minimum hardware standards for using your operating system, you may not have the computing resources to do a lot of other tasks at the same time (multitask).

What software do you use? Do you have software that only works with a certain type of computer or only runs on a particular operating system?

32-bit and 64-bit? The key thing to know is that hardware and software come in 32-bit and 64-bit versions. If your computer has a 32-bit operating system or hardware, you cannot run 64-bit software on it.

What are your future plans? Are you planning to upgrade your operating system or add a new kind of software? Are you planning to do different kinds of tasks in the next couple of years?

3. Mac or PC?

The choice between Mac and PC often comes down to personal preference. Both types of computers have their merits. Macs and PCs use the same kinds of internal processors, so they are equally powerful. The main difference between Macs and other computers is the operating system they use: Macs run Mac OS X, and PCs run Windows.

A few things to keep in mind:

Macintosh computers are usually more expensive off the shelf than a similar PC. However, some argue that the long-term cost for a PC is actually higher, due to additional software and maintenance costs.

There is some software that will only run on Windows. Make sure the software you depend on is compatible with your new computer's operating system.

The more similar your computers are, the easier your technology will be to manage. If you have different types of computers, running different operating systems and different software, troubleshooting and maintenance become much more complicated. Consider whether you already have a Mac- or PC-centric office and whether or not it's worth switching some or all computers.

4. New, Used, or Refurbished?

If you plan to use the computer for basic office tasks like word processing, email, and web browsing, you probably don't need a top-of-the-line or brand new computer. A used or refurbished computer may be just fine. Used and refurbished computers are usually much less expensive than new computers. They're also a greener option, since you're extending the life of an old computer, rather than buying a brand-new one.

A refurbished computer may be a better option than a used or donated one. Refurbished computers are older machines that have been carefully inspected and updated by professionals. If you get your refurbished computer from an authorized professional refurbisher (and you always should), you will know it is in good working condition. Refurbished computers also often have a warranty of some kind. Read more about refurbished computers available to eligible organizations through TechSoup's Refurbished Computer Initiative.

There are some additional things you need to think about when buying refurbished equipment:

Fail and return rates. Check the refurbisher's fail and return rates.

Warranty. You probably won't get a three-year warranty for a refurbished computer, but a three-month warranty is pretty standard. This should cover any out-of-the box problems.

Peripherals, software, and documentation. Make sure you know what is included with your computer. Refurbished computers, for example, rarely come bundled with a monitor.

If you are buying a used (rather than refurbished) computer, or accepting a donated one, make sure a knowledgeable person inspects the computer thoroughly first. This will help ensure the computer is functioning properly and that it will meet your needs. Remember that as alluring as a free or very cheap computer might seem, an old one in poor condition can actually be more trouble than it is worth. Learn more about how to avoid receiving time-wasting donated hardware in How to Accept (or Refuse!) Donated Equipment.

5. Laptop, Desktop, or Tablet?

When deciding whether a laptop, desktop, or tablet (hand-held) computer will best meet your needs, the key things to consider are:

Price. Laptops are usually more expensive than an equally powerful desktop computer, even if you factor in the cost of a monitor for your desktop. Parts and repairs are usually more expensive for laptops as well.

Travel. If you will only be using the computer in the office, a laptop probably isn't worth the added cost.

Upgrade, repair, and maintenance. Especially if you're planning to do this yourself, keep in mind that fixing or upgrading a laptop computer is usually much more complicated than it is for a desktop computer.

Size or "form factor." Desktop computers can be the traditional bulky tower, compact models that are smaller than a loaf of bread, or an all-in-one model (where the computer and the monitor are all one piece). Laptops come in different sizes, too: from tiny subnotebooks with miniature keyboards and 10-inch screens to ultra-thin or ultra-portable models to giant models with 17+-inch screens that don't even need a separate monitor. A few things to consider:

If you will be traveling a lot, size and weight are important considerations for laptops.

Smaller models are often more costly than a comparably equipped standard size model.

There is often a trade-off between small size and computing power. Inexpensive netbooks, for example, may not be powerful enough to serve as your main computer.

Tablets (as handy as they can be and as popular as they are) aren't suitable for heavy use for office productivity tasks. But they're great for web surfing, checking email, and reading documents on-the-go.

For more information, Consumer Reports has a really nice, clear discussion of the pros and cons of laptops, desktops, and tablet computers, in varying sizes.

6. Get to Know Your Technology

There are a few key things you should understand when you're making a decision about which computer to buy. We'll define them and provide the minimum standards you should be looking for to support performing basic office tasks.

Component

Definition

Key Consideration

Minimum Standard

This is your computer's brain, and its function - as you might imagine - is to process information.

Performance, which is based mostly on

Dual-core processor, with mid-range clock speed (2.6 GHz)

Number of cores (single, dual, quad, and so on).

Processor speed or "clock speed," which is measured in gigahertz (GHz).

Usually, a faster processor means a faster computer.

RAM is used to temporarily store information while your computer is running. More memory allows your computer to run more quickly, up to a point.*

Amount of memory, which is measured in megabytes (MB) and gigabytes (GB). There are 1,024 megabytes in a gigabyte.

Confusingly, memory is not the same thing as storage (see below for additional information). Storage is what allows you to keep files and software stored long-term, while memory is what your computer uses short-term to perform its basic functions.

*32-bit operating systems can't use more than 4 GB of RAM, so if you have a 32-bit OS, you don't need more than 4 GB of RAM.

The amount of information (files, data, software, photos, video, and so on) your computer can store.

Amount of storage, usually measured in GB.

See Hard Drive, below

The hard drive is where most of the information on your computer is stored.

Disk size: the amount of storage space on the disk.

250 GB storage capacity

There are two main types of drives:

A traditional drive is a spinning disk attached to a platter. Because it has these rapidly moving parts, a hard drive is susceptible to mechanical failure. For example, when your drive "crashes," it's because the spinning disk literally crashes into the platter underneath it.

A solid-state drive does not have moving parts and therefore is less likely to have mechanical problems. Solid-state drives are also faster and quieter than traditional drives, but they are also significantly more expensive.

Note: an external hard drive is basically the same thing as an internal drive. An external drive just has a case surrounding it and a cable to connect it to your computer.

How your computer connects to the Internet or networked devices.

Wired and wireless connection capability.

Ethernet port or adapter

A wireless card or adapter

An Ethernet port lets you plug your computer into a router for "wired" access.

A wireless adapter or wireless card enables your computer to connect to the Internet and other devices wirelessly.

Bluetooth is a technology that allows your computer to wirelessly connect to other devices (but it doesn't allow your computer to connect directly to the Internet).

*Some laptop models, such as the MacBook Air, do not come with a built-in Ethernet port.

Device ports: how your computer connects to other devices, like a keyboard, mouse, printer, digital camera, or external hard drive. Different devices use different cables to connect to different kinds of ports. The most common ports and cables are

What devices you will connect to your computer.

Device ports: Several USB 2.0 ports

Audio and Video Ports: VGA port, HDMI

USB (Universal Serial Bus) - the current standard is USB 2.0, which provides a faster connection than the older USB 1.1 standard.

Firewire (also known as IEEE 1394, iLink) provides an even faster connection for high-speed data transfer.

Audio and video ports: How your computer connects to speakers and external displays, like a monitor or television screen. There are different kinds of outputs, including

VGA (analog) output. This is included on almost all desktops.

DVI (digital visual interface). This carries only video, not audio.

HDMI (high-definition multimedia interface). This carries both audio and video. Mini HDMI ports are often used on portable devices.

Like HDMI, DisplayPort and Mini DisplayPort carry both audio and video.

The graphics card or chip is what allows your computer to process and display visual information (text, images, video, and basically everything you see on your computer screen).

Amount of system memory (RAM), and tasks you are performing

Integrated graphics: fine for most everyday office functions.

Dedicated graphics card: only needed if you're planning to work with a lot of digital media.

If you have at least 2 GB of RAM, integrated graphics should be sufficient in most cases.

If you work with a lot of digital video, you will probably need more RAM, a dedicated graphics card, or both.

There are two main types of graphics processors.

Integrated or on-board graphics cards are built into your computer, and they share your computer system's main memory.

A dedicated graphics card has its own, separate memory.

Optical drives let you read and record (or write) to CDs, DVDs, and Blu-rays. A "burner" or "recorder," usually labeled "RW," allows you to record or write information to discs.

What media you are using (CD, DVD, and so on)

What devices can and need to read that data

Functioning DVD-ROM/CD-RW device

Most drives are labeled with the type of discs they are compatible with, as well as whether they can record or write to a disc or only play or read it.

Devices labeled "ROM" can only play discs; they cannot write to them.

Devices labeled "RW" allow you to write information to discs.

For example, a DVD-ROM/CD-RW can play DVDs and can both play and record to CDs.

Electronic equipment connected by cable (or wireless integration) to your computer's CPU.

For monitors, the key considerations are:

Desktop monitor: 15" monitor (measured diagonally), 1024x768 screen resolution

Laptop screen: size will depend on organizational needs; 1024x768 screen resolution

Fully functioning keyboards and pointing devices

Screen size.

Display resolution is based on the number of pixels (the little dots that make up the image you see on-screen) that can be displayed; more pixels means a sharper display.

Monitor or screen

Keyboard

Pointing devices (mice, trackballs, touchpads)

Printers, scanners, and other optional devices

Battery and Power Consumption

When not plugged in to an outlet, laptops use a rechargeable battery for power.

Battery life: how long the battery retains power after charging

No specific recommendation

Some laptops can have an extended battery added. This makes the laptop bigger and heavier, but significantly extends battery life.

Some laptops have batteries that cannot be removed, which makes them more costly to replace when the battery wears out.

Desktops, laptops, and tablets come in different sizes.

Unless you will be traveling a lot, size is not usually a major factor when choosing a computer.

No specific recommendation

Some desktop terms you may hear:

Full-size: these computers are encased in a standard (sometimes bulky) "tower" case.

Compact: smaller than full-size towers (sometimes called "minitowers").

All-in-one: the computer and the monitor are all one piece.

Laptop terminology:

While we use the term "laptop" in this guide, "notebook" means the same thing.

A subnotebook is a lightweight laptop computer. Macbook Airs and Intel Ultrabooks are in this category.

7. Do Your Research

The following are good places to start your research.

Consumer Reports provides an easy-to-understand, comprehensive computer buying guide and product reviews.

CNET andPC Magazine have more detailed technical buying guides, as well as computer reviews for laptops and desktops. Just go to their site and search for "computer buying guide," "laptop buying guide," or "desktop buying guide."

Learn about 32-bit vs. 64-bit computers with TechSoup's article: Do I Need the 32-bit or the 64-bit Version?

When doing your research, keep your organization's needs, its budget, and the minimum requirements in mind, and ask yourself:

Will this product meet your needs?

What do you know about the company that makes the computer? Do they have a good reputation? What about the particular computer you're looking at?

What kind of warranty do you get, and how long does it last?

How good is the company's technical support, and how long can you use it?

What other hardware comes bundled with the computer? A monitor, keyboard, mouse, cables?

What software comes with the computer?

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Investing in Computers? 7 Questions to Consider

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Buying a computer is a big investment, so you want to get it right. This guide will help you understand what to look for when investing in computers for your nonprofit or library. Buying a computer is a big investment.

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best desktops of 2020

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As mobile devices become more capable, the desktop - our old standby - is too easily forgotten. While manufacturers might lament the decline in desktop sales, it's all good news for consumers. You've always been able to get more bang for your buck out of a desktop computer than you could out of, say, a laptop. Now more than ever, desktop manufacturers are in fierce competition to provide you with the best value without sacrificing performance.

Here we've compiled the best desktop computers currently on the market. Whether you need something for your dorm room, home office, or gaming cave, we've got you covered with the best desktop PCs on the market today.

At a glance

Dell Inspiron 5680

Best desktop overall

Why you should buy this: You want good performance on a budget.

Who it's for: Students, families
How much will it cost: $800+ Why we picked the Dell Inspiron 5680:
The Inspiron 5680 is a quiet desktop PC that just gets the job done. Properly specced it can do pretty much anything you need without breaking your budget. It can serve as a solid, reliable workstation, or its intended purpose: A budget gaming rig.

It's not the most expensive system on this list, but it has a couple of features that give it a leg up over some of its more expensive competitors. It's whisper quiet even under a heavy load, which makes it a great choice for dorm rooms or living rooms, or anywhere that excessive fan noise wouldn't be particularly appreciated. It never gets very loud, and it's practically inaudible under a desk, even under heavy load.

The Inspiron is also surprisingly compact. You can put this thing anywhere; it'd fit comfortably under a desk, on top of it, or even in a small cupboard. It's just flashy enough to look stylish without looking out of place in a home office. Overall, the Inspiron 5680 is a workhorse, plain and simple. If you need a new desktop PC, a new all-around workstation that will dutifully serve with only a sensible number of bells and whistles, the Inspiron is your best bet.
Read our full Dell Inspiron 5680 review
Alienware Area-51

The best gaming PC

Why you should buy this: Its big box power is accented by a sublimely quiet gaming experience.

Who it's for: Gamers who want ultimate gaming power in a unique-looking chassis.

How much will it cost: Starts at $1,800 - $8,000. Tested at $6,710
Why we picked the Alienware Area 51:
Alienware's Area 51 has always been a striking gaming PC and the latest R5 iteration is no different. With a hefty, but uniquely angled and styled chassis, the new version packs up to dual GTX 2080 Ti graphics alongside last-generation Intel CPUs and memory options, which although not cutting edge, will leave no gamer wanting.

One of the most exciting elements of this sleek system is that it's so quiet. It's also well designed for those planning customization of their own. Its case design is such that removing graphics cards, memory, and other components can be done quickly and easily without a tool in sight. As a robust system, it can also stand up to any knocks and bangs during transit - perfect if you like to pop along to a local or national LAN party. It's a bit on the hefty side, but the sturdiness of the chassis makes up for that.

You have to pay through the nose for such a quality machine, but if you want a futureproofed gaming desktop with plenty of power today, there's little better than the latest Alienware Area 51.
Read our full Alienware Area-51 R5 review
Check out our list of the best gaming laptops for more options.

Apple Mac Mini

Best compact PC

Why you should buy this: It's tiny and powerful.

Who it's for: Budget and space-restricted Apple fans.
Why we picked the Apple Mac Mini:
How much will it cost: Starts at $800. Optional hardware up to $4,100.

Apple's Mac Mini might have been the most neglected of the company's hardware - that is, until the 2018 version was surprisingly announced and launched. This new Mac Mini truly embodies the idea of a miniature computer and doesn't scrimp on the hardware inside it. It's a little pricier than previous iterations of the micro-system, but with an eighth-Generation Intel CPU at its heart and up to 64GB of memory, it can crunch through general computing tasks with ease.

It comes with a wide selection of ports, which is a nice change of pace from some of Apple's other small computing systems and it's supremely quiet, thanks to a redesigned cooling system. This isn't a gaming system - we have other recommendations for that - but MacOS isn't exactly a hotbed of gaming activity anyhow. This is a working and media-viewing machine, and it does a fantastic job of it.
Read our full Apple Mac Mini review
There are some alternatives out there with Windows support, like the Hades Canyon NUC from Intel, but it's noticeably more expensive. If you need a miniature desktop system, the Mac Mini is our current favorite and a solid competitor to the other entries on this list.

Dell XPS 8930

Best budget desktop

Why you should buy this: You get a lot of PC for not a lot of money.

Who it's for: Families, students, budget-conscious buyers.
Why we picked the Dell XPS 8930:
How much will it cost: Starts at $500. Options up to $1,310.

The Dell XPS 8930 offers plenty of bang for buck no matter what price point you look at. We might be inclined to add an SSD to the $500 base model, but a Core i3-8100 and 8GB of RAM is plenty of power for basic office tasks and school work. The slightly more expensive options come with dedicated graphics cards, more storage space, double the RAM, and faster processors all the way up to a six-core Core i7-8700, which can handle much heavier lifting.

No matter which configuration you opt for you, though, Dell gives you the option of customizing it to your tastes. You can expand the storage or introduce secondary drives if desired, increase the amount of memory, or even opt for slightly more capable processors and graphics cards in some cases.
Read our full Dell XPS 8930 review
Considering the only downside to our review version was that the cheapest configurations lacked must-have hardware features, you don't need to go without as we did. Make the 8930 your own and you'll have a fantastically affordable, but capable, machine for work and play.

Surface Studio 2

The best all-in-one

Why you should buy this: It looks and performs fantastically, even among stiff competition.

Who it's for: Graphics professionals, artists, and anyone who wants their PC to make a statement.
Why we picked the Microsoft Surface Studio 2:
How much will it cost: $3,500 - $4,700

With Apple's focus on iOS in recent years and infrequent hardware updates to its professional products, Microsoft has stormed the gates of the once-Apple-held all-in-one stronghold and done so in decisive fashion. The Surface Studio 2 is unarguably the best looking all-in-one we have ever seen, and that goes for the screen as much as its unique design.

At 28-inches diagonally, the display sports a stunning resolution of 4,500 x 3,000, delivering crisp and clear visuals. Thanks to Microsoft's PixelSense technology, its colors really pop - with deep, dark blacks, and crisp, clear whites. The overall experience makes this an amazing all-in-one for working and playing, though the 3:2 aspect ratio means movies do have some serious black bar letterboxing.

To power that gorgeous screen, Microsoft has packed the Surface Studio 2 with a Core i7-7820HQ and paired it with between 16 and 32GB of RAM. The CPU is decent, but a little underwhelming. We had hoped for an eighth-generation Intel chip in this build, but it's enough of an upgrade over its predecessor that it's not the end of the world. Graphics have seen a much bigger leap in performance though, with options up to a GTX 1070, which will handle even intensive games without much difficulty, although the screen's high resolution might mean lowering some settings to maintain stable frame rates.

On top of its great hardware, the Surface Studio 2 has a fantastic hinge system which makes changing its orientation easy and effortless, so you can switch between drawing on it with the compatible pen, to typing away in a more traditional desktop orientation.
Read our full Microsoft Surface Studio 2 review
The Surface Studio 2 is the best all-in-one in the world right now, and we love it.

Should you buy now, or wait?

That's the real question here, isn't it? If you've read this far, you probably already have a good idea of what you want out of a new desktop, but when should you pull the trigger on the decision?

Well, now's as good a time as any. Graphics card prices have come down significantly in the past few months which is great for home builders. That may mean we'll see some offers from pre-built desktop makers which want to stay competitive. Additionally, Apple, Microsoft, Dell, and most other major manufacturers have refreshed their flagship desktop lines with Intel's 8th and 9th-generation chips and there are some options for Ryzen+ CPU choices too.

Gamer systems now sport Nvidia's RTX-series GPUs as well. They're expensive, but great if you want serious gaming power and future-proofing against ray tracing and DLSS games.

How we test

You've read our reviews. You've read our conclusions. And now you're wondering how we came to them.

Reviews often lack context. We'll give out a score and analyze the finer points of desktop performance, but how do we reach those conclusions? How do we test these machines?

Allow us to lift the veil. Here we'll explain the benchmarks we use for objective testing and the perspective from which we approach subjective topics. We don't expect everyone to agree with our opinions, but we hope that sharing our process will leave you better equipped to decide what desktop best fits your needs.

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From hot rods to budget sleepers, our favorite desktops can handle anything

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Desktop computers might not be how everyone gets online or does their work, but for some tasks they're still the best tool for the job. Whether you're looking for a budget system to do some work on, or need a monster PC for video editing and gaming, we've got something for you.

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Best laptops of 2020

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(Image credit: Laptop Mag)

What's the best laptop for you? We know the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming, which is why we made this list.

In the market for a cheap laptop or maybe a high-powered gaming notebook? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Our best laptops list includes every major category, from ultraportables and cheap laptops to 2-in-1s and gaming laptops.

Every laptop goes through our rigorous reviews process, which includes extensive testing, research and comparisons against top competitors.

In order to make our best laptops list, the system needs to score at least 4 out of 5 stars on our reviews and deliver on the things shoppers care about most. In our evaluations, we focus on design and comfort, display quality, the keyboard and touchpad, performance, battery life and especially value.

The best laptops of 2020 you can buy today

1. Dell XPS 13 (2019)

2. Apple MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019)

3. Acer Aspire 5 (Core i3, 2019)

4. Apple MacBook Pro (13-inch)

5. Asus Chromebook C434

6. HP Envy 13t

7. Acer Swift 7 (2019)

8. HP Spectre x360 (13-inch, Late 2019)

9. Alienware Area-51m

10. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon

11. Samsung Chromebook 3

12. Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 for Business (Intel, 15-inch)

13. Apple MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2019)

14. Dell XPS 15

15. Lenovo Yoga C940

1. Dell XPS 13

The best overall laptop you can buy

InfinityEdge bezels with properly placed webcam

Below-average battery life

The best laptop just got even better. Not only did Dell outfit the 2019 XPS 13 with a new Intel Whiskey Lake processor, but it also fixed one of the most annoying flaws of its predecessor. No longer does its webcam point up your nose, as Dell's engineers found a way to fit its webcam in a still-small top bezel. While the 4K model we tested offered lower battery life than some may need, we expect longer endurance on the model with a 1080p display.

(Image credit: Laptop Mag)

2. MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019)

An excellent choice for power users

Radically improved Magic Keyboard

Immersive 16-inch display with slimmer bezels

Nearly 11 hours of battery life

No full-size USB port or SD card slot

The 16-inch MacBook Pro is just your type if you've been waiting for Apple to make a better keyboard. The Magic Keyboard on this premium laptop ditches the Butterfly mechanism in favor of scissor switches, and the result is a much more comfortable typing experience. You also get a bright and sharp 16-inch display with slimmer bezels, powerful performance from an available Core i9 CPU and robust AMD Radeon 5300M or 5500M graphics.

You can also configure the system with up to 64GB of RAM and 8TB of storage if you really want to splurge. The 11 hours of battery life is another plus on this laptop, dwarfing the runtimes of its competitors. The 16-inch MacBook Pro is pricey, and Apple still doesn't include full-size USB ports, but overall this is the best laptop for creative pros.

3. Acer Aspire 5 (Core i3, 2019)

Good performance at a solid price

Questionable build quality

The Aspire 5 is an excellent budget laptop. It features great performance for the price, a display that's brighter than most cheap laptops, and it'll survive longer than your average workday. Despite its sub-$500 price, the laptop still delivers a premium aluminum chassis, a comfortable keyboard and an entry-level discrete graphics chip for more intensive tasks. Despite the laptop's budget price, the Aspire 5 outperformed the category average in display brightness, performance, file transfer and battery average -- all in a slim, lightweight chassis.

4. Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch

Our favorite Apple laptop

Bright and colorful display

Keyboard has shallow travel

Just two Thunderbolt 3 ports

The new MacBook Pro 13-inch packs a much faster 8th Gen Intel Core CPU and both Touch ID and the Touch Bar. And while the keyboard still isn't great, Apple has introduced minor enhancements that will (hopefully) make it more reliable. Add in more than 10 hours of battery life and you have the best Apple laptop for most people -- at least those who want a future-proof system. For the price, you get a much faster processor, brighter display and considerably longer battery life for your money.

5. Asus Chromebook C434

The best Chromebook overall

Vivid, 14-inch touch screen

With a larger display, longer battery life and stronger performance, the new Asus Chromebook Flip C434 is one of the best Chromebooks we've ever tested. The 2-in-1 has a sleek, aluminum chassis and a panel that is both vivid and bright. Thanks to its Intel Core m3-8100Y processor, it's a reliable multitasker when combined with ChromeOS. And with over 9 hours and 58 minutes of battery life, this laptop can transition from work to play with ease.

6. HP Envy 13t

A great college laptop with long battery life

Very good graphics performance

MacBook-look-alike design

Display could be brighter

The new HP Envy 13 isn't just one of the best laptops around; it's also a great deal. Starting at $799, the new 2019 model gets you an attractive, slim chassis, great performance and powerful speakers. New to the latest Envy are a fingerprint sensor and a webcam kill switch for those who value their privacy. The 1080p model of the Envy 13 also gets 11+ hours of battery life while both the FHD and 4K display options are bright and vivid. So unless you need a Thunderbolt 3 port (see Spectre x360), the Envy 13 should be at the top of your buying list. It's the best laptop

(Image credit: Laptop Mag)

7. Acer Swift 7

Meet the world's thinnest 14-inch laptop

Inconceivably thin and lightweight

Surprisingly long battery life

Inconceivably thin and lightweight

Surprisingly long battery life

If you want a large display in a super-portable chassis, look no further than the Acer Swift 7. At just 0.4 inches thin, this 14-inch laptop can slip into a backpack or briefcase during your daily commute or on long trips. Combine that portability with a gorgeous display and long battery and the Swift 7 earns a place as one of the best Ultrabooks around. It's the best laptop for on-the go professionals looking for an ultra lightweight laptop for frequent business trips.

(Image credit: Future)

8. HP Spectre x360 (13-inch, Late 2019)

The king of 2-in-1 laptops

Stunning, ultraportable design

Bright, vivid display with thinner bezels

Shrill speakers at max volume

The HP Spectre x360 13 is practically perfect. Updated with Intel's 10th Gen processors and a modernized chassis, the Spectre x360 takes everything we loved about its predecessor and ramps it up. Starting with the laptop's design, which is more stunning than ever thanks to thinner display bezels and smaller footprint.

Other highlights include a bright, vivid display and the Spectre x360's epic, 13-plus hours of battery life. Factor in a comfortable keyboard, fast performance and an included stylus, and it's easy to see why the Spectre x360 is one of the best 2-in-1 laptops ever.

9. Alienware Area-51m

The ultimate gaming laptop is upgradable

Stunning space station aesthetic

Excellent graphics and overall performance

All major components upgradable

Sporting a new look and the first-ever design that enables upgradeable graphics Alienware is ready to take its place as the king of semi-mobile gaming. The Area-51m doesn't look like anything we've ever seen from the brand. Armed with a desktop Intel Core i9 processor and one of Nvidia's superpowered RTX GPUs, it absolutely demolished every test we put in front of it with graceful aplomb. It's Alienware's first true desktop replacement and the most powerful and upgradeable laptop we've reviewed to date.

10. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon

The best business laptop with a killer keyboard

Attractive, lightweight chassis

Long battery life (on 1080p model)

Bright, vivid display options

4K model has short battery life

Lenovo made our favorite business laptop even better by improving its speakers, giving it a svelte carbon fiber texture and adding some useful security features, including a webcam shutter and IR camera. On top of that, you get fast performance, long battery life (on the 1080p model) and two gorgeous, 1080p and 4K display options, all in an impossibly lightweight chassis. But it's those classic ThinkPad X1 features --- a durable (military tested) chassis, best-in-class keyboard and stylish black/red aesthetics --- that carry the X1 Carbon to greatness.

(Image credit: Future)

11. Samsung Chromebook 3

The Samsung Chromebook 3 is a great little laptop for both school and entertainment, especially for younger kids and frequent travelers. This 11.6-inch notebook not only boasts a fantastic screen and nearly 10 hours of battery life but also comes with 4GB of RAM, so you can expect solid performance. And because its 32GB of storage isn't taken up by Windows 10, you'll find plenty of onboard storage for your personal files.

(Image credit: Future)

12. Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 for Business (15-inch, Intel)

Slim, lightweight chassis

Integrated graphics still underperform

Ignoring Microsoft's misleading "for business" designation, the Surface Laptop 3 is one of the best 15-inch laptops around. It has great performance, long battery life, a fast hard drive and ships with Windows 10 Pro. Plus, you get Microsoft's handsome aluminum chassis and a gorgeous display. If you're a fan of Microsoft's notebooks, this is the best laptop for you.

13. Apple MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2019)

A powerful laptop for photo and video editing

Price starts high and gets crazy expensive

Still uses 'Butterfly' keyboard

Apple updated its 15-inch MacBook Pro with faster 9th Gen Intel processors, making it the fastest MacBook ever. In addition you get all-day battery life, with loud, warm audio, and a bright, colorful and sharp display. Throw in some seriously fast SSDs and you've got a system just waiting to help you create your next masterpiece. It's blindingly fast and with its improved Butterfly-switches and over 10 hours of battery life, it's also a good system to get some work done.

14. Dell XPS 15

The best 15-inch laptop money can buy

Great overall and graphics performance

Webcam in the right place

Below-average battery life

This laptop's optional 4K display can reproduce an awesome 188% of the sRGB color gamut while registering a solid 282 nits of brightness. Its 45-watt Intel H series processor provides much stronger performance than the U series CPU in its smaller sibling while its Nvidia GTX 1050 graphics make it a legitimate content creation machine.

(Image credit: Future)

15. Lenovo Yoga C940

Small tweaks makes a big difference

Long battery life (on 1080p version)

Below-average battery life (on 4K model)

Stylus is difficult to remove

The Yoga C940 has a gorgeous design, along with bright, vivid 4K and 1080p display options; fast performance; and long battery life. It's the sort of laptop that will fit just about anyone, from students to business users and content creators. It has a premium chassis, a beautiful display (especially the 4K option), strong performance and long battery life. On top of that, the Yoga C940's unique features, a stylus garage and webcam cover, help it stand out from the alternatives.

Why trust Laptop Mag

Laptop Mag has been testing and reviewing laptops for over two decades. We test over 200 different models per year, subjecting each system to a series of rigorous benchmarks that provides a complete picture of performance, battery life and usability.

Our expert reviewers also use each product to see how it looks and feels in everyday situations. Because we see so many different notebooks, we can compare each to its direct competitors and give you an idea of how it stacks up to the average laptop in its price band.

How we test laptops

When we bring a laptop into our laboratory, our goal is to see how it would work if you brought it into your home or office. While we use a number of industry standard benchmarks such as Geekbench and 3DMark, we focus heavily on real-world tests that we have developed in-house.

To test endurance, the Laptop Mag Battery test surfs the web at 150 nits of brightness until the system runs out of juice. To judge pure processing power, we use a giant spreadsheet macro that matches 65,000 names with their addresses, a video transcoder that converts a 4K video to 1080p and the Geekbench 4 synthetic test. We measure graphics prowess with both 3DMark Ice Storm / Fire Strike and a series of actual game titles.

We use a colorimeter to measure screen brightness and color gamut while other instruments help us determine a laptop's key travel and ambient heat. See this page on How We Test Laptops for more details on our benchmarking procedures.

How to find the right laptop

When shopping for a laptop, there's a lot to consider. To help you choose a system, we've put our up-to-date list of favorite notebooks above, along with five points to keep in mind when choosing a system.
Budget: What you get for the money.
You can find good cheap Windows laptops and high-quality Chromebooks for under $500. However, better mainstream laptops usually cost more than $700 and premium Ultrabooks can run over $1,000. The best gaming laptops can cost $2.000 and up, but you can play the latest titles at decent frame rates on gaming laptops under $1,000.
Screen Size: 12 to 14 inches for Portability
Knowing a laptop's screen size tells you a lot about its portability overall. If you want to use your computer on your lap or carry it around a lot, go for one with a 12, 13 or 14-inch display. If you want to use the computer on tables and desks and won't carry it around much, a 15-inch model may give you more value. Some gaming rigs, media machines and workstations even have 17 or 18-inch screens, but those are hardest to carry.
2-in-1 or Clamshell?
More and more of today's laptops are 2-in-1s with screens that either bend back 360 degrees or detach so you can use them as tablets. If you like the idea of using your laptop in slate mode for drawing, media consumption or just using it standing up, a 2-in-1 could be for you. However, you can often get better features or a lower price by going with a traditional clamshell-style laptop.
Battery Life: 8+ Hours for Portability
Unless you only plan to use your laptop on your desk, battery life matters. Even within the home or office, having plenty of juice enables you to work on the couch or at the conference table, without being chained to the nearest outlet. For the best portability, we recommend getting a laptop that lasted over 8 hours on the Laptop Mag Battery Test. The longest-lasting laptops endure for over 10 hours.
Specs: 1080p / Core i5 / 8GB Are Best Bets
You can spend a lot of time delving into specs, but here are the key components to think about. If you just want really good mainstream performance, go for a Core i5 CPU, 8GB of RAM, a 256GB SSD and a 1080p screen.

Screen Resolution: Unfortunately, 66 percent of consumer laptops and 51 percent of business systems have low-res screens. If at all possible, get a display with a 1920 x 1080 (aka 1080p or full HD) or higher resolution.

CPU: An Intel Core i5 provides good mainstream performance. Some budget systems will come with Core i3, Celeron or Pentium CPUs which are good enough for basic tasks, but not heavy mutltiasking. Get a Core i7 or a quad core processor (serial number ends in HQ or HK) for gaming or high-end productivity tasks such as video editing and 3D modeling.

RAM: 8GB is ideal for most users. 4GB is acceptable for budget systems. Secondary laptops and Chromebooks may have less.

Storage: Unless you're a gamer or a power user, 256GB of internal storage is probably enough. If at all possible, get an SSD (Solid State Drive) rather than a hard drive, because it's going to make your entire computer a lot faster.

Graphics Chip: Gamers and creative professionals need to do some research and figure out which discrete GPU is good enough to run their favorite software. Everyone else will be happy with the built-in Intel HD Graphics that come on the CPU.

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(Image credit: Laptop Mag) What's the best laptop for you? We know the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming, which is why we made this list. In the market for a cheap laptop or maybe a high-powered gaming notebook? Don't worry, we've got you covered.

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Now that you have decided to purchase a computer, here is the best online stores to do so.

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The 8 Best Websites for Buying a Laptop Online

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Get the best laptops on deep discount from these 8 online stores. The best deals are on US websites. MyUS takes care of the international shipping.

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If you want to build your own PC, here is a website that tells you step by step what to do.

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It might be hard sourcing PC components right now, but learning how to build a PC is still a fulfilling task, regardless of what the best graphics cards are going for right now. The process actually remains the same - you need to research and choose the components that will make up the you're trying to put together. After all, you want a PC that you can show off with pride.

If you've never built a PC before, it can be a scary undertaking, especially considering that it is a good amount of work. Though a lot of people act like it's an easy task building a , you might find it a discouraging process your first time around. And, that's okay.

And, before you get too down about any issues you're facing, we're here to help. We've built quite a few PCs and have used our expertise to put together this step-by-step guide so you can build your PC in no time. We'll make it as painless as possible and take you from beginning to end.

(Image credit: DisobeyArt / Shutterstock)

What kind of PC do you need?

These days, basically everyone needs a decent PC to get through life, but they come in so many shapes and sizes that it's important to know what you're trying to build before you even get started.

For instance, if you're just going to be using your PC to do daily office work - like web browsing or writing up documents - you don't need to drop thousands of dollars on a fancy gaming rig. Building a PC with something like the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G will get you a quick and responsive PC that will last you years, with enough graphics horsepower to get you through all tasks that most people experience on a day-to-day basis.

However, there are plenty of people that need something with a bit more oomph. Computers are legitimately more powerful now than they've ever been, and there's never been more options to build something that will tear through the best PC games like they were so much paper. But, powerful hardware like the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 and the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X come at a high price.

Luckily, if you're on more of a budget, you can get something like an Intel Core i5-11600K and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 (if you can find one in stock at a decent price, that is), and have an incredible 1080p gaming machine. And, that will be able to get some video editing done on the side too.

Tools of the trade

Although a single phillips screwdriver is all you need to construct a PC, you may want a few more things on hand just in case. For example, needle nose pliers or a simple pair of tweezers may come in handy to place screws into tight places or retrieve them.

Zip ties are useful for tidying up all your PC cables and luckily, you most likely won't have to buy them as they often come included with several different types of computer parts. You'll also need a pair of side cutters (or just scissors) to cut those said zip ties.

You can't go wrong with an anti-static wrist strap, either - though you can get away with not having one. Unless you've been running around on carpet all day, or have cats, you likely aren't holding enough static charge to damage the electronics. Just do yourself a favor and discharge any latent electricity by placing your hand on metal, like your PC case or power supply.

As for your workspace, you're going to want to clear off a good bit of table space, as you'll likely be flipping your PC on its side, feet, back and any which way to install everything.

And, before we forget, it's a good idea to get a monitor, keyboard and mouse set up before you start building, so you have something to plug it into when the building is done. You should also have a power socket and internet connection available.

It's hard to find a modern build with an optical drive these days, so put the Windows 10 installer onto a USB stick ( we'll show you how). If you can't find a handy thumb drive and a laptop, we would cannibalize an older rig for a CD drive, or even just buy one - you can find them online for less than 10 bucks these days.

It's time, to build. Finally.

After spending weeks coming up with a list of PC components, waiting anxiously for them to go on sale, and getting them delivered to your door, it's time. You've got a phillips head screwdriver in hand, and you're ready to go.

Now for the purposes of our PC building guide, we've used these following parts as an example of how to build a complete computer. These components are also exactly what you need to construct an modest - if a little last generation - gaming PC.

Here are some PC component deals to get your PC build started

Step by step
1. Strip down
First thing you'll want to do is strip the case down as far as you can go. Remove every panel that you can, and store them in a safe place (inside the case box is the best bet). We recommend using a bowl (or a magnetic parts tray if you want to be fancy) to hold your screws throughout your PC building process.
2. Fan-tastic
If you've purchased some replacement or extra cooling fans, now is the time to install them where you need them. Try to keep your cooling setup balanced, so there's as much air being drawn in, as is being blown out. In case you're not sure which way the wind will go, the plastic fan guards usually denotes where the air will come through.

Typically you want two fans in the front drawing air in and at least one in the rear blowing air out. You could also screw one or two more optional fans into the roof of the PC case for additional exhaust, if your PC case has mounting points for them.
3. Mobo Installation
Before we get to install the motherboard, you'll want to check on a few things about your PC case. Check for pre-installed motherboard standoffs, ensure the number and arrangement of them conforms to the holes found on your motherboard.

Secondly, see if your PC case has a large CPU cutout or window cut into the back of the motherboard frame. If it doesn't you may want to install any CPU cooler backplates and M.2 solid-state drives at this juncture.

Now that's done, first find your motherboard's rear I/O shield, and push it into the rectangular slot in the back of your PC case. Make sure it's right side up by matching the pattern of cutouts to the arrangement of ports on the back of your motherboard.

Next, lay your motherboard down inside the chassis - carefully lining up its rear ports with the corresponding holes in the I/O shield you just installed - on top of the standoffs installed in your chassis.

Then it's a simply case of securing the motherboard down with the screws that came with your chassis. Make sure you use the right ones here, as you don't want to thread the standoffs, in case you need to remove it at a later date.
4. CPU Installation
Next up, socket your CPU into the motherboard. Here's where things are a little different depending on which family and/or brand you decided to go with.

For Intel mainstream CPUs, slide the spring loaded retention arm out and up, then lift the bracket up leaving the plastic cover in place. Then, gently place your CPU inside the socket, matching the golden triangle located on the bottom left corner of the processor, with the triangle on the socket bracket.

For the next step, you should slide the securing bracket back into its original position so it locks in place underneath the screw, and secure the retention arm back down. During this process the protective plastic cover should pop off, so don't freak out if it comes flying at you. Be sure to stow the cover away in a safe place as it'll protect the motherboard's sensitive pins if you decide to remove the processor from the motherboard.

If you're installing an AMD CPU, fortunately installation is much less daunting. There's no bracket here, simply lift the retention arm in its raised position.

You should then take your processor and match the golden triangle on the corner of the Ryzen processor with the triangle on the socket. Once the pins on the bottom of the processor lineup with the holes on the socket, drop it into place. Give it a little nudge to make sure it's secure, then lower the retention arm back down and lock it into place.

Processor installation done, whew.
5. Memory Matters
Next on the agenda is installing computer memory. Push down the latches at either ends of the DDR4 slots on your motherboard. Then line up the notch on the bottom of the memory with the notch in the slot. After that, you can install the memory by carefully pushing down both sides of the memory into the slot. You should hear a clicking sound as the memory secures into place and the latches click back up.

Make sure you use the farthest and second closest slot from the CPU if you're only using two memory sticks. Complete that and you'll be good to go.
6. Cooler mounting
Here's the last complicate piece in the PC building process, CPU coolers.

Most third-party coolers require installing a backplate, which you may or may not have already done from step three of our PC building guide. Each individual cooler will have its own set of instructions your should follow, but the gist of most installations requires affixing a backplate and threading four pins though back of your motherboard.

From there you'll want to thermal paste if your CPU cooler didn't come with any pre-applied already. Users will want to squeeze out a small blob, around the size of half a pea, onto the middle of the CPU. This will spread out once your cooler is mounted, and provide a sufficient amount of thermal interface material to successfully transfer heat from the processor die to the cooler of your choosing.

For air coolers, you'll want to install most models with the fans unattached. Carefully orient the heatsink onto the pins or threads of the mounting plate and secure in place with any provided thumb screws or regular screws. After that it's simply a case of reattaching the fan to the tower, and plugging the 4-pin PWM fan header into the CPU Fan slot on the motherboard.

Liquid-coolers follow basically the same process, but require more upfront work. You'll probably have to attach fans onto the radiator and installing it into your PC case in advance. Depending on which liquid-cooler you're using, you may also need to plug in a second four-pin cable into a dedicated AIO cooler or optional cooler header on your motherboard.

This is also a good opportunity to plug in the rest of your system fans into any available slots on the board. Or alternatively, if your PC case has an integrated fan controller at the back of the chassis to route all your fans into, then directly onto the motherboard. It'll also need to connect to the motherboard via USB header.
7. Storage installation
Once memory is in, it's time to focus on some non-volatile memory storage, hard drives and solid-state drives. Our NZXT H400i happens to have a small SSD bracket on the front. Installing 2.5-inch drives into these caddies is a cinch, as you can simply slide it into place with the option of fully securing it with four screws.

Most modern PC cases comes with SSD bays of some sort. But if you're case doesn't, the 3.5-inch drive caddies typically reserved for hard drives should have compatible mounting points. No matter what type of storage drive you're installing, ensure the connection ports are facing towards a cable cut-out inside your chassis as it will make routing cables easier.
8. PSU positioning
Now you've got your motherboard, CPU and memory installed you're going to want to install your power supply next. If you've got a modular PSU, figure out what cables you need ahead of time, and plug them into your power supply first.

If your PC case comes with a PSU bracket, remove it ahead of time and attach it to the back of the unit. Next up thread the cables through the PSU slot in the back of the case first, and then slide the PSU into place, securing the bracket back onto the chassis.

Otherwise, on older cases you'll have to slip in the power supply in through the inside of the chassis and push it firmly against the inside wall as you attach it with four screws.

Depending on the design of your case, you'll want to orient the fan towards ventilation areas built into it. For most cases we suggest facing the fan downwards or to the side away from the interior of your PC. This way, your PSU can draw in fresh air and exhaust heat through the back.
9. All the buttons
To get your front I/O power buttons working properly, you need to plug in the correct cables. Fortunately, on our NZXT H400i, this is a single block that plugs directly onto the front I/O headers on the motherboard, make sure you orient it the correct way, then push it into place on the pins.

For everyone else, take the individual pins, and, using the motherboard installation handbook, identify which pins and cables need connecting. Try to do this part gently do, so as to not to bend the pins. It's important to note that any LED lights (HDD and Power), need to be oriented correctly, with the + and - cables installed into the + and - pins on the board.

It's also a good time to plug in your USB 3.0 header, USB 2.0 header, and audio passthrough. Audio is located on the bottom left of most motherboards. It will be labelled, and the pin outs will be different to the USB 2.0 headers. Install your USB 3.0 cables (denoted with a blue-colored end) into any available slots on the board, making sure to lineup the pins with the holes in the USB 3.0 cables.
10. Cable conundruming
Now you can plug in the rest of your power cables.

Identify your 8-pin EPS cable, and slide it up the back of the chassis, through the cable grommet and plug it into the 8 pin power slot at the top of the motherboard. Then, find the bulkier 24-pin cable, slide that through any cable routing recesses on the chassis and plug it into the corresponding 24-pin ATX power port on the motherboard.

Next up, take your SATA power and connect it to any storage drives. If you happen to have a something mounted onto the front of the case, run this SATA power cable through the PSU shroud, appropriate grommets or holes, and into your front mounted 2.5-inch drive. This is a good opportunity to plug in the SATA Data cables between any storage drives and the motherboard as well.

Lastly, you'll want to thread your PCIe power cable through the cutout in the PSU cover or any side grommets/holes, so that it's ready for when you install your GPU.
11. Graphically sound
Finally we have the last piece of the puzzle to slot into place.

First take a look at your motherboard and locate the PCIe slot closest to your processor. From there locate the two PCIe slots next to where you'll want to install your GPU and remove them. In most PC cases, that'll involve undoing two screws on the PCIe slot covers and removing them.

Take your graphics card out of the anti-static bag and line it up with the slots we just opened up. The rear I/O on the GPU should be facing out the back of the chassis. Once the gold contacts on your GPU make are touching the PCIe slot, gently push it into place until you hear a click. Then use the same screws we removed from the PCIe slot cover to secure the GPU into place.

Then it's simply a case of plugging your PCIe power that you routed in with our last step - and we have a fully built PC (mostly).
12. Into BIOS
Now the system's built, don't reattach all your panels just yet. First you'll want to make sure it actually turns on and runs properly.

Take your temporarily built tower over to your pre-setup computer space and plug it into power, a screen, keyboard and mouse too. Power it on, and mash the delete key to get into the BIOS screen. Check your CPU temp, make sure that's operating somewhere around 30-40 degrees C, and ensure that your boot drive is registering correctly.

If everything is showing up, now is also a good time to enable the XMP for Intel or DOCP for AMD to make sure your memory is operating at the correct frequency. Then hit F10, save and exit. Then power off.
13. Tidying up
Now that we're sure the machine is working, disconnect it again and bring it back to your workspace. It's worth doing this because you'll want to reattach all those PC case panels and tidy up any loose cables.

That means using cable ties to bunch together cables as much as you can. Most PC cases come to cable cut-outs to use as tie down points. Where they're aren't any, we usually use thicker cables to help push smaller ones flush against the inside of our computer chassis.
14. Installing Windows
Bring the system back to your computer space, where it'll sit forever - or at least until your next upgrade - as we'll want to install the operating system next.

Most modern rigs lack an optical drive to install your OS, so you'll need to create a USB install on another PC. To do this, download the Windows 10 Media Creation Kit and then install Windows 10 onto an USB stick with at least 8GB of space.

Then, once it's finished, simply plug it into your new system. Go back into your BIOS to tell your system to boot from the USB stick first. From there you can go through the prompts to install the operating system onto your new rig. Don't worry about not having a software key during installation, you can activate Windows 10 once you reach desktop.
15. Desktop maintenance
Once you're finally logged on, head on over to the manufacturer's website, find your motherboard, head to service, and download the correct chipset drivers for your system.

is a nifty tool to get all the programs you want fast without having to worry about installing each one individually is. On the Ninite site, you can select which programs you want, download the installer and let it run its magic. After that, go download and install the correct graphics driver for your card and you'll be all set to sit back and enjoy.

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How to build a PC: a step-by-step guide to building the best PC

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It might be hard sourcing PC components right now, but learning how to build a PC is still a fulfilling task, regardless of what the best graphics cards are going for right now. The process actually remains the same - you need to research and choose the components that will make up the you're trying to put together.

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If you are more of a visual person, here is a video explaining how to build a PC.

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How to Build a PC! Step-by-step (2020 Edition) | Robeytech

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If you decide to build or fix a computer you need to know the basic parts.

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Pittsburgh Managed IT Services, IT Support, IT Consulting | Next7 IT - Formerly Houk Consulting

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8 Standard Computer Components and What They Do - Pittsburgh Managed IT Services, IT Support, IT Consulting | Next7 IT - Formerly Houk Consulting

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Did you know that inside your computer are several easy-to-identify components? Here are the basic computer components that everyone can learn.

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Best stores to buy a laptop from

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Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

Laptops are a modern-day necessity. For home, school and work, it's hard to imagine life without access to the powerful tools, fast connections or entertainment a computer provides. No matter whether you're looking to play PC games, stream movies, create music, type up documents, share pictures, or stay connected while traveling, there's a computer out there that has the ideal specifications for your needs. Luckily, there are several great online retailers with great laptop selections to help you find that computer. Check out our list below for some great ideas to get started.

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The 8 Best Places to Buy a Laptop in 2019

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Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. Laptops are a modern-day necessity. For home, school and work, it's hard to imagine life without access to the powerful tools, fast connections or entertainment a computer provides.

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5 best websites to buy computer parts at.

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If you're building a new PC or shopping for upgrades, you need a trustworthy place to buy. Not all retailers are the same-some offer great discounts, good customer service, and even helpful tools so you buy the best gear for your money. This week, we're checking out five of the best, based on your nominations.

Building your own computer doesn't have to be super expensive, and there are lots of ways you can save money in the process. Earlier in the week we asked you to tell us where you go-online or offline-to buy computer components after you've put together your spec list. You weighed in with tons of great nominees, but we only have room for your top five. Here they are, in no particular order:

Dear Lifehacker,I'm in the market for a new computer. My friend says it's cheaper to...
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Micro Center operates both brick-and-mortar stores and an extensive online store, both packed with everything from CPUs and motherboards to pre-built computer systems, laptops, and monitors. Many people know Micro Center specifically for their often-incredible deals on CPUs, in many cases hundreds of dollars lower than available anywhere else online-and they appear frequently in your low-price list when you start building your computer at a site like PCPartPicker. Their physical stores are usually laid out and stocked like geek amusement parks, with tons of systems to play with, gaming consoles to kill time on, and plenty of opportunities to actually touch and try out the tech you're interested in before you buy it-not to mention a massive system builder's center packed with components, cables, cooling, tubes, and more-great for any system builder who's missing a cable or needs that one extra thing to finish their build and doesn't want to wait for shipping.

Those of you who nominated Micro Center also highlighted the popularity of its brick and mortar stores, and the great discounts and bundles available in person. They're not quite everywhere in North America yet, but they're in enough major cities to make them a great destination, and even if you're not close to one, their online store has much of the same gear at equally great prices. You can even order online for in-store pickup, and if you're running into trouble on what components to buy, their staff in-store is generally actually knowledgable, which is a refreshing breath of fresh air. Don't take my word for it though-read the love in their nomination thread here.

NCIX (and its US counterpart, NCIX US) earned the title of "Canada's Newegg" a while ago, but has since grown far above and beyond the comparison. NCIX is a juggernaut in its own right, serving both Canadian and US buyers with a wide variety of computer components on their website at highly competitive prices. Whether you need a new video card, hard drive, case, or CPU, NCIX has you covered. Their stock doesn't end there though, and the company sells pre-built systems, peripherals like mechanical keyboards and monitors as well. Their pricing is extremely aggressive, and if they don't have the best price on a specific item, they'll match their competitors. NCIX also operates a rewards program and newsletter for their customers that offers exclusive sales, discounts, and rewards just for signing up. The company is also committed to educating its customers and helping you make smart buying decisions, which we've seen through their NCIX YouTube Channel and their support for other channels like TechQuickie and Linus Tech Tips, all of which we love and have been known to post videos from frequently.

In its nomination thread, many of you showed your love for NCIX, and specifically mentioned that Canadian shoppers should ship through them exclusively, since they ship using Canada Post, meaning you pay less for shipping but get your gear sooner. You also called out NCIX's customer service for being exceptionally helpful, easy to work with on RMAs and DOA parts. Plus, if you're thinking about parting out a new computer but don't want to build or burn it in yourself, an extra $50 on your order means they'll assemble everything for you, test it, make sure it works, install your OS, and then ship the whole thing out to you. You can read more in its nomination thread here.

Newegg is a juggernaut, and for good reason. The company has been operating for ages, selling computer components and peripherals to system builders and enthusiasts for years and years. For many people, Newegg is their first and last destination when it comes to PC building, and even for those who wind up buying elsewhere, they do a great deal of their research at Newegg first to make sure they're buying the best gear at the best prices. Newegg doesn't skimp on the selection, either-literally everything you need to build a computer is available from their online store, with fast and affordable shipping, complete with enough tools and options to make sure you're buying exactly what you need, nothing more and nothing less-and that all of your components will work together when you get them. Newegg has comparison tools to help you make that difficult decision between one video card and the next model over, and their sales and discounts-especially around the holidays-are forces your wallet may not be able to resist. Their forums and customer reviews are well traveled, and while their customer service has been great in my experience, it's noteworthy that component manufacturers often hang out in their forums and in the reviews of their products as well, making sure their customers are happy and offering to make any issues right if someone gets a bad part or has another problem. Newegg also operates a pair of YouTube channels dedicated to helping you make smart buying decisions-their flagship Newegg TV channel, and their Newegg Products channel. On both they often post product reviews, unboxing videos, first impressions of upcoming products, and more.

The nomination thread for Newegg was massive, and like any major retailer, was filled with both praise for their fast shipping, great selection, amazing discounts, and great customer service....and full of complaints about those very same things. Most of you however highlighted the tools that Newegg makes available to help you compare products, check reviews, and learn more about any specific item you're thinking about buying. The community around Newegg-not just its staff-are passionate, intelligent, and genuinely helpful. There's a reason why Newegg was an obvious nomination here. Many of you noted that Newegg doesn't always win out on price, but they do win out on research and information, and depending on where you live, even their cheapest shipping can mean that your gear gets to you the next day. If you need any more reasons, check out the nomination thread here -it's packed with them.

The "store that sells everything" also sells computer components and parts, and usually at fairly competitive prices-even better if you're an Amazon Prime member and get free shipping on virtually all of the components you purchase. You have to know what you're looking for of course-Amazon doesn't make it easy for you to part out a PC or make sure components will work together or are compatible with one another before you buy, but they do offer a ridiculously huge selection of both common and obscure parts, new and old, so you can always find what you're looking for, either straight from Amazon or through an Amazon seller. Their prices are good enough that if you do use other tools to part out your computer, like PCPartPicker, for example, you'll wind up seeing Amazon's product listing in the top two or three most affordable versions of the parts you're thinking about buying almost every time.

In the nomination thread, many of you called out the fact that you used to shop at other part retailers and now buy from Amazon almost as often if not moreso-largely because Amazon just has everyone else beat on price. That makes sense-they're a logistical juggernaut, and they have the size and scale to compete with all of the other parts and electronics retailers while simultaneously undercutting them on price and shipping costs. Many of you even noted that you use those other sites to do your research, and then eventually wind up going with Amazon because of either free shipping or price. To boot, many of you also praised Amazon's pretty liberal return and RMA policies (something I can attest to-I bought some components from Amazon recently, had the shipment delayed several days-we feared it was lost-and Amazon overnighted replacements to me the next day, with just the promise that if the original shipment showed up eventually that I send it back to them) if you ever have problems with the items you ordered. You can read all the conversion stories in its nomination thread here.

TigerDirect used to have a bit of a bad rap, but the retailer has come a long way to position itself as a solid option for people looking for one more place to price check and score deals on computer components, peripherals, and software. They do have brick and mortar stores (although not many), but their primary business is through their website, where they offer a wide selection of PC parts from memory and CPUs to fully built systems and other home electronics. Their prices are often worth a solid look-while you may not think of them immediately, in many cases TigerDirect can sneak in with the lowest price on an in-demand item (like a 4K monitor or a popular SSD model) with plenty of stock and fast shipping right to you. They also operate a fan newsletter that's packed with exclusive deals just for signing up.

In its nomination thread, a few of you pointed out that their brick and mortar stores are worth a look if you have one near you, and pointed out that their inventory is solid, their site is easy to use and browse, and while they don't have the same comparison and shopping tools that other retailers have, they're a great option if you're shopping around for a good price on something that may be out of stock or more expensive everywhere else. Read more in its nomination thread here.

Now that you've seen the top five, it's time to put them to an all-out vote to determine the Lifehacker community favorite:

This week's honorable mentions go out to Fry's Electronics and Other World Computing (OWC), both of which missed the top five by just a handful of votes.

Fry's Electronics operates both brick-and-mortar and online stores packed with products, and is up there with Micro Center in that many people describe it as a bit of a geek's amusement park-somewhere you can go and spend all day browsing, trying out gear before you buy it, researching different options, checking out things you want to buy in person, and talking to other knowledgeable people. Their website is much the same-packed with a great selection of products at great prices. You even described it as "Costco for computer parts," and we think that's accurate. Check out its nomination thread here.

In the same vein, Other World Computing has been in business for ages, and while it was once primarily a site for Mac owners to find specialized gear for their computers (and to find great prices on Apple gear that often beat out Apple directly-not to mention one of the first places to offer upgraded and refurbished Apple products at great prices) the site has grown to be a great resource for all computer shoppers, whether you're shopping for a new PC or just looking for upgrades for your current one. Check out its nomination thread here.

Want to make the case for your personal favorite, even if it wasn't included in the list? Remember, the top five are based on your most popular nominations from the call for contenders thread earlier in the week. Don't just complain about the top five, let us know what your preferred alternative is-and make your case for it-in the discussions below.
The Hive Five is based on reader nominations. As with most Hive Five posts, if your favorite was left out, it didn't get the nominations required in the call for contenders post to make the top five. We understand it's a bit of a popularity contest. Have a suggestion for the Hive Five? Send us an email at tips+hivefive@lifehacker.com!

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If you're building a new PC or shopping for upgrades, you need a trustworthy place to buy. Not all retailers are the same-some offer great discounts, good customer service, and even helpful tools so you buy the best gear for your money. This week, we're checking out five of the best, based on your nominations.

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If you would rather buy your parts in person, this website shows the some stores you can go to.

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Online

There are a wealth of online locations that allow you to buy computer hardware, parts, and software. Below is a list of our recommendations.

Newegg - We highly recommend NewEgg. They offer a wide variety of hardware and software, and user reviews of each.

Amazon.com - Another great location for purchasing computer hardware and software. Computer Hope is also an Amazon.com affiliate, so if you visit Amazon using this link you also help us.

TigerDirect.com - Another good location to find computer hardware and software online.

OutletPC - Great company who also specializes in selling and distributing computer hardware.

Local retail stores

Below is a selected list of hardware retail stores and direct links to their websites. Many of these companies also allow customers to view and purchase products directly off their website.

Major computer manufacturers

Finally, many of the major computer manufacturers are also getting into the game of selling other computer hardware and software along with their computers. Below is a listing of some of these companies.

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Where to buy computer hardware parts for my computer?

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There are a wealth of online locations that allow you to buy computer hardware, parts, and software. Below is a list of our recommendations. Newegg - We highly recommend NewEgg. They offer a wide variety of hardware and software, and user reviews of each. Amazon.com - Another great location for purchasing computer hardware and software.

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The 8 Best Websites for Buying a Laptop Online

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Get the best laptops on deep discount from these 8 online stores. The best deals are on US websites. MyUS takes care of the international shipping.

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My personal recommendations and things to consider.