Outfitting your new computer with the right accessories can help you get the most out of your purchase and ensure trouble-free operation. But it can be an overwhelming task trying to figure out which accessories are already included, which ones you may already have at home, and which ones you may have to buy. In this article we'll help you sort it all out before you go shopping, making it easier to get everything you need in one trip to the store and helping you make budget-friendly choices.
Accessories that Might Come with the Computer
Some accessories will be included with the computer when you buy it, but some may not. You may also be able to select which accessories to include, which can affect the overall price of the computer.
- Software. Depending on where you buy your computer, it may already come with certain software pre-installed. However, for certain tasks you might need additional software; for help in figuring out what kinds of programs you may want to buy, see our article Choosing Software for Common Tasks. In any case, it's worth checking whether you can buy some or all of the software you want along with the computer, because the price may be lower than if you buy the software separately at a later time.
- Display. Also known as
a monitor, a display is often included with new desktop computer purchases. See our article,
- Keyboard. A desktop computer purchase usually includes a basic keyboard. However, if you want extra features like a wireless connection between the keyboard and the computer or extra keyboard buttons that do things like launch specific programs, control the sound volume, and so forth, you may need to buy one separately. If you are buying a laptop and want a keyboard, you'll need to buy it separately as well.
- Mouse. A mouse is also usually included with a new desktop computer. A wired mouse connects to the computer with a cable, and a wireless one connects via radio waves (and unlike a wired mouse, a wireless one needs a separate battery).
- Speakers. If you plan to listen to music or watch video on your computer, you may want separate speakers, instead of the ones that might (or might not) be built into the computer. Although separate speakers are included with many computers, you may want higher-quality ones, so it's a good idea to try them out in the store. If a desktop computer doesn't come with external speakers, make sure it has a built-in speaker, or you won't be able to hear the computer's sound.
Accessories You Will Probably Have to Buy Separately
For the accessories that you'll need to purchase separately, consider buying them at the same time as you buy the computer. It's certainly more convenient, and you'll also be able to take advantage of the salesperson's know-how when it comes to selecting accessories that are compatible for your particular computer.
- Cables. Assuming you want to connect your computer to the Internet or a home network, you will need a network cable or a wireless network adapter; see our article, Build a Home Network for more information. If you buy a printer or other equipment, make sure you have the right cables to connect it, because many equipment manufacturers no longer include cables.
- Printer. If you want to be able to print documents, photos, or other materials, you'll find a variety of reasonably priced printers. The choice depends largely on what you want to print and how often; see our article, How to Buy a Printer to learn how to choose the printer that best suits your needs.
- Router. You may want to connect a router between your connection to the Internet and your computer(s). A router lets you build a network that lets you share a single Internet connection, as well as printers and other resources, between multiple computers. It also improves security by adding another layer between your computer and the outside world. See our articles Build a Home Network and Setting Up a Print Server for Your Wireless Home Network for more information.
- CDs and DVDs. Depending on what kinds of drives you have on your computer, consider buying some blank CDs or DVDs to record on. Your salesperson can help you select the appropriate type to take advantage of the capabilities of your particular machine.
