How To & More: Before you Buy a Computer

Excerpted from Buying a Computer For Dummies, 2006 Edition*

This section lists some general questions and answers. Hopefully, the one question you want to ask about buying a computer is among the following.

Should I get a quote?

The margins on computers are so low today that the dealer is probably giving you the best price it can muster. If you can find something a lot cheaper, it's probably refurbished or sold without any support. Remember, support is more important than price, especially for your first purchase.

An exception to this rule is when you go shopping on the Internet. In that case, you can use some handy tools to compare prices on exactly the same pieces of hardware and often find a deal.

Don't forget to factor in the cost of support, especially if you're buying your first computer. Even if you have a computer but haven't been shopping in many years, support is worth the extra price.

Can I haggle?

Don't bother haggling over the price unless you're buying many computers at a time. Otherwise, you just irritate the dealer.

The competition between computer stores is too great to allow for any haggling. The price you see advertised is usually what it sells for. Computers still have a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP), and you may see that ridiculous value listed above the store's "discount." Don't expect to get any more breaks than that.

Should I get a discount off the manufacturer's suggested retail price?

Yes, especially on software. The "street price" of all computer whatnots is always less than the manufacturer's price, a weird holdover from the days of haggling.

Isn't there any way to get a deal on a computer?

Yes, if you don't mind buying something that's going out of style. For example, yesterday's top-of-the-line computer is certainly a deal today! Computer stores push that inventory out at a discount just to get rid of it and make way for the newer, better, faster computers. Instead of waiting for such deals, however, you should buy the best computer you can afford today.

Is it better to buy from a noncommissioned salesperson?

Because most stores are either discount or locally owned, there's no commission to be made. If commissioned salespeople bug you, you can always consider going elsewhere.

What about buying a used computer?

A used computer is a bad idea for a first-time buyer. Why? Because you're cutting off your service and support, for not only the hardware but also any software they throw in. You get no guarantees or warranties with used equipment. For a second purchase, sure, but not when you're just starting out.

What about refurbished stuff?

Refurbished computers may be a viable option if they come with a manufacturer's warranty. The equipment is generally older, but can be much less expensive than purchasing a new computer.

Watch out for refurbished stuff masquerading as new equipment. Always read the fine print. The dealer must tell you that it's refurbished, but it doesn't have to shout its lungs out at you.

Copyright © 2008 & Trademark by Wiley Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Please read our Privacy Policy.