Discover the Best Desktop Computers

The size, cost, and processing power of desktop computers or PCs can vary greatly. Still, they often outperform many laptops regarding performance and accessory support. Let’s look at everything to consider when choosing the best desktop computer for your needs.

What Is a Desktop Computer?

A desktop PC, designed for stationary use, requires external peripherals such as a keyboard, mouse, and monitor. When considering a new desktop computer, it’s essential to understand how components like the CPU and RAM affect system performance. Explore a range of computers for sale on the Shop Scanner website to find the perfect match for your computing needs.

Here are the main things to look at when purchasing a desktop computer:

Your Needs

The best computer specs depend on your needs. For instance, your PC’s required speed varies depending on what you want to use it for. With gaming growing at an alarming rate in SA, so do the requirements. A gaming PC has a quick processor, enough RAM, and a strong graphics card. Suppose you only want to use your computer for word processing and basic productivity chores. In that case, a less expensive desktop computer should suffice.

Desktop Processors

Although there are a wide variety of desktop CPUs, the majority are produced by AMD and Intel. Although they cost more than AMD CPUs, Intel processors often perform better. However, the number of cores and the relative performance of each processor are the primary differences between them.

Most manufacturers offer a performance rating system for desktop computers, although comparing different brands is not always simple. Your best option is to search for computers within your budget and then check to see if the processors have enough power for your needs.

Memory

RAM, or memory, greatly impacts how quickly and efficiently a PC operates. The performance improves with increasing RAM. Memory should have at least 8 gigabytes, but 16 GB performs better. Try to get the fewest DIMMs possible when purchasing memory to enable future memory upgrades.

Hard Drives

Most PCs come with solid-state drives for data caching and storage. However, some desktop computers still use hard disk drives. They are preferred because SSDs outperform HDDs in speed, efficiency, and durability. Size and speed are the two primary factors to consider when purchasing hard disks. There should be at least 1TB of storage on a contemporary desktop hard drive. While certain green or variable-speed drives use less energy, most conventional HDDs operate at 7200 RPM. Now that most motherboards enable RAID, you can install many hard drives on your computer.

Video and Graphics Cards

You don’t need a specialised graphics card if you don’t play 3D PC games. Consider a DirectX 12 card with at least 8 GB of on-board RAM if you’re a gamer. If you want to speed up non-3D operations, get a cheap video card. Performance, the card’s memory capacity, the output connectors, and the Direct X version supported are all important factors to consider.

External Peripheral Connectors

Examine the computer’s external ports to see what kind and quantity are available for use with future devices. You can still get a USB hub if your ideal computer doesn’t have enough USB ports. Ideally, a PC should have at least six USB ports. Thunderbolt and eSATA are two more faster ports that are particularly helpful for external storage. SD card readers are also a common feature on PCs.

Desktop Monitors

The screen’s quality is still something to consider, even with PCs that come with built-in monitors. The only real differences between today’s monitors are their size and price. Because they are the most affordable and can support 1080p full HD video, 24-inch LCDs are the most often used.