Computer Running Slow? Upgrade or Replace

Have you noticed your computer running a little slow? Have you started to check out the new computer ads in the newspaper? Dont jump to the gun quite yet, it might be possible to upgrade your computer rather than replace it.

New computers today run the gamut from $300 to $5,000. It really depends on what you use the computer for.

Most of the upgrades you will probably want to look at like an improved computer processor, some more memory, or a new graphics card can cost between $25 and $350.

What you should keep in mind, is that it’s almost always better to try to stick a tad behind the best equipment you can buy. If you’re looking for a new graphics card, the top of the line models usually cost around $500-800, while ones that are just a few months older can be had for $200 or less. You’ll get almost as much power and save a lot by doing your research.

Computer processors seem to follow these same guidelines, by buying an older processor you can usually buy a great processor for about a third of the price of the best one on the market. Usually in the $200-300 range finds the best deals on processors. What youll find is that you get almost as much power as the top of the line at a fraction of the price.

In almost all upgrades, I recommend buying more computer memory. For just a $100-200 you can usually significantly increase the memory in your computer and this typically is the most cost-effective upgrade you can make.

You can usually upgrade most computers at least once cost effectively. By adding just a little better hardware, you can extend the life of your computer a few years and improve your computer experience. Moving to a brand new computer can be quite a large change, with whole new sets of software to get used to which is why most people resist moving to a new computer.

In most cases however, even one good upgrade can keep a computer useful for 2-3 more years, even if you cant upgrade again. And that means the computer you buy today could last you a good 5-10 years with good upgrade choices.

Computer Users that need more power, to play games or create videos will probably be better off getting a new system about every three years. That seems to be about the time frame that computing power doubles and prices fall in line.

There are multiple ways to move your data from one computer to the next, with the most popular being USB Hard Drives, or backups on CDs/DVDs. Make sure if you move to a new computer you find as much of your data as you can to move to the new computer to make the transition easier.

Some of the best deals on computer hardware can be found in your Sunday circulars. Oftentimes with rebates, you can get hardware much cheaper than what it normally costs. Of course you actually have to mail in the rebates, even I dont always remember to do that.

You should be able to identify how much it would cost to upgrade versus buying a new PC. Remember, memory first, then video card, then processor. From that information, you can make a logical decision of what makes more sense to you. It may make more sense just to replace, rather than going through the hassles of buying compatible hardware. However, the trauma of learning the ins and outs of a new computer may not be worthwhile to you. Its a tough decision but one that will pay off in the end.