How often should I buy a new computer?

Question

How often should I buy a new computer?

Answer

Depends on how you, your employees, or students are using the computer, issues you are encountering, and what you expect out of the computer. Typically, most total cost of ownership studies conclude that users should replace their computers at least every four years. Below are some different reasons that may help justify the new purchase or why you may want to wait.

Is the computer(s) four or more years old?
Do you need (not want) better hardware (e.g. DVD drive, Disc burner, or bigger hard drive)?
Are you, your employees, or students often complaining about the computer being slow?
New software has decreased overall computers performance.
Is the software or games you're installing or wanting to install barely meeting the system requirements?
Do you want to upgrade to a more recent operating system (e.g. latest version of Windows)?

If you checked three or more of the above boxes it's time to upgrade. If you were unable to check at least three of these boxes it may be in your best interest to wait a few more months before purchasing a new computer, until then you may wish to upgrade.

Tip A slow computer can be caused by several different things that can often be fixed. Make sure to go through the slow computer troubleshooting page if your computer is just running slow.

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