Advice for Buying a New Computer
Buying a new computer can be confusing. Shops often advertise terms like Intel Core i3, i5, i7, i9, Intel Core ULTRA 3, 5, 7, 9 and AMD Ryzen 3, 5, 7, and 9, making it seem as though the number is all that matters.
In reality, it's only part of the story.
Don't Judge a Processor by Its Name Alone
Many people assume an Intel Core i7 is always faster than an Intel Core i5.
That isn't true.
The generation of the processor is just as important as the model.
For example:
An Intel Core i7 4th Generation (released around 2014) is generally slower than an Intel Core i5 10th Generation (released around 2020) for most everyday tasks.
Technology improves with each generation. Newer processors are usually faster, more efficient, and support newer features than older ones, even if they have a lower model number.
So don't buy a computer simply because it says 'i7' on the sticker.
AMD Ryzen Is Definitely Worth Considering!
Years ago, Intel dominated the consumer PC market, but that is no longer the case.
Today, AMD Ryzen processors offer excellent performance and are found in many high-quality laptops and desktop computers.
A modern Ryzen processor can perform just as well as, or even better than, a comparable Intel processor depending on the model and the task. For example, the Ryzen X3D models excel for gaming and heavy CPU loads.
If you find a computer with an AMD Ryzen processor that offers better value for money, don't overlook it just because it isn't Intel.
Think About What You'll Actually Use It For
Most people don't need the most powerful processor available.
If your computer is mainly used for:
Browsing the internet
Sending emails
Online shopping
Banking
Microslop Office
Watching YouTube or Netflix
Video calls
Storing family photos
then a modern Intel Core/ULTRA i3 or i5, or AMD Ryzen 3 or Ryzen 5, is usually more than powerful enough.
Spending hundreds more on an i7, i9, Ryzen 7 or Ryzen 9 may not make the computer feel noticeably faster for these everyday tasks.
Other Specifications Matter Too
The processor is only one part of the computer.
Often these components make a bigger difference to how fast the PC feels:
SSD Storage
If possible, always choose a computer with an SSD (Solid State Drive).
An SSD makes Windows start much faster, opens programs more quickly, and makes the whole computer feel far more responsive than an older mechanical hard drive.
RAM (Memory)
For Windows 11, 16GB of RAM is a good target for most people.
While 8GB is still usable for light tasks, 16GB gives your computer more room to handle multiple browser tabs, office programs, video calls and future software updates.
Please do not take Microsoft's word that 8GB of RAM is enough, as that is marketing targeting Apple users, as macOS runs better with lower recources.
Screen Quality
If you're buying a laptop, don't forget about the display.
A clear Full HD 'FHD' (1920×1080) screen is much more comfortable to use than older low-resolution displays, especially when reading documents or browsing the web.
Model specification really does matter in this regard. A laptop designed for home users generally have lower quality displays than a laptop designed for professionals, this is a cost-cutting measure.
Laptop models like the Dell XPS and Lenovo ThinkPad are going to have better displays on average than a Dell Latitude or a Lenovo Yoga, although this is not 100% true across the board, so do your own research as well.
We recommend looking for UHD (Ultra High Definition) Displays with a wide viewing angle and high colour accuracy if you want the best of the best.
Battery Life
If you travel or use your laptop away from home, battery life may be more important than having the fastest processor available. The size of the battery is not consistent across the board, so we recommend looking at the capacity in Whr (Watt Hours). For example, the Dell XPS 13 DX13260 advertises the battery as follows 'Primary Battery 3Cell, 52 Whr'.
We recommend that for someone wanting a large capacity battery, you want at least 8,000 mAh or 80 Whr.
Buying Refurbished Can Save Money
A professionally refurbished computer from a reputable seller like CPR Computers can offer excellent value.
For many people, a refurbished business laptop with:
A 10th or 11th Generation Intel Core processor (or equivalent AMD Ryzen)
16GB RAM
An SSD
will outperform many brand-new budget laptops while costing significantly less.
Don't Buy Based on One Sticker
Manufacturers often advertise the processor because it's easy to compare.
However, a computer with:
An older i7
A mechanical hard drive
Only 8GB RAM
may feel slower than one with:
A newer i5 or Ryzen 5
A fast SSD
16GB RAM
The overall balance of the system is far more important than one specification.
The Bottom Line
When buying a computer, don't focus only on whether it says i3, i5, i7 or i9.
Look at:
How new the processor generation is.
Whether it has an SSD.
How much RAM it has.
The overall build quality.
Whether it suits the tasks you'll actually perform.
A well-balanced computer with a modern mid-range processor is often a better purchase than an older "high-end" machine.
If you're unsure what to buy, ask for advice before spending your money. A few minutes of research can help you avoid paying more for performance you'll never actually use. With the advent of Google AI Overview / Google AI summaries, you can expect sponsored content over true information, so drop us a message, and we can help.