The main thing to consider in buying a computer is how you really use it. When you have made a decision to buy a computer, there must be a reason why you need to get one. Do you intend to use it to surf the Internet, to play games or to run a specific software application? If you need the computer for basic word processing or spreadsheet, you can buy a relatively entry-level system. However, if you need to run a lot of complex tasks such as graphic design or heavy game-playing, make sure you get a system with high speed, a lot of storage and room for expandability. If you will be using it for work all day, you will need to invest in a better monitor. To get the best value, spend your money on the components that best suit your needs. Let's look at some of the key features of a computer to help you decide what is the right computer for you.

Processor
The processor or CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of the computer. The performance of the processor, which is measured in megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz), determines how quickly the computer responds to the requirements placed on it. There are many different types of CPU and with different types of speeds. The higher the processing speed, the faster all the operations on your computer will be carried out. If you can afford the money, it's always better to get something a little faster, so that future software that needs more brain power can still run on your computer. If you are a graphic designer, computer gamer or have other computing needs that require a faster computer, then you should look at the higher-end system.

Hard drive
A hard drive is where your computer stores all the programs and data. When you install a new program, it goes on the hard drive too. If you have many applications on your system, you will require more hard disk space. It's a good idea to get the biggest hard drive you can afford as some complex programs take up lots of space and newer applications tend to be getting bigger in size. Media files require a lot of disk space that need a higher capacity hard drive where all the data can be stored.

RAM
RAM (Random Access Memory) is where the computer holds computer programs and information while it's using them. The more RAM you have, the quicker and more powerful your computer is. If you intend to run multiple or complex applications on your computer, find one with more RAM, as a shortage of RAM can really slow down your computer. You will always be able to upgrade your computer's memory space. Upgrades are fairly inexpensive and are truly worth the cost, so that your computer can be able to support new programs as you find the need for them.

Data Storage
There are different forms of data storage, the standard CD-ROM, the DVD-ROM, the re-writable CD-RW and the re-writable DVD-RW. CD-ROM/CD-RW can read CD-ROMs as well as write data to discs, providing huge amount of personal and portable storage space and a great way to make backups, copy software and create your own music CD's. DVD-ROM are faster while storing many times more data than CD-ROMs and also able to play CD-ROM discs. A DVD-RW functions the same way as a CD-RW but has much greater capacity.In the current marketplace, CD-R/CD-RW drives are becoming standard equipment on many mid-range and higher PC's.

While older computers were required to have a floppy disk drive, newer computers may not have one. This is the slowest type of disk drive and it holds the least amount of data. Newer computers replace the floppy disk drive with CD-RW drives.

Graphics & Sound
The graphic card controls the quality of the graphics displayed on your monitor. A lot of the computers sold today come with integrated graphics. This means that all graphic processing capabilities are built right into the motherboard. 2D graphics are the regular pictures and images that appear on your screen while 3D graphics are mostly used in games and imaging. Most computer systems come with video cards that produce acceptable 2D results but there are reasons to upgrade.

The sound card is either attached or built in to your computer's motherboard. Its job is to control the quality of audio in and out of the computer. Most sound cards that come with a new computer system will offer a suitable level of performance for average use. In your office, the integrated sound in your PC should suffice and is more than adequate for most work. Many computers now come with integrated sound chips. These sound chips are not as powerful as separate sound cards, but they are perfectly adequate for most users.

Monitor
Buying a monitor for your computer is almost a separate study. Choosing a monitor depends on how you intend to use your computer. If you are doing a lot of desktop publishing or image editing, you will need a bigger and better monitor. Some features to look for are the type, size and resolution of the monitor.