So, you've decided it's the time to buy the most current Computer. I am assuming here you have decided in opposition to purchasing the most current laptop or netbook and also it's definitely a Computer you are going for. Your first query should be 'What am I using this computer for?'

At this time, if you're a desk top publisher or even a high end gamer, you almost certainly know very well what you require. This short article isn't for you. However, if you're Joe Average, then you may find this article handy. The overwhelming majority of individuals use a Computer to surf the web to receive and send e-mail, and to open the occasional word document. Even the cheapest PC will perform these tasks commendably. In that case, you actually do not want to be spending more that £400 on your new Computer system.

Therefore, begin with all of the budget systems and as soon as you have extra requirements it is easy to add extra or upgraded components. Dell makes this easy. Too easy. You will never get through the shopping program without upgrading someplace - even if it is just the colour of your case. You'll be presented with an enormous array of upgrades from extra memory and larger hard drives to blue-ray DVD drives and Graphics Processing Units.

But be disciplined. Ask yourself - do I actually need this? As an example - storage. I have never used in excess of 200GB of storage on a hard drive. Unless you're storing films on it you will not need it either. So if the budget system comes with 500GB, you are not likely to require an upgrade to the 1TB one. You will never need it. And if by some remote chance you do, it is possible to upgrade on a later date. Most Desktop PCs have another bay for an additional hard drive. You won't even have to interchange your old one. Similarly, if your computer monitor, keyboard and mouse are on the desk and also the case is under it next to your feet, what would you need an orange case at an additional £30 for?

Moniters:

Get the best you can afford, I suppose. But I've got to inform you. Unless, they're sat in the shop next to each other - I can not tell the difference in picture quality. They're all pretty good these days.

DVD Drives:

If you've got a big collection of Blue-Ray DVD disks, by all means buy a PC with a Blue-Ray player. Evidently, you've got plenty of money anyway! Otherwise, you won't need one would you? All budget Computers will have a DVD player. Stick to that one.

Keyboard and mouse:

Don't be fooled into buying those wireless ones. I've yet to meet somebody who sat on the settee while typing using a wireless keyboard. Using a laptop, yes. But surfing the net 6 feet away from your monitor? Not a probable scenario.

Anti-virus software:

NO. NO. NO. NO. My personal pet hate. You should not buy it. MacAfee, Norton, Panda. Whatever. All rubbish. I know this, as I've said many times before I worked for an Anti-Virus company. You will need AV software but download Avast or AVG from the internet for free. AVG is faster and better.

Ram or computer memory:

Yes, when you're planning to upgrade, buy RAM. The more the better as your budget and Computer will allow. Much cheaper and more practical than purchasing a high end, fancy processor.

Software:

You are not likely to require more that Windows 7 home premium, so don't upgrade there. Maybe you'll want to purchase Windows Office. But personally, I would certainly download OpenOffice. It is free. It's very easy to use and it is possible to configure it to open and save in Microsoft Office format anyway.

Finally:

The ultimate reason not to be too carried away with a budget PC acquisition is because in a couple of years your Computer will almost certainly be obsolete. And like laptops, 2 years is about the time to replace a Computer generally, so there is not much point wasting your hard earned cash on one. At £400 that works out at £16 per month or around 50 pence per day. Start saving for the next one now!