A New Computer for Black Friday?

November 2024 | Nextworks

Let us give thanks for computers this Thanksgiving!

Looking to replace that old and slow computer? Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the best times of the year to upgrade that dinosaur. If you are in the market to take advantage of some of the smoking deals out there, here are some considerations.

Laptop or Desktop?

Choosing between a laptop and a desktop computer depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some key points to consider:

Laptop

• Portability: Ideal if you need to work on the go, travel frequently, or prefer the flexibility to move around your home or office.


• Simplicity: If have limited desk space or you just don't want to deal with monitors, cables, and external keyboards & mice, them a sleek laptop might be right for you.

Desktop

• Performance: Generally, desktops offer better performance for the price, especially for tasks like gaming, video editing, or running complex software.


• Ergonomics: With separate monitors, keyboards, and mice, desktops can be set up to be more ergonomic, reducing strain during long work sessions.


• Longevity: Desktops usually last longer than laptops. There are no batteries to wear out and keyboards can be easily replaced.

Food for Thought

• Laptop Batteries: Today's laptops usually have great battery life and can last all day. However, laptop batteries do not appreciate being fully charged. So, if your laptop spends 99% of the time plugged in at your desk then you can expect your batteries to suffer. They want to be used!

Ultimately, if you need mobility and convenience, a laptop is the way to go. If you prioritize performance and longevity, a desktop might be the better choice.

Consider a Refurbished Computer

PC performance has made incredible leaps in speed especially as hard drives have moved form a spinning platter to solid state. At first, new solid-state drives had the disadvantage of reduced capacity, but not anymore. Even entry level computers now often have lightning fast and large hard drives.

However, not much has changed in the last 3-6 years. Most people won't be able to tell the difference between a 5-year-old refurbished desktop over a brand new one. However, used laptops often do show physical wear and tear. Whereas, a refurbished desktop with a new monitor, mouse, and keyboard gives you a new computer experience.

Amazon has many refurbished computers available. You can find a Dell Optiplex Micro for as little as $200. Don't let the small size of a Micro desktop concern you. They don't have to be “towers” anymore.

Migrating Your Files to a New Computer

For home use, we suggest using OneDrive, iCloud, Goolge Drive, or DropBox cloud storage to keep all your pictures and documents. These services are all free. (However, they do charge for increase capacity.) This way when you get a new computer, you merely need to log into your cloud storage service and all your files will be available on your new computer.

In a similar fashion, if you log into your web browser (such as Edge or Chrome) all your bookmarks and stored passwords will be available on your new computer. (Mac's synchronize Safari with your iCloud login.)

For business use, we advise that this task be handed over to your IT team.

Reinstalling Your Software

Most modern software (like it or not) is subscription based. Microsoft Office comes preinstalled on almost all new PCs. All that is needed is to log into your Microsoft account. Other software such as Adobe, requires going to Adobe.com, downloading the software, and then logging into your account.

If you have software that is not subscription based, you will need to have the original installer and licenses and/or passwords. QuickBooks is an example of where you need your license information. (Any version of QuickBooks can be downloaded from Intuit’s website.

✎ Mac User?

Are you moving from an old Mac to a new Mac? If your old Mac isn’t too archaic, then Apple automates much of the process for you. When you start up your new Mac it will ask if you are moving over from an old Mac.

And That Old Computer?

Safely disposing of an old computer involves a few important steps to protect your personal data and the environment. Here's a guide to help you through the process:

Back Up Your Data

Before you do anything, make sure to back up any important files. You can use an external hard drive, USB stick, or cloud storage services as discussed above.

Remove Personal Data

Simply deleting files isn't enough, as they can often be recovered. Instead, you should:

• Wipe the Hard Drive: Use software like Darik's Boot and Nuke (DBAN).


• Factory Reset: For Windows, go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery and select "Reset this PC." For Mac, go to Settings, and search for "reset", the select "Erase all Content and Settings."

Deauthorize Software

Make sure to deactivate and/or uninstall any software licenses tied to the computer. This includes programs like Adobe Creative Suite or Microsoft Office.

Physically Remove the Hard Drive (Optional)

For extra security, you can remove the hard drive and destroy it. This ensures that no data can be recovered. Strike the drive with a hammer before disposal.

Recycle or Donate

• Recycle: Many electronics stores, and local recycling centers offer programs to recycle old computers responsibly. (See Free Geek.)


• Donate: If the computer is still functional, consider donating it to a local school, charity, or someone in need.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your old computer is disposed of safely and responsibly.

Need Help?

If you are replacing a home computer, we recommend your local computer repair shop for any assistance in the process. If this is a business computer, then Nextworks can help.

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