Desktop Pc

Desktop PC Price Comparison, Deals   Offers

Welcome to the world of Desktop PCs. We offer you one of the most comprehensive insights into Desktop PCs – the various technologies that surround them, the latest launches and other industry tidings. Not just that, we also let you shop for desktop computers from most top brands at prices that are cheaper than anywhere else in the world wide web

Choosing the Right Desktop PC

The Desktop PC essentially refers to the CPU or the rectangular case that houses all the processors, the storage devices, the drives or burners and the various ports or slots. However, these days, the terms 'desktop PC' is commonly used to refer to the entire set up, consisting of the monitor, the CPU and the other peripherals. In the following guide on choosing the right desktop PC, we consider the CPU only.

The CPU is the brain of the computer, where all the processing is done. It can connect to various other peripherals, and communicate with them to get the work done. There are various kinds of desktop PCs available, that come equipped with various kinds of components, for meeting different requirements. Here are 4 essential categories of users:-

For a General User

If you are a light user, who uses the computer to check emails, browse the web, socialise, upload pictures/videos, shop online and edit and work on documents, then a basic configuration computer can fit the bill. A dual core processor system, with 4GB of RAM, an integrated graphics processor (Intel, ATI or Nvidia) with 256MB or more of graphics memory, a 500GB hard drive and a dual layer DVD burner, should be ideal. You can choose between the Windows 7 Home Premium and the Mac OS X Snow Leopard (or later), for the operating system.

For an Entertainment Enthusiast

The above mentioned configuration, can also take care of basic entertainment needs. But if you want power-packed entertainment, then you can choose a desktop PC with a quad-core processor, a 4-8GB RAM, integrated graphics, 500GB to 1TB hard drive, DVD/Blu-Ray Drive and either Windows 7 Home Premium or Mac OS X Snow Leopard (or later). Then again, if you are into the creative works, like editing and working on videos, then more powerful components can be chosen. A 6-core main processor, and either a Nvidia or discrete ATI graphics processor with 1GB graphics memory, should be ideal.

For a Domestic+Office User

Here again, you can go in for a configuration that's recommended for the general user. However, you'll need to take care of security in case you handle sensitive data. A good anti-virus software and proper firewall settings should do the trick. If your work demands running intensive applications or a heavy workload, then a quad-core processor, a 4-8GB RAM and a 1TB hard drive, along with Windows 7 Professional OS can be chosen.

For a Hardcore Gamer

While the general user configuration will allow playing regular games, this might not suffice for a die-hard gamer. A system with a quad or 6 core processor, an 8GB RAM, ATI or Nvidia graphics, a dedicated 1GB or more of video memory, 1TB hard drive, Blu ray player and the Windows 7 Ultimate edition, can be suitable.

Coming to the price, you can get a general user configuration desktop PC for about £500. For the higher end ones, the price depends on the type of components built-in. A top-of-the-range system can run into £1000+ too.

Buying Guide

The Desktop PC has been ruling the technological world for the last 4 decades. Over the years these computers have evolved from bulky and hefty machines to sleek, attractive set-ups with a CPU case, an LCD monitor, a keyboard and a mouse. Essentially, the term 'desktop PC' refers to what we commonly call a 'CPU'. However, the CPU alone is useless, without a monitor and other peripherals like a keyboard and a mouse.

The standard components of a desktop PC are the processor, the RAM, the hard drive, the optical drive, the graphics card and the connectors.

• AMD and Intel are the 2 main processor-makers today. The processor is the brain of the computer and handles all its tasks.

• The RAM is a temporary memory which stores all active programs on the computer.

• The hard drive is the place where all files, and even the operating system are stored.

• Optical drives for playing CDs, DVDs and Blu-Ray discs can optionally be integrated within the computer.

• All sorts of display signals are handled by the graphics processor in the PC.

• Connectors of various types enable interfacing with other devices. Some of the common connectors are USB, IEEE 1394 (FireWire), eSATA, audio jacks and media card readers.

There are many players in the desktop PC making field - Dell, Acer, Asus, Sony Vaio, Apple, IBM, HP and Lenovo, are a few of them.

Will laptops beat desktop PCs?

Though laptops today offer almost all functionality of a desktop PC, the latter still has scope and will not be ousted by the portable workstations. In order to enhance mobility, the laptop incorporates components that are not as powerful as that of the desktop PCs. Portability restricts the upgradation of laptops beyond a certain limit. On the other hand, be it the hard drive, the CPU or the connectivity options, it is more easy to upgrade a PC than its portable counterpart. Moreover, the battery life of a laptop plays an important role in its construction, whereas, for a desktop PC runtime life is not much of a concern, as it draws power directly from the mains. There is one more field where the desktop PC scores better than the laptop - the parts of desktop computers are standardized. Hence they are more easily replaceable. Many offices and homes are still sticking with the desktop PCs. Laptops are more of an "on the go" device. However, if portability is not a criteria, then be assured that laptops can never set that adrenalin rushing as much as the desktop PCs, when it comes to gaming!

Ergonomics

This is an essential subject that has to be taken into consideration by every individual who uses a desktop PC. Arranging the computer properly, and sitting in a comfortable posture while working on it, is very important. If proper care is not taken, people who work for long hours on computers can develop RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury). Sitting in a relaxed position, with the back and the arms properly supported, and the legs rested horizontally on the ground, can avoid RSI.