Before you buy a computer, make sure you have done some comparison between the models. Go over the list of the items and features (hardware and software) that you want in a machine and double check that the machine you are contemplating purchasing has the items built in. The below checklist is an easy way for you to compare computer models side by side.
If you would prefer to download the Checklist – You can Select
- Download PC Buyer Checklist in PDF
- Download PC Buyer Checklist in WS Word
| PC Checklist QUESTIONS / NOTES | Example: | Model #1 | Model #2 | Model #3 |
| BRAND NAME | HP ENVY 17″ | |||
Processor Name (CPU)
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Intel Core i7 2.7GHz, turbo boost to 3.5GHz 2 |
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| Operating System that it comes with (Does it come with Windows, Apple IOS, Chrome, Is it preinstalled?) |
Windows 10 Home
(64-bit) Pre-installed |
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RAM (memory) in GB (The more the better)
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16 GB DDR4-2133 SDRAM1600MHZ |
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Hard Drive Capacity (usually in GB or TB)
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1TB
Mechanical 7200 rpm No |
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Video Card (Graphics, Graphics Memory)
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Intel HD Graphics 620
Yes N/A
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Does it have additional Drives:
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Has DVD+RW
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| SD Media Card Reader (Allows you to insert SD memory cards) | Yes | |||
| Does it have Wireless Capability? (Can it connect to WiFi)
Does it have Bluetooth? (This allows you to connect devices like smart phones, cameras and fitness trackers to machine without wires) What is the Wireless Networking Card? (if its integrated it means built onto the motherboard. Separate Network Card is preferred but mostly unavailable in systems like Dell) |
Yes
802.11A, Bluetooth, 802.11bgn |
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| USB Ports (2.0 and 3.0)
Allows you to plug in things like keyboard, mouse, external hard drive, cameras etc |
USB 2.0 = 1
USB 3,0 = 2 |
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| IS the Monitor Included with Price?
Most Desktop or Tower Computers DO NOT come with a Monitor except the “all in ones” that have monitor built into the computer |
Laptop – Yes | |||
| Warranty: | 90 days | |||
| Price: | $1029 | |||
Additional accessories that might be useful, e.g., storage cases, furniture, extra cabling, surge protector, anti-glare/radiation screen for monitor?
Did we forget anything on this PC Buyer Guide Checklist? If so, please send us a comment below. We are trying to help those who may not be experts on Computers simplify the buying experience.
