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What to look for when buying a new computer
In the information age, it seems like the only thing worse than not having a computer is having one that is too old or slow to perform as needed. To stay on the leading edge of software releases, a customer really cannot afford to own an older computer.
Whether you are looking to the leading edge or just looking for your first family PC, this guide is for you.
Some of the most important details about computer buying are often overlooked by consumers. Do you know what your rights are concerning your computer? If you wanted to return your computer, could you? Is there a restocking fee if you return your computer for a refund? If you need repairs, are you going to pay shipping? Do you know what your warranty covers? If you need support, do you know when that support is available?
These questions apply whether you are purchasing a desktop or a laptop, and it is always important to research and know an individual company’s policies before committing to that company.
Your Rights:
Do you like to tinker? Welcome to the world of computers. As long as you have a careful hand and take appropriate precautions, you can upgrade individual parts on your computer for a lot less than it would cost to buy a new computer, but how does your computer maker feel about this? This is not an investigative report, so names will not be named, but there are plenty of computer makers (desktop and laptop) that place stickers over accessible portions of the computer’s innards which state, “Warranty void if removed.” If you think you may want to upgrade something in your computer at any point in time, make sure that putting in a new part is not going to cost you your warranty.
Computer Returns:
Computer manufacturers have a wide range of return policies. Manufacturers give you anywhere from seven to thirty days from the date your PC was shipped to decide whether or not you are going to keep it. Depending on how your PC was shipped and when it arrived, this could give you as little as two days to get everything set up and ensure that the system meets your needs. And what about restocking fees? Many computer manufacturers charge a restocking fee, generally around 15% of the unit’s price, which means that if you return your $1,000 computer within the return period, you will only be refunded $850. Every manufacturer has a policy on returns, so make sure you are aware of this policy before making your purchase.
Please be aware that, in general, computers do not fall under so-called “Lemon” laws. If you are concerned about your computer breaking down, speak with a sales manager before your purchase to find out if there is anything to protect you if your computer has to be sent in for repair multiple times in the first year, especially if that repair is for the same issue each time. Nothing is worse than finding out you are stuck with a bad purchase.
Warranty Repairs:
There are several important details that you should know about your potential computer’s warranty: Who covers shipping if repairs are needed? What components are covered? Does coverage expire on certain components before the warranty itself has expired?
There are several computer makers who now cover shipping both ways for warranty repairs, but this is by no means standard behavior yet. Many companies still require that the customer pay shipping to the repair center, and they will cover shipping back to the customer. You should be aware of who will be responsible for warranty shipping before you ever purchase your computer, and you should also know what kind of shipping will be used. Do they ship overnight back to you? Do they ship 2-day? Will your system be shipped back UPS Ground? If you know this up front, you will not be surprised later.
On laptop computers, it is equally important to find out what is covered, and for how long. If you purchase an extended warranty, for example, chances are extremely good that your battery and your AC power adapter will only be covered for the first year (these are considered consumable items).
If an accident happens and your screen is cracked, or perhaps a little water is spilled on the system, you will be responsible for any damages that result unless you take advantage of new “Accidental Damage” warranty policies, which, while they add up to $300 to the cost of your computer, can save you up to $600 if your screen is ever damaged.
Support:
Tech support is extremely important for your system. Is there a toll-free number for you to use? Is the support based in America or offshore? Is the support there when you need it, or only during business hours? What is the average hold time? Find these things out before you buy your computer and you will have a much happier experience if you ever have to call tech support.
If you keep these tips in mind, you will set yourself up for a much happier total experience with your computer.
