Specifications see how to determine how fast the computer?
Question
by Barefoot: What determines how fast a computer is when looking at the specs?
I have to buy a new computer over the weekend. What determines how fast a computer really is?
What would you recommend?
Best answer:
Answer by shevek1248
Well, the main things you want to look at are the processor speed and how much RAM the computer has.
More speed means that your computer can execute more operations per second, and more RAM means that it can swap things in and out of memory more quickly; both of these are helpful if you want your computer running smoothly.
Answer by Dave, the IT guy
Pretty much every component inside the computer case determines how fast or slow the computer is.
Your best bet is to set a budget for this new computer expecting that you will have it for 2-4 years and buy the best you can afford.
The main differences in speed will be between the processor (CPU), the RAM (memory), the hard disk(s), and the video card (GPU). Between these devices, a computer can be $ 300 or it can be $ 6000, it is all a matter of how good do you need your computer to do whatever it is you do on it. If you are just a casual web user, you can get away with a fairly cheap system. If you are someone who likes devices that perform well, and have the budget for it, you can get a really nice system that will really keep you happy for years to come for $ 2000.
Personally, I have a home built computer for my desktop ($ 2000 5 years ago), a VAIO for my laptop ($ 1000 a year ago), and a Dell for a netbook/tablet ($ 300 a few months ago). They each do their thing as I need them to, and they each can do something the others cant. So without understanding your needs and your budget, it is very difficult to make a recommendation.
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