For most
people, a recession means saving and cost-cutting. But if you’re
in the market for new computer equipment, this is an excellent
opportunity to upgrade your technology without breaking the bank.
One of the
benefits of the economic downturn is that many computer makers
are being forced to sell their PCs at dramatically reduced prices.
Right now, Dell, Gateway,
IBM and others are all offering
very capable systems for well under $1,000. In many cases, you
may have to be willing to stay slightly behind the cutting edge
in order to realize a significant cost savings, but you’ll
find that it’s well worth it.
Of course,
if you do feel the need to own cutting edge technology, you can
expect to pay a premium for it. Just don’t be surprised when
you stumble on to a better deal a month or two down the road.
One of the problems with new technology is that it becomes obsolete
almost the moment it is issued. Last spring, for example, I purchased
a new Gateway computer (and peripherals) for home use for approximately
$1,200. Now, less than one year later, Gateway is selling the
same model with improved peripherals and a faster processor for
well under $1,000. There’s no doubt that I got a great deal
at a time when I needed a new PC, and my purchase has already
paid for itself three times over. But I still cringe when I realize
how much the price has come down in just nine months.
If you aren’t
able to pay cash for new equipment, now is also an ideal time
to finance a computer purchase. The continued struggling of the
economy means that you can anticipate appealing financing offers
from computer manufacturers like Gateway, Dell and IBM. These
companies may also offer other incentives—such as discounted
shipping, free software (which I’ll discuss in more detail
next month), or extended customer support—in an effort to
earn your business.
New equipment
may not be the way to go for everyone. There’s a lot to be
said for refurbished or reconditioned equipment, especially if
you’re on a tight budget and only using your PC for e-mail,
web surfing and word processing. Most of the major computer manufacturers
offer refurbished systems, some for as low as $400. Regardless
of who you purchase your refurbished computer from, I strongly
recommend making sure that the equipment is covered by some type
of warranty.
Of course,
all of this said, make sure that you are able justify your equipment
purchase. In other words, don’t buy the equipment just because
it’s inexpensive, especially if money is tight right now.
If you aren’t able to forecast a tangible benefit to your
computer purchase, you might be better off waiting until you can.
If all you’re going to use it for is solitaire, buy a pack
of playing cards instead and save yourself $1,000.
