The most important thing is to think about what you need the computer to do for you.  If you’re only going to use it for basic word processing, then a standard desktop PC should be sufficient. If, on the other hand, your job takes you out on the road, or you want to be able to work from any room in the house, it may well be worth investing a bit extra in a laptop. In reality, the only people who typically need a Mac are those who work in a creative profession, such as graphic design. Then there’s the question of money.  Thanks to a highly competitive marketplace, you can pick up a decent machine relatively inexpensively – but continuing technological advances mean your computer can quickly become obsolete.  It pays to buy the best computer you can afford – that way, you should hopefully have at least a couple of years before you have to spend more money on upgrades.

Then there’s the scary bit. Computers cost a lot of money and every buyer has a fear that their machine will become obsolete very quickly. The best way to protect yourself is to buy the best computer you can afford – and then you’ll hopefully have at least a couple of years before you have to fork out for upgrades.

Here are some issues to consider:

Only you can answer many of these questions – in discussion with an expert who can tailor the system to your needs.
There are plenty of places that will sell you a box, but not all will give you the expert advice you need when parting with so much hard cash – choose your supplier carefully.