Whether you’re working on your graduate thesis, have yet to decide on a major, or still in high school, if you’re going back to school, it’s critical to have the right computer on hand. Although some laptop and desktop models will accommodate many people, different students have different needs; some may even require a custom-built computer! However, making a choice doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re in the market for a new computer, focus on the following factors.

Back to School Basics: Picking a Computer

Portability

If you’re like many students and prefer to have everything you need nearby, there’s no doubt you should get a laptop instead of a desktop. However, you’ll need to consider both the weight and dimensions. For example, if you’ll be toting heavy textbooks, lightweight models are best. Similarly, if you’ll be carrying a messenger bag, aim for something small. A great option that fulfills both of these criteria is the Lenovo ThinkPad L390 Yoga; weighing under 3 pounds, it's 13" size will fit right alongside a standard binder.

Peripherals

For those specializing in media and art, it’s good to have a computer that’s compatible with a variety of accessories. Of course, this will depend on your particular medium. For example, if you’ll be editing music or film, it’s best to have a computer with the appropriate ports for your equipment. You may even need to have a custom-built computer to accommodate this. However, if you primarily deal with digital graphics, you won’t have to worry about this as much. If you need to print things out, you will want to confirm your intended printer's compatibility, but generally, downloading the right driver is all you'll need to do. 

Processing Power

As mentioned above, every student is different; some will only need their computer for research and writing essays, while others will depend on specific software for every assignment. If you fall in the latter category, a desktop PC is better than most laptops regarding processing power. Additionally, if you’re doing things like editing videos and uploading them while also playing video games, you will want to look beyond a basic model. With a custom-built computer, you will ensure the processor and graphics card are powerful enough to do it all.

Whether you have an idea of what you want or you still need some guidance, head to Microworx in Rochester, NY. With 25 years of experience, a knowledgeable staff, and a large selection, they’ll help you find exactly what you need. If you have particular requirements, they also offer custom-built computers! Already have one that needs a few repairs or upgrades? They will do that too! To learn more about their computer services, visit their website or call (585) 271-0050.