How to Choose the Right Computer for Your Child
>> Mar 22, 2012
When you buy a computer you will no doubt think about the amount of computer support you will need, particularly if the computer is for a child or young adult. This issue will be much bigger when you are buying a newer model of computer. Apple computers have a reputation for their ease of use but this does not mean that you will avoid all service and repair costs. It is likely that most schools will require children to have access to a computer and you may decide that buying a computer for your child is a worthwhile or even necessary investment. Here are some of the issues to consider:
Understand Your Child’s Ability
You might be surprised by your child’s ability to use a computer or laptop – there is a chance they will be better at it than you are. Parents often give their children older laptops, because they have upgraded their own. This can cause problems for your child, as outdated computers can have a range of user issues, including incompatibility with new software.
Laptop or Desktop?
This one is so easy to answer. Unless you are a high-level computer programmer or designer there is no need to buy a desktop. The speed differences are minimal, and laptops do not have the instability issues they used to. If you are using a wireless network, there will be no need for network support at home – just turn on the laptop’s wireless function.
What Is It For?
The planned use of the computer will determine what kind of power you need. Many people say that you don’t need a powerful computer if it is only used for surfing the internet but this is not the case. Most websites require a fast and powerful computer. A good way to save money is to buy a netbook. They are small, and often as powerful as larger laptops.
Research Is Key
You might be tempted to think that all computers are the same. They often look the same, but they can vary greatly. The more you know about computers, the better. Learning to type is a key computer skill, so it might be wise to avoid a tablet, which does not have a keyboard.
What Is Your Budget?
There are a number of ways to get your hands on a computer at an affordable price. Reconditioned models, which are almost like new, are available from professional computer repairs suppliers. Second-hand models are available from online trading sites such as eBay and this does not necessarily mean that they are old. Be aware though, that a second-hand computer is unlikely to come with a warranty.
Providing your child with a computer will cost money, but the advantages are numerous. Research your options and you may find what you are looking for at a very affordable price. There are also companies that have excellent laptop support for a small fee each month.
Understand Your Child’s Ability
You might be surprised by your child’s ability to use a computer or laptop – there is a chance they will be better at it than you are. Parents often give their children older laptops, because they have upgraded their own. This can cause problems for your child, as outdated computers can have a range of user issues, including incompatibility with new software.
Laptop or Desktop?
This one is so easy to answer. Unless you are a high-level computer programmer or designer there is no need to buy a desktop. The speed differences are minimal, and laptops do not have the instability issues they used to. If you are using a wireless network, there will be no need for network support at home – just turn on the laptop’s wireless function.
What Is It For?
The planned use of the computer will determine what kind of power you need. Many people say that you don’t need a powerful computer if it is only used for surfing the internet but this is not the case. Most websites require a fast and powerful computer. A good way to save money is to buy a netbook. They are small, and often as powerful as larger laptops.
Research Is Key
You might be tempted to think that all computers are the same. They often look the same, but they can vary greatly. The more you know about computers, the better. Learning to type is a key computer skill, so it might be wise to avoid a tablet, which does not have a keyboard.
What Is Your Budget?
There are a number of ways to get your hands on a computer at an affordable price. Reconditioned models, which are almost like new, are available from professional computer repairs suppliers. Second-hand models are available from online trading sites such as eBay and this does not necessarily mean that they are old. Be aware though, that a second-hand computer is unlikely to come with a warranty.
Providing your child with a computer will cost money, but the advantages are numerous. Research your options and you may find what you are looking for at a very affordable price. There are also companies that have excellent laptop support for a small fee each month.
