PC hardware, such as a microcomputer, is the most typical type of IT hardware purchased by small businesses. The value of hardware depends on its specifications, which in turn are determined by some key components. When buying PC hardware, you need to choose the specifications of these key components.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The processor is the driver of the computer. The higher the GHz, the faster the computer will run. You should buy the fastest processor you can afford, but multicore processors with two or more cores running at speeds of 2 GHz or above will normally be enough for most business functions, such as data processing, spreadsheets, and some multimedia. More CPU cores and higher speeds improve processing throughput and thus the perceived speed of the computer.

Random-Access Memory (RAM)

The processor uses memory to run programs. Generally, the more RAM you have, the better your computer will run when using several programs at once. Your computer should have enough memory to match the processor speed. To use multiple modern software applications effectively, you should have at least 4 gigabytes (GB) of RAM and preferably 8 GB or above for more memory-intensive software applications, such as design, photography, or video editing.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

The hard disk drive stores the data you create in your business, as well as the programs you use. A typical office computer will have at least 500GB of disk space. Most new laptops and performance computers include solid-state drives (SSD). These drives are silent because they have no moving parts and are five to eight times faster than the standard magnetic hard disk drives used in most desktop computers. Although SSD offers significant performance advantages, the price per GB of storage is often two or three times more expensive for the same storage capacity. Even with a price premium for an SSD, given the performance advantage vs the cost of a typical desktop or laptop, in most cases including an SSD is the best approach.

You can also use external plug-ins, such as USB memory sticks and portable external hard drives, to supplement your computer’s storage requirements.

Peripherals

The monitor is the computer’s display. The latest monitors use some form of Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) technology. Larger or ultra-wide-screen monitors allow you to fit two documents on-screen. Which LCD technology you should use will depend on its value and whether you need true color reproduction or high screen refresh rates.