Cheap Computers

As technology continues to evolve, cheap computers are more attainable. Many computer manufacturers would rather consumers invest in the latest and greatest, so prices for older models are slashed considerably. Nevertheless, it’s wise to determine your priorities and do some comparison shopping before making a final decision.

Choosing the Right Computer

More people are choosing the convenience of a laptop computer, which helps to drive down the price of a tower computer. This makes owning a computer easier than ever, especially if it’s the family’s first unit.

Location

Take into consideration where you’ll work on the computer. If you set up a homework station in the kitchen for the children, have a special office, or don’t have wireless Internet access, a desktop, or tower, computer is a more cost-effective choice than most laptops.

Uses

It’s important to determine the need for a computer. Familiarizing children with word processing and researching on the Internet are two skills that will aid them in life. Having the ability to keep track of expenses, send e-mail, prepare work documents, and other functions are helpful in day-to-day living. Knowing the basic tools the computer will provide helps to establish the benchmark by which you can start to compare models.

Cost

Most computers start at a basic $350 and run up to $1,200. This vast range is why it’s important to first evaluate the real use of the unit as to not be distracted by all the shiny bells and whistles available on the sales floor. Remember, with a well-built basic unit, you can load additional software or other features as your needs increase.

Where to Find Cheap Computers

You might be surprised at where to find cheap computers. Some deals may require a bit more technical skill, while others are simply being in the right place at the right time.

Prison Industries/State Liquidation Centers

Most states in America send overstock goods or used items to a special liquidation center open to the public. Many of these centers operate in conjunction with prison industry stores, featuring items repaired or manufactured by inmates.

When a state office or school makes upgrades, the overflow goods are resold at a liquidation center or at auction. Not only will you find discounted office furniture there, but also many computer components, including towers, monitors, keyboards, glare screens, and other accessories. Often, computer units are refurbished by the inmates and outfitted with software, while others are sold “as is” and are blank slates from which to build.

The policy of resale items varies per state. Contact a state department of administration and ask where excess supplies are sent, or search online for a prison industry center near you. Note that most of these places do not take credit cards, but cash or check only.

Factory Refurbished/Rebuilt Computer Stores

Although not as prevalent as they once were, retail rebuilt computer stores are still a great resource for cheap computers. Outlets such as Computer Renaissance specialize in factory refurbished units, as well as brand-new models sent to them as overstock by quality manufactures such as Dell, Compact, and HP.

Tech For Less is an online outlet specializing in closeout models, excess, demo/open box computer models, and peripherals. The stock changes constantly, and you may have to learn a little bit about computers to really understand the type of deal available. However, all name brands are represented and you’ll have a wide selection from which to choose.

Independent Builders

In your hometown, there’s probably a helpful computer whiz with a business setting up networks for companies. Often, many of these independents will build computers from scratch. They take your order and then put a cheap computer together with parts they get at wholesale. Some welcome new customers, while others may say they’re too busy and direct you to other options.

Because their overhead isn’t nearly that of a big box store, you can often shave a couple of hundred dollars from the final price.

Dare to Compare

If you don’t subscribe to a newspaper, invest in a Sunday edition to access sales circulars in order to uncover great deals on cheap computers. Many manufacturers promote new models in January, August, November, and December, so they are eager to clear out old stock.

If you have a particular computer unit in mind, jump on to Bizrate, Pricegrabber, or Froogle to see model-to-model and store-to-store comparisons. Often there will be free shipping and other important details noted to sway your decision.

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