Online or In-store? Where should You Buy Your Computer?
Online or in-store? Where should you buy your computer?
Most people buy computers from one of three main outlets -a computer superstore, from a specialist and online.
Each have their advantages and disadvantages. Read on for our Informed guide...
Computer Superstores
These include PCWorld, Curry's, Dixons, Staples and Office World. However now even supermarkets are included in this category!
High street specialist Computer Shops
These are privately owned, run as local businesses and don't form part of any chain.
Online Suppliers
These include Tiny, Dell, Gateway and Simply Computers.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of buying your computer from the computer superstores?
| The advantages of the computer superstores | The disadvantages of the computer superstores |
| You get to try out the computer and see it in action before you part with your money. | It tends to be more expensive than buying from an online outlet. |
| You can usually take it back for a full refund if not entirely satisfied. (Read the small print). | It's a common complaint that staff at these stores have little specialist knowledge. As a result they may fob you off with what could be inapppropriate information. |
| It usually comes complete with operating system, some bundled software and easy to understand set-up guides. | Telephone helplines are sometimes on a premium rate phone number charging 50p to £1 per minute, and a simple query can set you back as much as £20. The support number for Macro and Staples, for example, is 0891 969 959 (April 99), which is a premium rate number. |
| Easy payment terms. | You may not be able to personalise your computer to your exact requirements. |
What are the advantages and disadvantages of buying your computer from your local, specialist computer shop?
Should the shop ever close, you lose your warranty. Quality may be an issue you want to look at more closely. You don't usually get deferred payment options. You may not get any fancy guides and setup documents.The advantages of your local computer shop The disadvantages of your local computer shop You are more likely to get a personal service You may not get a very competitive price. You can, in many cases, actually speak with the person who is building your computer and raise any questions you have with him/her. Should you need to take your computer back for whatever reason, local is obviously a lot more convenient. You get a computer built to your exact specifications.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of buying your computer from online outlets?
| The advantages of an online computer outlet | The disadvantages of an online computer outlet |
| Prices are usually more competitive. | Delivery may take a while. |
| Staff may be better at answering technical questions.. | Telephone helplines are sometimes on a premium rate phone number charging 50p to £1 per minute, and a simple query can set you back as much as £20. |
| You can usually spread payments. | Warranties may be Return to Base, which could prove expensive if you have to ship your computer back. |
| You can usually have your computer built to a specific order. | Contrary to popular belief, if you don't like your computer you can't just return it for a full refund. |
| It usually comes complete with operating system, some bundled software and easy to understand set-up guides. |
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