With the computer and small business technology advancements, most business owners prefer computers to tablets and notebooks. The latter options are more convenient when on the go. Nonetheless, computers are more efficient due to their unmatched speed, safety, and space.
The right computer enhances efficiency and speed in your business. It saves time while promoting data accuracy.
A computer eases the flow of information. This makes team decision-making across departments manageable.
The list of the benefits of a computer in business goes on and on. The main challenge, however, comes in selecting the best computer for a small business. Here are helpful tips to guide you through your search.
Desktop vs. Laptop
Before embarking on your search for the ideal small business computer, the first aspect to consider is whether you want a desktop or laptop. Each of these choices has some pros and cons. It is up to you to weigh the upsides of each based on your precise business needs before making the final decision.
A laptop for small businesses is the best choice if portability is a paramount concern. It works best, especially for remote workers, because you can carry your work wherever you go. However, laptops are a bit more expensive than desktops, and the worst part is that they are not easily upgradable.
Desktops for business come with a range of benefits, all from speed, Affordability, and security. You do not have to worry about losing your laptop while away from the office. Thus, your business files are safe.
Desktops are also easily upgradeable, and with the right one, you can go for years without the need for repair or replacement.
Consider your precise business needs, keeping in mind that what works for another business owner might not work for you. Most businesses are conducted on-the-go, especially with digitization. If this sounds like your business, a laptop is your best shot.
Nonetheless, if you spend all your working hours on the business premises, consider getting a desktop.
Consider the CPU
The processor makes up an essential part of a computer. It is the computer’s brain. This means that your computer is as good as its central processor unit.
Different computer models have varying CPUs. The processor’s efficiency will determine how easily your computer runs other software that you wish to use each day.
There are two significant aspects to consider when choosing a suitable processor. These are the number of cores and the speed.
The clock speed establishes how fast the CPU can process information. The faster it is, the better. On the other hand, the number of cores shows how many activities the CPU can handle concurrently.
These two will determine how fast your computer can operate even when undertaking complex activities.
The only downside is that higher clock speeds and cores demand more power. Therefore, if you choose a laptop, you should ensure that you can access the power supply or have more than one battery. If you are using a desktop with high clock speeds and cores, be ready to spend more on energy bills.
Is the Computer Expandable?
Most computers feature a lifespan of 3 to 5 years. But that does not mean that you must get a new one as soon as this period elapses. The good news is that you can expand or upgrade the computer to keep up with the constant advancements.
If you feel that you are starting to outgrow your computer or you want to add a new feature for convenience, the right computer should let you do that.
Some important things to upgrade are the RAM and storage. Perhaps, your small business is not small anymore. You are now dealing with more files and inventory records. The applications needed to ensure seamless activities are also increasing, so you need more space to accommodate such needs.
Select a computer that you can upgrade or expand. This saves you money as you do not have to get a whole computer replacement. It also saves you time since you do not have to conduct a file transfer.
What’s more? You will not be forced to give up on that computer that has already become an essential part of your company.
Consider the Computer’s Memory
Computers feature two types of memory, the storage system, and RAM. And they are both critical aspects to consider when looking for the best computer for business.
Unlike personal computers, which do not demand a lot of storage space, the ideal business computer should accommodate the massive applications, files, and documents.
RAM is responsible for running the operating system and other applications when the computer is running. For instance, if you open an application and then start editing a document on your computer, all these are handled by the RAM. Its size will determine the speed of your computer and how well applications respond.
System storage, on the other hand, holds the saved documents and installed applications. It comes in two forms, the hard drives, which are located in the computer, and an SSD.
The former features needles that read the information in them. Contrary, SSD has no moving parts. They store data on computer chips.
Pay attention to how much memory your computer can take, as that will determine if you need extra space for storing business files. The larger the memory, the more convenient the computer is.
The Cost
It would help if you planned a budget for the amount you wish to spend on the computer. Computers cost anything from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.
A range of factors such as the brand, CPU, and memory play a huge role in determining a computer’s cost. Therefore, before setting a budget, establish the features you wish to have on your computer.
In most cases, low prices can scare off customers as it is associated with inferior products. But you can still get a quality computer without going overboard with the cost. You only need to take your time to compare prices from different vendors until you find one that suits your budget.
Some brands, such as Lenovo, offer high-end computers at affordable prices. You do not have to break the bank to own a fast and efficient computer. With a few hundred dollars, you can access an upgradable computer with large memory and high clock speed.
Be sure to involve your staff when setting a budget. Let them suggest the critical features based on how they use the computers. You can then price out computers with the specs and performance capabilities that the workers need.
Also, it would be best to buy an expensive but upgradable computer rather than getting a cheap option that will call for replacement after every few years.
Graphics and Display
It would help if you did not overlook the importance of graphics and design when choosing the best desktop computer or laptop for small businesses. This feature draws everything you see on the monitor, so you need the best quality visuals.
If you are doing a business project, a presentation, or working with 3-D graphics, you will need a fast video card to handle the processing. The video cards are responsible for processing the video card, thus eliminating workload from the CPU.
Similarly, when browsing or typing on the computer, you can go for the most basic video card as these tasks do not require much speed and memory.
When using a laptop, it has an inbuilt display, so you must ensure that you get the most adequate. On the other hand, desktops allow you to get a separate monitor to meet your graphics and display needs. The monitors come in different sizes with a range of graphic quality and resolutions.
Pay attention to this feature as it is the most crucial component, considering that you will spend most of your time looking at it.
Consider the Ideal Operating System to Suit Your Business
The ideal operating system mainly depends on your budget. There are three main operating systems, Apple OS, Windows OS, and Chrome OS. Each of the operating systems comes with advantages and disadvantages, so it is up to you to weigh them and select the perfect option.
Unless you are willing to spend thousands of dollars on a computer, you will be choosing between windows and chrome. Besides the cost, check the RAM and ease of operation.
Some businesses choose Apple OS for the image, but that does not mean that windows and chrome will not match up to your expectations.
Improve Your Operations With the Best Computer for a Small Business
In this digital era, nearly everything is done on computers. From product design, development to marketing and sales, you need a good computer for the job.
The tips above will make the search for the best computer for a small business manageable. In return, you are assured of efficiency and smooth business operations. Be sure to take your time during your search – do not make hasty decisions when you come across an attractive deal.
Keep scrolling down our blogs for more tips for a successful business.