Computers seem to be a fustrating subject for most people, expecially when it comes to buying a new one.  There are so many different brands and choices out there that it can get confusing fast.  First thing, make a mental list of what you want the computer to do for you.  Second thing, don't plan on just getting an ad price because there is more to these guys that you think.  Third, go to a place that is known for having people with knowlage on products. 

So what are you going to be doing with a computer?  Please don't answer this one "home use".  Home use can be a million different things for everybody.  Usages on computers are just like snowflakes, there is no one with the same exact "home use".  For instance: "I basicly just sit down to relax and surf the internet.  I also check my bank account and do a little shopping."  Now that would be a spasiffic use on a computer.  If you play games, what kind of games do you play?  That can determine if you need a little higher of a graphics card in a computer.  What kind of other electronics do you own?  Say you have a digital camera, you might want something with a little higher of a harddrive inside, or even something with a memory card reader built in.  Do you have a HD TV at home too?  Well you might want to look into a computer with and HDMI port on it so you can hook it up to the tv and have a huge monitor. 

"Awesome, this comptuer is only $399.99, so what is that after tax?"  Yeah we all see these "sweet" deals in the paper every sunday, but do you know what is included with the machine.  Almost nothing!  Brand new out of a box a computer is not ready to be used.  Most computers do not even come with the disks in the box anymore either.  I have been working in electronics sales long enough to know that a lot of people have problems with the initail set up of these beasts.  Now are you in school or is this computer for a student?  Do you type personal or business papers and reports?  Do you do any kind of spreadsheets?  Or even a presination here or there?  What I am getting to with this is your Microsoft Office (Word, Powerpoint, Excel, ect.) is not included with most machines anymore either.  So if you do plan on even basic typing of papers plan to add at least another $150 to the price. 

So why are you buying a new computer?  Did something go wrong with your last machine?  Is it running way too slow?  There are usually problems that occur with computers that lead all of us to replace them.  Especially with an average life of 2 to 4 years on them.  A lot of places offer protections for that reason.  Another couple of hundred might sound like a lot and seem like people are nickle and dimming you, but in the long run it is well worth it.  "But don't I get a warranty from the manufacture?"  Yes, and if something happens you usually will either pay shipping, be with out a computer for months, or have the part sent to you and have to replace them yourself.  Those are the best case scenarios.  A manufacture warranty covers only what they see fit as a defect.  What normally kills out computers isn't manufacture defects, it's the normal wear to a machine.  It can also be heat and dust damage.  When someone offers you protection on a computer, see what it covers.  If it does cover the normal wear to a computer, heat and dust damage, or even accident (especially with notebooks because those cost add up fast to fix) it usually is worth it.  Some stores even through in added bonuses such as batter and charge replacement, which is usually would be more expensive buying on your own vs. the price of the protection.  Also if you can bring the computer into the store to a technician it's usually better than shipping it out on your own.  Also a few store even give you lemon policies, which is amazing because if there are multiple problems with a computer they will usually replace it out with the most comparable in technology. 

On top of protection services, most store even have technitians in the stores to help with the start up of a computer.  Always a plus, because they know what they are doing for the most part.  It can take a lot of stress out of the whole technology changing thing. 

Another big thing not to forget is you ANTI-VIRUS/ANTI-SPYWARE!!!  I can not stress that enough, because no matter if you get the protection places offer, your software is not covered.  Fixing a problem like that can lead to hundreds of dollars in repair.  Not fun.  So protect yourself, it's worth the cost.

Last of all, when your ready to purchase go to a store that you know they have smart associates.  Larger electronics retailers are usually the best places to go.  Why?  Because when they "specialize" in electronics (not everything and anything places to buy products) they are trained.  Places that you can go any buy a computer, your groceries, some toilet paper, and tires usually do NOT employ knowledgeable associates for computers and other electronics (I recommend avoid those places for this stuff).  Also a lot of the Electronics Specialty stores offer price match policies, so if you are still looking for the best bang for the buck they will give it to you.  Oh by the way computer prices are pretty much across the board of being equivalent.  But why go to a place where people know their stuff?  Because they will help you pick out what you need and what you need to get going with it.

HAPPY COMPUTER SHOPPING!!