Where do you get your information to aid in your computer-buying decisions?

I guess I rely mostly on what I read on-line and customer reviews weeding out the extreme highs and lows. I try to find a place where I can see and touch the procuct and/or see it in action.

 

I'm assuming the question refers to computers themselves and not computer-related purchases such as monitors, modems, software, etc.

When I'm thinking of getting a new computer, I consider what I've read in computer magazines and in Consumer Reports (I don't necessarily follow their advice but I do benefit from the information in those publications). What I've seen at on-line sites such as this one also enters into it. Since I tend to buy on-line and specify the new machine's configuration, it helps to know what should be avoided, what to pursue, and where's the sweet spot. The least likely source of advice for me would be a salesperson.

 

My previous experience with a particular brand has lots of influence on my next puchase.
Budo

 

I go to different sites, AnandTech, [H]ard|OCP and etc., that review the newest hardware and base my builds from there.

 

I have had nothing but Gateway 2000's, except in the beginning, one
"Leading Edge: with a 10 meg HD and a 4-color monitor.

They have done very well by me in replacing bad parts, in 1 case an entire
Tower. Of course me several phone calls to convince them the parts were bad.

savagcl

 

Previous experience and online reviews.

 

From my colleagues, Google, & outlet.dell.com which has been a good source of good computers (if you stick to the "business class ")

 

I normally do research at some of the specialty sites that I trust. Then I talk to people in the business about them. Afterwards I draw my own conclusion. Top Ten Reviews has been a big help for me in the past too!

http://www.toptenreviews.com/

 

I read the reviews all the big boys do from Maximum PC, PC Magazine, and other magazine and review sites. Then I do extensive research on what I am interested in to get further in sight to the product. I also use and review the user feed backs as they will give the best idea of what to stay away from. Plus having a relative that has hands no knowledge of new, present, and future products for end users is a big help as well. I also have 10 + years of computer, networking, and software experience so I pretty much know by now what works and what doesn't. Still it is nice having lots of sources for feed back.

 

BestBuy has some really knowledgable Tecs and are happy to help with hardware upgrades to do yourself. They explain and not just sell and most of the time you can talk with the same Tec.

 

Previous experience and questions in the forum.

 

Computer buying decision's

This is my first computer,and it's a Gateway.My decision to buy a Gateway was mostly based on the opinion of a ITT friend who has 3,also it was the Gateway reputation,and I should mention I liked the look of the Gateway products.I've owned the computer now over a year and I can honestly say that I have'nt been disapointed in my decision,but I will say that my next computer purchased will be based on the broad range of information I can gather from the vast knowledge Forums such as Windows BBS.
BIGEMANN!!!

 

I never buy a pre-built system I like to build it myself, as for parts I decide on
my own on what to buy. Yeah I read up on what is hot and what is not on a few
sites like Tom's Hardware, AnandTech, [H]ard|OCP but I take what they say with
a grain of salt and make my own decision about a product.

 

I always read the Fry's ads to find out what's on sale and if I need it. If I do, I'll Google for reviews to find out why it's on sale. I really don't like buying on the web, though. If you get it and it's DOA (or shortly thereafter), you've gotta go through the RMA brain damage and you're without your goodies for who knows how long. I prefer store-bought.

 

My last computer purchase was a decision made from internet browsing and in store consultation with a sales rep. I had previously dealt with this seller.

 

Mostly PC Pro magazine then online sites