How to Buy Computer Hardware?

How to buy computer hardware? Buying computer hardware can be quite difficult. There is such a wide range, that it can be bewildering to choose the right parts. However, it is important to have a look around at the different places so that you can buy the best piece of computer hardware for the best and most affordable price.

I have listed five options below, of places where I would consider buying computer hardware. I give the positives and negatives, and also my personal view. This doesn't mean you have to buy your computer hardware from this place or not, it is just my opinion. Hopefully you will know how to buy computer hardware by the end of this article.

1. Local Computer Shop 
   The local PC shop is a fairly good option for computer hardware. The little computer stores sometimes have good deals, but you have to be careful because quite often the computer hardware is over priced.
2. 
   
   The reason for this is because the computer hardware has to go through so many people's hands before it actually gets to that store, so the price is significantly increased and they often sell to those that are not that familiar with current prices.
   
   However it is possible to get a good deal at these small shops, you just need to be careful.
3. Large Retailer
   The large retailers such as Harvery Norman (Aus), or Dell, or JB-HI5 are another possible option for buying computer hardware. If you just want your hardware now and are not too fussed about the price and you want good quality assistance, then these retailers are the place to go. They will generally give quite a decent warranty and are willing to take your product back if it is faulty, while a small computer shop may be not be as willing.
   
   
   Personally I steer away from these stores, because of the overpriced tags. However, if you would like a good warranty and good customer service then its not too bad a choice.
4. Small Computer Retailer
   These small computer retailers are known for there excellent prices, poor customer service and for the messy looks of the shop and the difficult locations etc.
   
   
   However, these small retailers are actually very busy with people (usually computer nerds). The prices are what draw people to these shops. These retailers generally can get their computer hardware directly imported from overseas or directly from the manufacturers. There is no middle man, this means that they can sell their computer hardware for an extremely low price.
   
   
   You would not go to these small retailers if you didn't have any experience with choosing computer hardware, because they are usually full of people that know what they want. The staff are usually busy with selling computer stuff, or fixing computers, and may have very minimal english. This can make it difficult for those who don't know what they are doing.
   
   However, if you know what you are doing and are happy to look at cardboard boxes then this is the place for you!
   
5. Online Stores
   Online stores are another option for places to buy computer hardware. The prices are generally quite good, because they have so many other stores to compete with, and they don't have the extra costs of having a shop front, with rent, and staff etc.
   
   I am usually quite willing to buy from these stores. You have to be careful of prices, and also delivery times, and how long you will have to wait for it to arrive. I would not get too worried about online security, I bank online and have bought numerous items online without trouble. 
   
   However, it is important to make sure that the shop you go to is secure and you can generally tell that they are by a little lock symbol on your browser. 
   
   Possible online stores that I would recommend are:
   
   
   • Tiger Direct
   • TheNerds.Net
   • AllPCDeals Inc.
   • PC Universe, Inc.
6. Ebay
   Ebay is the last option in this article on how to buy computer hardware. On Ebay computer hardware has decreased significantly. Ebay is not a bad option for buying brand new or second hand computer bits. The prices are usually exceptionally good and you can pick up quite good bargains.
   
   There are big stores and retailers that now use Ebay as there major selling place and you can also pick up second hand computer bits that can be quite good for the price.
   
   When buying on Ebay it is important to check the Sellers feedback rating, to make sure that person is a reliable seller. Also you need to be careful when buying parts such as hard drives, and other fragile items because these type of items can break in the post (although unlikely).
   
   Personally I would recommend Ebay as an online store. I have bought and sold items on Ebay and haven't had any troubles. The items I have bought have been cheaper than the market and were good quality.