How do you know when to invest in new computers?
Posted on 19th September 2022 at 12:46

It used to feel like every time you would upgrade to the best possible computer system for your business, it would be an old model by about three o’clock the next day. These days it seems to have slowed down just a little, but the technological mill is grinding out new apps and software updates every thirty seconds.
Knowing when to upgrade your computers isn’t always easy to gauge. The advice can vary, depending on who you ask. Over the last year, some companies have upgraded their systems to accommodate Windows 11. However, if you’re not worried about the new features or you don’t have any software that specifically requires it, Windows 10 is still functional and will continue to be supported for some time.
So, how do you know when to invest in new computers?
Is your current computer or laptop broken?
It might sound obvious, but sometimes your computer is just beyond repair. If the cost of repairing a device outweighs the cost of securing a new one, then it is a no-brainer.
If you struggle to use your laptop, or keep crashing into the blue screen of death, then you need to speak to your IT Support Community. Make sure that your computer is definitely broken and not just in need of some minor updates before splashing out on a new computer.
Awful office or video editing performance
If a big part of your job involves doing tasks that require a lot of memory, often a fluid experience is important to your business and the overall result of your product.
For tasks like these, a strong multi-core CPU and plenty of memory will go a long way to keep the user experience fluid and responsive. It might be that you can upgrade both within your existing PC. However, the latest generations of CPU have pushed multi-threaded performance to new heights.
It might make sense to upgrade your computer rather than modify an underperforming device.


When there are fewer compatible parts to upgrade with
If your current computer is more than eight years old, or if you find that you can’t find many compatible parts anymore, it might be time to think about a new system.
You might also find that the cost of new components is approaching the cost of an entirely new computer. At this point, you might as well start again with a new device.
A new computer will likely be more expensive than individual components, but you will have everything you need in one package.
When your computer no longer connects to new technology
It surprises nobody that companies like Apple would rather you purchase a new device than just upgrade your current one to connect to new software. But it happens on all devices eventually.
If your technology, although it may be working well, can’t accept updates from software applications anymore, or doesn’t have the ports or connections to link to other new technology, then it might be time for a serious upgrade. However, check with your IT Support Community as there might be a work around.
For more information on this topic, or to discuss your computers, contact us on 01327 300 311, or email us on [email protected].
Tagged as: Blog, Business Computers
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