"Home" vs. "Business" Computers

Several times a month I get calls from clients who need new computers and want my opinion of the deals they see in the ads from the local “big-box” stores.  They want to know if these “home” computers are just as good as business computers sold by Dell or HP.  After all, the prices quoted in the ads are often very attractive, and nobody wants to spend more than they need to on a computer.
 
Before giving them an answer, I first ask some questions about their needs.  If they are a small, one-or two-person business, a “home” computer may suit them just fine.  If they are part of a larger office with people who need to work together, it probably won’t.  There are at least four areas where a “home” computer will fall short:

·         It doesn’t come with the right version of Windows 7.  Home computers come with the “Windows 7 Home Premium” edition.  This is intended for single computers that work alone.  If your computer will be connected to an office network, you’ll need the “Windows 7 Professional” edition.  This adds about another $90 to the total cost.

·         It typically comes with a 1-year, return-to-factory warranty.  Can you afford to wait several weeks for your computer to be repaired?  Business-class computers typically come with a 3-year, next business day warranty.

·         The advertised price doesn’t include Microsoft Office.  If you want Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, you’ll need to add at least another $200.

·         It’s not designed to withstand the rigors of an office environment.  For example, one common point of failure is the computer’s power supply.  A business-class computer comes with a more robust power supply than the typical home computer.  There will also be differences in other components such as the hard drive and the motherboard.

The bottom line is that there is no single right answer for everyone.  At TeamLogic IT, our goal is to establish a relationship with you by ensuring that the hardware and software you buy today will meet your long-term business objectives. We also make sure you don't spend more than you need to spend, or under-buy and have to replace your equipment in a year or two. To learn more, contact the experts at TeamLogic IT at 707-293-9525.