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By now, everyone is familiar with the idea that as technology evolves, prices generally come down. The reason is simple: As Moore’s Law dictates, every two years or so, the number of transistors that we can fit into a chip doubles. At the same time, the cost involved in manufacturing these chips drops. It’s why even today’s most humble $100 Android tablet has over 700 times the processing power of the first Apple Macintosh, that would have cost over $6,000 in today’s dollars.
So given that computing power has been rapidly increasing, while prices have been steadily declining, does anyone really need a desktop computer that costs thousands? Couldn’t you be perfectly content with a cheap desktop computer? Well, as with all computer-related questions, the answer is, it depends. It depends on several factors, so we’ve assembled a four-step guide to help you determine if a cheap desktop computer is right for you...
Are you a gamer? Or does Minesweeper capture your idle moments? When you import your digital photos, are you simply sharing them on Facebook, or do you immediately fire up Adobe Photoshop to remove blemishes (and possibly the occasional photobombing stranger)? How you use your computer is the biggest factor in how much you should be spending on your desktop. If your needs are basic, a cheap computer will be just fine. Here’s some examples of basic computing tasks:
On the other hand, if your needs are more sophisticated, you may need to spend more money, or be prepared to upgrade your cheap desktop computer over time. Here’s some examples of more advanced computing tasks:
A cheap desktop computer can be very cheap. We’re talking less than $200. Of course, at these prices, there are some serious caveats, so not only will you want to have a good handle on how you plan to use it (see Step 1), you’ll want to make sure you’re not giving up an important feature, like software compatibility, or the option to plug in multiple accessories.
One of the ways computer manufacturers can bring down the cost of a desktop PC is by miniaturizing all of the components. Smaller, is often cheaper. It’s why we’re beginning to see more “stick” style PCs, which are designed to plug into the HDMI port on your TV. These inexpensive devices can usually run Windows, but they can’t be upgraded at all, and seldom have more than a single USB port for attaching things like external hard drives, cameras, or wired keyboards and mice.
Speaking of keyboards and mice, the cheapest desktop computers don’t come with either of these peripherals, so you’ll need to use ones you already own, or be prepared to add some budget to buy them. Unless you’re looking at an inexpensive all-in-one, you won’t get a monitor either.
Realistically however, a “cheap” desktop PC is any computer that costs less than $500. Within the sub-$200 to $500 range, you’ll find many more options, including machines which can enjoy extended lifespans through upgradeability, both inside the computer, and outside too.
What makes a desktop computer cost so much, or so little? Is there really a big difference between a $300 desktop and one that costs $1,000? The answer lies in the individual components that make up a computer: The CPU, the graphics card, the memory (RAM), the storage (SSD and/or HDD), the number and types of ports (USB, Thunderbolt, HDMI, eSATA), and even the case itself. In short, everything that goes into a computer can affect the price of the computer, and there is a wide range of options for each component.
The real trick to keeping a lid on the cost of your cheap desktop computer, is understanding what each of these components does, and how they relate to your overall computing experience. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common components:
Can you save some money on a cheap computer by buying all of the individual components, and building it yourself? Absolutely. However, we’re not talking hundreds of dollars, and in some cases it could end up being more expensive than buying a pre-built machine. It’s also not a good way to for those who aren’t technically inclined. Though not difficult, assembling components requires care and precision, and a rookie mistake -- like not grounding yourself from static discharge -- can ruin your components before you ever plug them in.
There’s also the question of warranty. Each component you buy will come with a warranty, but if that part dies, you’ll need to remove it from your PC to have it serviced, or replaced. A pre-built computer is covered under a single warranty, so any disassembly is handled by the service technician, and it’s them, not you, who is responsible for any damage that may occur.
Believe it or not, you can buy a cheap computer with all of the quality that a company like Lenovo is known for. These machines won’t win any speed contests, but they are rock-solid reliable PCs that have been designed for those with basic requirements, and small budgets. Take our Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 330 (20), as an example. It’s an all-in-one PC, which means it has everything you need: A dual-core CPU computer, a 19.5-inch display, plus a keyboard and mouse, for only $369. No need for a separate TV, and only a single power cord, which keep clutter to a minimum. If you’ve already got a monitor, keyboard, and mouse, you can save even more money with a $299 IdeaCentre 310s, a slim, Intel-powered PC that can be upgraded with more memory or hard drive space over time. Both machines come with 4GB of RAM, a good selection of ports, an optical drive, and integrated graphics.
Yes, cheap desktop computers do exist, and no, they don’t need to be assembled by hand, or bought from a brand you don’t recognize or trust. If your needs are modest, and you have a budget to match, these machines can be the perfect computing companion.
The product/accessories photo is for reference only
Above machine specification information is for reference only and it refers to the highest configuration which the machine is compatible with, yet some specific configuration or related accessories may not available in Hong Kong due to reasons includes but not limited to hardware supply limitation, country (local market) regulation and so on. Please refer to the specific model description for configuration detail before you place order.
Actual battery life may vary depending on application usage, settings, features or tasks selected, network configuration, operating temperature and many other factors.
Limits: Lenovo reserves the right to limit the number of units to a particular product that a customer may buy at any one time.
Availability: Offers, prices, specifications and availability may change without notice. Lenovo is not responsible for photographic or typographic errors.
General System Information: Review key information provided by Microsoft that may apply to your system purchase, including details on Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and potential upgrades/downgrades. Lenovo makes no representation or warranty regarding third-party products or services.
Pricing: Does not include shipping and handling fees. Reseller prices may vary. Savings referenced off regular Lenovo web prices.
Warranty Service: The Service delivery will be determined by the destination country/region subject to Service capabilities and parts availability in the destination country/region.
Lenovo makes no representation or warranty regarding third party products or services. The Lenovo Limited Warranty applies only to Lenovo hardware products purchased for your own use, and does not transfer upon resale.
Trademarks: Lenovo, ThinkPad, ThinkCentre and the Lenovo logo are trademarks of Lenovo. Microsoft, Windows, Windows NT, and the Windows logo are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Ultrabook, Celeron, Celeron Inside, Core Inside, Intel, Intel Logo, Intel Atom, Intel Atom Inside, Intel Core, Intel Inside, Intel Inside Logo, Intel vPro, Itanium, Itanium Inside, Pentium, Pentium Inside, vPro Inside, Xeon, Xeon Phi, Xeon Inside and Intel Optane are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other company, product or service names may be trademarks or service marks of others.
An estimated ship date will be posted on our order status site after your order is placed. The date reflected above does not determine when your order will ship since inventory status may change before your order is final and because items may be held until all products on the order are ready to ship. To obtain the latest information about the availability of a specific part number, please call the phone number listed in the masthead at the top of this page. A flat charge for shipping & handling may apply for certain orders, as indicated on the Checkout page.
The product/accessories photo is for reference only
Above machine specification information is for reference only and it refers to the highest configuration which the machine is compatible with, yet some specific configuration or related accessories may not available in Hong Kong due to reasons includes but not limited to hardware supply limitation, country (local market) regulation and so on. Please refer to the specific model description for configuration detail before you place order.
Actual battery life may vary depending on application usage, settings, features or tasks selected, network configuration, operating temperature and many other factors.
Limits: Lenovo reserves the right to limit the number of units to a particular product that a customer may buy at any one time.
Availability: Offers, prices, specifications and availability may change without notice. Lenovo is not responsible for photographic or typographic errors.
General System Information: Review key information provided by Microsoft that may apply to your system purchase, including details on Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and potential upgrades/downgrades. Lenovo makes no representation or warranty regarding third-party products or services.
Pricing: Does not include shipping and handling fees. Reseller prices may vary. Savings referenced off regular Lenovo web prices.
Warranty Service: The Service delivery will be determined by the destination country/region subject to Service capabilities and parts availability in the destination country/region.
Lenovo makes no representation or warranty regarding third party products or services. The Lenovo Limited Warranty applies only to Lenovo hardware products purchased for your own use, and does not transfer upon resale.
Trademarks: Lenovo, ThinkPad, ThinkCentre and the Lenovo logo are trademarks of Lenovo. Microsoft, Windows, Windows NT, and the Windows logo are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Ultrabook, Celeron, Celeron Inside, Core Inside, Intel, Intel Logo, Intel Atom, Intel Atom Inside, Intel Core, Intel Inside, Intel Inside Logo, Intel vPro, Itanium, Itanium Inside, Pentium, Pentium Inside, vPro Inside, Xeon, Xeon Phi, Xeon Inside and Intel Optane are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other company, product or service names may be trademarks or service marks of others.
An estimated ship date will be posted on our order status site after your order is placed. The date reflected above does not determine when your order will ship since inventory status may change before your order is final and because items may be held until all products on the order are ready to ship. To obtain the latest information about the availability of a specific part number, please call the phone number listed in the masthead at the top of this page. A flat charge for shipping & handling may apply for certain orders, as indicated on the Checkout page.