It doesn’t matter where in the world you go, there are still the same hard questions of life. Who am I? Why am I here? What happens to the second sock that goes missing in the dryer? And what computer should I buy?
(Note: This article covers only laptops/desktops/tablet with keyboard and does not consider things like all-in-ones, basic tablets, phablets, phones, or abaci.)
Credit: Randall Munroe; XKCD (www.xkcd.com/934/)
The answer is not as complex as many people make it. Marketers would have you believe that this product or that feature is the end all of buying points and that their brand is the best. To an extent their is truth in this – just like with all products not all computers are created equal. And such a significant investment shouldn’t be taken lightly. Let’s be honest. The perfect computer doesn’t exist. So, here is some advice to consider before spending your life savings on that new budget buster computer to end all computers.
Consider your needs. First, think about how you plan to use this computer. There is a huge difference in the requirements of a computer designed to power through the latest games, those designed for video editing, and those that sit around bored all day while you admire the latest cat pictures on Facebook. Right along with that increase in horsepower comes the increase in cost.
If you plan to use your computer for little more than typing documents, checking Facebook, and email (like most people) then you can get away with something average. Those who have special needs will already have an idea of what those requirements are and how to accommodate them so if you can’t think of any then you probably don’t have any.
The software you plan to use will determine what type of computer you buy, too. If you plan to use Final Cut Pro or GarageBand then a Windows machine is not for you. On that same note, some people are familiar with OSX, some with Windows. Choose whichever you prefer more and get that type of computer. (And let that opinion be your deciding factor in the Mac vs PC debate.)
Consider the future. Expect to replace your computer every 3 to 5 years for a retail computer- closer to 3 in Togo, 5 in the US. Ask yourself, if there will be special requirements for your computer in the next 3-5 years? If yes, consider that in what you just read above. (Note: This can be extended to 7 years if you don’t find any reason to upgrade.)
Consider your environment. For living in West Africa you should take special consideration to your environment. Dust and heat are especially a problem and will shorten your the life of any electronics that you might have. You can take preventative action to slow down this wear and tear but you will never stop it. If you’re working in the clean, climate controlled environment found in most US homes then this isn’t such a factor… but don’t expect to find anything like that in West Africa.
Another major factor is the compatibility, purity, and reliability of the electricity. All new laptops and most desktops come with automatic compatibility with all of the worlds grid systems and can be plugged in using a simple adapter rather than a 220 -> 110 converter. (But you should always check the power supply to be sure that it works with the 220V/50hz used in Togo.) The purity of the power available from the grid probably your biggest issue. Fluctuations in current will kill your computer faster than almost anything else (except dropping it). If possible, get a power purifier or better, a battery backup (APC) if you plan to stay for an extended time. Both of these are too heavy to put into your bag but can save you costly repairs and lost information… or worse. You’re not in Kansas anymore, Toto – or anywhere else in the West for that matter.
Consider this. Military organizations who deal with overseas power and generators use expensive, ruggedized equipment for a reason. They know that the climates of many regions of the world are rough on equipment. Togo is no exception, especially when the power is provided by a generator – just like in Mango. (That’s right, the whole town is powered by a huge diesel generator.) Extended power outages, surges, and brown outs are frequent. Expect to go hours and possibly days without power unless you have access to a generator.
But are some brands better? It’s hard to go wrong with any major brand. Each has benefits and drawbacks, mostly in services offered. Keep this in mind when considering benefits of each brand, warranty or service agreements means almost nothing here. There are no certified dealers, the nerd herd doesn’t work daily at the local electronics store, and sending it back or getting parts will take weeks to months. (There is an Apple store in Accra, Ghana but it will cost you almost as much as a new computer to get it there.) Look at the negative reviews and see what complaints people have had. If there’s nothing major then you’re probably safe.
How much horsepower do I need in a computer ? Regarding what hardware to look for, a benevolent salesman once said, “You might not always get what you pay for, but you never get what you don’t pay for.” He couldn’t be any more right. One of the biggest praises I hear about Apple products is that they are so reliable. For the most part this is true… but not for the reason most people think. Let’s take a $1200 Macbook. Even after Apples mind-blowing 40% – 80% markup that still leaves room for $600 worth of quality parts. Or you can go out and buy a $350 computer from some big electronics store. But the parts will never be worth more than $350. This is where the idea that Macs are more reliable originates. Comparing these is like putting a Smartcar in a race with a Formula 1 racer. They’re not competing on the same level – something the marketers at Apple conveniently forget to mention. If you buy an equivelently priced non-Apple machine you will have a computer that performs just as well and long.
What about used or refurbs? Refurbished, display model clearance, and open box computers are a great way to reduce the cost of an otherwise expensive device. If you’re buying a factory refurbished device from trusted retailer (aka not Craigslist, ebay, or a second-hand store) then there should be very little issue. Always be cautious and be sure to leave plenty of time to return it should there be a problem.
Ok, so really, what computer should I buy? You’ve considered all of the advice above and now you’re ready.
Once you know what you want to do with your computer, you’ll know whether you want Mac OS or Windows. If it’s a Mac then you just need to settle on how much money you want to spend because more money equals greater horsepower.
There is a basic rule when buying a non-mac – more like a guideline, than an actual rule. If a computer costs less than $600 at new, retail price before tax then you should take serious pause to consider the quality. That price point also reasonably ensures that you will have enough horsepower to keep you running for 3-5 years into the future with the help of some basic maintenance.
Godspeed in finding that good computer.
And while you’re considering it, be sure to invest in a backup… and use it! You’ll be glad you did.
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