5 Cheap Ways to Upgrade Your Computer?

Answer 1

We are still in an economic crisis, and many people are still without jobs. Is it possible to spend hundreds of dollars on new computers? The answer is that most of us probably can't. However, look at these five inexpensive ways to upgrade your existing computer for better overall performance.

Upgrade Your Hard Drive

A hard drive can typically go bad after about 2-3 years, so replacing it will help your computer improve performance and run faster. You can typically get a 500 gigabyte hard drive for around $125-$150 depending on where you shop.

Add More Memory

Your computer's performance will be better if you add more memory. Crucial.com is a website that can run a scanner to find out what kind of memory you have and how much of it. If you have less than 2 gigabytes, you might want to think about adding more memory. The cost per gigabyte is typically $40, which is very inexpensive.

Clean Your Hard Drive

After a few years, your computer will become slower. Consider purchasing an external hard drive that you can plug into your USB port. In a few hours, all of your files will be backed up, and your computer will be as good as new since you won't have all of those files bogging it down.

Switch Monitors

If you have an older desktop, you probably have the older monitor that came with it. Purchase a new flat-panel monitor and you'll be able to watch DVDs and be more productive by being able to have more than one program constantly in view. A new monitor is actually pretty inexpensive - search for a

refurbished one and save even more.

Leave it to the Geeks

The Geek Squad can drive over to your home and help you if you believe these technological devices are not your strong point. The Geek Squad typically charges $50 to install a drive, which is pretty cheap. Make sure to reload software yourself though, since the Geek Squad will charge you an arm and a leg.

Answer 2

It really is difficult to find money these days for the things we really need. A computer is probably more important than a television, but it can be difficult to find the extra money to purchase a new one. Here are some ways to budget for your new computer.

The Envelope Idea

It may seem a bit old-fashioned to use this idea, but it works. Take an envelope and label it "new computer." Then, take $50-$100 from each paycheck and place it in the envelope as if it was never part of your paycheck in the first place. By the end of the year, you will have almost enough money to purchase your computer.

Cut Down on Television

Cable is extremely expensive - some people will spend $130 or more on their cable bill. Try reducing the amount of channels you have, and ask yourself if you really need premium channels. If you can save money on your cable bill, then you can save that amount every month and put it toward a new computer.

Check with Your Employer

Sometimes your employer can take money out of each paycheck and you can receive that money at the end of the year and apply it towards technological devices. If you work for a cable company this is usually the case. You could also try to implement a program that employees could take advantage of and present it to your boss - they may just think it's a great idea.

Help Your Credit

Try to find a credit card or ask a family member to help you with a no-interest loan. If you could find a no-interest loan or credit card for 12 months, you could help your credit by purchasing a new computer and making payments on that credit card every month. This way, by the end of the year, you will have your computer paid off without interest and have a higher credit score.

Buy a Refurbished Computer

This may be risky for you, but a refurbished computer is just as good as a new one. Some companies even give a warranty on these computers for 6-12 months.