Patch Lady – what PC should I get?

So remember those old news shows that would do those Point/Counterpoint discussions?  I’m going to counter Woody’s recommendation to move to a Chromebook.

I’ve used Ubuntu, Chromebook, Windows and Mac and there are advantages and disadvantages to all.

The first step you have to ask yourself BEFORE you go shopping is how entrenched you are in the Windows ecosystem.  If you have older Windows software that you love (and probably will still work on Windows 10), older printers, and other Windows devices that you have in a peer to peer network Chromebook may not be for you.

I have a dear friend who had a child that she gave a Chromebook to.  She struggled to get school files off of the chromebook on to flash drives in order to turn in the project.  She struggled to get it to print on an older printer.  She was comfortable in Word and the Google docs was awkward for her.  For her she struggled with the Chromebook ecosystem.

Then I want you think about how much you use a browser.  Think about your daily use on your computer.  If you are pretty much in a browser all day long, then a Chromebook would work.  IF however you prefer a certain email client, or a certain desktop app, or a certain file structure, then Windows still may be the best computer for you.

Here are some definite do and do NOTs for choosing a Windows machine:

DO not consider ANY computer less than 150 gigs to 200 gigs of hard drive.  Anything less and you will be fighting windows bloat.

DO not consider ANY laptop or computer without a SSD drive.  Windows 10 is just happier (and you are too) with a SSD drive.

DO not consider ANY laptop or computer with less than 8 gigs, 16 gigs preferably.

DO be prepared to buy a computer with Windows 10 pro or upgrade to it to be able to control and push off updates.

DO be prepared to NOT use registry cleaners, minimize the use of third party antivirus software.

Now I’m not saying you should get a Surface device, but certainly if you need to have a Windows PC, you need to invest in one.

(Get the idea I’m not talking budget computer here?)

I don’t think it’s as mandatory to purchase Word or Outlook unless you are married to those platforms.  Libre Office is honestly so close to Word to be easily moved to.

I’ve even had good luck over the years in purchasing refurbished computers.  You get a similar warranty and it’s cheaper.

Bottom line you have to ask yourself how married you are to Windows or if you want to start the divorce proceedings.  It will be messy.  Things will be different.  Prepare yourself for yelling at your computer.  (I do realize you may be doing that to your Windows computer now)

But don’t just jump into a new relationship without thinking hard about you’ve invested into the current relationship and the impact.  We are moving to a browser based world, but…. but…. I’m still not convinced that we’re all ready for it in the same way and levels yet.