NEW COMPUTER THIS BLACK FRIDAY?
Black Friday is traditionally a time to take advantage of great sales on big ticket items, such as computers, printers, big screen TVs, tablets and smart phones. Advertising fliers and websites for big box stores, cell phone stores and Amazon.com are good places to start looking for deals.
New Computers
If your computer is older than six (6) years, it may be time to consider a new one, either a laptop, tower or all in one. Because of the shortage of microchips during the pandemic, the prices of computers are more this year than last ($450 - $950 depending on the speed and configuration).
If you get a new computer, it most likely will come with Windows 11 installed or as a free upgrade (Windows 11 is a different user interface that I have yet to experience myself). For a fast computer experience, look for CPU speeds > 2.0 GHz, memory > 6 GB, disk > 256 GB, and built-in Wi-Fi. Dell, HP, Lenovo and ASUS are the primary laptop manufacturers. See my article on tips to select a new computer https://computerandinternethelp.com/how-to-select-a-new-computer
You will want to back up the files from your old computer, if it is still working. See my article on how to back up your files. https://computerandinternethelp.com/backup-your-computer-files
Call Linda if you want help to select a new computer. We would be glad to also help you set up your new computer, transfer your files from your old computer, put software on it to make it functional for you and install good protection software.
New Printers
If your printer has been problematic, it may be time to consider a new printer. HP, Epson, Brother and Canon are the primary manufacturers of printers. Ink can be ink jet, laser or tanks. HP offers the convenience and price savings of their HP Instant Ink service. See my article about HP instant ink and how to get a free month of ink. https://computerandinternethelp.com/hp-instant-ink-2
New Tablets
Many of my clients have given up using their computers and transitioned to using a tablet for access to their emails, online banking, Google searches, and Zoom meetings. Apple IPad and Android tablets are your choices of device, depending on your preference of user interface and budget. Tablets can be Wi-Fi or cellular models.
If you choose an Apple IPad, and have backed up an older iPad, the new device can be set up to look exactly like your older iPad. See my article on how to backup your iPad or iPhone. https://computerandinternethelp.com/backup-your-i-phone-and-i-pad
Call Linda if you want help to set up your new iPad or Android tablet.
New Smart Phones
If your mobile phone is old, and possibly 'not smart', it may be time to consider upgrading to a new smart phone. The best place to look at upgrading your phone is with your cell phone carrier. It pays to comparative shop other carriers who may have better price plans.
Your choices are Apple iPhone or Android devices, depending on your preference of user interface and budget.
If your older device is an Android phone, you will want to back it up. See my article on how to back up your Android phone https://computerandinternethelp.com/backing-up-your-android-device
Large Screen TVs
If your television is an old, heavy 'boat anchor' or a smaller screen, it may be time to consider replacing it with a thinner, lighter TV with a larger screen. Smart TVs have in-built software to manage NetFlix, Roku, or Disney Channel services that you may have subscribed to.
Decommissioning your old equipment
Once you are using your new devices, you may wonder what to do with the old equipment.
You will want to make sure that none of your files or passwords are still on the old equipment. After you have transferred all of your files to the new devices, the best way to 'scrub' the old device is to set it to factory.
Goodwill and Best Buy have services to recycle the old equipment so it does not end up in a landfill.
Happy shopping for deals this Black Friday!
I am committed to protect your computers at an affordable price. Thank you for trusting me to keep your computers healthy. Contact us at 239-567-0104 when it is time to renew your protection software, or if you need computer and internet help to select and set up your new devices. Be well.
By Linda Lindquist, November 1, 2021 https://www.computerandinternethelp.com/contact-us
