7 things you need to look for when buying a new computer

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There are tons of lists online that suggest what computer you should buy, but there are so many great computers out there that any list is incomplete.

You're better off knowing what will cater to your specific needs. That way, you can look for the right computer for you, even if it may not be found in the hundreds of roundups online.

Below, I've listed what kind of specs you should consider based on what kind of user you are, whether you're a professional, power user, casual user, or use a computer purely for email. Everything below applies to both laptops and desktops, as well as Windows and Mac machines.

Check it out:

High-end specs: Smooth, fast performance for professionals, power users, and those who don't want to wait for things to happen on their computers.

Who it's for: Professionals. Anyone who wants the smoothest performance no matter the cost. Power users who have lots of open web browser tabs, run several apps at the same time, or use power-hungry apps like Photoshop. Anyone with low patience for waiting for their computer and apps to work.

Price: Around $1,500 and up. More for Apple computers.

CPU: Core i7 processor and up

RAM: 16GB of RAM and up

Storage: 250GB SSD and up

Size and weight for laptops: Can be thin and light, but usually cost more and could have less power. Can be big and heavy, but don't cost as much with more power

Mid-range specs: Good for professionals and power users on a budget, and probably "most users" in general.

Who it's for: Professionals on a budget. Power users on a budget. Those with patience who run lots of open web browser tabs and apps. Casual users who don't use computers that often but want smooth performance when they do.

Price: Between $500 and $1,000. More for Apple computers.

CPU: Core i5 processor

RAM: 8-16GB of RAM

Storage: 250GB SSD and up

Size and weight: Can be thin and light, but usually cost more and could have less power. Can be big and heavy, but don't cost as much with more power

Low-end specs: Decent performance for casual users and people who don't really use computers that often.

Who it's for: People who don't use computers that often. And when they do, it's for things like emails, general web browsing and shopping, and home-related tasks like tax apps and so on. Can work for power users on a budget, but they'll need to have patience for the computer and apps to work.

Price: Between $400 and $700

CPU: Core i3 processor

RAM: 4-8GB of RAM

Storage: 120-250GB SSD and up

Size and weight: Can be thin and light, but usually cost more and could have less power. Can be big and heavy, but don't cost as much with more power

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