Where would you say the best place to buy a computer is? Would it be cheaper to buu direct from the manufacturer? What sort of risks are there in buying things over the internet?
Hi Kalena, I bought my first system from a store about 4 years ago, the main advantage being I could physically see and have it demonstrated (all be it by a sales rep more interested in selling me the extended warranty). My present system I bought about 8 months ago online direct from Dell I paid around the same for both systems but got a far more advanced\superior system and service from the latter. As for as the risks involved in purchasing online you are buying more or less unseen apart from photos and description,I think if you stick to well known reputable manufacturers you are more lilkely to get what you order and within the stated time frame.Security seems to be a big concern to some,I have paid for many things online and have yet to experience any problems,like my account being emptied by some fiendishly clever hacker, or actually know anyone who has,maybe others know different( I might start a thread on this subject!).Telehpone the manufacturers customer support or orderline, if the site does not include any contact phone numbers I would strongly advise looking elswere.You could also do a search for the manufacturer using www.google.com under the groups tab and see what others think.Before entering any sensitive details like credit card numbers, look in the bottom right of your browser screen for a locked padlock icon indicating that you are in a secure area (you might also get apopup message informing you of this)if you can`t see one don`t enter details! Well that`s about all I can think of at present,other members will no doubt add their thoughts, but you don`t want your new computer to be the most expensive ornament in your home, so get as much advice and information as you can and take your time deciding. Good Luck.
This message has been edited. Last edited by: DorianGreyed,
quote:Originally posted by Kalena: Thank you, redder. Just out of curiousity, how reputable is HP?
Stanford University classmates Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard founded HP in 1939 so they have been around a while, and are one of the major players in the home PC market, so I would say they were a well established reputable company.Having not owned any of their products I can`t testify one way or the other as to their quality,reliability,after sales service or tech help.I do know a couple of people who have HP PC`s and have not heard them complain (well not about their PC`s anyway )
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