Buying a new computer in Kenya is a significant career and financial decision. The amount of information a computer vendor offers may be inadequate to make an informed decision.
In buying a laptop, the variable is not the specifications but the user. You are what determines which computer best suits your needs.
Understanding computer specifications will give you an edge by matching your needs to your perfect computer.
Key Computer Components to Know Before Buying A New Computer in Kenya
The basic computer is an assembly of different parts that work in unison to achieve specific tasks. Let us look at some of the main components of a computer.
- CPU (Central Processing Unit)
- RAM (Random Access Memory)
- Storage (HDD and SSD)
- GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
- The display
- Battery life
- Connectivity
The Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain of a computer. The CPU handles all logic, arithmetic, inputs and outputs. CPUs consist of smaller Processing units known as cores and virtual lanes known as threads.
Cores
Cores are physical units in the computer that process instructions. Each core can process one instruction at a time meaning that a CPU with 12 cores can execute 12 instructions at a time, one per core.
For the average user, a computer with 4-6 on-board cores is sufficiently powerful. However, for gamers, video editors, animators and other high-end users, 4-6 cores will lead to performance issues, hence they need more cores to increase processing power.
Threads
While cores are physical units in the computer, a thread is a virtual lane that splits a core into two virtual units. The virtual lane enables the core to perform two instructions at a time. Therefore, a computer with four cores has four threads and can perform eight instructions at a time.
While multiple threads do increase the number of cores, they do not double the processing power. However, the multiple lanes come in handy when performing tasks that require multi-tasking.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Random Access Memory is a hardware component in a computer that stores temporary data that the CPU needs to run. It is the short-term memory of the PC and assists the pc in switching between tasks while remembering the last stage in each task.
There are two types of RAM, Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) and Static Random Access Memory.
- Dynamic Random Access Memory is the simpler of the two, with a single transistor and capacitor per cell. This RAM is renowned for its high storage capacity. However, it is power intensive and slow because the RAM stick has to be refreshed many times per millisecond to ensure capacitors receive renewed energy to keep them going as they discharge.
- Static Random Access Memory is the polar opposite off DRAM. This type of RAM is power efficient and significantly faster than the DRAM. It consists of up to 6 transistors per cell which are refreshed periodically unlike DRAM, giving it its characteristic speed and power efficiency. These features price SRAM above the DRAM, with DRAM being the prevalent option in most computers due to low cost.
RAMs generally have different storage capacities. The higher the number the higher the efficiency and performance you will get. For most users 8 GB is sufficient. However, as programs and software continue to increase in complexity; it would be best to consider buying a computer with more RAM to stay ahead of the curve.
Storage: HDD vs SSD
Your operating system, your files and all your long-term data is stored in a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or Solid State Drive (SSD). Unlike Random Access Memory, these two components store data for long term use and do no lose data after the PC is turned off.
HDDs and SSDs come in different capacities, from as low as 128 GB to terabytes of storage space.
While HDDs and SSDs perform the same function, they use different means to store data. HDDs typically store data in moving disks or magnetic platters, while SSDs store data in electric circuits.
If you are choosing your next computer, we highly suggest that you consider an option with SSD storage. SSDs provide a wide range of advantages including;
- High-speed data transfer – the data transmission speeds in SSDs eclipse those of the HDDs due to the absence of mechanical moving parts. This feature ensures that Access to data is instant in SSDs, increasing performance of your PC. While HDDs achieve read/write speed of 150mb/s, SSDs can reach up to 3,500mb/s.
- Durability – the absence of mechanical moving parts means that the SSDs last longer. They are less likely to get mechanical damage and last longer compared to HDDs.
SSDs are more expensive but they show value for money long-term by providing unparalleled performance and durability.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
The GPU is a computer component that aids the CPU in performing parallel calculations to achieve higher performance. A GPU mostly handles image and graphics processing.
Applications that require heavy graphics usage include; games, video editing software, animation software and 3D graphics. They use a GPU to split the tasks into smaller portions and work on them in parallel increasing performance and reducing workload on the CPU.
Integrated vs Dedicated Graphics
Graphics cards come in two main distinctions, the integrated and dedicated Graphics options. Integrated graphics cards are part of the CPU and deliver enough graphics processing power for tasks like, word processing, watching movies, and browsing.
A dedicated graphics card on the other hand is a stand-alone unit that is more powerful and has its own VRAM (virtual random Access Memory) to ensure optimal performance. A dedicated Graphics card is handy for users with high-power applications like, games, AutoCAD, video editing software and animation software.
The Display
Nothing gets more personal than the Display of your computer. Really, it is all about personal preference here.
Key Points to Consider When Choosing the correct screen type
- Screen size: The screen size determines the amount of real estate that you get when working. A bigger screen offers more screen space for multitasking while a small screen offers portability and flexibility.
- Screen Resolution: The screen resolution directly affects the viewing experience. The screen resolution determines how we the pixels from images appear on the screen. A high-resolution screen will consume more power but offer superior visuals.
- Refresh Rate (Hertz): The screen refresh rate is a measure of how many times a screen updates the images on the screen. This attribute appeals to people who need smoother visuals. For example, gamers playing fast-paced games enjoy smooth visuals while retaining amazing graphics.
For the casual user, a 60 Hz refresh rate will suffice but for heavy gamers, 144hz would be the go to.
- Panel: The screen panel refers to the part of your screen where the pixels appear. The panel type differs from user to user and can affect display, battery life and portability.
The main types of panels are:
- IPS (In-Plane Switching) – One of the best panels in the market offering the best viewing angles. Gamers who love soaking in the atmosphere of a game environment would benefit from this kind of panel.
- TN (Twisted Nematic) – While being one of the oldest panels in the market, these screens still offer the best speed and response times. These panels are still the best for gamers since they offer unparalleled speed and performance. Most standard users will find this panel appealing and good enough for the everyday work.
- Vertical Alignment – While not as fast as other candidates n this list, VAs offer better and improved viewing angles compared to TNs. This screen type is suitable for standard users and gamers.
- OLED(Organic Light-emitting Diode) – The OLED screens are a whole other technology and use different mechanisms to achieve the perfect picture output. They are fast and offer the best viewing angles. However, the main drawback of OLEDs is that they are significantly more expensive.
Battery Life
Desktop users can jump to the next section; we will be dealing with laptops in this section.
The battery life simply means how much use you can get from a single charge. This aspect determines portability and productivity. With a longer battery life, you can use your device from anywhere without worrying about constant charging.
Battery life is measured in Mill amperes (MAH) and the higher the number the better the battery life. 4400MAH is the standard in most laptops and can offer 4-6 hours of uninterrupted use.
Connectivity
In this capacity, the user determines the kind of connectivity to require in a laptop or desktop. A user who transfers large files often may require high-speed USB ports while a user who transfers large files may need a high-speed WIFI card to carry the load.
A graphics designer, video editor and 3D animators may require a high-speed HDMI interface to increase the working space by connecting to an external monitor.
How to Match Computer Specifications to your Needs
Before you buy a computer or laptop, ask yourself;
- What is your intended primary use? (freelancing, writing, video editing, studying or gaming)
- Do you want power or probability? Or do you want a combination of both?
- What software applications will you be using regularly?
Match your needs to the perfect computer
- For students: Choose a budget-friendly, lightweight laptop that offers both productivity and portability. A computer with 8 GB ram, an Intel Core i5 processor should suffice.
NB; if you are a student in engineering, video editing and artificial intelligence, your specs will be higher and you need to check your average use before you buy one.
- For writers and virtual assistants; these users are classified as standard users and a computer with 8 GB ram and SSD storage is sufficient for everyday tasks.
- Graphics Designers and Video Editors; this users are classified as power and performance intensive. A device in this range would typically involve a powerful processor like the Intel Core i7 and The AMD Ryzen 7, a powerful graphics card, high screen resolution and at least 16 GB of RAM.
- Programmers and Developers; Programmers and developers require a machine that is both powerful and offers more battery life to increase productivity. These users require at least 16 GB of RAM, a powerful processor like the Intel core i7, SSD storage and a powerful high-speed WIFI card for coding efficiency.
- Business Professionals; Choose a sleek laptop. A laptop with security features such as a fingerprint sensor to keep your data safe in case you lose the laptop. A core i5/i7 and at least 8 GB of RAM is sufficient for this user.
Conclusion
Buying a laptop doesn’t have to be complicated, do not let the computer specifications scare you, they are easy to identify once you know what you require.
- Prioritize what matters to you. If speed is key, focus on a good processor and SSD storage. If multitasking is your go to, prioritize more RAM and consider a GPU.
- Balance your budget with intended performance. Unpopular take, you do not always need the latest most expensive laptop. You can find a computer that meets your needs without overspending. Balance your budget and find the right laptop in the right price range.
- Think Long term. A good laptop can serve you for years. Before you buy a laptop, consider how your next laptop fits into your future.
The specifications in this blog ensure that you can comfortably choose the best laptop for yourself. If you have, any question reach out to us and we will be happy to help you choose your next laptop.
