PC & Laptop Purchases - Retail vs Business

An important consideration when buying a laptop or desktop computer for work purposes is whether you should purchase a consumer model or a model specifically designed for business. Many computer manufacturers offer what appear to be the same make and model in both their home and business divisions, but they are actually not. Business computers are built to last, with higher quality components that are tested more rigorously. Parts used for consumer computers may be more generic or even cheap, while computers designed for professional use more often include higher grade materials and name-brand parts. This emphasis on durability means that the business class laptop or desktop you buy now should last you many trouble free years.

These computers offer more features for professional work, such as fingerprint readers, remote desktop control software, data encryption tools plus high quality mice and keyboards. The professional operating system version that comes on business PCs is also more suited for workers than the home version; Windows 7 Professional, for example, has features -- which Windows 7 Starter and Home editions do not have -- for easily joining a corporate network and using Windows XP software.  They are also bundled with business tool software such as backup programs, software migration and management tools.

Components in business class computers have longer lifecycles and models are typically available for 12 to 16 months. This means you can purchase the same model for additional staff as your company grows without having to change images or options.

Most business class laptops will feature aluminum or magnesium components that are more durable than the simple plastic components used on most consumer notebooks. This metallic case, internal metal structure, sturdier hinges and beefed-up display frame protect the system's innards from damage and help the business laptops handle the stresses of life on the road, stand up to scratches and survive minor drops and bumps. The battery life on business class laptops is generally longer than that on consumer device due to power management programs and better components. These business laptops also offer many more options such as docking stations, extra batteries and extended warranties not found on consumer lines.

Finally, business computer systems come with better support options and may be more easily supported by your employer's IT department as well. The default warranty on business computers is usually longer than those on consumer models and many offer onsite warranties or upgrades to 4 or 5 years. Business users also tend to get priority support, via a dedicated support line, and you can opt for on-site tech support available within hours rather than having to send in your computer for repair, which could take weeks.

At Northern Computer we service what we sell and can offer quick turnarounds on business class computers, laptop support and warranty repair. Like anything, you get what you pay for. Computers are an integral part of our business lives now and we simply can’t do without one. Investing in a business grade computer or laptop will provide your business with increased productivity, long life cycles, data integrity and reduced down time.

- Dave P, Senior Account Manager

Northern Computer - Your Trusted Partner
#1 - 495 Banks Road Kelowna, BC V1X 6A2
Phone: 250.762.7753 Fax: 250.861.1861 Toll-Free: 1.877.257.2896
Email: sales@northerncomputer.ca or service@northerncomputer.ca
Web: http://www.northerncomputer.ca