If your computer starts running a little bit slowly, if it’s struggling with basic functions, or if you’re just ready for something new, you might be interested in upgrading your computer. But what exactly should that upgrade entail? And how can you upgrade your computer if you’re currently low on funds?
Upgrading vs. Replacing
First, take a step back and consider whether upgrading your computer is truly the right move. Computers tend to slow down and become less effective over time; this is a natural result of technology becoming obsolete and the natural degradation of complicated internal moving components.
If you’ve been struggling with these issues for some time, and if you’ve gotten lots of value out of this computer for many years, the better option might be replacing your computer.
If you search for laptops on sale, you can find thousands of options for any range of needs and any budget. In many cases, buying a new laptop isn’t much more expensive than upgrading your existing one. Depending on your needs, this could be the right move.
Getting access to a new computer means an almost immediate, guaranteed boost in your performance. This is also an opportunity to reassess your needs and buy the perfect laptop for you – rather than trying to make your old system work.
That said, if you’re not interested in replacing your computer, you might be able to fix or upgrade it.
Quick Fixes to Try
If you’re getting frustrated with your computer, consider applying these quick fixes. In some cases, they can resolve or mitigate the problem.
- Restart. It’s a simple solution, but sometimes it works. Fully shut down your computer and restart it. If you don’t do this routinely, it might be all you need to restore your computer to full working order.
- Scan for malware. Malware can slow down your computer. If your computer is infected with malware, you’ll need to get rid of it before it performs optimally. Run a scan to see if your computer is infected.
- Disable and/or uninstall startup programs. Check Task Manager to see where your computer resources are being expended. Chances are, there are at least a few startup programs hogging your resources unnecessarily. Consider disabling these programs when startup or uninstalling them.
- Free up disk space. If your disk starts to run out of room, your computer is going to slow down. You can fight back against this by freeing up disk space, uninstalling programs, and deleting files you no longer need.
- Clean the physical components. Sometimes, the slowdown is a result of accumulated dust and debris. If you take your computer apart and clean it with compressed air, you might be able to solve the problem.
If you’ve tried all of these solutions and you aren’t seeing any progress, consider replacing or upgrading your computer.
How to Upgrade Your Computer on a Budget
These are some of the ways you can upgrade your computer on a budget.
- Install an SSD. HDD hard drives are perfectly functional, but SSD drives are much faster. They’re also a bit more expensive, but in terms of computer upgrades, they’re quite affordable. Replacing your existing hard drive with an SSD upgrade could be exactly what you need.
- Upgrade your total storage. If you suspect your slowdown is due to declining disk space and you don’t have much wiggle room to free up space, the solution might be upgrading your total storage. Adding a secondary hard drive or upgrading your existing internal drive could give you exactly what you need.
- Upgrade your RAM. Your Random Access Memory, or RAM, is essentially the short-term memory of your computer. It’s indispensable for multitasking and certain types of performance tasks. Upgrading it is inexpensive and simple but could instantly make your computer faster.
- Install a cooling system. There are many ways to keep your computer cool – and it’s necessary to do so if you want it to reach peak performance. If and when your computer begins to overheat, it begins to slow down. A better cooling system, or even a simple fan, can help.
- Invest in peripherals. You may also have a better overall experience by investing in peripherals. An ergonomic keyboard, a better mouse, and a second monitor could instantly elevate your user experience and allow you to do more with whatever time your existing computer has left. This is especially valuable if certain components of your computer are failing (like the built-in keyboard on your laptop).
Sometimes, the right move is to apply a quick fix and keep moving. Sometimes, the right move is an inexpensive upgrade. Sometimes, you’re better off buying a new computer entirely. If you’re willing to experiment and at least consider these three options, you’ll eventually find a solution that works for you.