Issue 30.15
This is a follow up to last week’s article about purchasing new computers that have Windows 7 included. As we mentioned then, if you purchase those machines now you have an automatic and free upgrade path to Windows 10 when it arrives later this month or anytime in the next year. Also mentioned is the fact that it is getting harder to find and afford those new machines as the prices are rising gradually and selection is getting smaller.
For those who would like this approach but are having trouble spending $600-$1000 for a new computer (a little less if you don’t mind a slower, underpowered computer), there is another solution. Used and refurbished Windows 7 computers are available in the $200-$400 range. These are also becoming scarcer as businesses and individuals are buying them up – wanting to be sure they can continue to use Windows 7 for the next few years.
These used computers are usually ones that were leased for 2 or 3 years by a business and then returned, refurbished and resold with just the operating system and basic drivers installed. You will still need to set them up for your internet, your printer and your software. Their expected life is 3-6 years after you buy it, but they are usually only guaranteed for 30 days which gives you time to make sure there are no components that are failing when you buy it. I guarantee them for 60 days and you can buy extended warranties for them as well – usually up to 2 or 3 years.
These used computers are not as fast or powerful as the new ones on the market, but they are sufficient if you need internet, email, basic document preparation (word processing, spreadsheets, power point, etc.) and simple game playing. They are not especially designed to play high end games or deal with extended programs such as CAD/CAM systems or in depth graphics creation. For the regular user, they are a good deal and an inexpensive way to move forward.
Finally, the offer of free upgrades to Windows 10 also applies to any Windows 7 computer that is a legal installation which these computers are. Any time from now until this time next year, you will be able to download and install Windows 10 on your Windows 7 machine. I personally am going to wait until it has been out for at least a few weeks to be sure there aren’t major problems like there have been with other releases such as Windows 8, Vista and ME.
It is nice to know that the option is there if you want it and especially nice that Microsoft was so embarrassed by Windows 8 that they are offering the upgrade for free. Whatever you decide – always remember to back up anything on your computer that is important to you.
Shaun McCausland has worked in the computer industry for over 33 years, 26 years of it locally with Bits ‘N’ Bytes and Musicomp and currently works as a computer consultant. If you have questions you can reach him at 435-668-7118 or shaun@musicomp.net.