An ad-block browser extension is one of the first things I install on a new computer and browser. As the name suggests, the main use of an ad-blocker is to block ads on websites and Youtube videos. But what you might not notice or know is that having an ad-block on your browser makes your internet experience safer for you.
One way many people get scammed online is because a popup tells them they have a virus, they call that number, and get scammed. But, if you have ad-block on your browser, you will never see those scam popups. Another, less scammy, but similarly disingenuous thing ad-block blocks are “sponsored results” on Google search and other pages. When you used to search google, all results below would be organic search results, but now, Google sells ad space in place of the first few results. With an ad-block browser extension these sponsored results will be blocked.
The ad-block extension I and many others use for Chrome and Firefox is u-block origin.
$200-$500 – This computer will allow you to browse the web, write documents, check email, and do other light online activities. You can do some light photo editing on it, but you will notice the lack of performance and will be limited by the small hard drive. This computer can last you as long as a more expensive computer, but after a 1-2 years, you will notice an overall slowdown.
$500-$900 – This is a sweet spot between performance, affordability, and longevity. It can handle everyday things like online browsing, emails, and word docs, as well as more graphic intensive applications like editing photos without much of a drop in performance. This computer will most likely last you 3-5 years before you notice any type of slow down. And even then, you’ll notice a smaller drop in speed vs the cheaper computer above. This is also a price point where you might find more expensive computers on sale ($1000 computer on sale for $800).
$900+ – More money spent means more performance, more longevity, and more hard drive space. This computer should set you up to have a very fast computer for at least 5-6 years, if not longer (depending on what you buy and what you want to do with it), and then when it might start slowing down, it will be even less noticeable than the medium priced computers. This computer should be able to handle anything you throw at it (media editing, online use, graphic programs, etc).
Additional Info
Laptop vs Desktop – Generally, laptops are more expensive for similar performance as their desktop counterparts, but allow for mobility. Laptops can also be hooked up to a separate keyboard, mouse, and screen if you wanted to use it both as a desktop computer and laptop.
Sales – If you’re looking to purchase a new computer, and don’t need one immediately, keep an eye out for sales during holidays and nationwide events. The Superbowl, Black Friday, Thanksgiving, Christmas, July 4th, Labor Day are just some of the dates you will see computer deals.
Want to learn more about what to look for in a new Windows computer, or want help picking out a new one? Contact the Tutor today!
