Shopping for a new computer can feel like decoding a foreign language—especially when you’re trying to stick to a budget. The good news? In 2025, you can absolutely find a solid, reliable computer without spending a fortune.

Whether it’s for school, work, streaming, or staying in touch with family; If you’re

in the market for a budget-friendly system, here’s what you really need to know (without the tech jargon overload).

✅ Step 1: Get the Right Processor (CPU)

Think of the CPU as your computer’s engine. You don’t need a race car, but you don’t want a lawnmower engine either.

Good budget picks in 2025:

• Intel: Core i3 (12th gen or newer), or Core i5 (11th gen or newer)
• AMD: Ryzen 3 (5000 series or newer), or Ryzen 5 (5000+)

💡 Bonus: Some newer CPUs have built-in “NPUs” (Neural Processing Units) for AI tasks. Not essential—but nice to have if you’re looking to stay future-ready.

❌ Avoid: Anything with “Celeron,” “Pentium,” or “Athlon” in the name—they’re usually slow and frustrating for even basic use.

💾 Step 2: Don’t Skimp on RAM

RAM is your multitasking muscle. Not enough, and your system will lag like it’s stuck in 2010.

• Minimum: 8GB (okay for basics—email, web, Word)
• Recommended: 16GB (way better for smooth multitasking)

🔧 Heads-up for laptops: RAM is often soldered in and not upgradeable later. Make sure you’re getting enough right out of the box.

🚀 Step 3: SSD Over Everything

Want your computer to feel fast? Focus on storage.

• Must-have: 256GB NVMe SSD (seriously, no more spinning hard drives as your main storage)
• Better: 512GB NVMe SSD—more space, fewer headaches

📦 Have a lot of photos, videos, or games? Consider a secondary drive (HDD, external drive, or cloud storage).

🎮 Step 4: Graphics – Integrated Is Fine (Usually)

Unless you’re gaming or editing video, you don’t need a fancy graphics card.

• Most users: Intel Iris Xe or AMD Radeon integrated graphics are more than enough
• Light gaming or creative work: Stretch the budget for something like a GTX 1650 or RX 5500, if possible

🖥️ Step 5: For Laptops – Don’t Forget the Screen

You’ll be staring at it a lot, so make it decent.

• Resolution: At least Full HD (1920×1080)—avoid anything lower
• Panel Type: IPS is easier on the eyes and shows colours better than TN panels
• Size: 14”–15.6” is great for laptops. For desktops, a 24” monitor is a good sweet spot.

🔍 Step 6: Features That Actually Matter

• Ports: Make sure you’ve got enough for your stuff—USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, etc.
• Keyboard & Touchpad (Laptops): Test them if you can. A bad keyboard can ruin your day fast.
• Battery Life: Look for 6–8 hours minimum for budget laptops.
• Webcam & Mic: Important for Zoom calls and catching up with the grandkids.

🛍️ Extra Tips from AS Computer Solutions

✔️ SSD + Recent CPU = Happy User That combo alone fixes most of the complaints we hear.

✔️ Read Real-World Reviews Specs are only half the story. See what other users say.

✔️ Refurbished = Great Deal (Sometimes) A refurbished or slightly older high-end model can beat a new low-end one any day.

✔️ Check Upgrade Options Desktops are easier to upgrade than laptops. If you’re thinking long-term, that might matter.

🧰 Not Sure What to Pick? We’ve Got You.

If you’re in Onoway or the surrounding area and you’re overwhelmed by options, come talk to us. Whether you’re buying new, upgrading your current system, or thinking about going refurbished, we’re happy to help you find the best value for your budget.

📞 Give us a call or drop in:

🌐 www.ascomputersolutions.ca

📍 Onoway, Alberta

📧 [email protected]