Guide to Buying a Computer for a Child
Buying a computer for your child is often influenced by many factors, not least your child him or herself, media advertising and personal recommendation. Before buying your kids first pc or laptop it could be useful to consider the following:
The reason for buying?
Do you want your child to have the advantage of learning computer skills at a young age. Is it for general educational purposes or just an expensive toy?
Who is it for?
Is the computer to be for the sole use of your son/daughter, is it to be shared between siblings or do you want all of the family to be able to use it?
Age and Ability
Is the computer suitable for your child’s age and ability. Will he or she still find it adequate for his or her needs in a years time?
Applications
Will the computer use software similar or compatible with ‘grown-up’ office applications?
Parental Controls
Are sufficient parental controls built-in or can they be easily added?
Memory
Does the computer have sufficient resources in terms of memory and storage? Will the computer be able to store music files, images and is it powerful enough to run popular video games?
Desktop or Laptop?
Will a desktop or laptop be more suitable? Laptops are obviously more portable but a desktop will often be more powerful and robust.
Compatibility
Also consider whether the computer is compatible with common accessories such as printers, cameras and memory sticks.
Warranties
Be careful when buying extended warranties, they can often be expensive and represent poor value. Look for a computer with a good manufacturers warranty and good customer support.
Networking
What about your broadband set-up. Will you need further networking capability or does the computer have wi-fi installed?