
Amazon has a selection of Black Friday deals on Dell laptops, desktops, monitors, and more. Shop Now at Amazon

Save on MSI laptops, desktops, monitors, and PC accessories, with these Black Friday deals at Amazon. Shop Now at Amazon

That's the best deal we could find by $11 and the lowest price we've seen in over a year. Buy Now at Amazon
- read speeds of up to 100MB/s
- Model: P-SDU64GX3U3100EX-GE

Lenovo Black Friday deals on select laptops, desktops, and tablets at Amazon are live now. Shop Now at Amazon

Amazon has a selection of Black Friday deals on Dell laptops, desktops, monitors, and more. Shop Now at Amazon

That's a $20 low and the best price it's been. Buy Now at Amazon
- 13" 2880x1920 touchscreen
- 16GB RAM, 512GB storage
- Snapdragon X Plus processor
- Windows 11

That's $180 off and a strong price on a gaming desktop with these specs. Considering the upgradeable RAM slots and design, you'd have a hard time finding a similar machine for much less. Buy Now at Best Buy
- AMD Ryzen 5 5000 6-core 12-thread CPU
- 16GB RAM (upgradeable) + 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD
- AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT 4GB GPU
- Windows 11 Home
- Model: GMA5600BSTV4

Take $70 off this Early Black Friday deal. Buy Now at Best Buy
- 6 months of Instant Ink
- up to 10ppm print speed
- touchscreen
- up to 1200 x 1200 scanner resolution
- up to 4800 x 1200 printer resolution (color)
- Model: 714L6A#B1H

Save on PCs, headphones, monitors, and more. We've pictured the Asus TUF Gaming 23.8" 1080p 180Hz IPS FreeSync LED Gaming Monitor for $100 ($80 off). My Best Buy members get free shipping. (It's free to join. Shipping is free for everyone over $35.) Shop Now at Best Buy

Save on laptops and computers from Dell, Lenovo, Apple, and more. We've pictured the Dell Inspiron Ultra 7 155H 16" 2-in-1 Touch Laptop for $700 ($450 off). Shop Now at Best Buy

These Black Friday doorbuster deals take up to $400 off these new MacBook Pro models, only released earlier this month. 20 builds are on sale in total. Buy Now at Best Buy

These Black Friday doorbuster deals drop MacBook Air laptops as low as $749, iMacs as low as $1,199, and MacBooks Pro as low as $1,399. Plus, My Best Buy Total members can save an extra $50 on select models. (My Best Buy Total is a paid membership, which costs $180 annually.) Shop Now at Best Buy

Nearly 70 items are discounted in Lenovo's Black Friday sale, ranging from laptops and tablets to laptop bags and keyboards. Shop Now at Lenovo

Save $175 off the list price. Buy Now at Lenovo
- 13th-Generation Intel Core i5-13420H 3.4GHz Raptor Lake quad-core CPU
- 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD
- Windows 11 Home
- Model: 90W2004FUT

That's a $7 low. Buy Now at Lenovo
- spill-resistant keyboard
- 1200-DPI wireless mouse
- 2.4GHz nano-USB receiver
- Model: GX30W75336

That's a $42 low. Buy Now at Lenovo
- docking station
- two 24" 1080p stacked displays
- height-adjustable stand
- built-in webcam and speakers

Use code "HOLIDAYTHINKDB" to get this deal. Buy Now at Lenovo
- 13th-Generation Intel i7-1365U Raptor Lake 3.9GHz 10-core CPU
- 14" 1920x1200 display
- 32GB RAM & 512GB SSD
- Backlit Keyboard
- Windows 11 Pro

Use code "EXTRAFIVE" to get this deal. That's $1,340 off and the lowest price we could find. Buy Now at Lenovo
- 13th generation Intel Core i5-1340P 1.8GHz / 1.3GHz 12-core CPU
- 14" (1920x1200) display
- 16GB RAM & 512GB SSD
- Windows 11 Home

That's $450 off and the lowest price we could find. Buy Now at Dell Technologies
- 14th generation Intel Core i7-14700F 2.1GHz / 1.5GHz 20-Core CPU
- 16GB RAM and 1TB HDD
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 8GB graphics
- Windows 11 Home

That's within a buck of the best price we've seen. Buy Now at Dell Technologies
- 3840x2160 (4K) native resolution
- AMD FreeSync
- USB 3.0
- 1 DisplayPort & 2 HDMI inputs
- Model: S3221QS
- UPC: 884116405900
- UPC: 884116375685
- UPC: 884116375623

Shop discounts on 20 configurations in this section of Dell's Black Friday sale. Prices start at $230. We've pictured the Dell Inspiron 15 12th-Gen. i7 15.6" Laptop w/ 16GB of RAM and 1TB SSD for $470 ($230 off).
Need some new streaming entertainment options for your laptop? Check out the Hulu, Disney, ESPN bundle if you want sports coverage. And if you don't care about sports, check out another Disney Plus discount for the plan that suits your needs! How much is Disney Plus in 2024? Well, it'll depend on which plan you choose - and whether it was affected by the Disney Plus price increase in 2024. Shop Now at Dell Technologies

That's $450 off and the first discount we've seen on this build. Buy Now at Dell Technologies
- 14th generation Intel Core i7-14700F 2.1GHz / 1.5GHz 20-Core CPU
- 16GB RAM; 1TB SSD
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 8GB graphics
- Windows 11 Pro

That's a savings of $300 and the best price we could find. Buy Now at Dell Technologies
- 14th-Gen. Intel Core i7-17400 3.4GHz Raptor Lake 14-core CPU
- 16GB RAM & 1TB SSD
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Ti graphics
- Windows 11 Home

That's a savings of $300, $150 under our July mention, and the lowest price we've seen. Buy Now at Dell Technologies
- 13th-generation Intel Core i7-13620H 2.4GHz/1.8GHz 10-core CPU
- 15.6" 1920x1200 display
- 16GB RAM & 512GB SSD
- Windows 11 Home

That's sure to be one of the best deals we'll see on an HP gaming laptop this season. It's also the best deal we've seen this year. Buy Now at Walmart
- 13th Generation Intel Core i5-13420H 3.4GHz Raptor Lake quad-core CPU
- 15.6" 1920x1080 FHD 144Hz IPS Display
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 6GB graphics
- 16GB RAM & 512GB SSD
- Windows 11 Home
- Model: A2BZ9UA#ABA

That's tied with our mention from several months ago as the second lowest price we've seen for this model. It's available in three color options. Buy Now at Walmart
- Apple M1 8-Core CPU
- 13.3" 2560x1600 Retina display
- 8GB RAM & 256GB SSD
- macOS Big Sur 11.0
- Model: MGN63LL/A
- UPC: 194252048955

The Walmart Black Friday sale is right around the corner, kicking off for Walmart+ members on November 13 at 7pm ET. On November 14 at midnight, the sale will go live for everyone else. Walmart is advertising Black Friday prices on LEGO, Apple, TVs, appliances, and more. While the landing page advertises up to 50% off, the discounts listed further down show up to 75% off. To get the most out of Black Friday at Walmart, we encourage you to sign up for Walmart+. Shop Now at Walmart

That's the best deal we've seen this year. Buy Now at Walmart
- 7" 1024 x 600 resolution IPS LCD touchscreen
- 2.2GHz processor + 3GB RAM
- 32GB expandable storage
- 2 MP front-facing camera + 2 MP rear-facing camera

Upgrade your gaming experience with this incredible monitor deal offering $420 in savings! It's also just a great price on a well-rated, name-brand monitor in general. It offers tilt and is height adjustable to ensure that your setup is perfect no matter what kind of games you want to play, and is also VESA mount compatible. Buy Now at Walmart
- 3440 x 1440 Quad HD 2K Resolution
- 1ms Response Time
- 144Hz (GTG), 160Hz (OC GTG) Refresh Rate
- 2 x HDMI (2.0), DisplayPort (1.4) Video Inputs
- 2 x USB 3.0 Type A, 1 x USB 3.0 Type B Ports
- Radeon FreeSync 2 Technology
- NVIDIA G-Sync Compatible
- Flicker Safe Technology
- Model: 34GN850-B.AUS

That's a $261 savings. Buy Now at Walmart
- 12th Generation Intel Core Evo i5-1235U 3.3GHz Alder Lake 10-core CPU
- 15.6" 1920x1080 display
- 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD
- Windows 11
- Model: 82QD00GNUS

That's the second best price we've ever seen for this Chromebook, while most retailers are charging around $200. Buy Now at eBay
- MediaTek Kompanio 500 2GHz 8-Core CPU
- 14" 1920x1080 (1080p) IPS touchscreen display
- 4GB RAM & 64GB eMMC
- Chrome OS
- Model: 82XJ0000US

Best Buy via eBay has over 100 new and refurbished laptops and desktops discounted up to 50% off (many prices drop in-cart). This sale includes Apple, HP, ASUS, CyberPower, and more. Shop Now at eBay

Save on Lenovo computers, monitors, tablets, backpacks, accessories, and more. We've pictured the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 15.6" Backpack for $13 ($17 off and an amazing price on a Lenovo laptop backpack). Shop Now at eBay

Shop this selection of certified refurb computers, laptops, tablets, monitors and more. Plus, they are discounted by an extra 10% when added to cart. Shop Now at eBay
- A 2-year Allstate warranty applies to these certified refurbished items.
- We've pictured the Certified Refurb Acer Predator Helios 300 12th-Gen i7 15.6" Laptop w/ NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti for $899.99 in cart (back down to the best price we've seen).

Save on a selection of more than 60. Pictured is the Apple MacBook Air i5 13.3" Laptop (2017) w/ 128GB SSD for $420 ($490 elsewhere). Buy Now at eBay
- Allstate warranties of at least 1 year apply.

It's the best price we could find by $130. Buy Now at eBay
- MediaTek Helio G99 processor
- 11.5" 2000x1200 IPS display
- Android 12
- Model: ZABF0060US

Shop Black Friday prices on over 50 laptop models for gaming, home, and business. We've pictured the HP Pavilion Core 5 120U 16" Laptop w/ 512GB SSD for $429.99 ($590 off). Shop Now at HP

Take up to half off Victus and Omen gaming laptops, plus gaming desktops, gaming monitors, headsets, and more. We've pictured the HP Omen 14th-Gen i5 16.1" Laptop w/ NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 for $749.99 ($350 off). Shop Now at HP

Save on almost 50 configurations. We've pictured the HP 17t-cn200 12th-Gen. i7-1255U 17.3" Laptop w/ 12GB RAM and 512GB SSD for $500 ($450 off). Buy Now at HP

Printers in this sale start from $70, and almost all of them include freebies, like 3 months of Instant Ink with HP+, or free paper. We've pictured the HP Envy 6455e Wireless All-In-One Inkjet Printer for $90. ($60 off and a price low) All orders ship for free. Shop Now at HP

Save on laptops, desktops, printers, monitors, and accessories. Plus, coupon code "10HPAIPC24" takes an extra 10% off select Omni PCs. We've pictured the HP Pavilion Core 5 120U 16" Laptop w/ 512GB SSD for $479.99 ($539 off). Shop Now at HP

Score big savings on memory cards and hard drives, cameras and their accessories, laptops and monitors, and more, from brands including SanDisk, Apple, Nikon, Canon, Samsung. Many items get free 2-day shipping. Shop Now at B&H Photo Video

That's $600 off and the best price we could find. (And a very good price for a build with these specs in general.) Plus, you'll score Indiana Jones and the Great Circle for PC for free. Buy Now at B&H Photo Video
- 14th generation Intel Core i7-14700F 2.1GHz / 1.5GHz 20-Core CPU
- 32GB RAM; 1TB SSD
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Ti Super 16GB GPU
- WiFi 6
- Windows 11 Home
- Model: 90UT001SUS

Save on MacBooks, AirPods, iPads, and much more. We've pictured the Apple Mac Studio M2 Max Desktop w/ 32GB RAM & 1TB SSD (2023) for $1,999 ($200 less than Apple charges). Shop Now at B&H Photo Video

That's $5 less than our mention from a few days ago at Amazon. Add to cart to get this price. Buy Now at B&H Photo Video
- 2560x1440 (1440p) resolution
- DisplayPort & HDMI
- Model: LS27B610EQNXZA
- UPC: 887276620565

We've pictured the Apple MacBook Air M2 13.6" Laptop for $949, low by $150. Shop Now at B&H Photo Video

Deals include as much as $900 off MacBooks, up to $150 off iPads, and up to $80 off AirPods. Shop Now at B&H Photo Video

If you're looking to upgrade or build a new PC, this is a solid pick and $100 off list. It's ideal for heavy computing, high resolution graphics ,and PC gaming. (It can also be used in a PlayStation 5.) Get it sooner with in-store pickup at your local Best Buy. Buy Now at Samsung

Find Black Friday pricing on solid state drives, USB flash drives, and memory cards. We've pictured the Samsung T9 Portable 1TB SSD for $135 ($70 off). Shop Now at Samsung

There are six options on sale. We've pictured the Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 49" Curved Monitor for $1,200 ($600 off) Shop Now at Samsung

Most of these panels are marked at least 20% off - we've pictured the Samsung 32" M80C 4K UHD Smart Monitor with Streaming TV for $399.99 ($300 off). Shop Now at Samsung

Score deals on over 275 gaming desktop and laptops from brands like MSI, Acer, HP, and more. We've pictured the VTG Gaming Ryzen 5 Gaming Desktop PC w/ RX 6750 XT Graphics for $949 ($1,150 off). Shop Now at Newegg

That's $500 off and the best price we could find. Buy Now at Newegg
- 12th generation Intel Core i5 12400F 2.5GHz 6-Core CPU
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 graphics
- 16GB RAM; 1TB NVMe SSD
- Windows 11 Home

Score deals on RAM from $22, SSDs from $9, and flash memory cards and sticks from $3. We've pictured the Corsair Vengeance RGB 32GB DDR5 Desktop Memory Kit for $94.99 via coupon code "BFEDY2A75" - a $15 low. Shipping starts at $2.99, but most items ship for free. Shop Now at Newegg

Save on laptops, desktops, and monitors. We've pictured the Acer Nitro 16 Ryzen 9 Gaming Laptop w/ 16GB, 1TB, and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 for $1,400 ($400 off). Shop Now at Acer

Save on more than 200 items including monitors, laptops, and more. Shop Now at Acer

Use coupon code "HIGHFIVE" to bag a nice extra 5% discount. Monitors start at $57, laptops start at $171. Shop Now at Acer

Shop deals on computers, accessories, tablets, storage, and more at Adorama as part of its Black Friday sale. Shop Now at Adorama

That's 25% off and a great price low for a core i7 with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. Buy Now at Adorama
- FHD 1920x1080 resolution
- 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 CPU
- 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD
- Windows 11 Home
- Model: NX.ADDAA.00M

Save on solid state drives, gaming memory, and more. We've pictured the Crucial T700 2TB PCIe Gen5 NVMe M.2 SSD for $179.99 ($123 off). Buy Now at Crucial

Starting November 29, you'll get an Apple gift card worth up to $200 with select purchases. Some highlights include:
- Up to $200 Apple Gift Card w/ MacBook Air M3 13" or 15", or M2 13"
- Up to $100 Apple Gift Card w/ 10th Gen. iPad, iPad Air, or iPad Pro
- Up to $75 Apple Gift Card w/ iPhone 15, 14, or SE
- Up to $75 Apple Gift Card w/ Airpods 4, Pro 2, or Max
But there are lots more ways to get a gift card. This offer is available online, at Apple Stores, and in the Apple App. Shop Now at Apple

You'll find special offers on portable SSDs, gaming, desktop storage, memory cards, and USB flash drives. Shop Now at Western Digital
- Members get free shipping on all orders. (It's free to sign up.)

SanDisk has released some early Black Friday deals on storage drives and memory cards, discounted up to 40% off. Also, check out some of the bundle offers to stack extra savings. Shipping is free on orders over $50. Shop Now at SanDisk

Shop a range of options from AntiVirus Plus for $19.99 for the first year ($40 off), up to Select + LifeLock for $99.99 for the first year ($80 off). Shop Now at Norton

Secure a lifetime of OysterVPN for five devices with this exclusive limited time deal for $39.99 at 40% off. Buy Now at OysterVPN
- 175+ VPN servers in 18+ countries
- Dedicated streaming servers
- 5 multi-logins
- Unlimited data
- Split tunneling
- Kill switch
- Malware protection
- Zero-logs policy
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Supports Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and router

Score a 1TB Essential plan for $150 ($1,350 off), a 3TB Premium plan for $250 ($2,250 off), and the 5TB Ultimate for $350 - a $3,150 savings. Each comes with post-quantum encryption, VPN, and antivirus services in addition to two-factor authentications support and password-protected sharing. Shop Now at Internxt
Computers: The Basics
Shopping for computers doesn’t have to drain your savings — if you know how to find the best prices. Our team of experts review the sales and publish the best computer deals so you don’t have to work half as hard.
How to Save on Streaming Services
Computers: The Basics
Shopping for computers doesn’t have to drain your savings — if you know how to find the best prices. Our team of experts review the sales and publish the best computer deals so you don’t have to work half as hard.
Basic Computer Terminology
You don’t have to be a tech wiz to buy your next computer. Make note of these common terms to help you when you’re shopping computer sales!
- Operating System (OS): This is the system that controls how your computer performs basic functions. The most common operating systems you’ll see right now are Windows 10 and Mac OS X. They perform comparably, so picking one relies on personal preference.
- Random-access memory (RAM): The short-term memory of your computer. Your RAM controls how quickly and efficiently your computer is able to switch between tasks. The higher the RAM, generally, the better the performance.
- Processor (CPU): The powerhouse or “brain” of the computer, your processor handles your computer’s basic instructions, such as using your mouse and keyboard, or running applications. The two most popular CPU manufacturers are AMD and Intel. You can read about which processor is right for you in this article from Digital Trends.
- Storage: There are two types of physical computer storage, hard drives (HD) and solid state drives (SSD). SSD storage is more common these days because they are more stable and faster. While it’s ideal to aim for greater storage space, a bigger drive will cost more money. Determine your storage needs based on how you plan to use your computer. Abt recommends starting with at least 500 GB of storage space.
Additionally, some providers, like Verizon, offer streaming perks with select plans, giving you months of access to services like Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ at no extra cost. Annual payment options can also help you save, as they often come with a discount equivalent to getting one or two months free. For those on a budget, ad-supported plans provide the same great content at a fraction of the cost. Visit our Disney+ Subscription Cost page to explore pricing and options.
What Deals Are Available on Disney+ Bundles?
Disney+ bundle deals provide significant savings when combining services. For example, the Verizon Disney Bundle offered six months of Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ for free with select Unlimited plans. Bundles like the Disney+ Premium annual plan ($159.99) save you the cost of two months compared to monthly payments. Bundle options like the ad-supported Duo Basic plan (Disney+ and Hulu) start at $10.99 per month, while ad-free Duo Premium is $19.99. Learn more on the Disney+ Bundle Deals page.
You can also explore seasonal and promotional deals during events like Black Friday to maximize your savings. Check out the Best Disney+ Deals page for current offers.
How Much Is a Disney+ Subscription?
Disney+ subscriptions currently start at $8 per month for the ad-supported Basic plan, while the Premium ad-free plan is priced at $13.99 per month or $139.99 annually. Prices will increase beginning October 17, 2024, with the Premium plan rising to $15.99 per month or $159.99 annually. Explore all pricing options on the Disney+ Subscription Costs page.
Best Disney+ Deals
Disney+ offers value-packed streaming bundles, such as the Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle starting at $17 per month with ads or $30 per month ad-free. Disney+ also supports paid sharing, allowing you to add one extra member for $6.99 per month with Basic or $9.99 per month with Premium. Prices are increasing on October 17, 2024, so finding deals like these is more important than ever. For more information, visit our Best Disney+ Deals page.
Best Disney+ Deals
Disney+ offers value-packed streaming bundles, such as the Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle starting at $17 per month with ads or $30 per month ad-free. Disney+ also supports paid sharing, allowing you to add one extra member for $6.99 per month with Basic or $9.99 per month with Premium. Prices are increasing on October 17, 2024, so finding deals like these is more important than ever. For more information, visit our Best Disney+ Deals page.
Annual Disney+ Subscription Costs
Disney+ Premium annual plans cost $139.99 but will rise to $159.99 on October 17, 2024. Opting for the annual plan saves you the equivalent of two months compared to monthly billing. Note that annual payments are only available for standalone Disney+ Premium plans and not for bundles. Customize your subscription to include ad-supported or ad-free options with Hulu, ESPN+, or Max. See all pricing details on the Disney+ Subscription Cost page.
Basic Computer Terminology
You don’t have to be a tech wiz to buy your next computer. Make note of these common terms to help you when you’re shopping computer sales!
- Operating System (OS): This is the system that controls how your computer performs basic functions. The most common operating systems you’ll see right now are Windows 10 and Mac OS X. They perform comparably, so picking one relies on personal preference.
- Random-access memory (RAM): The short-term memory of your computer. Your RAM controls how quickly and efficiently your computer is able to switch between tasks. The higher the RAM, generally, the better the performance.
- Processor (CPU) : The powerhouse or “brain” of the computer, your processor handles your computer’s basic instructions, such as using your mouse and keyboard, or running applications. The two most popular CPU manufacturers are AMD and Intel. You can read about which processor is right for you in this article from Digital Trends.
- Storage: There are two types of physical computer storage, hard drives (HD) and solid state drives (SSD). SSD storage is more common these days because they are more stable and faster. While it’s ideal to aim for greater storage space, a bigger drive will cost more money. Determine your storage needs based on how you plan to use your computer. Abt recommends starting with at least 500 GB of storage space.
Basic Software for Your PC
When you start using your new computer, you’ll want to install some basic software to get going. Most pre-built computers come with a suite of software pre-installed with the OS.
Productivity Tools
Whether you opt for a package like Microsoft Office or iWork, opt for freeware like Open Office, or choose an online software pack like G Suite, it’s always a good idea to install a productivity software to help you with tasks like making spreadsheets, word processing, and viewing PDFs.
Internet Browser
Microsoft Edge and Safari are the standard browsers that come with a new computer, but many shoppers rely on browsers like Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.
Cloud Storage
Not only does cloud storage give you more space than the limited physical storage on your PC, but it also gives you access to your files anywhere. Many companies like Google or Dropbox offer a limited amount of free cloud storage.
Antivirus Software
Antivirus tools do more than simply keep viruses at bay; they also protect against malware, phishing, adware, spyware, and more. Windows 10 comes with Microsoft Security Essentials as a default, and security options are built into Mac OS X (as opposed to a standalone program). That said, antivirus suites like Norton, McAfee, and Bitdefender may offer you more protection.
Media Player
Many laptops and desktops no longer include a physical media drive. If you plan on watching any videos locally (not streamed online), it’s useful to have a media player. Typically, this software is built in, but check out this list for some info on the best media players for Windows 10 and this one for Mac.
Music Player
Not to be confused with a media player, a good music application is worth installing on your computer. Spotify, iTunes, and Pandora are some common favorites that give you access to a practically limitless selection. The desktop versions make it easier to browse and build playlists.
Computer Deal Subcategories
DealNews offers the best deals on computers and computing accessories. You can browse our deals in different categories including, but not limited to:
Whether you’re looking for a new work laptop, or want to find a quality gaming system, check out our selection of the best laptop deals here.
Did you know you should replace your computer every 4 to 5 years to keep up with the latest performance and security updates? Check out the best computer deals for your next desktop here.
Did you know that DealNews first launched as a deal website for Apple Macintosh products? While we’ve grown significantly since then, we still know how to find the best Apple computer deals!
Maybe you’re in the market for a larger streaming device for your kids, or maybe you’d like a device to serve as your e-reader (with a few extra perks). Whatever you’re searching for, check out the best tablet and iPad deals here.
- Peripherals
Routers , monitors , input devices , and more! These devices make using your computer more comfortable and practical. Be sure you search our site to save big!
When shopping computer sales, check out DealNews before going anywhere else, so you know you’ll always find the best deals!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I purchase a laptop or desktop?
It’s important to review your needs before buying a laptop or desktop computer.
- What’s your budget? Because they’re bigger and more modular, desktop computers tend to outperform laptops. A desktop’s customizability means your budget can go a lot further. However, laptops have other advantages over desktops.
- Do you need portability? High-end laptops are generally more expensive, but a laptop will always win the portability debate.
- How much power do you need? Desktops have more room to work with, so you can add more RAM, more storage, a bigger graphics card, and other performance improvements. But if you don’t need all that, then a mid-tier laptop may be the cheaper choice.
- Are you a gamer? Laptops that are built for gaming are among the most expensive on the market. That said, if you’re not comfortable selecting individual pieces to build a gaming desktop, you may be willing to pay a premium to get that performance.
- Don’t forget the repairs. If you’re handy, you can often repair or replace parts in a desktop computer with the help of online guides. Most laptops require specialized tools and skills to repair, so desktop fixes tend to be cheaper.
Overall, desktop computers have a lot of advantages, but the lack of portability can be a deal breaker. No matter what you decide, be sure to check out specs and buying guides from the DealNews Blog and other reputable sources like CNET or PCMag. Then shop DealNews for the best computer deals!
How do I get my external hard drive to show up?
Once you’ve ensured that your external drive is plugged in and powered on, check out these steps from PCMag:
- Try a different USB port.
- Try a different PC.
- Update your drivers.
- Format the drive.
What is a VPN?
VPN stands for “virtual private network.” A VPN protects your internet usage by routing your internet connection through a private server. Using a VPN keeps your online browsing more private and also grants you access to websites and content that may not be available in your country.
For more information about VPNs, visit our NordVPN Free Trial Guide and our NordVPN Subscription Cost Page.
How can I boost my WiFi signal?
When your internet connection seems impossibly slow, the cause isn’t your provider, but your WiFi signal strength. Check out these options to boost your WiFi signal:
- Update your router firmware. Each router is different, but you can typically use the steps found here to run updates.
- Place your router in the most optimal space. You want to place your wireless router away from walls or obstructions. If possible, put it in the most central place in your home.
- Pick a different frequency. If you have a dual-band router, try using the 5GHz band. This band offers higher speeds and may get an additional boost if fewer devices are connected to it.
- Change the channel. While most routers will automatically choose the channel with the least congestion, some cheaper routers may require you to manually update it.
- Upgrade your router. How old is your current router? If it's a previous-generation 802.11b model, upgrading could improve your wireless signal. If you already have a newer 802.11n or Wi-Fi 6 router, you're in good shape.
- Replace the antenna. You may boost your signal by adding or replacing an external antenna. PCMag recommends purchasing one marked “high-gain” and opting for a directional antenna rather than an omnidirectional one.
- Add a wireless range extender. If you only want to boost coverage in one or two rooms, a WiFi extender can help you eliminate dead spots. Check out this guide from the DealNews Blog.
Switch to a mesh WiFi system. Wireless mesh networking is becoming more popular because it can provide more complete coverage throughout the home. Mesh systems replace your router and work seamlessly to eliminate coverage gaps.
A Georgia girl with three years of experience in IP Law and grounded in understanding marketing and consumer motives. When she's not working with the fabulous staff of DealNews, you can find her whining at rowing practice and browsing the Hot Deals on the site.
