How Can I Tell if My Computer is Too Old?

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 How can I tell if my computer is too old?

Computers are mysterious. They are a box that takes keyboard inputs then outputs beautiful results that we use everyday. The feeling of owning a new computer is like having the world at your fingertips — anything is possible. When your computer is too old, everything feels stagnant. There are several signs that indicate the age of your computer. But what age is too old? We at Patient Computer Help have curated a list of four telltale signs of aging for any computer.

4 Signs that Your Computer is Too Old:

#1 You Cannot Run The Latest Updates

The biggest indicator of an old computer is its ability to handle the newest generation of software. There is a rule of computing that every two years, the average computer will double in its computing ability. Therefore, an eight year old computer is 6% as quick as than a new computer. As you spend time with a computer, you may not notice the slowing speed of the processor. What’s worse, most new software is designed to work with the fastest computers, the newer ones. While they still work with older computers (sometimes), it introduces additional strain on the older computer to keep up.

The minute you upgrade to a new generation computer, the difference will be obvious. If you are unable to install current applications or software, consider upgrading the operating system or purchasing a new computer. Or, let us know and we’ll see if a solid state hard drive (SSD) upgrade can fix your issues.

#2 You Can’t Install the Latest Operating System(OS)

The operating system is the interface that allows you to utilize the pointer and click to any application you wish to use. PCs run on the windows OS while Macs run on the OS X operating system. Although they have different names, the functionality is quite similar. As a computer ages, the specifications or the hardware within the computer become outdated. Many of these parts are soldered into the computer making it impossible to upgrade. Therefore, if your computer is unable to update to the latest version of OS X (Capitan) or Windows (10), your computer may be too old.

#3 There Are Constant Noises Coming From Your Computer

Most technology will make a noise or two during its lifespan. Computers are known to have loud fans that turn on when you are utilizing all of its resources. However, as a computer ages, it will begin to create more noise, more frequently (much like people). This is due to the lifespan of the internal hardware. Computers are not built to last forever. Many computer companies urge consumers to buy or replace their computers every two to six years. This way, they can maintain an optimal level of performance and avoid issues with customer service.

#4 Constant Pop-Up Messaging

As previously mentioned, the internal hardware of your computer is not meant to last a lifetime. As your time with the computer increases, the amount of errors that take place is bound to increase as well. Like most things, a computer will age and die. We at Patient Computer Help are equipped to increase the endurance of your computer but unfortunately, they cannot last forever. If you are constantly dealing with error messages, blue screens, or freezing, your computer may be too old.

A computer is a tricky machine but it doesn’t have to be. At Patient Computer Help, we are dedicated to giving you the greatest possible experience from any computer. Although computers may get old, purchasing a new one is a great experience as well. Furthermore, acquiring a new machine will allow you to reap the benefits of enhanced productivity, newer technologies, and less stress when dealing with your computer.

If you are having troubles with your computer, contact us today!

Mac vs PC: Which is Best for me?

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Keepass vs 1Password

There are some important differences between Mac and PCs for the average consumer. Macs tend to be popular with people who want everything working fairly quickly without having to download more software. PCs tend to be popular with people who value expandability and want a good price on a computer. What you end up buying will depend on how you intend to use your computer.

Macs vs. PCs – Hardware

PCs tend to get the latest hardware faster than Mac computers. This is especially evident with CPUs, as PCs are more likely to have higher clock speeds than their Mac equivalents. Macs go through product release cycles which limit the number of times they can change their hardware internals.

It’s undeniable that Macs look like higher quality machines than your average PC. There is a perception that Macs are better for creative people, but that might just be because artistic people value Apple’s designs. Although the Adobe suite of applications like Photoshop and Lightroom are available for both Mac and PC, creatives likely favor iMacs and Macbook Pro laptops because of their stylish aluminum designs. But higher end computers come with a higher price. One advantage that PCs enjoy is that they’re more cheaper than Macintosh products out of the box. Whether they are a better long-term value is open to opinion.

Windows PCs offer lots of flexibility and much more customization. If you’re a gamer, then you’ll want to go with a PC desktop machine. A PC desktop can be expanded with a high-end graphics card to keep up with demanding games. A Mac is more of a controlled-environment machine that isn’t meant to be expanded much beyond plugging in USB devices. As far as gaming, it should be noted that you can game on a Mac, but the gaming titles available for the Mac pale in comparison to what’s available for a PC machine.

Macs vs. PCs – Software

Macs traditionally have system software that is more optimized for their hardware. This is because Macs provide both the hardware and the software that runs on that hardware. Windows has to create an operating system that runs across a variety of 3rd-party hardware, which requires regular maintenance.  But compatibility is usually assured as long as you stick with a name brand PC vendor.

Many people elect to stay with PCs because they run software that is better optimized to run on it compared to a Mac. But this is going to depend entirely on the type of software that you’re using. If you use Office, then you might go with a PC since Office is well optimized for Windows. There are plenty of video editing and audio editing software packages that are better optimized for Macs, so it comes down to what software you use the most.

PCs are famous for their blue screens of death, and for freezing up, though that’s getting better. Windows and Mac computers both suffer from occasional slow downs or crashes, but the remedy in both cases is often restarting the computer. (Kicking it is not recommended, but there’s a reason it’s called “re-booting.”) If that doesn’t work, then call us at 440-476-3351.

Many people say that Macs are overpriced, but it depends on your perspective. Some people are willing to pay more for the integrated, dependable, reproducible experience that a Mac gives them. The included apps on a Mac, like iTunes and Photos, are more fully featured than their PC equivalents. But it is true that if you’re just comparing technical specs, a PC will be cheaper. It all comes down to whether or not you think the premium is worth it. It’s often noted that while PCs have users, Macs have a following.

If you’re looking for guidance in choosing or setting up your new computer, contact Patient Computer Help.