Micah's Guide to Buying a Computer

[Aero.v2.0 1,456]

 

So you're buying a computer eh? Well how much do you know about what you're getting? Maybe that 400$/£ computer isn't what it seems. This guide should teach you the basics and make sure you know everything there is about buying the best computer you can. Make sure to read the entire thing thoroughly so that you don't miss anything. Before we begin, there are some important terms that you need to know when picking out a computer. I've compiled a list below of the most important ones that you will need to know. Make sure you read them and also fully understand them, because they are the key to getting the right computer.
 
IMPORTANT!!!
If you are planning on getting a laptop, be aware of a few things. A desktop will be cheaper and possibly better for gaming. A laptop has the advantage of mobility however.
 

 

Processor ------ The processor is the muscle of the computer; it is what drives the computer and makes it perform it's functions. The two main processor brands out there are Intel and AMD. Processors are classified by GHz. I'll go over what speed you want later on, but do be aware that AMD and Intel have different classification standards, so a 2.4 GHz i3 might be faster or slower than an AMD 2.4GHz processor.
 
RAM ------- RAM stands for Random Access Memory, and the name is pretty much literal. RAM can be compared to the brain of the computer. The more ram you have, the faster your computer an access files and perform processes. A large amount of ram coupled with a strong processor makes for a superb machine.
 
Hard Drive ------- The hard drive of a computer is also like the brain, but it has a different purpose. While the ram's job is to access files, the hard drive's job is to store the files and information. All hard drives are ranked by RPM speed (how fast they can access information), and storage size. Storage is calculated in gigabytes. 1 gb is the same as 1024 megabytes. Most hard drives have between 256 - 500 gb to 1 tb (1024 gb). This picture should help you understand the size:
 

 
There are there are three main types of hard drives available, and many sub categories also out there, but this guide will only touch up on the three main types. The three main types are HDD drives, Hybrid drives, and SSD drives. A HDD drive is your standard drive with standard speed (about 5400 rpm) and any size. A SSD is a special drive that features extreme speed and boot-up time, but sacrifices space. Last of all, the hybrid is a cross between the two of them, having the storage size of a larger HDD, but at the same time boasting the speed of an SDD. Depending on what you are doing, the speed and size of your drive will vary.
 
Resolution ------- The resolution of a computer is how many pixels tall and wide your screen is. The resolution does not exactly define height, but rather shows the level of clarity. The higher the resolution, the crisper the image.Most resolutions are a 16:9 ratio. If you plan on recording videos or simply want a good looking image, make sure to get at least a full hd (FHD) resolution computer. Some computers offer quad hd (QHD) as well, but I wouldn't worry too much unless you are a perfection or nothing person.
 
Graphics Card ------- A graphics card defines how sharp, colorful, and crisp everything looks. The better the card, the lusher the images are. Most modern entry level computers offer integrated graphics, which is good enough for most gamers. They will allow for gaming with all settings on, however sometimes the tanks get a little pixelated on the edges if you look closely. If you want to be able to enjoy the most out of the game, and also be prepared for any future graphical updates, you might want to go for a dedicated graphics card. A dedicated graphics card is a special card that is made by a company usually separate from the computer company. The big names out there right now are Nvidia GeForce and AMD Radeon. Both are good, however I would tend to lean towards Nvidia, but that is just personal preference.
 
Graphic Card Ram ------- Thought it couldn't get harder? Well it did! If you decide to get a dedicated graphics card, most likely it will come with something called dedicated video memory. What the means is that instead of the graphics card using the computer ram, it has its own separate ram to use.
 
Optical Drive -------- Depending on what you do besides Tanki, you may or may not want an optical drive. What that means in a nutshell is that having one (depending on the type) means you can use CD's, DVD's, and Bluerays. All optical drives are listed with a "R" or a "RW". "R" stands for "Writeable" and "RW" stands for "ReWritable". R means you can use the disk, RW means you can use and also create/write disks.
 
 
 



Welcome to the Entry Level buying guide. This guide is the tentative player who mostly wants to browse the internet and email with a little Tanki on the side. Here are the things you should know. You don't need to go overboard with the specs if the above description sounds like you. For under $400 you should be able to get a perfectly good computer. Here's a sample spec list for a computer in this class:

1. 4 gb ram max
2. 2.0 ghz max processor
3. 500 gb hard drive max
4. 1366 x 768 resolution
5. No optical drive, but SD card reader
 
If you are going for laptops, here are some great one sfor $400 or less: (Laptop) (Desktop)
 

Now we're into the intermediate group. Maybe you decided that you might want to spend a little time enjoying some HD movies or blasting in the battlefield. Great! Now we need to pick a machine that suits your new needs. You'll need something that's a bit above the entry level, but on the other hand you don't need a monster. To start off, I would avoid buying a computer from the iBuyPower and companies like that, because their quality level generally is not the best. I'd stick the the better known brands, HP, Dell, Acer, Lenovo, Toshiba, and Asus. Now what will you need? First, lets give you a processor upgrade. You will need to make sure you have a quality processor. I would suggest an i3 for you personally, but I am not studied in AMD, so I can't really help you there. As for ram, 4 gb still should be good for you. Now for graphics cards. You still should be alright with integrated, but a low level dedicated isn't going to hurt you. My suggestions for mid-priced computers in this category would be: (Laptop) (Desktop)

Alright, now we really get started. You've decided you're going to spend the rest of your life gaming, maybe maybe trying to do some more intensive stuff, I don't know. But I do know that you need an upgrade. You're gonna want an i5 at least, 6 gb ram minimum, and some dedicated graphics. Something with some power to it, but not to much that it costs you (literally). My best suggestions would be: (Laptop) (Desktop)

We've now arrived at my favorite level, the video maker. You've become addicted to the game by now and want the absolute best out of it. You also probably are making scary gameplay videos to post on YouTube. Well, this is where we max it out and get the best. We're talking i7, 2gb dedicated graphics, FHD resolution, the works. The tricky part with this section is that everything is going to cost you a lot, so be smart and make sure you want everything you're getting. I would seriously suggest not getting this category unless you plan on working with videos or doing extremely computer-taxing work, because we're talking $800-$1000+. My suggestions as of now would be: (Laptop) (Desktop)

 

I hope this guide was helpful and you were able to survive reading it. It's a work in progress still, so be aware of that and check back every now and then. Thanks for reading :)

[Aero.v2.0 1,456]

~Reserved in Case of Need~

[MisterGeneral 692]

Good job micah! nice organization and tips, added here http://en.tankiforum.com/index.php?showtopic=185686 

[HaloScorpionV2 438]

Great guide! Thx Im planning to get a computer soon. Whats ur opinion on macs?

[Aero.v2.0 1,456]

Great guide! Thx Im planning to get a computer soon. Whats ur opinion on macs?

Really not a fan of macs in general, but they really aren't the best for gaming as well. They're for the artsy type of person more than the gamer.

[HaloScorpionV2 438]

Maybe you should mention customer service in here? Idk just a suggestion.

[Aero.v2.0 1,456]

Maybe you should mention customer service in here? Idk just a suggestion.

Not a bad idea.

[MA3CTPO_HA_XAHTEP 832]

You invest a lot of work in there, good job.

[doughnut2100 763]

Good job. But is this not supposed to go in the off topic section? It's not tanki gameplay related much.

Edited February 8, 2014 by doughnut2100

[Aero.v2.0 1,456]

Good job. But is this not supposed to go in the off topic section? It's not tanki gameplay related much.

The placement is debatable, but I thought this might be better. The mods may feel free to move the topic to whichever section they feel is best.

[gazatron30 513]

Great job!

[Who_Boss 154]

Great job ...

[Reeco9 1,567]

Good guide! :)

That gamer level desktop (Dell XPS) is similar to my PC, but just with different specs.

[High 773]

Brilliant! Am hopefully going to get a new PC for Christmas. Its interesting that Desktops are better to Laptops. Its really changed my thoughts of what to get. Thanks.

[Aero.v2.0 1,456]

Brilliant! Am hopefully going to get a new PC for Christmas. Its interesting that Desktops are better to Laptops. Its really changed my thoughts of what to get. Thanks.

I agree, it is surprising how a desktop can have advantages over a laptop. However, do be aware that although desktops are cheaper, they aren't always better.

[GeneralPie 603]

Nice work. :D

[ribslad 6]

A+++ on this guide. Awesome job and nice info.

[MisterGeneral 692]

The placement is debatable, but I thought this might be better. The mods may feel free to move the topic to whichever section they feel is best.

Well, your pc do effect your gameplay, i believe this is the perfect section. 

[Aero.v2.0 1,456]

If anyone has information that they feel should be added, feel free to PM me () and let me know :)

[Aero.v2.0 1,456]

Bumping it....

[I.NaturaIBornKiller 51]

You work hard ( micha7586) its great but could you plz tell what pc i should buy

[Aero.v2.0 1,456]

You work hard ( micha7586) its great but could you plz tell what pc i should buy

What type of playing are you planning on doing? Depending on whether you want gaming, recording, or just standard type usage, you could spend anywhere from $300 to $1500.

Edited March 27, 2014 by Aero.v2.0

[Kessler 606]

hi I have a PC in my home country that I cannot take when i travel to England for summer i want to buy a laptop that is not too expensive because i dont live there so what would u recommend

[Piety 70]

This really is helpful as I do actually need a new laptop. Would you recommend an iMac?

 

Because I need one good for gaming and studies although they are both oxymorons in a way :o

[Eldorado24 19]

Personally, I would recomment better video card than GTX 650. I have GTX 750 OC and Intel i5 processor and I play Tanki Online on 1920x1080 with full graphics on 60 fps. And second thing, you do not need 2TB HDD, I have 500GB. 

 

P.S. Good job, micah7586!