No need to buy a new computer every year or two to get a super PC . In fact, each computer can be updated over time and constantly improved by buying different components, replacing those already present which have become obsolete. If it is true that there are computers that require components with higher performance (such as PCs intended for gaming), it is also true that any normal medium-level computer or bought several years ago, both fixed and portable, can become an excellent work PC and from home / game, suitable for any type of activity, only by equipping it with new components to be inserted in the PC, without spending large amounts . In this guide we will see in detail the components that we can update to keep our PC in step with the times without having to replace it every time (extending the life of even 4-5 years).
READ ALSO: 5 parts to change on the old PC to update it and give it new life
1) Choose a modern monitor
One might think that the monitors are all the same and that the one bought 5 years ago and paid very dearly is roughly identical to those on sale today.
With the article on the best monitors to buy we discovered how much quality difference is obtained by buying a new Full HD screen, not only for those who play, but also for those who make graphics, for those who see films on the computer and for those who simply want to see the photo. The new monitors are large (from 24 or 30 inches or more) and also cost little, so we can consider it a useful and necessary expense if we have a monitor for more than 5-7 years. Who uses a laptop or who already has a decent monitor, could also find how to have a PC workstation with two monitors side by side, since this solution helps to work better in every activity.
One of the best monitors that we can buy for our PC (both to replace an old one and to be placed side by side) is the BenQ GW2780 (€ 169).
2) New keyboard and new mouse
Keyboard and mouse are those components of the PC where most people spend the minimum and never change until they break: they can even last 6-7 years!
By buying an ergonomic and backlit keyboard, not only can you work at night without the need for lights on the keys, but you can work and write with less effort on your hands and arms.
The same can be said for a new PC mouse, especially if you choose a more comfortable mouse with more keys, with an ergonomic or even vertical shape (ideal against the carpal tunnel) or with a left-handed handle. In addition to being able to work more efficiently, there is no simpler and cheaper way to get that "new computer" feeling.
If the models recommended in the specific guides have not satisfied you, we recommend that you immediately focus on the Trust Classicline Keyboard and Mouse Kit Keyboard and Mouse Kit (€ 14).
3) Add RAM
On computers we must always have at least 4 GB of RAM to be able to run modern Windows operating systems and programs very well.
Even if you have an old computer, it would be enough to install 64-bit Windows and then add the RAM needed to reach at least 8 GB : this type of update could make the PC "fly" better than a new PC! The RAM of a PC is very important: if we notice that some programs slow down during use, then just add more RAM to make it become fluid and keep 10 programs open together without suffering from slowdowns.
The speech is even more important for those who have PCs with 2GB of RAM, now insufficient for almost everything: if we have a motherboard compatible with DDR3, let's hurry to bring the memory to the maximum manageable before this memory format disappears forever.
A bank of DDR3 RAM that we can use on stationary PCs is the Kingston HyperX Fury Kit 2x4 GB (65 €).
If instead we have a laptop with DDR3L memories, we can take the 8 GB Crucial Memory Kit (€ 69).
To choose other banks of RAM, please refer to our specific guide.
READ ALSO: How to increase the Ram and add new memory to the PC
4) Install an SSD
This is the upgrade that gives more results in terms of performance: the PC could double or triple the speed in some cases!
Unfortunately, perhaps to save on production costs or perhaps to run out of stock, most PCs still on sale these days have a traditional hard drive inside and not an SSD drive. The SSD is the evolution of the hard disk and looks like a compact unit with no moving parts, where data is stored directly on a chip (like the memory of a mobile phone).
With an SSD disk the PC becomes fast both in the start-up and in the execution of the programs.
A good SSD that we can buy to make an SSD even faster is the 480 GB Kingston SA400S37 (€ 69).
READ ALSO: SSD or HDD hard disk: differences and advantages
5) Graphics card
The graphics card is also a component of the PC that is worth updating and replacing on desktop PCs, especially if we are gamers. If we notice that new games slow down fearfully or that we must always set everything to the minimum to reach a frequency that is still low on the screen, the time has come to change the video card (at least one every 4 years).
One of the best for quality / price ratio is the Asus GeForce GTX 1050TI (140 €).
READ ALSO: Which video card to buy
6) Audio
If we play often or if we use the computer to play music and movies, it really pays to buy decent stereo speakers or headphones with a built-in microphone.
On Amazon you can find cheap and really interesting models such as headphones from Sennheiser or stereo systems like those of Trust that offer a listening experience that is clearly superior to the speakers included in the monitor or laptop.
7) Webcam
For many people, the webcam may be superfluous, but having one attached to the PC is very convenient, especially if you have the opportunity to communicate via Skype or other video chat and video conference programs.
Even without using video chat, a webcam is also convenient for taking photos from your PC and monitoring the room, so you can also control it via the internet.
A webcam useful for saving and maintaining good image quality is the AUKEY Webcam 1080P Full HD (€ 21).
8) UPS or UPS
With a fairly moderate expense it is possible to buy a UPS as a PC battery when the power fails, so as to avoid problems due to overload or avoid damage due to a sudden storm.
This way you will never lose your job in the event of a blackout and you won't run the risk of breaking your PC due to power surges.
A good UPS suitable for most modern PCs is Tecnoware ERA PLUS 750 VA (€ 36).
READ ALSO: Improve the PC by changing a piece and upgrading the hardware
