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Buying a new computer: questions, answered

Falls Technology Services · Idaho Falls · November 12, 2026

The questions we hear most before people buy a computer, with plain answers. We don't sell computers, so there's nothing to upsell: we'll tell you what fits what you actually do.

Should I fix my old computer or buy a new one?

If the repair costs well under a third to half of a comparable new computer, and the old one still does what you need, fixing it usually makes sense. If it can't run a supported version of Windows or macOS any more, buying new is usually the better spend.

Repair or replace: how to decide

My computer runs Windows 10. Do I need a new one?

Windows 10 stopped getting free security updates in October 2025. If your computer can upgrade to Windows 11 for free, do that. If it can't, it's time to plan a replacement, or another option we can talk through with you.

Windows 10: what now?

How much memory (RAM) do I need?

For e-mail, browsing, documents and video calls, 16 GB is a comfortable amount today and leaves room for the next few years. 8 GB works for light use but feels slow sooner. Photo, video, design and gaming work want more.

How much storage do I need?

Get a solid-state drive (SSD), never a spinning hard drive, as the main drive. 512 GB suits most people; get more if you keep lots of photos and videos on the computer itself rather than in the cloud.

Windows or Mac?

Stick with what you know unless you have a reason to switch: your programs, printer and habits come along more easily. Check that any software you need for work runs on the one you're choosing.

Laptop or desktop?

A laptop if you'll ever use it away from the desk. A desktop gives more speed for the money, a bigger screen, and is easier and cheaper to repair and upgrade.

Custom PC builds and upgrades

Is a cheap laptop good enough?

The cheapest laptops often cut corners on memory, storage and screen, and feel slow within a year or two. Spending a little more on 16 GB of memory and an SSD usually lasts much longer.

Can you move everything from my old computer to the new one?

Yes: files, photos, e-mail, browser bookmarks and passwords, and your programs reinstalled. Then the old one wiped properly before you sell, give away or recycle it.

Moving files to a new computer

What should I set up first on a new computer?

Updates, a backup, your accounts with two-step sign-in, and removing the trial software that came with it.

New computer setup checklist

How much does new computer setup cost?

New computer setup, with your files, e-mail and programs moved across, starts from $75.

Our prices

General answers in plain English, checked when we wrote them. Every device is different: we check yours before saying what it needs. This isn't professional advice for your exact device. See our website terms.

Still have a question?

Tell us what's going on and we'll tell you what it takes before we start.

Send us a message  or call (208) 745-2981, Monday to Friday, 9 to 5.

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