If you’re a graphic designer, then you may already know how important a good computer is. Without one, there may be limitations to what you may be able to do and how well certain applications will perform. However, if you’re unfamiliar with computers in general, it can be difficult to know what you need, and which components are the most important. In this article, we’re going to give you a few tips for finding the best computer for graphic design.
Hardware
If you’re just dabbling in graphic design, then you might be able to get by with a simple computer at first. Anything that is not over 3 years old and has more power than your run-of-the-mill netbook should do the trick.
But if you’re serious about graphic design or if you run a graphic design business, then you can’t really cut corners. The most important things you’ll have to consider are processor speed, screen resolution, memory and storage.
[Read also: Finding A High Tech Laptop at A Price You Can Afford]
Processor Speed and RAM
Graphic design work is very demanding on your processor, and it’s essential that you buy a computer with enough processing power to handle most applications. For the average graphic design program, you’ll need at least a 1Ghz CPU. But that’s only the bare minimum – always try to get a faster processor if you can.
Next is RAM memory. RAM memory will affect how many files and programs you can work with at once, which is very important when it comes to graphic design. In this case, you’ll need at least 8 gigs of RAM to get started.
If you want to increase your computer’s performance even more, it’s always better to go for RAM first. You most likely won’t see that big of a difference if you increase your CPU’s power over 8Ghz. RAM is a much better investment. Upgrading to 16 or 32 gigs will make a huge difference on how well you can multitask.
[Read also: Top 5 Benefits of Outsourcing Graphic Design Projects]
Storage
When it comes to storage, you shouldn’t worry too much about the computer’s hard drive per se. 1 Terabyte should be more than enough for your needs. If you decide to go for a laptop, you could even go lower, provided you invest in an external drive. You should also consider buying an external drive even if you have a desktop computer to store common files and for added safety.
If you’re going to buy some sort of external storage however, make sure that you pick an SSD drive over an HDD one. SSDs are much more powerful and less prone to damage since they aren’t made from moving parts like HDDs. A good external drive will be essential if you’re intending to buy a laptop with less storage. If you want to learn more tips on how to buy a laptop for graphic design, you can check out a site like Extensively Reviewed for more details.
Monitor
If you’re going to do some graphic design, the better the resolution you have on your monitor, the better it will be. Most programs won’t even run on something lower than 1280 X 800, so make sure that your screen’s resolution isn’t lower than that. If you can, you could also go for something more advanced with retina display, but know that you’ll have to be ready to pay. And know that only Mac products offer the option.
Now that you know what to look for in a graphic design computer, you can start exploring your options and find one that works for you.
[Image via: Google Images]
