Which Computer Should I buy for my Virtual Assistant Business?

(This is a post by my husband, Chris, the computer guru!)

When I am looking for a new computer, there are a few specs that matter and there are some that are just preferences.

The first question that you have to answer is: Do you want a laptop or a desktop?

Jen uses her laptop exclusively so she can move around and work wherever she needs to.
I like having a laptop, but I sit at my desk 90% of the time and have it hooked up to a keyboard and mouse and 2 external screens.

If you are planning on always sitting at your desk, a desktop will work for you and typically will be cheaper than a laptop. If you want/need the flexibility to move around or work in other places, then you will need to get a laptop.

The options below that I always look for are the same no matter if you are looking for a laptop or a desktop.

At the very bottom of this article, I will show you the setup that I use almost exclusively with multiple monitors and a keyboard/mouse.

When looking for a PC, here are the things that matter:

Processor:
- Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 for basic computer work
- Intel i7 or i9 or AMD Ryzen 7 or 9 if you are going to be doing a lot of graphics work in Photoshop (if you are doing this in Canva online, a 5 will do just fine) or video

RAM
- At least 8 GB, 16 GB preferred
Hard Drive
- SSD (solid state hard drive)
- At least 500 GB, 1 TB preferred

When looking for a PC, these are the things that are a preference:

Screen size (for laptop)
- I use a docking station with multiple monitors, so I don't need a big screen, and I like the portability of a 13" screen, but I don't work on it all of the time. Jen uses her laptop almost exclusively and 13 works just fine for her

Number keypad
- If you are using your laptop exclusively and you are doing bookkeeping, this will be a necessity. If you are using an external keyboard (like I do), then it doesn't matter.

Brand
- I prefer HP or Dell. They make nice computers that last and they have great customer service if you have a problem.

When looking for a Mac:
- Look for something that is 2-3 years old or brand new. You can get nice refurbished laptops that are 2-3 years old at a substantial discount of a new computer.
- If you are looking for a laptop, I recommend a Macbook Pro. They will almost always have better specs than a Macbook Air.

RAM
- 8 GB, 16 preferred

Hard Drive
- 500 GB, 1 TB preferred

Here is what I use for my setup (I have done this with both a Mac and a PC)
- USB-C docking station for Mac (search for USB-C docking station on Amazon to find a lot of options) USB-C docking station for PC
  - If you are using a Mac, you will need to specify that you are searching for a Mac because they are different
  - I look to make sure that it will have at least 2 HDMI outputs so that I can connect 2 monitors
  - I look to make sure that it has multiple USB connections or purchase a USB hub
- Bluetooth Logitech keyboard & mouse (all Macs come with Bluetooth built in, most PCs do at this point)
- 2 25" monitors - anything will work for this, I recommend having the exact same monitor if you are going to have two.

Remember, this is a business expense! (And a write-off.)

If you invest well, it will last you longer and cause you fewer headaches!