We are often asked by our clients why they should consider business hardware over domestic offerings and the benefits.
Business computers and home computers typically have completely different uses unless you are working out of a home office. Business computers can be used for functions as complex and diverse as rendering videos to creating multimedia presentations to viewing high-resolution graphics and tables. Home computers often are used for simple tasks such as email, web surfing, editing and perhaps video games.
Computer hardware for your business has several significant differences versus what you would use for your computer at home. Although all PCs are based around the same architecture, the difference is in the quality of the components.
A basic home PC is designed to last only a couple of years. However, even a low-end computer for businesses is designed to last three to five years.
The “entry level” for a home computer is lower than it is for a business computer. Some home computers still will have only 2GB RAM while a business computer will start with a minimum of 4GB RAM. The difference in performance can be significant.
Business computers also often have dedicated components to assist with their main function, such as a dedicated graphics processor for Computer Aided Design or video rendering.
Computers used for business also often have legacy support for older hardware that allows for integration into existing infrastructures.
“Business grade” doesn’t just apply to the computer systems. Even the routers, keyboards and mice are higher quality and more durable.
The operating systems also are more advanced in business computers versus home computers. Windows Professional has numerous options and software components (such as encryption and networking options) that aren’t available to home computers users.
Business laptops and portable devices will often have a more premium look and feel. They can be made from aluminium rather than plastic, making them more durable and able to withstand the rigors of traveling and intensive use. Shock-resistant features and more rugged designs also help protect business laptops when they inevitably are dropped.
Your business computer often will have smaller capacity but a faster hard disk drive for doing many of the work-related tasks people usually don’t perform on their home computer.
Work computers also use parts that are more expensive and more difficult to obtain. Business computers usually are more customized than the mass-produced home computers. They feature heavy-duty motherboards, processors and other components, which means they also require skilled specialists and more money to repair.
Finally, your business computer typically will have a warranty that covers an engineer coming out to the site as opposed to your home computer with the standard “Return To Base” warranty. This can save time and inconvenience in the event of a problem.