Desktop PC Buying Guide – tommiekelly.ie | Euronics
Buying a new desktop PC doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re upgrading your home setup, buying a family computer, or looking for a powerful work or gaming machine, this guide will help you choose the right desktop PC with confidence.
What Is a Desktop PC?
A desktop PC is a personal computer designed to stay in one place — typically on or under a desk. Unlike laptops, desktops use separate components such as a computer tower (or compact unit), monitor, keyboard, and mouse. This design allows for more power, better cooling, and easier upgrades.
Desktop PCs are ideal for home use, offices, students, gamers, and anyone who wants reliable performance at great value.
Benefits of Choosing a Desktop PC
- Better performance for your money compared to laptops
- Larger screens or multiple monitors for productivity
- Easier to upgrade RAM, storage, or graphics later
- More ports and connectivity options
- Comfortable long-term use with full-size accessories
Desktop PC vs Laptop – What’s the Difference?
| Desktop PC | Laptop |
| More powerful for the price | Portable and lightweight |
| Easier to upgrade | Limited upgrade options |
| Larger display options | Smaller built-in screen |
| Better cooling | Can heat up faster |
👉 Choose a desktop if you mainly work or play in one location and want the best value and performance.
Who Is a Desktop PC Best For?
- Home users – browsing, streaming, emails, photos
- Students – homework, online learning, multitasking
- Office & business users – productivity and reliability
- Gamers – smoother gameplay and better graphics
- Creative users – photo, video, and music editing
What to Look for When Buying a Desktop PC
🧠 Processor (CPU)
The “brain” of your PC.
- Intel Core i5 / AMD Ryzen 5 – everyday & office use
- Intel Core i7 / Ryzen 7 – gaming & creative tasks
⚡ Memory (RAM)
- 8GB – basic everyday use
- 16GB – ideal for most users
- 32GB+ – heavy multitasking & professional software
💾 Storage
- SSD – fast start-up and performance
- HDD – large storage for files
- Best option: SSD + HDD combo
🎮 Graphics (GPU)
- Integrated graphics – browsing & office work
- Dedicated graphics card – gaming, editing, design work
🖥️ Form Factor
- Tower PC – best for upgrades
- All-in-One PC – clean, space-saving design
🔌 Connectivity & Ports
Look for enough:
- USB ports (USB-A & USB-C)
- HDMI / DisplayPort
- Ethernet & Wi-Fi
- Audio connections
Operating System & Software
Most desktop PCs come with Windows 11, offering:
- Improved security
- Better multitasking
- Compatibility with modern apps
Check if essential software (Office trials, antivirus) is included.
Future-Proofing Your Desktop
To keep your PC useful for years:
- Choose at least 16GB RAM if possible
- Go for an SSD as your main drive
- Ensure upgrade options are available
Spending a little more now can save money later.
❓ Desktop PC FAQ
Q: Is a desktop better than a laptop?
Yes — if portability isn’t essential, desktops offer better performance and value.
Q: How long should a desktop PC last?
A good desktop can last 5–8 years, especially with upgrades.
Q: Do I need a gaming PC for everyday use?
No — standard desktops are perfect for browsing, office work, and streaming.
Q: Can I upgrade my desktop later?
Most desktops allow RAM, storage, and sometimes graphics upgrades.
Find the Right Desktop PC at Tommie Kelly | Euronics
Explore our wide range of desktop PCs for home, office, and gaming at
👉 www.tommiekelly.ie
Or visit us in store for expert advice:
📍 Ballinasloe – 090 9644093
📍 Roscommon – 090 6634465
Our team will help you find the perfect PC — no jargon, just honest advice.