Don’t Fall for PC Hardware Myths in 2008

I’m sure at some point, either you or someone you know fell sucker to some marketing line that made them dish out extra cash for something they don’t need. This is alarmingly common on the PC hardware scene, where you need to realize that buying a $500 video card isn’t going to make your 8-year-old computer into a top-of-the-line machine.

And while that sort of misunderstand might have become common knowledge in recent years, there’s plenty of other confusing marketing speak to be aware of. Tech ARP has compiled a list of PC hardware myths to avoid in ’08. If you’re the type to consider picking up new computer hardware, it’s definitely something you’ll want to read – you never know if it might save you some money.

Myth 6 : Our LCD monitor has better specifications, so it will look better than the competition.

While LCD specifications are a useful guide, they do not tell the whole story. Like it or not, our perceptions differ from one person to another. What looks great to someone may not look good to you. As you will be staring at the monitor for hours, it would be a good idea to visually eyeball it before you decide to buy. Make sure the colour, brightness, response time and viewing angles are all what you expect from it.

Now, it may be a good idea to ask those who are already using the monitor for their opinions. However, you must not merely take their opinions at face value. No matter what reviews or feedback you read, always make sure you check out the monitor yourself. Remember, what you may consider important may not be important to other users.

For example, gamers might not mind TN (Twisted Nematic) panels which offer fast response times in exchange for poorer colour resolution and narrower viewing angles, but a graphics artist would definitely protest. It all depends on what you intend to use the monitor for. Armchair debating the specifications may be entertaining, but it’s not going to help you buy the monitor you want. You absolutely must eyeball the monitor.

Read the full list here.