With their line of desktop computers, Acer provides a variety of models with the power to run your business. The Acer Aspire M5100 is one of the most affordable desktop computers built with a quad-core processor. The Veriton L series of Acer mini-desktop computer systems, also known as small, form factor computers, is only one-tenth the size of a normal tower computer and runs almost silently.

When choosing among various desktop computer models including Acer desktop personal computer systems consider the following features:

1. Compare the speed (measured in GHz), the manufacturer (the higher-priced Intel or AMD) and the type (dual-core or quad-core) of CPU or processor chip;

2. Get the most RAM, or memory, you can;

3. Determine your hard drive needs — you need more space if you work with digital, audio or video or if you have lots of photos and images;

4. And evaluate your need for additional features such as the kind of optical drive, the number of ports and the overall size of the CPU box.

Action Steps to Shop Smart for Desktop Computers
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find which Acer desktop computer best fits your requirements

The Acer desktop computer website shows computers in three categories: notebooks, business desktops and personal desktops. Explore the category that best describes your computing needs. Check editorial reviews of Acer products at sites that don't sell Acer desktop computers to get an independent opinion.

I recommend: Learn about the features of different models of Acer desktop computers at Acer Inc., where you can view the Veriton line of business computers or the Aspire line of consumer computers. CNET Networks, Inc. has an Acer desktop computer review covering several models so you can get an independent opinion that compares Acer computers to other brands.

Buy Acer desktop computer systems for your business

Save power as well as space with the Veriton L series of smaller desktop computers. Take advantage of real computing power in the Veriton M661 series of compact towers with quad-core processors, large hard drives and lots of RAM.

I recommend: CDW Corporation offers several categories of Acer desktop computers on sale, and you can save money buying a computer bundled with another related product such as a monitor or extra memory. Choose from many models of Acer desktop computers at Insight, where you can narrow your search by price range, processor speed or type, amount of RAM and operating system.

Save money with refurbished Acer desktop computers

Vendors service and repair refurbished computers to restore them to the manufacturer's quality standards. Open box computers may be new or returned items. Companies test to make sure the computers are fully functional and have all the accessories. Regardless of the label, each should come with a warranty.

I recommend: Buy refurbished Acer desktop computer systems at Overstock.com, where they have low shipping costs every day. TigerDirect, Inc., has a search tool that lets you sort your search results for refurbished Acer desktop computers by popularity, consumer rating or price.

Tips& Tactics for Desktop PC Purchases

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Upgrading the memory of your refurbished Acer desktop computers is the easiest upgrade you can perform, even if you are inexperienced with computer repair. Read the directions provided by the memory vendor and take advantage of their technical support if you need help.