What should be considered when buying computers for opening a new office?
Short answer: When setting up a new office, the selection of computers should consider employee roles, software needs, long-term usage lifespan, and total cost of ownership.
Opening a new office is not just about furniture and space design. One of the most critical elements in ensuring the efficient operation of the office is... computer infrastructure. Choosing the wrong computers means slow performance, staff dissatisfaction, and additional costs.
Why is Choosing an Office Computer So Important?
By 2026, the software used in offices will demand more processing power each year. Cloud-based systems, browser-based ERP and CRM software, and high-resolution screens directly impact computer hardware.
- It directly affects employee productivity.
- Determines long-term IT costs.
- Reduces the need for maintenance and servicing.
- It enhances the professional image of the office.
Desktop or Laptop?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions when opening a new office. The answer depends on the office's operating model.
| Criterion | Desktop Computer | Laptop |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | High | Medium - High |
| Price/Performance | More advantageous | More expensive |
| Portability | None | There is |
| Maintenance / Upgrade | Easy | Annoyed |
| Long life | Longer | Battery limited. |
Desktop computers are more suitable for sedentary, desk-based teams, while laptops are better suited for field, sales, and hybrid work teams.
Basic Hardware Criteria When Buying an Office Computer
1. Processor (CPU)
Minimum recommended processor level for office computers in 2026:
- Intel Core i5 (12th generation and above)
- AMD Ryzen 5 (5000 series and above)
If you only need to do email and document editing, an i3/Ryzen 3 might be sufficient; however, for software involving multiple tabs, ERP systems, and graphics, anything below an i5 is not recommended.
2. RAM (Memory)
| Usage Type | Recommended RAM |
|---|---|
| Basic office jobs | 8 GB |
| Intensive multitasking | 16 GB |
| Design / technical work | 32 GB |
As of 2026, systems with less than 8 GB of RAM are no longer recommended for office use.
3. Storage (SSD)
New office computers must have this feature SSD should be preferred.
- Minimum: 256 GB SSD
- Recommended: 512 GB SSD
- File-intensive offices: 1 TB SSD
Are graphics cards necessary for office computers?
For most offices, an external graphics card is not necessary. However, it becomes important in the following situations:
- 3D drawing and design
- Rendering and image processing
- Video editing
For standard office use, integrated graphics units are sufficient.
2026 Office Computer Budget Allocation Graph
Proper allocation of the computer budget in new office setups reduces long-term costs.
Monitor, Keyboard and Ergonomics
Peripherals are just as important as the choice of computer itself:
- At least a 24” Full HD monitor
- Eye-friendly IPS panel
- Ergonomic keyboard and mouse
- Adjustable monitor arm
Proper ergonomics play a critical role in employee health and performance.
Common Mistakes
- Choosing based solely on price.
- Failing to consider future software needs
- Ignoring the warranty and service network.
- Buying the same computer for all employees
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
For the new office, would a laptop or a desktop be more practical?
If your work model is stationary, a desktop is more suitable; if you work mobile, a laptop is better.
How many years should office computers be used?
A properly selected office computer can be used trouble-free for an average of 4-6 years.
Are gaming laptops preferred for office computers?
No. Gaming computers create unnecessary costs and energy consumption for office use.
Conclusion
Choosing the right computers when opening a new office determines not only today's productivity but also years to come. Accurate analysis of hardware needs ensures that the office's digital infrastructure is built on a solid foundation.
