What Computer Should I Buy?

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What Computer Should I Buy?

By Virtuartcity
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Here’s some info about purchasing computer.

It’s an INVESTMENT in Your Livelihood.

Purchase a Mac over a PC.

Why?
They don’t get viruses like PC’s
They don’t get slow after a few months. 
If you are going to be a graphic designer Mac is the standard used by design firms and advertising agencies.
What it comes down to is how much money do you have to spend.
You will have to think about whether you are going to be using it as a primary computer for your design work. Laptops have the convenience of portability, however desktop units have the advantage of larger screens that can really be helpful when you are working full-time as a designer.
For a laptop, I would recommend a LARGER screen size if you are going to be working full-time using it.

MacBook Pro 16″ — PREFERRED
MacBook Pro 14″

I would NOT recommend the smaller laptop option 13″
For one thing the screen is so small and with the programs we use, and with the student’s reticence to keep their workspace organized, it will put a lot of strain on your eyes. As when you are working on projects the menus tend to get way out of control taking up all the valuable real estate on the screen. It is a better investment for not only productivity but for your health if you go with a larger monitor. 

Where to focus your investment?

First, focus on getting the most GPU–you will have to pay extra to get the largest GPU.
Second would be the Processor Speed
and third, get the Largest Hard Drive you can afford.

This is the philosophy whether you are purchasing a a laptop or a desktop computer. Because as soon as you purchase it, a better, faster, and more robust unit will be on the market. And you want to be able to use your computer for a long time because of the investment.

If you can afford to get the maximum GPU  at 64GB, that will serve you well with all of the processing power needed for all the Adobe applications—especially when you get into any video or animation programs.

Here is a link for the current models:

The other essentials I would recommend are:
  1. External Drive for BACK UP — should have at least what your hard drive has on it. And use it ONLY for backing up your computer.
  2. AppleCare … I have used this MANY times and it is well worth the cost! 
  3. Adobe CC subscription. https://www.adobe.com/ you can save 60% on a subscription if you are a student.