Last Updated on September 30, 2019 by Larious
Software for electronics is different from hardware. Software is the data which is stored electronically. This data runs on the hardware which are the physical components of the computer system.
There are many different types of hardware that can be installed both inside and externally on a computer.
Some of the hardware that you can install inside a computer are:
- Random access memory (RAM)
- Motherboard
- Central processing unit (CPU)
- Video card
- Hard drive
- Card reader
- Power supply
Here are plenty of hardware components that can be installed on the outside of the computer, namely:
- Mouse
- Battery back up
- Printers
- Speakers
- Monitor
- Keyboard
- Flash drive
- External hard drive
There are also some less well-known hardware pieces which are normally now integrated into the device, namely:
- Scanners
- Sound cards
- Joysticks
- Projectors
- Microphones
- Floppy disc drives
- Webcam
- Zip drive
Most people who own computers or laptops will know of places that they can get hardware, and if you have ever looked around you will see that these stores abound. It can be quite confusing to know where to get the best deals on hardware.
Here we’ve had a look at some sites where you will be able to get not only good deals but also quality service for your hardware.
Tom’s Hardware
Here’s a great store that will also give you the best prices. Their motto is to ‘never pay retail’. Laptops are no different from CPUs and SSDs in that the minute they are released they drop in price. At this store you can pick up a deal even before they appear on the market.
Tom’s Hardware is one of the leading destinations for any tech enthusiast no matter what your skill level. They have comprehensive editorial resources to help you with any project you are working on. There is also an active online community to ask all those questions.
This store is well-known for benchmark testing and every product they test is done to very high standards.
In 22 years of their business, they have maintained their tradition of testing and reviews, expanded their coverage for many other fields and developed a supportive community for their customers.
Newegg
You will find that this company is cheaper than most others but a few dollars on most articles. They have a great selection of all sorts of interesting stuff.
What is great about this store is that they are always there to help you out, even if you just need a question answered. If it is broken, they will help you to fix it.
The site is easy to navigate, and you’ll be able to find anything you want with no hassles.
The online store is based in California and stocks an amazing collection of computer hardware and consumer electronics.
ZipZoomfly
Based in Newark, this online retailer specializes in computer parts and products. It was founded in 1999 under the name XtraPlus and later relaunched as ZipZoomfly.
While you may notice that their prices are a few dollars more than other sites, you will also find that they offer a free 2-day shipping option. They ship quickly and their products are well packaged.
The site has a search box so you can find exactly what you are looking for.
Amazon
Most people will have heard of Amazon and more than likely dealt with them before. They have a good reputation for selling hardware of all sorts.
One of the main reasons for using Amazon is that you have so much choice, with so many sellers. It is unlikely that the hardware you want will not be available.
Making use of sales that are fulfilled by Amazon gives you even more confidence about the hardware you are buying. It will be shipped to you directly from the store, so you know that if it is advertised, it is available.
Performance-PCs.com
If you’re looking for cutting edge computer modification hardware, then this is a site that you should visit.
Based in Palm Bay, Florida they have been at the front of technology for more than 20 years.
Whether you’re looking for cables, fans, lighting or any DIY parts, you will find it here. The warehouse covers 12,000 square feet and they have a huge inventory.
The website is easy to get around and you can find everything you need quickly. Buying your stuff is also easy and problem-free.
To sum up
While some people prefer to buy a computer and stick with what they’ve got, there may come a time when you just want to add something else to it. Often one of the things to add is an external hard drive or a new printer.
Many generic stores will stock all these pieces of hardware although they may be priced higher than some other places online.
Often buying from an online store will give you lower prices without compromising quality.
The good thing about buying from an online store is that they can offer a greater selection than a high street store. They may offer free shipping which means that you never have to go and pick your goods up, you can just wait for them to be delivered.
It is well worth it then, to look around and check out some other online stores before you buy your hardware. If the site is reputable, you’ll get what you are looking for at a fraction of the price you’d pay in the high street – and probably have a better choice as well.