[Answer] I'm majoring in Computer Networks and want to buy a computer for around 4,000 RMB. I don't play games—any recommendations?

[Answer] I'm majoring in Computer Networks and want to buy a computer for around 4,000 RMB. I don't play games—any recommendations?

If you don’t need to move it around, I strongly recommend prioritizing a desktop. A desktop at the same price can offer several times the performance of a laptop. If you don’t play games, don’t have particularly high graphics performance requirements, and aren’t specifically doing graphic design, then just like when choosing a laptop, I would still recommend going with an AMD processor. Here are a few configuration ideas you can use as a reference.

For the CPU, choose an R5 or R7 series processor. If possible, it’s better to go with a first- or second-generation model, because they tend to offer better value for money. The performance gains from one generation to the next usually aren’t that large, but newer processors often come with a significant price premium.

As for memory, 16GB of DDR4 should be enough. For storage, it’s best to have one solid-state drive plus one mechanical hard drive. A 512GB SSD is a good choice, and a 2–3TB HDD would be ideal.

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If you only need occasional portability, but not the kind of all-day carry-around convenience of a laptop, there’s actually another option: a mini PC plus a portable monitor. I also highly recommend this setup, because it combines the performance and value of a desktop with a certain degree of portability. It’s especially convenient when moving house or in similar situations, so it’s worth considering.

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