1. Be clear about what you expect your desktop system to do now and in the future. For example, if you plan to edit video or audio clips, you'll want a high-capacity hard drive, a CD-RW drive, or a DVD-RAM drive, as these file types usually eat up lots of storage space. You may not need a broadband connection now, but believe us, you will. So you might want to check into one of the many systems that come with integrated Ethernet.

2. Manage your budget. Even though you know how much you can afford, getting carried away with optional features is easy. The costs can add up quickly. Buying a system with 256MB of memory is overkill if you typically run one application at a time, so 128MB or even 64MB of RAM will do. Also, if you opt for a high-end video card, realize that you'll have to spend more for a display that can accommodate use the card's highest resolution modes.
 

3. Look for bundled extras when comparing prices. Free software, printers, and other peripherals can add hundreds of dollars to the value of your desktop package. Check the cost of consumables, though, especially for printers. The cost of ink for some "free" inkjets, for example, can quickly outstrip the total expense for an equivalent printer from another manufacturer.
 

4. Don't skimp on mass storage. The difference between a 20GB and a 40GB hard drive may be as little as $50 when you order your desktop, so configure your system with as big a drive as your budget allows. Upgrading to a larger drive later on will cost more and can be a difficult task.

5. Some desktops-the iMac and certain corporate PCs, for example-don't offer support for legacy devices such as parallel printers, serial modems, and PS/2 pointing devices. If you own one or more legacy peripherals, be sure your desktop includes ports your old equipment can connect to. Otherwise, you'll have to purchase new peripherals that connect via USB or FireWire ports.

6. Read the fine print for hidden costs, especially where warranty options or "free" services are concerned.

7. If you're on a strict budget, make sure your desktop price includes a monitor.

8. Find out who pays for those "free" technical supports hotlines. Look for a toll-free number; otherwise you'll take a hit on your phone bill, especially since hold times for tech support are notoriously long.
 

9. As with any sizable purchase, buy your desktop from an established, reputable company. There are plenty out there.
 

10.Consider the size of your workspace. If you have limited desk space at home or you work in a cubicle, a tower or mid-size desktop could leave you with little or no room to work. Slim desktops and small-form-factor systems can free up some space, as can a flat-panel display. Realize, though, that small systems are often less expandable than larger ones and that flat-panel displays are more expensive than monitors.