Whether you’re looking to buy your first PC or are a seasoned computer shopper, you should bear in mind the following basic dos and don’ts when you hand over your credit card. This should save you unnecessary grief if your dream system turns out to be a bit of a turkey.

Where to buy
• High street. Buying at a high street outlet is still the most expensive route to take as you’re paying extra for the vendor’s overheads. Remember, too, that you won’t necessarily be able to pick up your PC there and then as most are still made to order. You will be able to try out a test model, though, and many first-time buyers find this aspect particularly reassuring.

• Mail order. This will get you a better price, as many mail order dealers don’t have the costs of a shop front. However, if you choose this way of buying, it requires a lot more confidence. Before you place an order, write down your requirements and be prepared to argue with the sales staff because they’ll try to upsell you.

• Online. Buying on the web is a good option if you want the best price. It’s very cost-effective for dealers to sell online, so they’ll entice you with great offers and the best specs. You can usually configure your own system, too. The down side is you will need to know what you want as there’s often no one on hand to help you. One point to remember: you should get an order confirmation via email immediately. For any of the above options, don’t forget to test the company’s customer helpline, too. If it’s impossible to get through, imagine trying to when you have a problem.

How to buy
• Ordering. Keep copies of all your paperwork. A high street dealer should give you a receipt and details of your order. Mail order firms should give you a quote by return with a written guarantee of price and the exact spec of each component. For web orders, stick to a well-known name and check there’s a UK contact address and telephone number on the site. Look for privacy-vetted websites displaying standards logos such as those of the Which? Web Trader, Trusted Shops and TrustUK schemes.

• Service and warranty. Always check the warranty which comes with your system. Is it onsite or return-to-base and, if it’s the latter, will you have to pay the return fees? Look for insurance-backed warranties that will still be worth having if the vendor goes bust. Some of the big companies make more from selling warranties than they do from selling goods, so it’s always worth haggling over warranty prices.

• Small print. Always check any small print, especially for any disclaimers and E&OE (errors and omissions excluded), which may mean that you won’t get your money back in the event that you want to return the goods. If you are uncertain about a particular piece of information, contact the company and ask for written proof that they will be able to provide what you want.

• Paying. Always use a credit card or finance house, especially for online or mail order transactions. If you don’t receive your goods for any reason, particularly if the company goes bankrupt, you will be able to claim on the credit card company’s insurance.

This only applies to goods that cost over £100, and does not apply to charge cards such as American Express or debit cards, even if they carry the Visa or Access logos. A supplier should not debit your credit card until the goods are ready to be sent out. (see Raising the standard for more regarding payment).