Buying Software the Cheaper Way
In case you haven’t noticed, computer software doesn’t grow on trees – and it can be pricey. Here are a few tips for buying software on the cheap.
A New Computer! Now What?
Here’s the scene: You’ve just bought a gorgeous new MacBook – your first. You’ve decided to switch over from a PC platform and you’re excited with your new purchase, but how are you going to get all the software you need without breaking the bank?
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Fortunately, you’ll often get at least the basics bundled with the purchase of your new computer. They’ll already be installed, so all you need to do is start up your computer and get working. The most basic level of software is called platform software, which includes the computer’s operating system, device drivers, firmware, and a graphical user interface. Platform software lets you interact with your computer as well as its associated equipment, such as keyboards and speakers.
Your new computer may also come with specific pre-installed application software such as office packages (word-processing programs, for example) and video-game suites. However, these are not always automatically bundled with the purchase of your new computer, so you may have to pay an extra amount at the time of purchase, or purchase these separately.
If you’re looking to get the maximum amount of software bundled with your new computer purchase, you may consider buying a more high-end computer. Though this isn’t always the case, a higher purchase price often means you’re getting more bang for your buck – and that includes software.
How Can I Get Software on the Cheap?
Here’s the good news: You don’t always need to spend a bundle to get the software you need. We’ve come up with five tips to get your computer set up with the right software, while keeping your wallet from hurting:
Since students typically get discounted software rates, you can save significantly if you are a registered student. However, if you’re not, don’t despair – just find a student who can get you the discounted price. Make sure to repay them, and maybe even throw in a beer with the bargain.
If you can’t get a student software discount, try buying at Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) discounts. Beware, however, that though these discounts can make a different for your wallet, they do assume a higher level of technological expertise and therefore may not come with manuals or instructions.
Download free software such as OpenOffice, which is an international office suite offering word-processing, spreadsheet, multimedia, graphics, and database programs free of charge.
If you’re buying software for more than one computer, additional software licenses can break the bank. You can lessen this expense by purchasing subscriptions in bulk, buying used licenses, or selling full licenses if they are no longer necessary.
If you’re comfortable with web-based software, this can save you a bundle in the long run. Popular web-based software includes Gliffy, which allows users to create diagrams online, and Quicken Online, the web-based version of Intuit’s previously for-a-fee personal finance application.
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If you’re looking to get around using traditional software (and therefore paying traditional prices), be aware that software providers will try to stop you from cheating in this way. For example, Microsoft has authorization keys that will often prohibit you from downloading the company’s software from any place but an authorized source. Keep this in mind as you search to save money on your computer software.