If you’re looking for a “greener” computer, here are several factors you may want to consider in addition to performance and cost before buying a new one.
RELIABILITY
Consider the manufacturer's reliability track record. Consumer Reports has compiled brand repair history on more than 100,000 desktops and laptop computers. To find out which brands have been most and least reliable, review our brand repair history reports for laptops and desktops. (available to subscribers).
UPGRADABILITY
Buy an upgradeable machine. Doing so could help you avoid having to dispose of your computer prematurely. Though they’re more expensive, workhorse versions of desktops and laptops are versatile, and you can usually expand their capacity and add features easily. Many offer cards for improved audio and video performance, although some don't have enough muscle for serious video editing or extreme gaming. Budget computers, on the other hand, may be more difficult to add features to. They are also apt to have slower processors and smaller hard drives than other models, as well as less sophisticated audio-video components and keyboards. Visit our Green Ratings to find out which computers offer free memory slots and more.
COMPATIBILITY
Consider compatibility. Few computers today operate alone. Increasingly they are the "mother ship" for a host of peripherals like printers, digital cameras, music players, and even cell phones. Manufacturers can make it frustrating to use them all together, so the addition of a new music player, for example, might end with the purchase of a whole new computer. To avoid surprises, make sure you know what's compatible with what before you buy any new digital device. Here are the key pieces of information you'll need to collect:
• The current operating system (Mac OS 9 or 10; Windows XP, 98, ME, or Vista)
• Amount of Random Access Memory (RAM), in MB
• Amount of available hard drive space (in GB)
• Type and number of USB and Firewire ports
• Speed of your processor (in GHz) and its type (Intel Pentium, AMD Athlon, etc.)
ENERGY
Consider an energy-saving model. Electronics play an increasingly large role in home energy consumption, accounting for about 15 percent of household electricity use. To find energy-saving models, check our Green Ratings, which reflect power consumption in a typical pattern of use, along with power saving features. As of July 2007, the voluntary Energy Star standards for computers include operating power, which the earlier requirements didn't take into account. While the majority of computers on the market met the previous requirements, which measured operating power only when the computer was turned off, in standby mode, only about 25 percent are expected to meet the new standards.
Note that laptops use less energy. Compared to desktops, laptops use significantly less energy. To compare performance between laptops, check Consumer Reports Ratings (available to subscribers).
Go with an LCD monitor. Whether you're looking for a new monitor to go with your old computer or with a new one, an LCD model is the best choice. It will use half as much energy and contain much less lead than a comparably sized cathode ray tube (CRT) displays. The LCD monitor's flat-screen design will also take up considerably less room on your desk. One downside is that it may cost you more, although LCD prices continue to fall. To compare performance between LCD monitors, check Consumer Reports Ratings (available to subscribers).
TOXICS
Consider whether the manufacturer has reduced or eliminated toxics. Some computer makers are developing new product designs that reduce the use of toxics, partly in response to the European Union's Restriction of the use of Certain Hazardous Substances (RoHS) law. California has passed a similar, but less rigorous law that became effective in January 2007 that bans the sale of electronics including computers, computer monitors and televisions that contain certain heavy metals, including lead, mercury, cadmium and hexavalent chromium. For more information on California's law, visit the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. The state also passed a ban to take effect in 2008 on the use of some brominated flame retardants after the chemicals were found in fish from the San Francisco Bay.
RECYCLING
Consider whether a manufacturer has a recycling program. Some companies offer recycling programs in which they’ll take back computer equipment for recycling and reuse. Consumers Union, the parent organization of Consumer Reports, supports this type of recycling program. To find out which companies have recycling programs and how they work, check our Market watch section [coming soon!]. You can also check the progress of major computer manufacturers by consulting the 2005 computer manufacturer report card issued by The Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition, and the Guide to Greener Electronics, issued by Greenpeace.
Look for equipment with replaceable batteries. Laptops and handheld computers are costly enough, but most also have batteries with a limited life span. After charging and recharging they eventually need to be replaced. While batteries for laptops can be replaced by the user, replacing the battery on a hand-held device - such as the iPod - often requires returning it to the manufacturer and paying a hefty sum. Your data will also be erased. Be sure to recycle rechargeable batteries responsibly. Check the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation for drop-off locations near you.
To find out which companies have reduced toxics in their computer equipment, consult the Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT), which lists computer models that contain reportedly fewer toxics than conventional models. You can also check the Guide to Greener Electronics, issued by Greenpeace.
REUSE
Consider a used or refurbished computer. With many businesses replacing hardware, there is a growing secondary market for refurbished machines selling for bargain prices. Most equipment made after 2001 will meet basic needs-word processing, digital photography, calendars, basic games, etc. You can check Dell, RefurbDepot, and Electro Rent for options. Some equipment is also available on Ebay, or from local listings on sites like Craig's List or freecycle. Before you buy, try to get a test drive, and if you're purchasing from a company, be sure to check the details on the return policy and any warranty. Look for PCs that have at least an 800 MHz processor, 20 GB hard drive, a CD-ROM drive, and USB ports-and that come with Windows XP. For Macs, be sure they have Mac OS 10.3 or later.
RELATED LINKS
Consumer Reports Computers Decision Guide. Visit the complete guide (some content is available to subscribers only).
My green electronics. The Electronics Industry Alliance has developed criteria for “greener” electronics and offers an online searchable database that allows consumers to search by product at MyGreenElectronics.
EPEAT. The Electronic Products Environmental Assessment Tool is a searchable database developed by government, private, non-profit and academic representatives to help purchasers find “greener” computers. Products are arranged in three tiers of environmental performance: Bronze, Silver and Gold. To search and compare different computer models, visit EPEAT.
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