Intel or AMD chip? 4GB or RAM or more? Tower or all-in-one? When you're buying a new PC, it's hard to know what you really need. So we asked our desktop guru, Nate Ralph, to explain what each component does and what all those specification really mean. Nate's "Desktop PC Buying Guide: The Specs Explained" is a crash course in PC technology, loaded with practical advice on what you should be looking for in a new machine. Give it a read before you buy your next computer.
--Editorial Director Steve Fox

Top Stories

Desktop PC Buying Guide: The Specs Explained
We help you identify the key specifications and components you need to consider when shopping for a desktop PC.

Car Tech: Coolest New Systems on Four Wheels
Automakers big and small are building computer systems into their cars to make driving safer, smarter, and greener.

Top 12 Tech Knockoffs
Cheap knockoffs aren't limited to Ray-Bans and Rolexes. Read on for a look at an imitation iPad, a pirated Palm Pre, and more low-budget copies of popular tech products--often with features not found in the originals.

For more consumer advice, visit PCWorld.com.

News

Apple Quietly Fills in Some iPad Blanks
A few critical details are appearing quietly on Apple's Website--but many questions remain unanswered

Google's Nexus One Warms Up to AT&T 3G
The AT&T-friendly Nexus One is currently the coolest Android phone that'll run on that carrier--and it almost rivals the iPhone for general sex appeal.

FCC's Speed Test Checks Broadband Vendors' Claims
Much of America has only one choice for broadband; let's find out if the performance matches the providers' claims.

For the latest reports, visit our News page .

PCW Business Center

Five Features the iPad Needs for Business
The iPad can be a valuable business tool, but there are some key features missing that would expand its business functionality.

Visit the PCW Business Center.

Blogs

Can Internet Explorer 9 Get Microsoft's Mojo Back?
With improved speed and support for HTML 5, Internet Explorer 9 could be Microsoft's next step toward regaining its browser glory.

BlackBerry Users Willing to Swap for an iPhone
Almost 40 percent of BlackBerry users would switch to Apple's iPhone, while a third would move to a Nexus One, new study reveals.

Your Next Facebook 'Friend' Could be a Federal Agent
New document reveals the Feds are just as into social networking sites as we are.

For the latest news and opinion, visit our Blogs page .

Reviews

Asus Eee PC 1201n: A Netbook for Videophiles
The Eee PC 1201n offers better video performance and a bigger screen than most netbooks, but at a cringe-worthy price.

Toshiba Satellite E205-S1904: Cool 'Wi-Di' Capability, Good Display, Terrible Ergonomics
On its own, the Satellite E205-S1904 is an average laptop, but its Wireless Display capability is pretty cool.

Compare prices on netbooks and laptops.

For more reviews, visit PCWorld.com.

How-To

Make Your PC a Man-Cave Media Center
Your Windows 7-powered PC is equipped to anchor an awesome entertainment center. Here's everything else you need.

Memory Card Questions Answered
Readers asked about reformatting a camera's flash memory, how long a memory card should ask, and more.

For more tips, visit PCWorld.com.

Videos

Customize Your Android Smartphone: Tips for New Wallpaper, Ringtones and Widgets
Use our suggestions to personalize your Android smartphone with your own photos, ringtones and more.

For more videos, visit PCWorld.com.

Downloads

GreenPrint Home Premium
Save paper, ink, and money with this waste-prevention utility.

For more free and trial software, visit PCWorld.com.

PC World Community

Antivirus & Security Software
Discuss antivirus apps, antispyware software, and privacy and security issues.

Visit the PC World Community