Types of Models Sold by Manufacturers

When you order a computer directly from the manufacturer, you have several choices in the type of machine you get. For example, if you take a peek at any notebook selling at HPDirect.com, you’ll see that you can purchase the product in “Base Configuration,” “Recommended Configuration,” or as a “Quick-ship model.” These three categories are targeted at different types of customers. The base configuration is a well equipped model of the product, perfect for the average home user. The recommended configuration is more geared towards power users and customers who’ll be using their machines for more intensive tasks than the average person. Both the base and recommended configuration can be modified during the checkout process. The quick-ship model is a computer whose specifications can’t be changed but is shipped immediately after you order it and can save you some money.

Base or Recommended Configurations

The main advantages to ordering a model that’s a base or a recommended configuration is that you decide what type of specifications the computer you’re getting has. As mentioned above, the base configuration is best used for beginners and computer novices, while the recommended configuration is a better fit for advanced and expert users. You’re able to directly customize the model and add any additional features you think you’ll need. For example, if you know you’ll be a storing a lot of movies on your new notebook, you may want to upgrade your hard drive without changing anything else. You can do that on a base or recommended model because these computers are custom built when you order them. Unfortunately, for that reason it often takes several days or even a few weeks before you get your new machine. The custom made computers are also a little more expensive because of the additional manufacturing costs.

Quick-ship Models

Quick-ship models are great for users who aren’t too picky and need their new computer as soon as possible. The specifications of these machines vary on a case-by-case basis. The quick-ship models can be much closer to the recommended configuration than the base or vice versa. The main benefit of ordering a quick-ship model is that it can be sent to you as soon as you buy it; the machine is already made and is waiting in a warehouse to be sold and shipped. These computers can also be significantly cheaper since they’re already manufactured and buying one can be a good way to save money. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to customize any features or add anything to the computer when you order it.