5 Things To Consider When Buying A Windows PC For DJing

Digital DJ Masterclass VIP member James asked this question in a recent coaching webinar: “Do you have other recommendations regarding laptops than Apple? Where should I put attention to regarding tech specs?”

Digital DJ Tips says:

For whatever reason (price, other software, what they’re used to) many people would prefer to buy or use a Windows computer rather than a Mac for DJing. That’s fine: both OSes are perfectly capable of running DJ software. But if you pick a PC, there are a few things to consider before taking the plunge that Mac users don’t really have to think so hard about. Here is our top five:

1. Pick the right processor – Basically, go for an intel processor in the “i” series. It’ll be fast enough for DJing purposes, and unlike AMD, you are not likely to find compatibility issues with DJ/production software and/or hardware
2. Go for a minimum of 8GB memory – It may sound like a lot, but you want your DJ software to run glitch-free, and one of the best ways of making any computer work more efficiently is to add memory
3. Watch the build quality – Your DJing PC is going to be used in some pretty extreme circumstances, and may well take a few knocks along the way too. Don’t get something in a flimsy plastic case that’ll break at first asking
4. Try and get a “vanilla” Windows install – Manufacturers almost invariably add “bloatware” (their own programs and suites on top of Windows), but you don’t want them on a DJ machine as they won’t be as well tested as the OS and may cause issues, so a “clean” Windows install is always best
5. Consider the after-sales service & guarantee – What if you bought your PC in the States, and it broke in Europe Is there a policy or service for the manufacturer you’re considering (like Apple Care for Mac owners) that’ll get it fixed or replaced fast? You don’t want to be without a DJ computer for weeks if something goes wrong…

Got any other points to add to our list when picking a Windows computer for DJing? Feel free to add them tomorrow…