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Common device terms
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Common device terms

Common PC and device terms

Whether you’re shopping for a new PC or learning more about your current one, you might encounter some common PC and device-related terms. For a quick breakdown of what those terms mean—and how they impact your experience—watch the following videos. You’ll get the info you need to find a PC and components that are just right for you.

A solid-state drive (SSD) and a hard disk drive (HDD)

All about SSD, HDD, and storage types

Learn the differences between a solid-state drive (SSD) and a hard disk drive (HDD), plus how they impact the cost and performance of your PC storage.

A laptop showing a picture of a mountain

All about graphics processing units (GPUs)

The graphics processing unit (GPU) in your device helps handle graphics-related work like graphics, effects, and videos. Learn about the different types of GPUs and find the one that meets your needs.

conceptual image of computer memory

All about computer memory

Random access memory (RAM) is like your computer's short term memory. Learn how RAM affects the speed and performance of your PC, as well as how much memory you might need for different tasks.

A computer CPU

All about processors (CPUs)

The central processing unit (CPU) of a device acts like its brain, telling other components what to do. Learn about different processor types, from ones that are great for everyday use to ones that give you more processing power for heavy-duty tasks.

Computer screens and displays

All about device screens and displays

There are a few things to consider when selecting a device display, from its size and resolution to whether it's a touchscreen. Your device's form, like a laptop or a tablet, can also impact your experience. Learn how these factors affect the look and function of your screen.

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