EOFY Asset Writedown…
Why this post: because if you need hardware then now might be a good time to buy it and I want to take this opportunity to offer some advice around things to look for if you’re shopping…
So we’re approaching the end of the Financial Year. There’s been much written about the EOFY tax and the ATP’s Instant asset write-off. For those not aware please see these links below because this Blog Post is NOT TAX ADVICE – You MUST seek your own clarifications from your own accountants and form your own view as to what is business and what qualifies.
- ATO Simpler depreciation for small business
- ATO Instant asset write-off thresholds
- Smart Company Article – Budget 2019: Instant asset write-off boosted to $30,000
Ok, so here’s a few things to look for in Laptop and Desktops.
Of course if you need equipment and want advice then please reach out and we can discuss your needs.
If you’re after a shiny new laptop then you should consider Operating System, Hardware Spec and Warranty. Use these to shortlist your choices and to help I have put some recommendations in for you.
PC Spec: (these are minimum recommended)
Operating System: This is very important, Windows 10 Professional is what you need.
If you’re reading this then chances are you are running a business and business IT demands Windows 10 Professional so your machines can be centrally managed and better integrated into your Office 365 environments.
If you have a Windows 10 Home machine then it can be upgraded to Professional, the fee is around $170 to Microsoft but obviously best to buy the Pro versions anyway as typically Professional is found on more business oriented machines anyway.
Intel i5 Processor: This is like the engine in the PC.
For most users an i5 is more than adequate but there are i3 processors around, avoid these as they tend to shorten the useful life of the computer.
Memory or RAM: This is really the brain in the PC.
8GB is pretty much a standard here, more is better but won’t always be used but less should be avoided
Hard Disk or Solid State Disk (SSD): this is where your files are stored and programs are installed.
Faster disks are better so SSD is always preferred. SSD also uses less power (extends battery life) and is more reliable as no moving parts so we recommend SSD and we find that of the common sizes 128GB is generally too small, 256GB is just right for most and 512GB could be nice if you have a lot of things to store on your PC like images and video.
Remember (especially with regard to laptops) it’s difficult or impossible to upgrade internal hard disks and SSD’s after your purchase so make sure it’s big enough when you make your purchase.
Other Tech:
USB-C is nice, especially if the laptop supports being charged over USB-C
Bluetooth: most will have this and it’s great for connecting peripherals like cordless headphones, mice and keyboards.
Monitors: we generally recommend running dual 27″ monitors, even on a laptop (gives you 3 screens). 27″ monitors are not much more than 24″ screens and we’ve read that staff are 40% more productive with multiple screens and these days to get the most out of modern applications it’s easier with at least 2 screens.
Recommended Laptops:
Microsoft Surface Book 2, Surface Pro and Surface Laptops
- Often great deals can be had at local retailers but remember make sure the Operating System specifically says Windows 10 Professional and if in any doubt ask someone.
- In short, we have used one of these and it’s a great little 14″ laptop complete with touch screen, webcam and the latest tech bits and it’s UNDER 1KG!!
- This one can be hard to find but we can source it on request.
HP and Lenovo
- Yes there’s a broad range of these available and we can supply most of the business ranges of these also.
All the best for the rest of your financial year.
#EOFY