Upgrading the CPU is like upgrading the brain of a computer. The CPU is where all the work gets done so any programs that do a lot of calculation such as compiling programs or any financial/scientific modeling will get a lot out of a stronger CPU.

Upgrading the RAM is like getting a bigger desk; having more RAM means that your computer can handle large amounts of data, such as large, complex spreadsheets with plenty of data, high resolution photos, and a large number of programs or internet browser tabs at once.

SSDs and hard drives are the storage component of a computer; it’s where the computer’s operating system, programs, and all of your documents are stored on your computer. Hard drives generally have large sizes and can hold a lot of data but they can take some time to load or save any information. SSDs, on the other hand, are very fast and can save and load information much faster than a hard drive, but they are more expensive and come in smaller sizes.

Upgrading the video card increases a computer’s ability to perform complex photo or video editing; a stronger card helps with viewing any 4K video content and making high-definition videos.

Upgrading monitors by getting a higher resolution monitor or getting a second monitor is great for anyone who wants to see and cross reference a lot of information quickly. Another monitor needs more physical desk space but generally increase productivity by keeping multiple windows visible at once.