BreakmanX.com

My parents are offering to get a PC magazine subscription for me, and I don't have a clue which one to go with. I'm not looking for a gaming magazine; I've got enough subscriptions to those. I'm looking for something informative that could potentially help my efforts to get certified and get a tech job. Anyone have any suggestions?

Maximum PC is the first thing that comes to my mind. They go into the gaming and software aspects a little bit, but the focus is the cutting edge of hardware, and getting the most out of that hardware. The terminology and technical references can sometimes be confusing for someone just getting into it, but their how-to guides and comprehensive articles can sort out most of that. In short: These guys know their shit.

If that’s too hardcore for you, you can try CPU (Computer Power User). They cover more multimedia stuff, and get less into the specifics of hardware, and have a lot of editorials about tech trends and the like.

Those are the only two that come to my mind when considering a tech job (exactly what I'm looking at, actually). A bunch of other gaming mags, like Computer Gaming World, and PC Gamer, all cover hardware, but usually limit it to reviews of the latest Alienware rig or a new set of speakers, nothing in-depth.

That sounds like exactly what I need! Muchass graciass.

these things are too complex for me.

Maximum PC rules!

I'd suggest MAximum PC. You'll learn the most from them. CPU is really good too, but I think its in second to max.