When purchasing a personal computer, which of the following factors should be considered?

When purchasing a personal computer, considering expandability is crucial because it refers to the ability of the system to be upgraded or modified in the future. This can enhance the longevity and performance of the computer, allowing users to add more memory, storage, or even new graphics cards as technology advances. An expandable system can adapt to new applications and workloads, thereby extending its usability and saving costs on future purchases.

In contrast, while brand popularity, user reviews, and color options may influence purchasing decisions, they do not directly impact the computer's functional capabilities or its potential for future upgrades. Brand popularity can indicate reliability but isn’t a guarantee, user reviews can provide insights but may not reflect all user experiences universally, and color options are largely a matter of personal preference without affecting performance or functionality. Thus, expandability stands out as a key factor that can lead to a more suitable and lasting investment when choosing a personal computer.