OK,
I’m certainly not a techie, and I’m in the market for a new computer that my wife and I will use at home. I’m going to get a desktop that runs windows.
That’s about all I know right now, other than I know certain brands such as Sony, HP, IBM and Toshiba have good reputations.
Does anyone have any suggestions? Basically all we want to do is burn CDs and DVDs, do basic stuff with digital-camera pictures, run all the basic MS Office programs and play on the internet.
Thanks much.
Ok. With your requirements almost any new computer will do. One question is whether or not you want a laptop or not? For your requirements, a laptop would work and then you could go wifeless, but I digress. When I used to run a WinTel box, I preferred Dell boxes. Also buy “a little” more than you need.
Presently, I run two Macs, which I do love. Take a look, I am not a Mac-zealot who tells people they will go to hell if they buy a Windows box, but I figure to always put a good word in for them.
Here are specs I would look at…
Processor: Celeron 2 Ghz
Ram : 512MB + (prefer 1 Gig)
HD : 80 Gig + (audio takes up space)
Video : 64 MB
Monitor : Flat Screen (trust me, space savings is HUGE)
the IS dept. is your best friend!
he suggested this for what you are thinking of using it for, plus this site always has links to awesome deals for almost everything
Someone reminded me that there was a WSJ column a few months ago that was a PC Buyer’s guide, so I looked it up – here it is for anyone else looking to buy a computer:
PC Prices Get Cheaper,
But Complexity Grows
April 7, 2005; Page B1
If you’re in the market for a desktop PC this spring, there’s good news and bad news. The good news is that you can buy a lot of computer for a surprisingly small sum. The bad news is that you have to take more factors into account than ever.
Your new desktop computer, in many cases, will be asked not only to run productivity programs and get you online, but to hook up to a constellation of other devices, such as digital cameras, camcorders and portable music players. And it will have to withstand mounting security threats.
So here’s my annual spring buyer’s guide to desktop PCs. As always, my advice is aimed at mainstream users doing the most common tasks. Hard-core gamers or folks doing massive video production need bigger, faster computers than those specified here.
You should be able to get a bare-bones Windows computer, with a monitor, for well under $500 after rebates. Three different chain stores this week were advertising an entry-level eMachines model for $339, after rebates, with a monitor and printer. It was decently equipped, with an 80-gigabyte hard disk. And for $60 more, you could double the memory and add a DVD recorder. Midrange Windows models with better features are $500 to $1,000. Even some Media Center models are under $1,000.
Windows or Mac: Because they are beautifully designed and so far haven’t attracted viruses or spyware, Apple Computer’s Macintosh models are getting more consideration than they have in years from Windows users. You can now buy a full-fledged, decently equipped Mac, called the Mac Mini, for just $499. It doesn’t include a keyboard, mouse or monitor, but it can use the ones you already have on your old Windows machine. Doubling the memory adds $75.
Apple’s iMac G5 models, starting at $1,299, are an even better choice. They use a powerful processor called the G5, and they have a brilliant built-in flat-panel screen. The Mac does everything a typical user needs at least as well as a Windows computer, and it’s about to get a major new upgrade of its operating system, which already bests Windows in some respects.
But switching to the Mac isn’t right for every user, and it requires buyers to master new software, some of which must be bought separately. Plus, the cheapest Windows PCs still cost less. So most Windows owners will likely stick with Windows.
Security: If you do go with Windows, you will need to immediately install an array of security programs. These include a firewall, an antivirus program, an antispyware program and an antispam program. For a full list of my recommendations for Windows security add-ons, take a look at Tech News & Analysis - Wall Street Journal.
Most of this isn’t needed on a Mac, but Mac buyers may want to get an antivirus program because the Mac isn’t invulnerable.
Memory: Memory, or RAM, is the most important factor in computer performance. Insist on 512 megabytes, especially if the PC’s main memory is shared with the video system, as it often is on low-priced models.
Hard disk: Even very cheap PCs now offer 60 or 80 gigabytes of hard-disk space, and 250-gigabyte disks are offered in costlier models. Get as much hard disk as you can, especially if you plan to store a lot of music or video content.
Processor: Processor speed is overrated. On Windows machines, any Intel Celeron or Pentium microprocessor chip, or any AMD microprocessor, regardless of speed, will do fine at the most common computing tasks.
Device connectors: For connecting music players, cameras and other peripherals, get a PC with plenty of USB 2.0 connectors, including at least one on the computer’s front. If you have a camcorder that can’t use USB, you’ll need an extra high-speed port called 1394, or FireWire.
Memory-card slots: Look for a model with slots that accept the various types of memory cards used by digital cameras, PDAs and music players.
Video system: Cheaper PCs use something called “integrated video.” But the best route is to invest in a PC with a separate video card and dedicated video memory.
Audio system: If you’re a music fan, spend extra for a subwoofer and good speakers.
Monitor: Flat-panel screens are best for most uses. The 17-inch flat panels now cost less than $300. Many 19-inch models can be had for $400 or less.
Mass storage: Look for a CD-RW drive that lets you record your own CDs for playing music, storing photos or backing up or exchanging files. If you do a lot of home video or photos, you may want to invest in a DVD recording drive.
Media Centers: A Windows Media Center PC is designed to be operated with a remote control from across the room to play music and videos, view photos and watch TV. But be careful with the cheapest of these machines. They may omit the TV, and even the remote.
Brands: All Windows desktops are similar, but unless you’re a techie, stick with names like Hewlett-Packard, Dell, Sony, Gateway and eMachines. For greater control over your configuration, buy on the Web.
One more thing – my most important tip: Don’t let a salesperson talk you into more, or less, machine than you need. If you’re confused at the store or Web site, walk away until you can get the answers you need to make an informed purchase.
Write to Walter S. Mossberg at mossberg@wsj.com
Dell computers have a very good reputation for using high quality components and for having good tech support. You can customize the computer to fit your needs.
Take a look at the Dimension 4700 template, it suits your needs quite well.
Also, get at least 512 MB ram. It’s a free upgrade with the Dimension 4700, but if you go for a lower end desktop it’ll cost you about $40 extra.
You can also customize any of the Dell computers to get a CD/DVD burner.
BTW, does anyone have any advice on retail stores at which to buy a computer?
There are a lot of Best Buy retailers around here, as well as Staples, Office Suppy Depot, etc., and I think I prefer buying somewhere where I can take it back or get it fixed if problems arise, vs. buying online or via the mail, even from Dell or direct from IBM.
BB, I have a lot of experience with this, and Dell and Gateway are both great. Dell will provide in home technical support, whereas gateway usually requires you to ship the item. I believe they pay for shipping both ways. If you buy a laptop, IBM has probably THE best service on warranties in the industry.
I used to work in computer repair (before I got my degree), and I’ve had all my computer illiterate friends buy Dells, Gateways, and IBMs. They’re all happy. If you’d like more specifics, feel free to PM me.
[quote]BostonBarrister wrote:
BTW, does anyone have any advice on retail stores at which to buy a computer?
There are a lot of Best Buy retailers around here, as well as Staples, Office Suppy Depot, etc., and I think I prefer buying somewhere where I can take it back or get it fixed if problems arise, vs. buying online or via the mail, even from Dell or direct from IBM.[/quote]
Thanks guys,
I’m definitely getting edumacted. I do this every time I buy something high-tech, and then ignore things while my knowledge becomes obsolete – then I get to learn all over again the next time…
nephorm,
Is Dell really good about doing the in-home service? They do offer very good prices.
BTW, IBM’s warranty is extremely good on the laptops – my current laptop is an IBM that I got for law school, and I had it replaced completely during law school due to a mishap with some liquid and the keyboard (definitely to be avoided with laptops…).
I realize you said that you’re not very good with this kind of stuff, but building your own computer has become remarkably simple these days if you’re willing to take a few hours and learn how.
www.tigerdirect.com actually has a good do-it-yourself guide for what to buy, and you save a TON of money as well as get much higher quality components.
I realize that one of the benefits of buying a prebuilt system is that you get tech support, but honestly, major parts manufacturers offer diagnostic disks that you just put in and let run for most problems. There are also gobs of tech forums out there where experienced techies are happy to answer any questions that may arise.
Just a thought, though. I’ve been disappointed with my Dell, as they have a custom install of Windows that has caused problems with other things. The hardware and driver support has also been lacking. They also tend to overcharge out the butt for the “upgrades,” which are actually necessities to run a machine that isn’t extremely slow, especially with all the extra advertisement-in-disguise crap they stick on your system that eats up half your RAM.
-Dan
[quote]buffalokilla wrote:
I realize you said that you’re not very good with this kind of stuff, but building your own computer has become remarkably simple these days if you’re willing to take a few hours and learn how.
[/quote]
I used to endorse this, and no longer do. Some people have better things to do than fix their computers. I have people tell me all the time that I could do my own car repair, but I prefer to have a professional do it. If it doesn’t work right, I can complain, and I can get it fixed. I think most non-technical people who build their own computers (and frequently tech people, as well) end up getting overwhelmed. Not with the process of building it, mind, but rather with all the maintenance and little troubles that crop up along the way. “I never knew about that…”
Unless, of course, you have a computer geek friend willing to give you 24/7 tech support. I got tired of that mess with my own family, which is why they now have dells, and our computer conversations are much, MUCH shorter.
[quote]BostonBarrister wrote:
nephorm,
Is Dell really good about doing the in-home service? They do offer very good prices.
[/quote]
My parents have had a lot of success with them. If you are annoyed at being transferred to India for tech-support, however, you might not like them. Although, I believe I read somewhere that they seriously cut back on outsourced tech support, due to complaints.
[quote]BostonBarrister wrote:
BTW, does anyone have any advice on retail stores at which to buy a computer?
There are a lot of Best Buy retailers around here, as well as Staples, Office Suppy Depot, etc., and I think I prefer buying somewhere where I can take it back or get it fixed if problems arise, vs. buying online or via the mail, even from Dell or direct from IBM.[/quote]
Take someone who knows everything about computers. Even Bestbuy salesperson don’t earn commission, they still try to sell you things you don’t need.
How much are you planning to spend?
[quote]iatguy wrote:
Take someone who knows everything about computers. [/quote]
I second this, but with an amendment: take someone who knows everything about computers, and who also understands that not everyone needs the Geek Special. It is critical to find someone who can assess your computer needs rather than try to talk you into buying the computer they would like to have for christmas.
Best Buy does allow for customization with the HP brand, if you wanted to go with a store. The problem is that the extended warrenties that they sell, while help you with physical problems, do not help with software. With Dell or Gateway you get phone tech support, with Dell 24/7/365. I called them on Christmas, and they were there.
BTW, Apple sells at a store and you can go and talk with them as well as get tech support, not 24/7 though.
I recommend strongly against HPs… I have never seen as much proprietary hardware in a “PC Compatible.” Perhaps they’ve changed in the last couple of years, but HPs have always been nightmares to work with.
I’m not into Gateways and Dells as much as nephorm. Most computer brands these days have the same components, so the deciding factor for me is tech support and build quality - two areas where it seems have gone down significantly over the last few years for the aforementioned brands. My two favorite are Sony’s VIAO line and AlienWare. Both have exceptional build quality.
I have 3 Dell’s at home, this one that my wife and I use, and one for each kid. I also have about 150 Dell desktops/laptops at work and a dozen or so Dell servers. So yeah, I’d recommend Dell.
www.dell.com, build the one you want, and it’ll be at your door in a week.
[quote]nephorm wrote:
I recommend strongly against HPs… I have never seen as much proprietary hardware in a “PC Compatible.” Perhaps they’ve changed in the last couple of years, but HPs have always been nightmares to work with.[/quote]
I second this. My dad has had two and my ex-girlfriend had one, all were pieces of crap when something goes wrong.
After thinking over nephorm’s comment about working on your own car, I see his point now. I guess I and my family/friends enjoy working with comps, so that makes the work seem less time consuming.
After poking around a little (slow night), go with a Dell for the support and copious rebates/coupons they offer, but I strongly recommend going with 1GB of RAM. 512MB doesn’t hold up in my opinion with all the antivirus and antispyware background stuff you have to run to be safe these days, especially if the video is integrated into the motherboard. It’s another $50 well spent.
-Dan
If you are considering the purchase of a Dell, I’d suggest you visit http://www.mydellexperience.com first.
Apparently the company that was always know for its tech support has been slipping of late.
I would recommend Toshiba over anything. My father has been working with Toshiba since they first came out on the all orange screens. Yes… a very long time ago. I currently work on a Toshiba that is 2 years old. It runs like a beauty.
I have had one issue with my Toshiba that was actually my fault. The tech support will pick up almost immediately everytime you call.
Also, it runs a pinger whenever you are on the internet. It will ping toshiba tech support and your computer will alert tech support of any problems. It can then sort out the problem itself without you ever having to deal with it. This feature is priceless.
You will pay a bit more for a toshiba when considering/comparing specs. I wouldn’t recommend them for up-to-date gaming as they generally fall on the side of security/stability more so than the latest processor technology.
My vote does/will go to Toshiba. Absolutely great machines.