Starless Night 20

Hello, all. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

In the near future, my grandmother will be buying me a new computer. She wants me to have my own for two reasons: One - So I can take it with me when I go to college (I'm a junior), and Two - So I don't have to spend all my time in the basement, since that's where our current computer is.

I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions as to what type of computer would be best. My brother, who works with computers, recommended a Dell, as did my Physics teacher, who also works/fixes computers. I was wondering if anyone else had any input on the matter.

[ 04-27-2004: Message edited Burnination101 ]

n e r b l e

well do you need a laptop for portability? also, do you need tech support. a lot of companies are outsourcing thier tech to india and i've gotten a lot of people telling me how there's a large language barriar. things to consider.

Headhunter

Different system for different needs; having specific info on what you'll be looking to use it for would help. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

Starless Night 20

Well, we're looking to get a personal desktop computer. No laptop, since a regular PC would do me fine. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

And tech support is always a good thing to have, which is why my brother and Physics teacher suggested Dell. They both said that they have outstanding tech support whenever you need it.

I also want a CD burner, since I use the one that I have on this computer very often. A large memory would also be good. Mostly a CD burner, though. And reliablity, of course.

[ 04-28-2004: Message edited Burnination101 ]

n e r b l e

well with most dells you can sit down and sort of plan it. figure out what you do need and what you don't. don't go crazy adding things like super amazing sound cards unless you need them and are willing to pay for them.

Headhunter

Any plans for the future, that may require different hardware? For example, maybe the need to do video editing, which would require better video hardware capabilities?

The Daywalker

If you get a Dell, make sure your college has a Dell Tech shop nearby, so you can easily take it in when it goes down. Otherwise you'll have a bit of a problem sending it back to them and all that jazz.

Nowadays, it's cheaper to buy one than build one, especially for someone like me who wants the best of the best of the best. Sorta. HA! I was going to take a quick 1K loan but checking prices, it wouldn't even be enough for my visual needs. As i've noticed lately, Dell offers some really nice packages, with all the burning, storage and performance needs you'd probably need.

n e r b l e

and most of them come standard w/ flat screen monitors now.

jessieka03

Which is good because of lack of desk space in college..

Headhunter

For a college dorm and relatively basic functions, Dell's a solid way to go if tech support is important. The more computers I get, the more I realize that being screwed in the service department from cheaper but unscrupulous dealers becomes an issue; you don't want to be stuck at college with something that doesn't work!

Starless Night 20

OT: jessieka03 I just saw Yellowcard and Something Corporate at the Roseland in New York City on Thursday. But I've been a fan since early '02. I also saw/met them when they did an acoustic concert at a local music store. Ah, so awesome.

Back on topic:

Thanks, you guys, for all of your suggestions. I might have to talk with my brother, though he's usually prone to get extra things that I don't really need. I would like a flat-screen monitor, though, seeing as it's both pleasant to look at and a space saver. A CD burner is most important. There's not much else that truly matters to me. Well, I'm not exactly computer literate when it comes to the technical aspect of the whole thing. I'll have to talk with my Physics teacher and my brother.

Oh, another question: Do you think Windows XP or Windows 98 is better?

magicman

I personally prefer/think Windows XP, but that's just because I'm used to it.

Headhunter

Windows XP; supports more applications, and Windows 98 is rather unstable.

Starless Night 20

Alright. Thanks you guys for your input. I really appreciate it. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

jessieka03

IF you buy a new computer, it will come with Windows XP. I prefer it over Windows ME (which is the only thing I've used besides Windows 95)

I really like XP