Tuesday, February 21, 2006

Getting A New Computer

This Spring, I will have had my current computer for six years. Now, with a large tax refund coming my way, I have decided to buy a new one.

I have asked around a little bit about what brand computer to buy (since building my own is completely out of the question). I have pretty much been told that the only "good" brand of computer (that isn't a laptop) is Dell. I own an HP currently and although I like Dell's computers based on my experience with those of my family and friends, I can't help but feel a little sad that there is only one brand of desktop that anyone "trusts."

I'm not really asking for much from my next computer. I really just want something that will be an upgrade of a lot of the features I currently have. I want a good processor (preferably a Pentium or a good AMD), a larger hard drive (I currently have a 20 GB drive so I want at least double or triple that), a faster CD burner (since I own a 4x CD burner just about anything will be faster than that one), and more RAM (at least 512 MB but likely more).

I want something that can handle my experiments with audio, video, and images. I also want to be able to multitask. I wouldn't mind things like a DVD-ROM drive, DVD burner, or a decent graphics card for gaming. However, they aren't required.

I thought about buying just the computer without the monitor since I bought a new one about three years ago. However, I may just take the opportunity to get a nice flat panel and just give my current computer and monitor to my parents. I have also entertained the idea of purchasing a laptop instead of a desktop. It's quite possible I may do that, especially since I am interested in possibly going wireless.

So, am I better off getting a Dell or are there other desktop brands that are at trustworthy? Should I get a laptop instead? Send me some comments and suggestions.

2 comments:

  1. Anonymous4:10 PM

    If you are getting a laptop, don't get HP. Personally My HP has worked fine for the past four yrs but it was built before the merger with compaq. The new HP look exactly like compaqs and don't the mouse setup that the old ones do. I suspect they are using compaq computer models which isn't very good. Essentially they are Compaqs in HP clothing.

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  2. Anonymous11:25 PM

    I found www.computerinfoworld.info as a great source of information on computers.
    Just a tip from a passerby.

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