Help, I need a new computer!

[Randi]

Have you thought of getting a Mac? That's what I would do.

[BitsyNaceyDog]

Have you thought of getting a Mac? That's what I would do.

I'm with you.

[Catty1]

Robin - one way to get a really good (and maybe free) computer is to find a company that has upgraded their computers lately, and is getting rid of the "old" ones. Often they are not that old, and great for home use.

You might have to get a new HD - but chances are, they have just scrubbed it, and the Windows and Office would still be on it.

I assume your keyboard and monitor are ok? So all you need is the computer itself.

Check it out!

[Logan]

I think it is funny how many differing opinions there are, based on everyone's individual experience. I happen to like Gateway computers, but that is because I've had good luck with them in the past. Would I buy a Dell? Never. Every Dell computer I have ever had went bad, way before it should have. But for every problem I have had, I know tons of people who have had good luck.

Robin, my only advice, as a novice and a computer killer (seems everyone I get near dies), get the best warranty you can.

Good luck with your decision. Perhaps you should look at Consumer Reports and see what their suggestions are.

Logan

[cyber-sibes]

Robin, my only advice, as a novice and a computer killer (seems everyone I get near dies), get the best warranty you can.

I agree! A good warranty is worth every penny.
And ask your son what he or his friends know about different computers, chances are they've had more experience with them than you or I will ever have!
I had a Gateway, then a Dell for years, was satisfied with both, but upgraded to a nice Mac a year ago. (I do tons of artwork on it & needed something that could handle large graphics files without crashing) Took me a while to get used to some of the differences, but I love my Mac.

Make a list of what your most important priorities are as far as what you use a computer for, so you ask the right questions & end up with a system that really does what you want it to do.

[Freedom]

You can check Consumer Reports, all the libraries have them. That should give you some guidance.

And as nice as large memory is (get as much as you can afford) PLEASE don't store your photos on the PC! Get a jump drive and store them on that. They won't slow down your PC, they won't be lost if you have a crash, and so many other reasons.

[RobiLee]

Thanks for all the advice everyone!

I would love to try a MAC but unfortunately they are way out of my price league and I hate trying to learn something new. I'm looking for something good but not too expensive. Money is very tight right now so I'm probably going to do the good ol' charge thing. I don't have any other debts so I think I can handle that as long as I don't spend too much.

I really miss having a computer more than I thought I would. I didn't think I used it that much but you just don't realize all the little things that you do on it. Right now I'm sneaking online at work during breaks and lunch. Hopefully I'll be back online at home real soon.

Thanks everyone!

[wolf_Q]

I don't have any advice as I haven't really researched different computers that much. I've had mine for several years and it hasn't given me any real issues...it's a Sony Vaio. Anyway, I just hope you are able to find something that works for you soon (its already been too long since we've seen new pics of Katie and Tori ).

[Cinder & Smoke]

Pick a place within "normal" driving distance (think about 6" of SNOW on the ground
the day you have to make the trip) that provides IN-the-STORE Service.

Example: Best Buy has the "Geek Squad" inside their larger stores ...
the "Geeks" may not be rocket scientists, but they know more about 'puters than you & I do!

Don't overlook a LOCAL Computer shop - as long as it's neat, clean, and the Head Tech
looks like he's taken a bath/shower within the last month.

Select a Service Provider; THEN talk to their Sales Department.
Buy what the Service Guys are authorized to service & repair.

Ask to talk to the Computer Dept Sales MANAGER ... feel him/her out for who's the
most experienced (longest employed) sales person. Come back at another time if
the lead sales person isn't working when you're there ...
you DON'T want to be sold by the kid with a week's experience!

Ask to see last week's, last month's, last year's models - they'll be the ones on SALE,
and chances are you'll never know the difference (other than $$$) between
the "old one" and the "new one".

As others have said - AVOID a unit that runs "Vista" --- too new to trust.
INSIST that you want the machine loaded with Winderz "XP" - accept no substitutes!

[G535]

Take someone who knows what he/she is doing around computers and go to the local computer shop, some will eat you alive if you go alone and know nothing about what you need!