Finding the best desktop computer for you

Determine your needs

There are literally thousands of computers to choose from, but we can narrow down the possibilities by focusing on your computer activities.

Do you want to play 3D computer games or model 3D graphics?

If so, you should be focusing on the high-end/gaming computers. These are going to be the most expensive desktop computers around and will be outdated the quickest. You may want to seriously consider purchasing a more basic computer AND a game console (XBOX 360, PS 3, Nintendo Wii) instead. You can get both for roughly the same amount as a nice gaming computer, but the game console won't be outdated as quickly. This approach also gives you the flexibility of having several people playing console games together while someone else uses the computer.

Do you need to create home movies from a mini-dv camera?

You probably want to get a machine in the upper-end of the Mid-Range category. Go for a lot of hard drive (storage) space, more than 200 GB would be good.

Decision Chart

Use this chart to match up your choices with some sample computers.

	Basic	Mid-Range	Gaming
Main purpose	E-mail, web surfing, finances, office applications.	Same as basic, plus photo editing, music ripping and basic movie creation/burning.	Same as Mid-Range, plus high end video games, more advanced movie creation, 3D graphics, CAD, etc.
Storage Space	< 200 GB	100 GB to 300 GB	> 200 GB
Screen size	Small < 15"	Medium 15" to 19"	Large > 19"
Cost	Low	Moderate	High
Desktops in this category	Compaq Presario SR1700Z eMachines T6420 Dell Dimension B110 Gateway 506GR HP Pavilion a1200y Lenovo 3000 J105 Sony VAIO RB40	Compaq Presario SR1700Z HP Pavilion a1530e Dell Dimension E510 Gateway DX210S	Alienware Area-51 7500 HP Media Center m7560y Dell Dimension XPS 400

	Web www.ComputerBuyAdvice.com

If you've decided against a desktop after all, then jump to the Laptop Page

Or if you need help deciding between a laptop and a desktop, head to the home page.

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Computer Sales Myths

Myth #1: A computer with built-in wireless will allow you to surf the internet, send e-mail, print, etc. without wires.
Truth: See my wireless page for the answer.

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Truth: See my Spyware and Viruses Page for the truth.