best computer deal

[lexi_kaye]

I have found myself recently without a computer (I am at work right now). Long story. In any case, I am going to have to invest in one. Not only do I do some ebay and half.com selling, but I am in the process of getting a website set up for my crafts. Initially, I wanted a laptop for ease of use, convenience, etc. But, I have been thinking for some time I would like to pick up some money working for West or Live Ops, and they do not recommend laptop usage and I think one of them won't certify you with one. So, now I am leaning toward a desktop. I definitely want fast, I probably won't buy again for at least another five years, (who knows really). I am not sure yet if I want XP or Vista, not sure if I want additional software like Microsoft Office (mostly just because of cost). I am going to need the whole deal, monitor, keyboard, speakers, etc. I don't care if I buy a package deal or piece meal, just so I get good quality at the best price. I want an AMD processor, preferably dual core. Anyone know of the best deals around or the best places to look? I had a price in mind, but everywhere I check, I am way underbudgeting.

[banana]

I would see what the systems requirements are for West and Liveops before you purchase a computer. A lot of companies are not compatible yet with Vista. You can use a laptop with Liveops but it must be hardwired, no wireless networks are allowed.

[lexi_kaye]

The requirements are pretty minimum with them. They are set up for Vista now.

[Broken Arrow]

What about Dell or HP? They generally have good bundle deals.

[th_tan]

You should go with dell, they are a very reputable company, and you can customize the compenents.

[project15]

The Dell Online Store: Build Your System
^ $529, it will probably be about $580 with tax and shipping.

This current deal fits you perfectly. Dual core athlon, cheap, upgradeable, comes with Vista (even though I prefer XP). I always recommend Dells to people who ask me for advice on cheap, quality computers.

It even comes with a 20 inch widescreen flat-panel monitor. Not sure how long this current promotion will last, but if you check Slickdeals.net, they usually keep up to date with current, valid promotions.

[poundwise]

If you are going to go with Dell, you might as well hit their outlet center online and pick up a bargain.

Dell Outlet - Refurbished Computers - Refurbished Laptops - Refurbished PCs


You might also check TigerDirect

TigerDirect.com Super Buys - Computer Parts, PC Components, Desktop Computers, Laptops, Notebooks


Tech For Less

Desktop Computers Systems - eMachines, HP, Compaq, etc...for less


Also... Amazon's outlet - for older, but cheap, notebooks

Amazon.com: Computers & Add-Ons - Outlet, Used & Refurbished: Computers & PC Hardware


Best wishes!

[txjman]

dealnews.com usually has Dell bundles as well.

[lexi_kaye]

The $529 deal at Dell is a good price, but it is missing a lot. No modem card, speakers, etc. That by the time you add all those things I think a computer really needs it is at least another $200. To me, speakers are standard, etc. And because I am starting from scratch again, I need it all. I have not priced yet how much it would cost be to go to say Walmart and pick up a set of speakers, mouse, etc there. I might save a few getting those separate. I also am considering the dell refurbished someone on here suggested. There are some good prices, but again, by the time I would get the monitor and speakers, etc I might be right back in the same price boat. I don't mind a refurb, I just want to make sure I am getting the best value for my money.

[zetta]

If you decide to go with Dell, be sure and do an online search for coupons using the model number you've chosen. We just bought a laptop, and Dell was giving us an "instant rebate" of $250. When we searched "Dell E1705 coupon" we found an instant rebate of $400.

I think with computers you face a tradeoff of paying less and replacing more often, or paying more and keeping it for longer. For the same amount of money, you'll get a more powerful machine in a desktop than a laptop. However, we really like the convenience of being to take the laptop anywhere in the house (with a wireless router) and find we use it more than we did the desktop -- I doubt we'll ever buy another desktop. We budgeted $1200 and spent just over that.

I'd recommend going with Vista since you intend to use it for 5 years. The most important areas to spend money on are memory and screen size -- you can always add more hard disk space and other perhiperals later.

[Hot dog]

Thanks for asking this I was wondering the same I just know I am going to get fired at work cause I am addicted to this site.

[SavedintheCity]

If you want to save money, I would look into a system from a non-name brand custom builder. Buy a system with no OS and install a linux flavor (linux is Free as in beer) No need to worry about XP or Vista, and which to buy, you can set up a brand new state of the art OS for $0. Not sure though about those services that you may want to work for (West/live ops). Although ~$600 for a Dell is inexpensive, the machine that you will get will not last the ~5 year span that you want. Also, I have had bad experiences with Dell systems as they tend to use cheaper internals than some other manufacturers.

[JoyJoy]

Go to CouponMountain.com. There is a coupon for $280.00 off at Dell if you "build your own system". I just bought the E521 computer, built to the specs that I wanted, last night. Computer wil be shipped before or on April 4, 2007. I currently have a Dell that I have had since 2001. I just needed a new computer to keep up with the new programs and a faster one. Otherwise I am very satisfied with the one I am using. Go to Dell and talk to the Sales chat people. They will help you and give you a quote that you can print out and look over before you decide to purchase.

I did get the Vista and memory, screen size and GB are very important to me also!

[Hot dog]

Let us know how the E521 works.

[JoyJoy]

Let us know how the E521 works.

I sure will Hot Dog, thanks!