Desktop Computers

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For most consumers in the market to buy a computer, two questions almost always arise:
  1. Should I get a PC or a Mac?
  2. Do I want a laptop or a desktop?

In brief, desktop computers  offer greater flexibility in design than laptops  with price tags that are astonishingly low. Once a laptop is built, its specifications are set and upgrade option are restricted because of space constraints. However, a desktop comes with empty bays which can be efficiently used to upgrade RAM or install a faster chipset. In addition, most upgrades cost less for desktops as compared to laptops. You can spend as little as $300 for a desktop and upgrade the specifications over time as your needs expand, making it a cost effective option in the short and long run.

How Much Computer Do You Need?

One of the first concerns most shoppers are faced with is budget. How much can you realistically afford and do you really need to spend that much? Computer prices are continually dropping, and these days you can find deals on decent systems for as little as $300. On the other hand, powerhouse models can soar up to over $1000. The key is to find a happy medium between your budget and your needs. Below, take a look at the difference in system capabilities for an economically-priced machine and a top-of-the-line model. You might find that while you could spend over $1000, all you really need is something that costs $400.

Budget PCs

PROS

  • Affordable, starting at $300 for the most basic models.
  • Everything is included: monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
  • Best for basic productivity functions, such as word processing, emailing, and web surfing.
  • Great as first computers for kids and adults to learn basic computer skills that are increasingly necessary in the modern world.

CONS

  • Majority of these desktops feature cheaper Intel Celeron chip series, meaning that they won't be as fast as pricier models.
  • Impossible to upgrade to match the quality and speed of a high-end system.
  • The graphics on most budget desktops have limited 3D capabilities, making them unsuitable for gaming.
  • Bundled with bulky CRT monitors.  Look to pay extra if you want a flat panel display. 

Media Center PCs

PROS

  • Enable you to watch DVDs and listen to music with improved sound quality along with the ability to burn CDs/DVDs.
  • Usually a decent video card is included, which is great for photo editing and potential gaming.
  • What is special about these models is that they usually come with a remote control and plenty of audio/video input/output jacks to create a combined Home Theater PC.
  • Speakers are often included with the package along with a slim monitor, stylish keyboard, and mouse.

CONS

  • If you want quality you will have to pay extra for it and as you improve the quality of the components, prices can jump considerably. Expect to pay a minimum of $600 for a decent system and as much as double that for something top of the line.

Workhorse PCs

PROS

  • Faster processors make everything move smoother, from browsing the Web to running multiple applications simultaneously. Look to buy processors with speeds of 2.6 GHz or higher for faster application speeds.
  • Most mid-range models, such as those by Dell, HP, and Sony, have a slim form factor and flat screen monitor which allow for the most efficient use of desk space.
  • Hard drive storage capacity of 80 GB or higher comes standard, which is necessary for storing large amounts of media content, such as movies, photos, or large applications.
  • Best for heavy daily computing and home office or business use.

CONS

  • Unless you invest in a top-of-the-line graphics cards, playing PC games on these desktops won't be satisfying for gamers.
  • These models may or may not have great CD/DVD burners and/or players.

High Performance Machines

PROS

  • Most come equipped with either Intel or AMD dual-core processors, making sluggish applications a thing of the past.
  • Storage is available in a wide range of options with the optimum configuration being two 500 GB Serial ATA 300 hard drives to create a near one terabyte of high performance storage in a RAID 0 configuration.
  • Most systems come equipped with a 16x DVD+/-RW dual layer DVD burner.
  • Many vendors will provide your high-end system with a customized system graphics solution, perfect for gaming or running 3D graphics heavy applications.
  • For the die hard gaming fan all these desktops can be hooked up large screen plasma or LCD TVs for larger than life gaming action.
  • Customer support for these desktops is fast, dedicated, and extremely knowledgeable about the systems as well as the industry.

CONS

  • Your buying spree could end-up costing you around $5000 in the end.
  • A limited number of people (a.k.a. super geeks) might find even these customization options limiting. For those people, a build-it-yourself plan should be initiated.

What Layout Do You Want?

Choosing a layout is a matter of how much desk space you have and how much space you want to save. Keep in mind that the slimmer you get, usually the more you'll have to pay. Likewise, the snazzier looking the system, the more money you'll have to dish out for the aesthetic you want. Below you'll see how desktop towers (the heart of the computer) stack up. Don't forget though that monitors will play a part in how much desk space you'll use up. A basic CRT monitor (like a CRT TV) is big and bulky, while a flat screen monitor (like an LCD TV) is slim and sleek. Read more about Computer Monitors to get the whole scoop.

Standard and Mini Towers

Towers are the simplest  and the easiest to customize and they are the most common type of desktop computers. Because of their simplicity, they start out costing very little but they still allow upgrades as needed. They come in both vertical and horizontal configurations. The main problem is that these are often large and bulky. Connecting new devices can be difficult if the requisite port is located in the back.

Compact Cases

There are two options available -- short squat computers like the Mac Mini (pictured) or towers that are slimmer than the usual hulking PC. The minimalist design saves desk space and they are great for people who do large amounts of creative or visual work as they can save money on the CPU and spend more on a large screen monitor. The only problem is that they don't offer comparative amounts of storage for the price. However, external storage drives are available for moderate prices if you require additional storage. Usually the video quality is inadequate for gaming or video editing.

All-in-Ones

These are both functional and slim. Unlike tower forms these models combine all the hardware in one convenient spot that's easy to reach. This layout doesn't allow for expansion or upgrades and it makes repairs difficult. Also, you can't pick and choose the best combination of monitor and computer, however, if it works for you, then you've got it made. The two major companies going after this segment of the market are Sony Vaio  series all-in-one designs and the Apple iMac.  You might also want to see the Gateway Profile 6C. 

CPU? GB? RAM? DVD?

If you've never bought a computer before, you might find yourself bombarded with lots of unfamiliar terms. Despite the urge to shrug off learning what all these things mean, it is rather important to understand what you are getting yourself into before talking to a salesperson or comparing products online. For the full details in plain speak, please see Computer Specs.

New, Used, or Refurbished

Most manufacturers offer refurbished computers at decent prices. Generally, buying directly from a company that specializes in such models is better than buying a used computer on EBay. Also consider the upgrade options available for your existing computer before buying a used one. Generally, computers will last about two to three years before they need any repair or revamping. After a few years they will certainly require updating, and at around 7 years, it's usually time to say farewell. Research all the available resources and get as much relevant information you need to make an informed purchase. In some cases, it might make sense to hold off a purchase for a couple months in the interest of buying an improved upcoming model. Look for companies to roll out their new product lines just in time for the holidays or around the hype surrounding CES ( Consumer Electronics Show) in January. If you are still hard pressed to find a deal that suits your likings, consider shopping on Black Friday.

Products and Manufacturers

So you know all the basics: how much you want to spend and can afford, and what type of system you need most. Below, check out what is available to buy. That's right. It's time to shop. Below you'll find a featured selection of top rated computers hand-picked from the best of charts at C-Net, PC World, About.com, and Consumer Search.

Economy Models

For the price, college students will love this budget-priced powerhouse that will fuel everything from an all-night cram session to a gaming extravaganza (with the appropriate CPU and 3D card upgrades). The monitor is also perfect for watching movies or YouTube videos.

Dell 

Check out their Dimension  Series. All the models offer plenty of speed and power at a modest cost. Plus, each unit is easily upgraded.

eMachines 

For relatively strong features at unbeatable prices, give these models a shot. They'll do fine for average computing and won't do damage to your wallet.

Gateway 

The budget choice is the complete DX430 series, which are perfect for the beginner media enthusiast. Watch movies, edit photos, and listen to music or get some work done.  Cyberpower inc. desktop 

Work Horses

  • Apple Power Mac G5  -- Getting used to a Mac OS after using Windows may be awkward at first, but Apple makes great computers that are reliable, well-constructed, and great for graphics work.
  • Lenovo Think Centre A52  -- The ThinkCentre  desktop towers from Lenovo look every bit like the business PCs you have come to expect from the heir to the IBM ThinkPad/ThinkCentre throne.

Compact Designs

The Apple Super Drive Mini is only 2"x6"x6", which means it takes up next to no space. For $600 you get a few USB ports, FireWire port, iLife Suite, and a CD/DVD drive, plus 512MB memory. The catch is you have to supply the monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

The Falcon Northwest FragBox2  is a portable gaming desktop unit with a handle. It includes FireWire and USB ports, a memory chip slot on the front, a CD/DVD burner, a fast processor and a good graphics card. Here is a link to the company's website here.

The Gateway Profile 6 SB is an all-in-one layout with plenty of options for expanding. It includes a 19" LCD monitor, nVidia GeForce 7300LE graphics card, and DVD . Nice 160GB hard drive and Intel 9 Series processor makes it suitable for the home office or small business.

Super compact, like the Mac Mini, and with an Intel Core Duo processor. However, it's a bit pricier, and you still have to supply all the peripherals. The main concern is whether you want to run Windows or Mac OS. Otherwise, there is little difference between these two clones.

The Blueado Mini m5e  is a small form factor media center desktop packed with a Pentium M processor, 200GB hard drive, DVD burner, and 1024 MB RAM. The downside? While it can easily hook up to older TVs, it doesn't have connectors for HDMI and DVI or an HDTV tuner. Comes with peripherals.

With a small form factor and a strong feature set, it's all worth it. The system is made up of a 2.2-GHz Athlon 64 processor, 1GB Ram, 200GB hard drive, eVGA GeForce 7600GT PCI Express 16X graphics board, 256MB of video RAM, and lots of ports. Also check out the Shuttle X100. 

The MiniBox PC series by Polywell boasts powerhouse style systems in pint-sized packages. Very comparable to the Shuttle XPC shown to the left, with room for expansion and plenty of ports. While not as small as other mini systems, these are still a great deal. See Polywell for more info.

This is an all-in-one style desktop that is as beautifully presented as it is powerful. With a Core Duo 1.83GHZ processor and 250GB hard drive all tucked into the 19" flat panel monitor, plus a wireless keyboard and mouse, it's enough to go gaga. The only caveat? No dedicated video card.

This HP is teeny tiny and has a tiny price tag to boot. With an AMD Athlon 64 X2 dual-core processors and big 250GB hard drive, it's a great deal for the home computer user who wants a sleek yet powerful system.

Movies and Film Editing

  • Dell Dimensions E520  -- The entry-level media PC comes with a cheap $700 price tag and the DataSafe backup system. Graphics are not upgradeable.
  • HP Media Center  -- Geared towards media productivity work. Well-rated all around by the press and consumers.
  • Shuttle XPC G5 8300mc  -- A streamlined media center that includes a wireless keyboard and mouse, and double-layer DVD burner. Slightly pricey.
  • WinBook PowerSpec MCE410  -- Comes with an LCD HDTV monitor and uses XP media edition software. See WinBook.com for more info.

Gamers

Alienware

Aurora ALX   features futuristic casing and great performance matched with a high price tag. The Aurora ALX features an AMD Athlon 64 FX-57 with Hypertransport Technology and an nVidia nForce 4 SLI that deliver multi-GPU performance for amazing performance. Any trouble shooting is handled by premium support and service which comes with the system.

Cyberpower Inc.

Cyberpower is a relatively unknown brand with a mixed bag of press and consumer reviews. Consumer Search rates their Cyberpower gamer  model as one of the best deals out there for someone who wants a powerful gaming computer. They feature a 64-bit AMD Athlon processor that can handle 3D graphics at budget prices.

Dell XPS 700 

While full-featured, it still has the ability to grow with your gaming. It has a 4GB Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM at 667MHz and NVIDIA Next Gen 7 Series Dual GPU graphics card.

Overdrive PC

Another well-rated, high-end gaming system, which you can find here. Top-notch service and configurations are available to sill your every gaming need.

Video Review


Apple iMac 17 inch
Submitted by: dkeitel
 Votes:0

More Guides to Desktops and Computers

External Links

  • See the reviews at Cnet and epinions to help you make a purchase.

International Resources

For this resource in your home country, please see:
NL: Desktop Computer Shopgids
DE: PC Desktops
DE: Apple Desktops