Computer Debate

[Conmiro]

What is the best computer to get for the price range of $500-$749 at best buy?

I need a computer:

That is a desktop
With High ram
With average or large amounts of disk space
With a 19in or bigger monitor
That is able to play advanced games
That has Windows Vista Home premium
That can handle multi tasking
With Great internet speed
With Wireless Internet

 

[Sup3rkirby]

Since you are looking for a desktop you seem to be in luck for that range. Of course remember pricing and such constantly changes, but you posted this earlier today(well, really early this morning in my time zone), I can give you an up to date price.

I don't know if you have a brand preference, so I guess I'll just give you the best results, but I'll note my opinion as well. This really is an opinion topic anyways, since you used the word 'best'.


There is only one thing I must note. Desktops with wireless internet are not that common still. Yes, there are a good bit out there with that built in, but in most cases, a desktop computer will not have wireless internet pre-installed. But luckily, with your price range you can buy a wireless adapter for $50 or less and still be under budget.


http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=999988700050004&type=product&id=pcmprd88800050004
This one is a Dell with 3 GB RAM and a 500 GB Hard Drive. You get a 19" widescreen lcd moniter. The only thing that might be a concern would be the graphics card on this PC. Most recent graphics cards can be configured so you can have higher video memory, but i can't say for this one.

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=999990400050003&type=product&id=pcmprd90500050003
If you are not a brand freak, then this is a good PC. At under $600, this PC has 2GB RAM and a 320 GB Hard Drive(which are both average I guess), but it has an intergrated nVidia graphics card. This will put you in a decent place for gaming. Not top of the line but probably good enough to play most games. This also has a 19" widescreen lcd.



Hmmm.... well, I might have to make another post later. Looking for good PC packages online is not easy. The best way is in the store or through the sale ad. I can't seem to find our sale ad. I'll get back on later and probably use the online sale ad. It is the best place to start looking for good PC packages.
Edit:
Hmmm... well I actually didn't see anything good in the ads. The first computer I listed(the Dell) was there however. It actually is not a bad deal and I believe that was just under $700(so a bit more after tax).

I did find this deal on a wireless USB adapter though.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=8305602&type=product&id=1173577562601

This is a wireless N adapter. I don't know what kind of router you will be using, but I don't see it being much faster than this adapter. 300 Mbits /sec for $50 is a steal actually. Of course after taxes and all, the Dell PC with this adapter would actually put you a bit over $750. But All in all, it is a great bundle. I realize you were not looking for a printer, but in most cases when you get a moniter with a PC, you usually are bundled a printer as well. And simply buying a moniter and PC seperately will cost you a good bit more. But it isn't bad since you get a 3 in 1 print/copy/scanner here.

I wish I could have been a bit more help here but it seems this week isn't the best week for Best Buy computer deals...




Just as a side note. I am not a big Dell fan. Dell and Gateway are probably my least favorite PCs. I've owned and liked eMachines, Acer, HP and Compaq. Acer and HP are probably my favorite brands. Also, I'm not a bit Intel fan. But the reason isn't because I simply like AMD better, it is because AMD has 64 bit processors. and you don't need to be a guru to know 64 bit > 32 bit. So when I look for computers I try to find an AMD 64 processor. My last 3 computers have had them. I just think they work faster.

Also, that second eMachines only had 2GB of RAM but for $29-$34 you can buy 1GB of RAM from Best Buy. So keep that in mind since the eMachines had a better graphics card. I think the eMachines PC with another GB of RAM and that Wireless N USB Adapter is a great deal and should leave you happy. This is just my opinion. If you can wait a week PM me and I'll look at the new deals to see what you might be able to get.

 

[Spartan Erik]

Why does it have to be at Best Buy? Best Buy often has the Worst Buy when it comes to just about anything (unless it's on sale and you have gift cards to use).

For $500-749 I don't know if you can get a computer at Best Buy for a price that low. I suggest you visit www.dealcatcher.com and check out Dell.com's deals.. I got a VERY nice computer on a Dell deal:

$669 got me:
2 GB RAM, 2.33 GHz Core2Duo, 256 MB nVidia 8600GT, 80 GB SATA HDD, 22" LCD Widescreen Monitor, and Windows XP (much better than Vista)

Buying direct usually saves you more money than buying from retailers..

 

[Sup3rkirby]

Well, I got my newest PC from Best Buy and for just over $600(about $620 after tax) I got:
2 GB RAM, AMD Athlon 64 X2 Processor 4400+ (~2.3GHz), ATI Radeon X1250 Graphics(not sure what dedicated is but it is at 798 MB (shared)), 320 GB HDD, 19" LCD Wirescreen Moniter and Vista Premium.

XP vs. Vista is an ever going debate which really depends on the user. I've had no problems with Vista and prefer it simply because I am still able to do all the things I was in XP, but with a few new helpful functions and features. It all depends on who is using the OS. some people say Linux is better(and it is for them). Of course XP is supposed to lose support from MS rather soon(possibly end of '08).

The thing about buying direct is, a lot of times you won't save much(if anything) because you are buying only 1 PC. And with a lot of manufacturers, it doesn't save them money to make 1 PC individually, so you won't get an amazing deal as apposed to buying 100 of a PC.


You can get a good deal anywhere really. Best Buy, Circuit City, local stores, manufacturers, etc. It just depends on the time and such. Prices constantly change.


I do suspect there was a reason he asked about Best Buy. It is one thing to post and ask for computer advice when you are looking for a new computer, but to ask about one store in general makes me wonder. Maybe he's got reward zone coupons or something along those lines....

If Best Buy isn't a requirement then shuttle.com has some computers that can fit into that range. The KPC model is going to be the cheapest and you can customize it to your needs.

Also just customizing your PC in general from Dell or HP is an option if you can buy online. You won't have a bundle with a moniter but for maybe $550-$600 you can get the PC you want and then just go out and buy your moniter. Best Buy had an Acer 19" LCD Widescreen this week for $120. So these are just a few other options.

 

[Spartan Erik]

http://configure.us.dell.com/dellst...&oc=DDDADG4&s=dhs&dgc=CJ&cid=27811&lid=697476

There's a pretty good deal from Dell.. I have seen better, but I still recommend you check this out before you waste money at Best Buy

I suggest you view this page daily for Dell deals:
http://www.dealcatcher.com/dell-home-coupons

 

[Sup3rkirby]

Conmiro, I would have to agree with Erik on that last post. A rather impressive deal. Upgrade the graphics card(for only $60) and you've got yourself a well fit PC for under $6oo, which leaves you money to buy a moniter seperately(the one bundled would be $190 for 19", but you can find a better deal).

 

[Spartan Erik]

http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=us&cs=04&kc=6W300&l=en&oc=brde2fd&s=bsd

There's a Vostro configuration available for a pretty good price too, but I believe this requires a business name as the Vostro line is for small business.

 

[Jarryd]

I feel the heat just as bad, i am an avid gamer, and really want the most out of my machines that i buy, the only problem i have is i don't have the money, otherwise i would be buying a very expensive machine, $3000 AUD+

As it is the Processor i want is just over $1000 AUD i think.

Like Erik said, it's probably best to buy direct rather than from retailers.

The problem these days is that technology is advancing so fast, that if you want to have the "best buy" all the time, you would need to be a millionare.

If i get the chance i will look into some computer parts for you, and setups.

See if we can't find something you like.

 

[rlodge]

Yeah, and now Dell is in trouble for their lousy customer support and business practices. I caught a little about the article below on the news and skimmed the article itself. Dell ain't all everyone thinks they are.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/05/27/dell.lawsuit/index.html?iref=newssearch

 

[Smith6612]

Go build your own system. It's easier, and a lot cheaper than the big guys want you to pay. Plus, you can control what goes on with the computer. So if I were you, I'd go out and get the hardware you want from places like NewEgg or TigerDirect online, then put it together and build your system. My hand built system still destroys one of the highest Dell XPS systems in speed and performance, and pretty much any other computer out there unless you spend $4,000+ on it, then you may start to beat me. You won't be able to beat me in Hard Drive space though unless you get 3TB+ worth of drives

so yeah, build your own. It's easy, we can help you out and everything, and all of the hardware that you will buy will come with instruction manuals as well, so it'll be a breeze even for newbies. As for internet, get yourself a router if you don't have one, one that is fairly expensive, and if you don't have broadband, find a Cable/DSL/Fiber provider that will fit your need for speed (please at least get 1Mbps/128kbps on the speed if possible. 768kbps is bare minimum that I recommend) but has low latency and low conjestion. If there is no broadband, you're kind of out of luck as Wireless internet from cell phone carriers, municiple Wi-Fi, and satellite (don't go there, you'll regret it based on what i've heard at DSLReports) have HORRIBLE latency and caps.

 

[Spartan Erik]

Yeah, and now Dell is in trouble for their lousy customer support and business practices. I caught a little about the article below on the news and skimmed the article itself. Dell ain't all everyone thinks they are.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/05/27/dell.lawsuit/index.html?iref=newssearch

Hm it seems that everyone other than me has support problems with Dell.

My roommate's hard drive to his XPS laptop fried, and they sent a replacement the NEXT MORNING. A few weeks later his power adapter fried too, and they sent a replacement the second day.

Quite frankly fast shipping like that is impressive. But then again they do have a Dell location in Austin to speed things up..

 

[vol7ron]

I feel the heat just as bad, i am an avid gamer, and really want the most out of my machines that i buy, the only problem i have is i don't have the money, otherwise i would be buying a very expensive machine, $3000 AUD+

As it is the Processor i want is just over $1000 AUD i think.

Like Erik said, it's probably best to buy direct rather than from retailers.

The problem these days is that technology is advancing so fast, that if you want to have the "best buy" all the time, you would need to be a millionare.

The best bet is to build it yourself. If you don't know how, then you should get someone else to. There is a decent site online that takes high-end parts and puts them together for prices a little bit more than NewEgg or TigerDirect, which themselves are close to wholesale prices.

The site is IBuyPower.com - monitors will be a little bit more tricky, probably best to search for a deal on them. But this site will get you the most bang for your buck.

 

[Darasen]

In that price range expect to run the latest DX10 games at high resolutions and graphics settings. Really what you can get completely depends on your expectations.

 

[mac173]

What is the best computer to get for the price range of $500-$749 at best buy?

I need a computer:

That is a desktop
With High ram (what do you call high? Depending on the MOBO, you can get anything from 2 to 8 gig)
With average or large amounts of disk space (Again, what do you consider high? if you do video and photo's, 500gig is low. If you do neither, 320 is high. I do programming and graphics, and don't fill a 200gig HD)
With a 19in or bigger monitor
That is able to play advanced games(This will require high end graphics cards, TWO OF THEM, in SLI. You will not find that at Best Buy. )
That has Windows Vista Home premium (yeesh, I hate this OS. I have it on my laptop, wish I could downgrade)
That can handle multi tasking (Dual core processor. 64 bit is NOT needed as almost no programs use it. Intel Core 2 Duo will do the trick for this)
With Great internet speed (this is totally dependent on your ISP, not the computer. Any new computer is capable of high speed internet.)
With Wireless Internet (I am curious to know why you want to use wireless. It is not secure, and makes it easy to break into your computer. I can hack a wireless in seconds, from as much as 100 feet away. Its just not safe)

Someone said to look at the Dell website, and said the Vostro needed a business account. That is not true, this is a Vostro laptop I am on now, bought from the Dell Outlet, a refurbished machine I got for a song. No business required, the machines are just configured for business users.

High end graphics that you want are gonna cost more then you want to spend for your whole machine. The machines linked by Sup3rkirby had ONBOARD graphics , which is low end at best. If it says "shared video memory" then it is onboard, and will not give you good performance. You need dual PCIe x16 graphic cards in SLI configuration to get the high end performance you want.

Your best bet is to do as several ppl have suggested, and build it yourself. For good advice and help, the website www.overclockersclub.com is a great site, with tutorials for the novice builder. They will give you good advice on specific parts to buy, and how to put it together.

Good luck.

 

[alexandgruntz]

If he wants Vista, let him have it. If he wants wireless, let him have it. I bet the wireless networks you can hack aren't even encrypted, let alone with WPA.

 

[mac173]

If he wants Vista, let him have it. If he wants wireless, let him have it. I bet the wireless networks you can hack aren't even encrypted, let alone with WPA.

Thats the problem. The great majority of people that set up a wireless network don't know HOW to set it up. Most people don't even change the default password on the modem or router they set up. It makes it easy.

And WPA can be hacked, but not in seconds. I just don't see the need for wireless on a computer that is not going to move. What is the purpose?

If he wants it, go for it. I was just trying to give my advice. I don't like seeing people buying stuff because the sales guy at Best Buy said it was cool. No need to waste money on something that does not do anything for him.

 

[Sup3rkirby]

What an interesting topic now. The poster has not replied yet at all.

It seems that everyone here is simply talking about building the best PC. But I think it was forgotten he is simply looking for 'the best' pc in his price range. None of us actually seem to know what he needs in his PC other than the list he gave. We don't really know what he wants to run, and if he'd reply with something like that then I think the advice he would get could be a bit better.

Judging from his list he just needs a good computer. Not the best high end PC you can find(that would more than likely be outside of his price range). Onboard graphics with shared video memory is not a horrible thing. Unless he gets a computer with little ram and a slow processor, it probably wouldn't make much of a difference to him. Everyone here just seems to be giving advice on building the best pc with the best parts, but i keep reading his post and it does indeed say he is looking for a computer in that range at the retail store, Best Buy. Everyone shot that out of the water very quickly without knowing why he asked that, or what he even needed the PC for. And he also said it needed wireless(he did use the word 'need). I'm sure there is a reason for that and since he didn't ask for a router I'm sure he has a wireless network already, so preaching to him about the problems with wireless seem kind of pointless.

I'm just facinated as to how this topic turned into a 'build the best pc for the best price' debate topic, rather than, 'help me find the best pc at best buy for $500-$749'....

 

[vol7ron]

Second Response (to Sup3rkirby):

Well the best pc for that price range will be hand built... there is no argument there. I think with any computer, he wants to know what would be the best bang for the buck, seeing as he doesn't have a lot of buck to toss around.

The truth is that the computer is as great as its weakest component.

Processor slow? It takes a while to process the data.
Memory slow/not enough? Affects how fast data is processed. Not enough makes the OS depend on hard drive space. (see below)
Video card slow? Affects the OS and data sent to/from the processor and memory - this can really put a damper on any application.
What about the motherboard? Well, it is the highway for the data, low bus speeds and bandwidth limits will surely muck things up.
What about the hard drive? Hard drives are probably the least influential when dealing with games, but don't try do do anything too intensive on them like copying files or downloading anything. Why? Because the seek/write speeds will make your computer seem slow. Not to mention a lot of temp files and information not stored in ram depend on the hard disk. So a slow, or bad hard drive could make your computer also seem slow.
What about the power supply? This is probably the most underestimated piece of equipment. Having a steady flow of power, when things are so dynamic will definitely affect every part of your system. You don't want your memory to be getting errors, or your CPU to be working at 85% speed. You want to make sure you have the right amps for all your parts. Wattage and Voltage numbers mean nothing until you figure out what parts need what.

So when responding to something like this.. it's better to have a mid-level all around machine then a poor machine with one top of the line component.​

Wireless Response

My computer is stagnant, but I still use wireless. Would running a cord through the house along all the floor base and walls, under doors and around appliances be better? I sure would see a significant impact, but at the moment it's not worth it. So I use wireless, even for gaming.​

 

[Sup3rkirby]

I'm sure the best PC for that price would be hand built, but still noting on the original post and point of the topic, he did ask about the best pc at Best Buy.

And following your list there, there are plenty of retail PCs that are more than good enough then. Like I've mentioned, my last PC I bought was from Best Buy and other than wireless(which doesn't usually come built into a desktop), my PC fit all his needs for about $620(even including a moniter). The computer works great and it is my gaming PC. I have no sluggish play or 'downtime'. I'm sure there are some geeks who might get technical, but when it comes to processors I prefer AMD, but not just for AMD, but because I get their 64 bit processors. It is no secret that 64(bit) > 32(bit). While that might not effect every single thing on a PC when it comes to processing, there are quite a few cases where you can notice. And for RAM, well 2GB is really a minimum. But thankfully you can buy 1GB for $29-$34 now(DDR2). And hard drives, well, 320 GB is what I have and I can't see myself needing more than that. I've never in my life filled a hard drive. There are times when you will need a lot of storage depending on what you use a PC for though. And I know of power supply issues that can occur. It is always something people can forget when doing things like buying a new graphics card. They keep the stock power supply and run into problems.


And besides, even though my first recommendation was that one Dell from Best Buy, I was simply answering his question. I then later noted that Erik had a great deal posted from Dell's website and went with that as my last recommendation really.

 

[GG-Xtreme]

If you can learn how to put it together yourself, then I'd pick Newegg.com. Look around, and you can easily do a full system including a Quad-core processor, a P35 motherboard, 2GB of RAM, a 250GB hard drive, a Corsair 550-watt PSU, a GeForce 8800GT, a DVD burner, and a good case and cooling solution.