I'm in the Market for a new Computer. What should I get?

[hholli11]

I have an iMac now, and asked this as a part of an earlier thread...but since I am starting to itch about the new computer, I wanted to ask for more advice.

I need to be able to burn and copy dvds, stream audio, and the printer should be pretty decent.

I am techno challenged and need your help.

[Ramsey]

1. Sony has great computers

Very good multimedia software and hardware.

Also, Sony is good true blue company.

[hholli11]

2. Really? How long have they been around in computers?

I didn't even know they made 'em.

[LeftyMom]

4. I'll second that

Both my desktop and laptop are Sony Vaios and I've had no trouble at all with them.

[NV Whino]

3. iMac G5

I just set up one for a friend of mine. Awesome machine. Check it out at macconnection.com

20" widescreen monitor houses the entire computer.

[Dangerously Amused]

9. iMac G5!

:bounce:

[Orsino]

5. Without meaning to give any offense...

...I would say that anyone technologically challenged should stick with Macs. They really are great computers, and unless you need access to the many-times-more-numerous software options available for PCs, you should probably stick with the familiar interface and underlying logic. PCs are for tinkerers*.

*I'm not one, but I used to be a long time ago, and I'm married to one.

[Deja Q]

6. Except Macs now use the same technology --as-- PCs.

So, think different! And save money! Go PC.

[Orsino]

7. But seamlessly integrated, comparatively.

Macs are the plug 'n' play machines Redmond promised us, but never delivered.

I'm a PC man myself, with machines built by my wife for even greater savings.

[hholli11]

8. True about the technology...

but aren't most of the pc machines red? I might be willing to ease my conscience by buying blue. But I am not convinced either way.

I am not at all offended by anyone suggesting that I am tech challenged. I am. I admit it. :)

[TK421]

10. Just don't get a Dell...everything else is fine, though n/t

[hholli11]

11. where can I get the best deal/s?

on a mac and/or a pc.

[NV Whino]

12. Mac are about the same price

where ever you go. Some of the mail order places (macconnection.com) have mail in rebates or free printers or $$ off printers. There are numerous Apple stores around these days where you can experience a hands-on look at them. Check out apple.com for a store near your location.

A word about the new intel powered Macs--at the moment, there is very little non-apple software that works on them. That's why I recommended the iMac G5. The G5 will last you many years before you need to upgrade.

[Ravenseye]

13. Have you used Windows before? If so, buy local.

a PC and a Mac work differently. Differen't keystrokes. Menus are in different places and work in different ways. If you are intuitively using a Mac but have never really used Windows then stick with Mac if you just want to use it for simple stuff.

Otherwise what you're talking about can be done with either PC or Mac relatively simliarly. Most preconceptions of both platforms are wrong and anyone who is vehemently anti-mac or anti-pc generally shouldn't be trusted for their opinion. Both have their place and uses.

If money is an issue though I would go with a less expensive windows machine. If you want to play computer games on them, like more advanced than solitare such as real time stategy or shooters or sports games, go with a PC. There are games for Mac's but they're fewer and furhter between. If you want a prettier machine, something that might look cooler on your desk go with a Mac. They definatley have the edge on industrial design.

Personally if I were going to buy a new computer today I'd find a local outfit. Someone locally who advertises to build and repair computers. Not a big company or a franchise, but a guy working in a small shop on the side of the main road...Go there and talk to him and have him build you a computer. It'll cost you about the same as going through Dell, maybe slightly more expensive, but you'll have the guy who physically built the machine nearby and available to help you should any problems arise. Instead of calling India when your computer won't boot, you call Phil and he might even come to your house. If you're techno challenged it also might help to sit down with a guy in person and go over precisely what you want to do and have him build you something that will work for you the best and run you through this problem or that problem. If you do that you're gonna have a PC.

[ET Awful]

14. If you're used to Mac, why switch? If you don't need all the huge

library of software (i.e. you're just using your PC for basic tasks such as internet, DVD burning, etc.), stay with Mac (though if you're doing DVD copying, there's a lot more tools out for PC).

I'm a PC person, but for you I'd say check into a mini-Mac.

[Wcross]

15. Buy what you want- shop here.

http://www.pricewatch.com/

This is by far the best place to find the best price on computer gear and systems.

On edit;
DO NOT BUY A DELL!!! EVER!!! Mr. Dell is a huge supporter of the GOP. Do you want to support them with your hard earned dollars?