Expert: Bobbert - 7/3/2008

Question
I'm looking at buying a new computer, and confused about how much I need.  Also, I'm trying decide between Dell or HP.  I've heard bad things and good about both.

Really, I want to be able to download CDs, DVDs, use basic internet/email, basic digital photo editing/sharing, turn digital video into a DVD, use the Microsoft office programs etc.  

I don't want to replace the computer in 2 years, so I'm willing to spend a little more if I need too.

Right now I'm comparing two units, both with Vista.

The Dell is a 530s, but only has 1GB Ram, 2.0 GHZ processor, and 500 Hard Drive

The HP is the A6430f, with 3 GB, 2.7 GHZ, and a 640 GB HD.  

I know the HP is more powerful, but it's also less expensive.  

What is your opinion of HP or Dell?  Is the HP less expensive because it isn't that good?  

Realistically, for what I want to do, what kind of RAM, GHZ, and HD do I need?

I'm sick of salespeople, they all say different things in the same store!  I just don't want to pay $800-1000 for something that is going to break or be hard to use.

Thanks for any help,
Sara

Answer
From what I'm seeing for the A6430f, its a 2.1GHZ Triplecore, with 3GB of RAM and a 640GB HD as described, while the Dell 530s is showing a 2.4GHZ Core 2 Duo, and 1GB of RAM alongside a 500GB HD.

Generally either would be a suitable choice, especially for the tasks you've outlined, personally I'd go with the HP just for the extra storage and larger memory (while the Dell can be configured as such, the HP seems to meet all of your needs and only cost ~$20 more). The A6430f should cost around $650, and the 530s is around $600 base SRP.

Now, as far as reliability, I'm generally preferential to Dell, but this isn't to say the HP will break any faster or sooner, both offer solid warranties and good technical support, so you should be covered for a couple years after purchase.

As far as "don't want to replace in 2 years", the standard operational lifespan of a desktop computer is roughly 3 years, and it is generally advisable to replace the system every 3-4 years in order to stay current with software and system requirements.

-bob